Leading Hearts May/June 2016 Issue

FROM THE PUBLISHER

BEYOND THE POLISH

So, if you see what looks like a perfect smile hidden within the pages of Leading Hearts Magazine, please know that our real lives are anything but perfect. This truth is exactly why we want to share out hearts. We want to tell you, “We’ve been there and sister and if we can make it, so can you!”

As for me, I too have made more than a few missteps in my ministry life. Despite my personal stumbles, whenever I land a face plant, I stay on my face before Him until I find His peace. Just this morning I found myself in a familiar pitfall and prayed, “I blew it again Lord. I snapped at a loved one.”

Then, in the depths of my heart, I heard His still small voice. “I have already covered this in my blood. I forgive you. You are free to make amends and move on with your day.”

So instead of brooding in my failure, I felt His encouragement, brushed myself off and walked in the light of His love and forgiveness. Walking in the light of His love and forgiveness is my best secret of how to thrive in my calling. Thriving happens when I go to my inner oasis of the peace of God. It’s knowing that even when I blow it, God’s got it covered. I’m forgiven. Loved. And free to get up and to continue in my call.

HAVE YOU EVER PEERED AT THE SHINY FACES PICTURED INSIDE OUR MAGAZINE AND THOUGHT, “WELL I SUPPOSE ALL IS FINE FOR THESE WOMEN LEADERS, THEY MUST LIVE PICTURE-PERFECT LIVES.” First, we apologize for not showing you our blisters caused by the friction of our fast-paced ministry journeys. But our blisters are nothing compared to our skinned knees when we’ve stumbled upon difficult circumstances. That’s why we’ve chosen this issue to show you who we really are—real women, real leaders, like yourself – who’ve experienced the nitty-gritty struggles of life in the lead.

It’s like that familiar passage in the second and third verses of Psalm 23, “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake (NIV.)” It sounds too good to be true doesn’t it? But the truth is we serve a God who loves us so much that he holds our hand and directs our path. He coaxes us to serve, not in our stress, but in His peace; not through obligation, but through His power. And the bonus is, our strength comes from His joy.

So yes, we do have a lot in common. We are blessed to bring the light of His love to others. We hope you’ll take this journey with us in this shiny, S new issue where we share our failures (and victories) and discuss the secrets we’ve learned along the way.

Love, LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD PUBLISHER, LEADING HEARTS MAGAZINE

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EMPOWERING CHRISTIAN WOMEN FOR LEADERSHIP

LEADING HEARTS MAY/JUNE 2016 VOL. 3, ISSUE 2

EDITORIAL STAFF PUBLISHER.. ..................Linda Evans Shepherd EDITOR/ART DIRECTOR.....A mber Weigand-Buckley ADVERTISING. ........... Linda Evans Shepherd & Angelina Locricchio EDITOR/ART DIRECTOR.....A mber Weigand-Buckley EDITORIAL INTERN.....Briana Goforth COPY EDITOR. ..............Julie Gillies EDITORIAL SECRETARY. ....A ngelina Locricchio CONTRIBUTORS. ....Penelope Carlevato, Kathy Collard Miller, Michelle S. Cox, Sharon Norris Elliot, Pam Farrel, Torry Martin, Doug Peterson, Karen Porter, Charity Reeb, Rhonda Rhea, Cynthia L. Simmons, Saundra Dalton Smith, Jennifer Taylor, Heather Van Allen, W. Terry Whalin and Karen H. Whiting

RIGHT TO THE HEART BOARD MEMBERS Linda Evans Shepherd (President), Dianne Butts, Sharon Norris Elliot, Karen Porter, Kathy Collard Miller, Rhonda Rhea and Carole Whang Schutter and Joy A. Schneider

INFORMATION Leading Hearts Magazine for Christian Women is published bimonthly

by Right to the Heart Ministries 2016. ISSN 2380-5455 ADVERTISING | Display rates are available at leadinghearts.com. By accepting an advertisement, Leading Hearts does not endorse any advertiser or product. We reserve the right to reject advertisements not consistent with the magazines objectives.

MANUSCRIPTS | Writers guidelines are available at leadinghearts.com.

Leading Hearts | PO Box 6421, Longmont, CO 80501 phone: (303) 835-8473 | fax: (303)678-0260 email: lindareply@gmail.com MEMBER | 2016 Evangelical Press Association Award of Merit Winner All rights reserved. Copyrighted material reprinted with permission Photos courtesy of: barefacedgirl.com, charityreeb.com, Dollar Photo Club, Harvest House Publishers, Kerry Kara, Photography /KLS Photos & Imaging, Stephanie Fast, Reunion Records & Rory White.

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FROM THE EDITOR

I’M A MONET #NOFILTER I’VE NEVER FELT, WELL, YOU KNOW, REFINED. IN FACT, I HIGHLY DOUBT I COULD MAKE IT PAST THE APPETIZER ROUND IN A MEAL WITH THE QUEEN. Honestly, I’d probably get a piece of hair caught in my mouth during our introduction.

And immediately follow that by christening her with the anomaly I affectionately refer to as my “Tooth Fountain.” (Just pair a prominent front tooth gap with nervous salvia glands and you’ll discover the struggle is real.)

Honestly, I’m quite comfortable that in realm of refinement, I’m a Monet. You look at me through far, far away digital glass, and you might be deceived into thinking I’m this glorious meadow of painted oils and brushed blooms. (That’s the reason I’m self-watering.)

The truth is that when you pull me in close, you’ll see all the crazy blops of paint that just don’t line up. All those nonsense brush strokes are diminished by the beauty of good filters and Photoshop.

In fact, go even deeper into my day-to-day and you’ll get acquainted with my modge-podged, crazy-socked head-space that makes me a part of a unique “short yellow pencil” sisterhood.

I’m one of the many on this round planet who daily face the challenge of keeping life in focus while battling a bunch of brain chemicals that don’t like to play nice.

In fact, sometimes my thoughts move so fast it’s hard to tie them down. And I get depressed or anxietyridden when I can’t keep up. But I realize that it’s not good or bad, it’s just the real vulnerability painted into the Monet of this soul. And in this, God’s given me a beautiful truth to share.

If I can do anything with my life-print, it’s to give the world a greater understanding of what the face of mental illness looks like...and it looks a lot like me... ... A creative heart who wants to love her Jesus. ... A pre-menopausal child in plus-sized clothes. ... A painted squirrel on espresso who likes to share her nuts. ... A writer that uses excessive unnecessary ellipses. ... A barefacedgirl billboarding the “whatsoever things are good” of this real life to showcase the greater goodness of her Creator.

It’s not all easy. It’s not all happy. It’s not all fair.

Pretty often it’s spit-shined and hardly manicured.

But I’m assured in the knowledge that even the dark and scribbled frizz serves to pull the beauty from this canvas—this barefacedgirl.

I would like you to push pause at this moment to speak this over your heart, aloud—“My God You love me. I’m your original masterpiece which you keep proudly on display. Even during my biggest fails you cheer me on.

Thank you for shaping every facet of my humanity and using it to shine Your light. Help me seek to be faithful to the real (INSERT NAME HERE) that you’ve created me to be.”

I’m so excited for you to read this issue of Leading Hearts. Here you’ll meet more #REALCHURCHLADIES just like you and me— one sisterhood, united in God purpose, to keep it real for His Glory. I’m praying you’ll be blessed. S Peace!

AMBER WEIGAND-BUCKLEY EDITOR, LEADING HEARTS MAGAZINE

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-continued from p.9Of course, she was right. But, I hate stopping and resting. My natural tendencies lend themselves more to circus than stillness.

I have found that if I follow Alicia’s advice and slow, even for a short time, I’m much less stressed and much more focused.

When you are standing in the middle of chaos, it’s hard to see the fuller picture of what God is orchestrating. Take a step back. Doing this may take a great deal of intentionality. I have to arrange child care, find a quiet place, and prioritize it on my calendar. But, trust me, it’s worth it

all at once. When I embrace this reality, it empowers me to focus.

Stop trying to do it all. Take a few minutes to identify three areas in your life you would like to specifically focus. Next, set actionable, measurable goals.

You can set realistic expectations for yourself and choose to focus by making your weekly goals small enough to be attained within one week’s time. This will be very encouraging at your next 30 minute break time when you realize you’ve accomplished what you set out to do.

Remember, the circus isn’t going to clean itself up instantaneously. Take it one step at a time.

Step 2. Take off your ringmaster hat.

So you have found a break time. Wonderful! Now, what should you do during your break? Start by acknowledging that you are not the ringmaster of your life. The Holy Spirit can do the work in and through you that you cannot do by yourself.

I like to do this by starting my break by asking the Spirit to refill my life. Too often I’m running on fumes, rather than living and working out of the overflow of the Spirit. We do not have to live this way. It’s as simple as asking God to help us.

3. Re-focus the show.

I’m not sure why I’m always disappointed with myself when I realize I can’t be my life ringmaster,

4. Practice, practice, practice prioritization.

I do not have a hard time knowing what I need to do or what matters most. I struggle with actually doing it.

But, I’ve stopped beating myself up when I don’t reach a goal. Instead, I set my bar lower, so I can attain it next time, prioritize again, and practice.

Once you have clarity regarding three focus goals, take a moment to write into your schedule. Be specific about what you’re actually going to do to reach the goal you’ve set.

Here’s an example. I often set the goal to eat healthy throughout the week and pray more around lunch time. If I don’t prioritize making healthy lunches on my schedule, I’m probably going to be running to grab fast food and listening to pop music on the way

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instead of enjoying a quiet moment with God and a healthy lunch. When you write a priority into your schedule, it makes it real. You can rest assured that you’re no longer just thinking or talking about it.

5. Invite the Spirit into the center of the circus every single day.

When I’m not anchoring my day in Truth and talking to God about what’s happening in my life, I get overwhelmed, stressed, and I start to worry. Soon I find, Uh oh, the circus tent is falling in again!

When I start my day with scripture and prayer, it gives me the courage to let go of the stuff I can’t control, trust Him, and move confidently forward with the focus I have determined. I may not always feel I’m courageous, but I find in moments of decision, I make better choices. I’ve told myself in the past that I’ll just talk to God throughout the day. I don’t need to do

traditional devotions. And, while that is true, I can talk to God throughout the day, there is something profoundly good that happens in my day when it starts and ends with truth.

My quiet time with God is the source of the well that I pump all day for inspiration and guidance. When I don’t lock into my source, I’m pumping a dry well.

Don’t overthink it. It’s as simple as reading some verses, talking to God about what’s going on in your life, and asking a friend (Jesus) for help. Invite God

into your real day.

Maybe you’ve found this advice helpful, but are left wondering, where do I start? This is all so basic, yet I really could use a tool to guide me.

I have just the tool for you! It’s called the Real Life Journal, a simple daily guide to focus your life on what matters most to you and live it every day.

It will guide you each week through a 30-minute focus session that aligns your real life (and schedule) with your priorities. Then, each day you’ll center your life in the Spirit by practicing the basic disciplines of Scripture application and meditation, conversing with God, and debriefing the day’s significant moments.

Follow the flexible guides in this journal to live for what matters most to you and finally, tame that crazy circus surrounding you. S

special deal

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And, don’t do it alone! Readers of Leading Hearts receive Buy 1, Get 1, 50% off when you enter the code LEADINGHEARTS in the store!

Charity also offers special multiple journal rates for small group leaders. And while you’re there you’ll also want to sign up for her weekly tips and get practice advice to center your life in what matters most to you and enter for a 1 in 10 chance to win a FREE journal.

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BY JENN TAYLOR @JENNTAYLOR417 PROFILE CONTRIBUTOR --------

#REALCHURCHladies AUTHOR AND ADOPTION ADVOCATE, STEPHANIE FAST CAN ONLY REMEMBER HER CHILDHOOD AS SLIDE SHOW WITH NO IN-BETWEENS. ABANDONED IN SOUTH KOREA AT THE AGE THREE, SHE STRUGGLED ALONE FOR FOUR YEARS, NOT KNOWING HER LIFE WOULD EVER BE OF VALUETO ANYONE—UNTIL GOD STEPPED IN.

she is MINE

“Whether a person is a physical, emotional or spiritu

-continued from p. 15-

In her biography, She is Mine, Stephanie shares her story in the hopes of persuading others to consider the role of orphan advocacy.

Not knowing the details of her early childhood, she researched the common plights of single Korean women during the Korean War. Repeatedly, she heard of the tough decisions made by women who had a biracial child, and she thinks this was her mother’s story also.

They faced being ostracized without a future because they had a child out of wedlock, and no man would want to marry them, especially if an American soldier fathered the child.

To write the beginning of her story, Stephanie used stories as told to her by a soldier and a woman to weave together her parents’ story. “I think they were just people that were very vulnerable and made choices that caused consequences, not only for themselves but for me down the road.”

After journeying by herself for about three years, at age seven, a Swedish nurse found Stephanie barely alive in a garbage heap.

“She came to Korea to rescue babies and ran a clinic

in the city where I was found,” Stephanie says. “When she found me, she actually did not know what to do because I was too old for her clinic. But she just felt really strongly that she heard God say to her, ‘This little girl is mine.’”

Stephanie spent the next two years in an orphanage until an American couple chose to adopt her at age nine. As missionaries in South Korea, Stephanie was able to stay with them during the adoption process, and she officially became their daughter at age 12.

Knowing how traumatic her story was, Stephanie originally did not want to share her journey. Her adoptive parents knew what the orphanage staff and files said but they did not know the severity of the abuse she received. “One of the last things that the orphanage director said to me before I was to leave with my mom and dad was, ‘You better be a good girl or they are going to bring you back. And if they bring you back, then your life is going to be even worse than it already was,” she said.

Those words repeated like a recording Stephanie’s head until she left home at age 18. She always felt the pressure to be a good girl. “So I really didn’t even have a chance to define who I was and that God really loved me,” Stephanie says. “So really my journey of healing did not start until I was 18 and I gave my heart to the Lord.”

ual orphan, God wants to heal every one of those.”

Stephanie believes it was the faithful prayers of her husband, Darryl, that began her process of inner healing. God healed the fragmented pieces of her childhood. “I began to see that there is nothing that God cannot use for His glory, and there was no reason for me to carry the shame and the guilt. I had done nothing to cause the wrong that had to be done to me.”

Once Stephanie realized that she had a loving relationship with Jesus, knowing God could change everything meant for evil to good, she began to share parts of her story in small groups. Then, about 28 years ago, Focus on the Family heard about her story through a growing outreach to women and children in Vancouver.

Once they heard her story, they asked if she would be willing to share her story on the radio. With her family’s permission and support, Stephanie’s story aired on Focus on the Family.

“I went from sharing in tiny little groups of runaway children, foster children, and youth groups to a half of a million audience overnight. The first night I was on Focus on the Family, they had thousands and thousands of responses,” she says. “Somehow through my testimony, I saw that God also had the same plan for them. The whole process of letting go, healing and hearing God speak to you not only heals our spirit but it heals our minds and causes our body to realign to everything that was taken from us.”

“It was then that I realized that this was no longer

just my story. It is the story of every human being. At some point, we are each robbed of the gift of knowing who we are in Christ. Only Christ can give that back.

That’s when I started speaking out.”

In her 30th year of ministry, Stephanie continues to focus on healing the heart of abandoned children.

“Whether a person is a physical, emotional or spiritual orphan, God wants to heal every one of those hearts,” she says. “An orphan has no community, so I wanted to work with organizations that were willing to give these children a community.”

Stephanie’s desire is for those who read her story to know that there is an orphan crisis occurring and realize what every abandoned child goes through every day, without community.

Unicef identifies an orphan as an “unaccompanied child” and Stephanie notes at present 6,000 to 7,000 children are orphaned each day. “Even though my story was 50 years ago, when I listen to children in refugee camps in different countries, their story is similar to mine—it doesn’t change over the years. The only way their stories can change is for someone to come into their lives and be their community.

Be their family.

Be their voice.

Be their protectors.” S

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HTTP://BIT.LY/1WIQK5V

BILL AND I OFTEN SPEAK ABOUT LIVING OUT GOD’S ADVENTURE OR DREAM. In fact

many people come up to us after the keynote and say, “Thank you; it has been so long since I allowed myself to dream!” In the kick off chapter, 7 Simple Skills for Every Woman: Success at Keeping It All together, I share 10 simple ideas to help reignite the dream in a person’s heart. Try one!

1. Go to an art museum—Study the great works of art! While you take in the beauty, pray and ask God how you can make the world a more beautiful place.

2. Go get a mentor— Ask a woman at your church to be your spiritual mentor; hire a life coach; find a dream coach; Go to SCORE, your local Chamber of Commerce, or a women business networking group and build relationships to discover a business mentor.

3. Go take a class—Write down 10 skills you wish you were better at or want to learn. Look to see if there are free (or low cost) classes offered at your local rec department, a church, or local school district or college.

Try a few new interests. You can also take a skill you enjoy and are a beginner at and make it a goal to master that skill.

4. Go network assertively— Make it a goal to spend as much time chasing the dream as you will spend living it. Get to know people in the field you are most interested in: professionals, hobbies, teachers, mentors, those who run networks, associations, and training.

The broader the network, the more likely you are to discover someone who inspires, challenges and pushes you forward toward your goals.

5. Go expand your vision—Make a list of questions you would love God to answer (start with 100) Make it a goal to study the vastness of God. (Find books on the names of God, the names of Christ, the traits of God, etc). The bigger your view of God, the bigger your adventure can be!

6. Go gather a “dream team”—Invite friends who believe in you and the dream God has placed on your heart to be on your “dream team.” Share your ideas, hopes, and goals with these women and ask them to hold you accountable. There’s nothing like a little positive peer pressure to propel you forward.

7. Go fill your brain—Listen to inspiring movies, music, TED talks, sermons, etc. Do an internet search for leaders who care about what you care about; movies made about subjects you feel passionate about; Listen to audio and video messages that will inspire and enrich your vision. Take in quality information from quality people and you can become a quality expert too.

8.Go read blogs and books in your dream field— There’s nothing like collecting a library of information you can go back to when you begin working on your mission. Collect books, sign up for newsletters and read blogs from experts in the area your heart is drawn to. God can refine and direct your life path by watching how He has led others. As you collect information, you might see there is an undeveloped area of study, or there are questions unanswered that you could pick up and run with.

9. Go pray and listen to God—then do whatever God asks: As you obey God, He will trust you with bigger assignments; more responsibilities and bigger dreams and visions to move into reality.

10. Go create something tangible—Make a Dream Board: Cut and paste a college of hopes, dreams, wishes, and prayers from magazines. You can also use your graphic talents and create something like this using a graphics program, or use an online website to spin keywords that reflect your heart into the form of a heart. My mentee, Renee Fisher, is a Dream Coach, she challenges women to make a dream journal and list 100 things you hope to do, be, or experience.

DREAM AGAIN! S

--

IF YOU HAVE DREAMT IT

10 Ways to Rekindle Your Creative Spark

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one sisterhood. God purpose.

1GN UNITE #REALCHURCHladies

E

“IT DOESN’T MATTER HOW OLD YOU ARE. WE MUST ALL CONTINUALLY GUARD OUR HEARTS AGAINST THE THINGS OF THIS WORLD.” —KAYLI, 1GN In a world where Top-40 Pop hits are full of sex, drugs, and hate, 1GN (formerly known as One Girl Nation) bop to a different kind of beat and are faithfully committed to shining the real light.

Since 1GN’s debut in 2013, the GMA Dove New Artist Of The Year Nominee trio of Carmen, Kayli and Lauryn have been busy creating new music to introduce to the fans.

The group’s new album, Unite, which released April 15, is firmly rooted in Proverbs 4:23-27 with the single “Guard Your Heart,” setting a tone for each track on the recording.

“Our generation is on the receiving end of with so many messages from social media, television, movies, and magazines that don’t point to God,” Carmen says.

We wanted the songs on this album to help people recognize these messages and refocus on the truth found in the Word of God.” The girls are pumped for their Unite album tour because the stage presents a strategic opportunity where they can share their testimonies with the masses. They love being candidly open and honest with their fans.

At the end of the day, they, want their fans to realize that they are who they are whether their onstage or hanging out at the coffee shop—just silly, easy-going women who don’t take themselves too seriously.

“We have great friends and family who we surround ourselves with, and we stay in the Word every day,” Lauryn says.

In fact, not long ago, the girls took a retreat to the “normal life.” The trio all took up regular-joe jobs in the Nashville area and focused on leading worship

at their church. It’s their goal to stay firmly planted in Christ.

Each of the girls has a personal mentor who prays and speaks life and wisdom to them. “If you look throughout the Bible, it shows how we need older people who have walked a whole lot more of life than we have to encourage us and pray for us, and to speak God’s truth into our lives,” Carmen says.

Technology does make it easier to stay in touch when they are away from home. Kayli’s whole family stays connect through regular as-a-family text updates.

Carmen, the only married member of the group, openly admits that spending extended time touring is tough on a marriage. On the road, she stays connected with her husband through text, email and phone calls.

“We make a priority to call or text each other— sometimes the smallest things are the things that make us feel loved,” she says.

However, she’s grateful for his incredible support. “He supports me in what I do, and I support him. It doesn’t mean things don’t get hard, but I feel blessed because we are in it together. He is a dreamer as well. I love being able to dream together.”

Carmen, Kayli, and Lauryn have journeyed together for four years now. Looking back, the girls know they are a part of a beautifully unfolding real-life story—grit and glitter included.

“We are closer than bandmates; we are family now,” Kayli says. “As friends, we have traveled together through so many different stages of life; through some tough seasons. I am grateful for the difficult parts of the journey because I know that God makes you better, stronger and more reliant on Him when you walk through the hard times.”

Be sure to follow 1GN on all the social media outlets for the latest music videos. For more information, visit their new website 1gnofficial.com

BY JENN TAYLOR @JENNTAYLOR417 PROFILE CONTRIBUTOR --------

When we live with the anticipation that God will provide, we change our attitude and perspective. With Him, we know that when life looks the worst, that’s really when it is the best. Ask anyone who has lost an important and powerful job like I did. Losing that job seemed bad then, but now I wouldn’t go back for triple the salary because that job is no longer God’s best for my family and me and my ministry.

Paul understood this principle. He said, “We felt we were doomed to die and saw how powerless we were to help ourselves, but that was good, for then we put everything into the hands of God, who alone could save us (2 Corinthians 1:9 LB). Paul faced terrible situations and circumstances, but he said, “that was good.” Are you kidding me, Paul? He could say that with confidence because he knew that God has a bigger plan than we have, and God has the resources and power to make the plan happen.

Our raw dependence on God is His raw material to perform miracles.

I read that there are about 170 verses in the Bible that refer to the ways that God provides for us. He doesn’t give us all our wants, but His generosity and goodness to us far exceed our bare necessities. David said, “The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing” (Psalm 34:10). And Jesus said how much more God our Father loves and cares for us than even our natural parents here on earth. In fact, Jesus said, “…how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who seek him” (Matthew 7:11b).

His gifts are amazing.

Provision. Wisdom. Peace.

Power. Grace.

Never limit God personally or spiritually— for your personal life or your ministry. It’s never too late to become what He has planned for you. We must never think small or feel defeated. Or limited. There are no limits—not technology, finances, personnel, or talents.

Because God has a stash.

A

Let’s Talk

1. Have you seen God provide when there seemed to be no way?

2. What past disappointment or failure seemed devastating at the time, but now looks like a blessing in disguise?

3. Read Romans 8:28. What does this verse mean to you?

4. Write a prayer of praise to God telling Him how you now see how He was working for good when it seemed bad. S

...i bet you can’t even imagine it...

BY KAREN PORTER @KARENPORTER www.karenporter.com

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It was hard for me to miss the full-grown moose wandering only a few feet from my window.

I lived in a remote cabin near Anchorage, Alaska, and I spotted the moose early one morning as I trudged into the kitchen in search of coffee. And I mean this moose was huge! Males can get as big as 800 pounds and eat over 60 pounds of food per day—a pretty hefty amount for a plant eater. How many vegetarians do you know who put away 60 pounds of leafy greens every day? That’s a lot of trips to the salad bar.

I decided to help Mr. Moose in his pursuit of vegetation overload, so I tapped on the glass and slid our kitchen window open. I dangled a carrot in front of the moose’s nose, and he gobbled it down, kindly preserving my fingers in the process. That was fun, so I rummaged around in the refrigerator and brought out a second carrot, which he gobbled up in short order.

I had lived in Alaska long enough to know that moose are perhaps the most dangerous mammals in all of Alaska—responsible for more injuries than even bears. In fact, a mother moose once gave birth to twins outside our window and would not let me or my buddy Rob leave our cabin for three days. It threatened to trample us, as moose are known to do.

But I figured I was safe on this side of my cabin wall. So, after I had given the moose a second carrot, I went back to the refrigerator to get a whole bag of carrots, and he stuck one antler through the window to find out where I was coming up with all of this delicious food. I decided I had to get a picture of this animal because no one in the Lower 48 states would believe it.

I went to the back room to get my camera, but by the time I returned to the kitchen, the moose had stuck his second antler through the window, and now his entire head was inside our kitchen. I remember thinking his antlers might make a handy rack for my dishtowels .

But then I made a big mistake. I went to pet his nose.

I didn’t realize at the time just how sensitive a moose nose could be. I have since heard that a wolf can sometimes immobilize a moose by biting it on the nose. It’s that painful.

I had no intention of biting his nose, but just the idea of petting him upset the creature. He yanked his head back, and his antlers slammed against the window frame. This predicament freaked out the moose even more, and he went completely berserk, trying to retract his head from our window.

—continued on p. 29—

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—continued from p. 27— But in his panic, he couldn’t get his antlers through the opening. I attempted to help him out. I grabbed hold of his antlers and tried to steer them back through the window, but he was snorting and thrashing his head back and forth wildly and nearly threw me off my feet.

Next, the window glass shattered, which did nothing for this poor moose’s frazzled nerves. For a moment, I thought he was going to take down the entire wall, and then I really would have been in trouble. I would have shown up in the newspaper as another cautionary tale about not respecting the power of the moose.

Then I heard a resounding CRACK, and the moose pulled out the entire window frame.

I stared in wonderment as the beast ran off into the woods with the window frame still draped over his antlers. I wonder to this day whether he started a new antler fashion trend among moose.

When I look back on that day and think about the moose poking his huge head through our window and tearing the frame to pieces, it strikes me as a vivid picture of what sin can do if you give it even the slightest foothold in your life.

Sin can seem innocent enough at first, like feeding carrots to a moose on a beautiful winter’s day, but once it gets its nose and antlers into your house, look out!

The incident also brought to mind Genesis 4:7, where God says to Cain, “If you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” The phrase that leaped out at me was “sin is crouching at your door.” It occurred to me that when we are tempted to let unhealthy passions take control of our lives, sin is loitering right outside our door, just waiting for us to let it inside.

Or, in the case of my moose analogy, sin is right outside our window, waiting to shove its nose inside. Sin will use any entry point—a window or a door. The devil isn’t choosy about the way he enters your house.

As the famed evangelist, Billy Sunday once said, “Temptation is the devil looking through the keyhole.

Yielding is opening the door and inviting him in.” So don’t give sin a foothold—or even a hoof hold. If you do, the devil might just tear down your entire house, not just the window frame. S

* * *

This article is an adapted excerpt from the book, Of Moose and Men, by Torry Martin and Doug Peterson—Harvest House Publishers. 2016.

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— t h g u o h t r o f d foo LIFE BYTES

BY PENELOPE CARLEVATO @TEATIMEPEN www.PenelopesTeaTime.com

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UNSINKABLE HEROES

WHILE DOING RESEARCH FOR MY LAST BOOK, I DISCOVERED MANY NEW THINGS ABOUT MARGARET BROWN, AKA THE UNSINKABLE MOLLY BROWN. I visited her Denver home, now a museum, and as I dug deeper, myths about this remarkable woman began to unravel.

Her persona as a belly-up-to-the-bar gal and an eccentric social outcast was exaggerated, thanks in part to a Broadway play and movie of her life starring Debbie Reynolds.

In reality, Margaret was a woman of vision and strong faith who became famous after surviving the sinking of the Titanic. Instead of recuperating at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in New York immediately after such a harrowing experience, Margaret chose to remain on board the rescue ship, The Carpathia, to help those who had lost everything, many of whom were third class passengers.

Many passengers did not speak English, and because Margaret spoke five languages, she was able to help the survivors. She also created the Titanic Survivors Fund, collecting money, clothing, and provisions for those in need. But this was who she was, a woman of humble beginnings with a faith lived out in all areas of her life.

She was always for the underdog and could never leave anyone in distress.

During my research, I was introduced to her great-granddaughter, Helen Benziger. We have become friends, and I have come to admire this woman’s strong faith, her

vision, and her Christian witness through great physical struggles. Helen is the recipient of a pancreas and kidney transplant. She almost gave up on ever getting the transplant, and told the Lord she was ready to stay if there was a transplant available, but she was just as prepared to leave this earth. She had 46 years of being sick, and she was done! Two days later she got the call.

Through the overwhelming amount of pain and suffering that accompanies a transplant, I see Margaret’s spirit live on in Helen. She is a woman with a heart as big as her great-grandmother’s, who feels a responsibility to carry on in her great-grandmother’s footsteps. She believes she is called to do God’s purpose, and not her own. One very tangible way she carries out her calling is to assist those about to encounter a transplant and meeting with the transplant team to offer hope and encouragement, not only before the procedure but many years later. That unsinkable spirit lives on through Helen.

It has been nine years since Helen’s transplant, and she has never felt better. As our friendship has grown, I am learning more about the woman who lived at 1340 Pennsylvania Street, Denver, in the early 1900’s, but also the woman who is very much the personification of The Unsinkable Molly Brown, her great-granddaughter Helen.

“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

2 Corinthians 1:3, 4 (NLT).

Margaret loved raspberries and cream for breakfast.

Helen and I love to have these scones when we meet for tea.

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Raspberry Cream Scones 2 ½ cups flour ¼ cup sugar 2-½ teaspoons baking powder Zest from one lemon ½ teaspoon salt 1 stick of unsalted butter 1 cup of heavy whipping cream 1 cup frozen or fresh raspberries

• Brush the tops of the scones with cream and sprinkle with sugar.

• Bake for about 15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown.

• Cool for several minutes before moving to a plate and serving.

• Serve warm topped with jam and Devonshire cream.

A black English tea is a great pairing for these scones, such as English or Irish breakfast. S

• Preheat oven to 375º F • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt with a wire whip.

• Using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

• Pour the cream into the mixture and stir gently until most of the flour is mixed in.

• Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead until the dough holds together.

• Add more flour to the surface area and roll dough into an 8” X 10” rectangle.

• Place the raspberries onto half the dough, then roll the half without the raspberries over the half with the berries.

• Gently press the top layer into the bottom layer.

• Using a 2-inch round cookie cutter dipped in flour, cut out as many as possible and place them carefully on the baking sheet.

• Use remaining dough, gently press dough together and flatten and cut out the remaining scones.

Recipe from Penelope’s new book: The Art of Afternoon Tea: From the Era of Downton Abbey and the Titanic.

S

(Available from PenelopesTeaTime.com)

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BY HEATHER RIGGLEMAN @HEATHERRIG www.heatheriggleman.com

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e d a m r e ev

i

s e i d a l CH

E H T ST E M I B TS R U H C L A E #R

A K E

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“being a ministry leader is not about keeping it together under a gallon of polish and sparkle.”

-isaih 55:1 (niv)

BEING A LEADER IS CONFIDENCE IN A GOD THAT HAS ALL THINGS UNDER CONTROL. IT’S ALSO ABOUT BEING SECURE ENOUGH TO ADMIT WHEN YOU DON’T. As women, we don’t work one job but two, even three or four. We try balancing motherhood, career, marriage, and leading in the workplace. Too often we find ourselves tired, longing to ask for help, wondering if anyone else feels the way we feel. We’re so busy trying to balance life that we’re afraid of make mistakes. We’re afraid to let others in.

What if I told you mistakes make you a stronger leader? What if I told you mistakes humble us and allow others to see our real lives? What if I told you mistakes make you and I human?

We don’t have to look too far into the Bible to understand these questions. Read any story in the Bible and you’ll find that mistakes created warrior-leaders for God. Moses killed a man, yet God called him to lead the Israelites. David slept with a married woman, yet God called him a man after his own heart. The best mistake I ever made as a female journalist trying to balance it all created the opportunity to become a better leader. It allowed others to see my vulnerability, my real life and pushed others to take risks. But my biggest mistake was hitting a telephone pole at 45 mph.

One moment, I was doing what I always do. The next, I found my Suburban sliding into oncoming traffic as I prayed for the safety of my kids, doing everything I could to control my vehicle and brake before slamming into a pole at 45 mph. My head connected with the

rear-view mirror and dashboard, and I was then catapulted back into my seat. Air bags failed to deploy.

The next few months included being on crutches and surgery because I broke a bone in my foot and tore a tendon. As a fiercely independent woman used to being a single mom of three kids and working full time, I was reduced to needing help for every task.

In the business world, church life or home, leadership is defined as a certain set of skills or character, yet leadership is about shedding our pride and creating community. It allows us to mobilize others towards Christ by planting seeds in all spheres of our lives—if you let others in.

For the woman who feels like she has to be better at everything, stop. Leadership isn’t about being better; it’s about letting others in.

The best mistake I ever made taught my co-workers that it’s okay to ask for help.

The best mistake I ever made allowed me to mentor other young women as they gave me rides to and from work.

The best mistake I ever made allowed me to share my faith in Christ as I leaned on Him for healing.

The best mistake I ever made created opportunities to allow co-workers to be vulnerable with their fears.

The best mistake I ever made bonded my children as they began to take care of each other.

The best mistake I ever made created a deeper bond with my husband as he became Mr. Mom for several months.

The best mistake I ever made broke down walls and let other women in my home to bring meals, help me get dressed, or wash my hair.

The best mistake I ever made allowed me to break a few bones while breaking some barriers in the process. S

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— e m i t t abou

LIFE BYTES

BY KAREN WHITING @KARENHWHITING www.KarenWhiting.com

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REAL LEADERS REALLY LISTEN listen to them.

There have also been times when God has nudged me to ask someone, “How are you doing?” When the person responded, “Okay”, God nudged again, and I asked, “Really, how are you doing?” Each time that triggered a flood of emotions. One young man responded, “I came here to see if anyone cared.

Unless someone asked me how I was really doing, I had planned to kill myself.”

Real people hurt and want a real in-the-flesh person to care, listen, and be there. We can’t always answer their specific need, but we can often point them in the right direction, pray for them, and show them compassion.

We MUST listen, really listen.

Active listening has three steps, so take time to— 1. Make eye contact 2. Focus on the speaker’s words 3. Don’t interrupt

THERE HAVE BEEN A FEW TIMES WHEN PEOPLE HAVE RUSHED UP TO SAY THEY HEARD I WAS SPEAKING AND WANTED TO MEET ME. I knew they didn’t want my books and didn’t want the message I gave that day. What they wanted was someone real to

• Seek understanding and ask questions to verify understanding • Look for nonverbal cues in body language, posture, and facial expressions • Listen with your heart, body language, emotions, and look into their eyes • Ask questions to go deeper if needed.

• Ask what is on their heart and what is causing pain.

• Don’t offer pat solutions.

• Affirm their feelings and concerns.

• Ask what they want from you • Give advice if it is requested • Offer prayer • Share a testimony if God leads you, but focus on the person and not your past.

S the person to • Follow up if possible. Or, point someone who can follow up.

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— n o i t s e u q g i b the

LIFE BYTES

Q: AT TIMES, I QUESTION THE PROPHETIC VISIONS OR MIRACLES RECORDED IN THE

BIBLE, LIKE PEOPLE RESURRECTED FROM THE DEAD. HOW CAN I VERIFY THEY ARE TRUE?

A: I’VE FELT THAT WAY TOO SOMETIMES, AND I BELIEVE IT’S NORMAL. C.S. LEWIS AGREED. He also commented Scripture

described real people and real situations, unlike those fanciful tales were written for youngsters.

For instance, I read my children a book about a poor girl in a faraway land many years ago. She worked for an evil king who wouldn’t pay her. One day she stumbled across a machine that gave her whatever she needed as long as she used certain commands. The greedy king, however, swiped the apparatus and made a mess because he didn’t obtain operating instructions.

Repentant, he restored the gadget and left the girl alone. I’m sure you realize this story wouldn’t be true, so let’s compare the yarn to the Bible we can see the elements that validate the story.

First, our book depicted the King as a dog, which alerts us the tale is whimsical. Scripture portrayed animals as instinctual creatures, which corresponds to the natural world. Balaam’s donkey presented an exception. We understand that aberration because of the supernatural element, which highlighted the prophet’s stubborn determination.

Second, notice the chronicle above gave no setting and no general sense of time. However, when Isaiah opened his book, he identified himself and named kings reigning at the time. Daniel listed the year and

BY CYNTHIA L. SIMMONS @CYNTHIALSIMMONS www.clsimmons.com

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the day of the king’s reign. With careful research, a historian can find records of rulers. For instance, the pastor of Metropolitan Tabernacle in London wrote a book you can use in the British Library to authenticate various biblical people groups with archeological evidence.

Third, note the King didn’t appear surprised his subject obtained a magical device.

What nonsense. When Jesus raised a child from the dead in Mark chapter five, the parents were shocked, and you’d expect that. A corpse doesn’t get up and walk.

Furthermore, what king worth his title would obtain such a device without learning everything he could about how it worked?

He didn’t question the authenticity of the mechanism nor seek to learn its origin so he could obtain another.

In contrast, when Jesus exorcised demons, the Jewish leaders demanded to know what authority he possessed to qualify him for such an action.

After he raised Lazarus, the Pharisees wanted to kill both Lazarus and Jesus in hopes of hiding the event. The Pharisees laid traps for Jesus, so any answer he gave would create problems. Read Matthew twenty-two to see how Jesus confounded Jewish leaders who tested him.

In summary, we can be confident in the authenticity of Scripture. Unlike legends, the authors presented people as sinners and the natural world as we know it. When a supernatural event occurred, witnesses responded with shock and fear. As Lewis said, it depicted reality, not a fanciful creation. S

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PRAYER CIRCLE

so God couldn’t possibly love me.”

ABOUT l l a THE LOVE I BEGAN MY JOURNEY INTO THE DEPTHS OF GOD’S LOVE THE DAY A VIOLENT CAR CRASH transformed my adorable toddler into a mentally impaired child confined to a wheelchair.

Through the years, while my peers’ children were accomplishing their goals, marrying their sweethearts and having grandchildren, my daughter remained much the same, still impaired and still in her wheelchair. But despite the fact that my child didn’t measure up to her peers or even to the dreams I’d once held for her life, my love for her soared to the greatest of heights.

And so it goes with God’s love for us. He, after all, loved us first. He even sent his son to die in our place so we could walk with him in the righteousness of Jesus. Even now, God loves and adores us despite our shortcomings. He adores and forgives us, even when we find it impossible to forgive ourselves.

Recently I was praying with Janelle, an older Christian woman who felt she was not worthy of God’s love. She said, “You just don’t know all the mistakes I’ve made in my life. I‘m not what I could have been

“God’s love for you has nothing whatsoever to do with what you’ve done; your failures or even your greatest accomplishments. God loves you because He is love. It is his nature to love you. Love is who He is.”

I told Janelle about my love for my daughter Laura, explaining, “ I don’t see Laura’s disabilities, I see her as precious. I love her because she’s my daughter.

You are God’s daughter too. He loves you without wavering. For you are very precious to him.”

Janelle quietly wept as she began to open her heart to the love of God. She suddenly turned to me and asked, “But aren’t my present difficulties proof that God’s heart is cold toward me?”

I shook my head. “Absolutely not. But God expects you to learn how to open your heart to his love, even in your difficulties. It’s your job. For the more you let God’s love shine into your deepest wounds and doubts, the more you are healed from life’s fears and traumas. Then you can carry his love into all of your situations.”

Do I always ‘get’ how much God loves me? NO! Sometimes I let past wounds become my measuring stick of unmet proof. Sometimes I let my difficult situations cloud my remembrance of God’s love.

But when I can push past these lies, and rest, really rest in God’s love, not only am I transformed, I can watch the love of God transform my difficulties, my foes, and best of all, me!

Dear Lord, please open my eyes and my heart to your great love for me so I can walk into any crowd, situation or difficulty and change the atmosphere with your love. In Jesus’s name.Amen S To receive a free Prayer Toolbox filled with warfare prayers to pray over you and your loved ones, text LEADINGHEARTS to 95577. —LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD

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HOW MUCH

BRAIN

SHOULD

I USE? s e i d a l H C R U H C L A

#RE

H

N

D

?

What? It’s a myth? I’m sad to hear that. Because I liked the idea that we humans only use 10% of our brains.

I thought I could volunteer to be a case study for the research even. Because I think most of the time I use much less than that.

On the other hand, it was a bit frustrating to think about 90% of brain function remaining virtually untapped. What a waste. All those brain cells. Just sitting there with nothing to do .

I still get a little nervous about learning new things.

Mostly because I figure “percentages” may not be my biggest obstacle. Whatever percent is in use, I only have a certain number of brain cells. It’s a limited supply; I tell you. The little rascals are already occupied with keeping my heart beating, inhaling and exhaling, blinking, drinking coffee—all those basic, involuntary life functions. That’s got to be about 95% of my total brain function, right?

So if I try to stuff new knowledge requiring more than my 5% leftovers in there, couldn’t that squeezeout something else I’ve already learned? Maybe something I really need to know.

Okay yes, I do know I could never…chemistry.

But I never know how my brain is going to mess with me. I can’t count how many times I’ve sat down at the computer with some kind of pressing writing deadline, telling my brain, “Let’s go, buddy.

Gotta get in gear.” Then, just to be funny, my brain will send me into a nonstop loop of “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.” And in those moments my brain will bring to mind every word of that song. No other words of any kind. Just those.

The human brain. What an interesting mystery. It was designed by an infinite God of boundless creative power. Imagine His brain! His thinking power is too amazing for our little brains to process.

It’s a true mind-boggle. He tells us in Isaiah 55, “For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts,” (vs. 9, HCSB).

It’s lovely that in focusing on the God of infinite knowledge and wisdom that we find peace of mind—our own brain-peace. “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you,” (Isaiah 26:3, ESV). This brain of mine can be like an untrained puppy. And sometimes making peace with it becomes a matter of reining it in to “sit” and “stay.” O Lord, may this mind stay on You! All my heart, all my strength, all my soul, ALL my mind. 100%.

Meanwhile, I’m ever so thankful for His loving patience with beings of a finite mind. As for me, sometimes I still find it challenging to keep my What if I watch “Jeopardy” and accidentally learn brain cells all firing in the same direction for any way too much about the Articles of Confederation, length of time without getting a little distracted. and then I forget how to math. I’d hate to find sudBecause sometimes those brain cells… denly I couldn’t chemistry like I once could…

S I smell waffles. chemistry. .

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TERRY WHALIN @TERRYWHALIN LEADING HEARTS BOOK REVIEWER www.terrywhalin.com

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BOOKS TO READ MASTERING THE NEW MEDIA LANDSCAPE

by Barbara Cave Henricks and Rusty Shelton When I want to learn a new skill or gain insight into a current situation, I look for the best expert and hang on their every word. In the area of book promotion and selling books and publicity, Barbara Cave Henricks and Rusty Shelton are two experts who I have watched their successful work for years.

When I learned they had written Mastering the New Media Landscape, I was eager to get this book and consume every page of it.

This book is packed with current examples and specific how-to information.

You will want to use your highlighter with this book and consume every detail, then take action to apply it to the successful marketing of your products, services, and brand.

I highly recommend any author, publisher or even public relations expert do a careful read and apply Mastering the New Media Landscape insight to their digital marketing strategy.

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HEATHER VAN ALLEN @HEATHERVANALLEN LEADING HEARTS MUSIC REVIEWER ---------

MUSIC REVIEWS 1GN Unite Whether or not your music tastes are drawn to the pop/dance energy of 1GN (formerly 1 Girl Nation), and their new album Unite, the tween and teen girls in your life are likely to love it. With a sound geared toward younger listeners, the lyrics of Unite are focused on protecting yourself from false and sometimes dangerous images the world is throwing our way, and finding your grounding in Jesus Christ.

Leading in with hit radio single “Get Hype,” Unite bests anything that the mainstream has to offer with its ten fun, high-energy tracks.

With Unite, 1GN wants to encourage their fans with the message, based on Proverbs 4:23-27, communicated in the track, “Guard Your Heart.”“So much of our life and interactions today are through social media and online, which is awesome. But the dangers are real,” explains Lauryn Taylor Bach. “The images hitting us in pop culture are often overly sexualized and filled with hate, bullying, violence and division. We want to encourage each other to guard our hearts against these things.”

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BY KATHY COLLARD MILLER @KATHYCOLLARDMILLER

ON THE AIR IN 3-2-1

www.kathycollardmiller.com

IN OUR LAST ISSUE, I TALKED ABOUT PREPARING FOR A TELEVISION INTERVIEW. Most of the points from the last issue also apply to radio, but here are some additional ideas.

1. Even if you’re feeling nervous, smile! Yes, even on the radio. It’ll make you relax, and the audience can tell you’re smiling from the sound of your voice.

2. Find out how long the interview takes. If the interviewer isn’t covering the points you want, you can’t control them. You may be able to gently redirect the conversation by first quickly answering his or her question and then transitioning into one of your important points. Transition statements can be, “Another idea that supports that is…” “In addition, your listeners can…”

3. The audience’s loyalties are with the interviewer, not you. One of your jobs is to make the interviewer look good. Remember that she most likely interviews many authors or speakers over a short span of days or weeks.

They can’t be expected to read every book or know everything about you.

4. That’s why most of the time, they will have your publisher provide interview questions you’ve prepared beforehand. Since phone interviews are the most common, have that list and your answers in front of you, noting the page numbers from your book. Use sticky notes to indicate where certain stories or ideas are.

best to be as succinct as possible with your answers.

You don’t want them to have to interrupt you. Don’t be too short, though. The hardest interviewee is the one who gives short answers that do not give anything for the interviewer to follow up on. Primarily, you will want to share practical ideas and applicable stories which are remembered most by listeners.

7. If you pause too long or say something inaccurate, correct yourself if appropriate, but keep going. If the program is being taped, they’ll tell you if they want you to start over or if they want you to repeat something.

8. If the interviewer isn’t mentioning the name of your book very often, mention it yourself — but sparingly.

Otherwise, it’ll sound like you’re desperate to have the title mentioned, and you’ll come off as a pushy rep.

9. To evaluate your performance, ask for a copy of the interview so you can critique yourself.

10. I love to be on radio programs that have the listeners call in, though knowing how to answer may feel intimidating. The most difficult questions are ones that are so complicated that it could take a counselor weeks to work with the person. Help the caller to feel your support by replying something like, “I can understand your struggle. I felt the same way when…” The most powerful help you can give is hope, and hope is primarily shared through your personal story of God’s work.

These few tips alone will help you feel comfortable onair in no time! With experience, television and radio interviews will become enjoyable and exciting for you.S

6. Most radio programs have frequent breaks, so it’s

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TRUTH

s e i d a l H C R U H C L A E #R

UPSTAGED “BE SURE YOU WATCH! I’M GOING TO BE ON ONE OF THE FLOATS!” That was my message to all my friends during December 2012, because on New Year’s Day morning 2013, I would have the unparalleled privilege of riding on a float in The Rose Parade. Known the world over, this parade held annually in Pasadena, California, is arguably the most beautiful pageant on the planet to roll down any street. Every surface of every float must be covered by some plant that was once living, and the floral displays are breathtaking.

The ride was particularly exciting for me because I grew up experiencing The Rose Parade. My mom loved watching the parade on television and had vowed that if she ever got to California from her hometown of Baltimore, Maryland, she was going to see the parade in person.

So it was that when Dad moved the family to Southern California in 1955, Mom was poised to make her dream a reality. After that, our trek to Pasadena every year became a highly anticipated family tradition.

We’d freeze our buns off waiting on the sidewalk (or right out in the street at the blue line if we were lucky)

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in the early morning January chill, but the discomfort flew away when the beauty and pageantry of the parade started. We’d wave and cheer, hoping the float riders would look our way, encouraging the bands to play while they passed us, and praying the horses wouldn’t poop right in front of us.

And now, here I was, actually riding in the parade!

The perspective from aboard the float produced a pure adrenalin rush. Thousands of people along the route and millions at home via television focused on us float riders. The cute little “queen’s wave” never materialized as I waved and cheered exuberantly back at the crowd as we passed.

Then I noticed something odd. Unlike my childhood habit of straining to get the attention of the float riders, although I was clearly visible riding along on this beautiful contraption, the crowd’s attention was not on me.

Sure, I caught the eye of some people in the crowd, but the lion’s share of the interest was on the pastor on our float dressed as Jesus.

Yes, people saw me that morning, but only in relation to my proximity to Jesus. After all, the theme spelled

BY SHARON NORRIS ELLIOTT @SANEWRITER www.LifeThatMatters.net

--------out in flowers on the front of the float said, “Jesus, the Way to Heaven.” My excitement had sidetracked me from my role. My role was to help magnify the gospel message and point the way to Heaven. Despite my beaming smile and enthusiastic wave, I was clearly upstaged by Jesus.

What a concrete lesson to learn. I was overwhelmingly excited to be riding on a float in The Rose Parade, but I get it. No matter what I’m doing, I’m supposed to be at least that excited, if not more so, every day of my life, at every chance I get to point people to Jesus.

People need Him, not me, to get to God. People should only give me their attention as I am in the act of redirecting their attention to the Savior. After each encounter, the question should never be, “Did you see me?” but “Did you see Jesus?” May our lives be a continual adrenaline rush of getting other’s attention so we can point them to Jesus. S

When God calls you to pray,

what will your answer be?

In Called to Pray Pray, Linda Evans Shepherd shares dozens of inspiring true stories of people who have heeded God’s call to pray and the astonishing results of those impromptu prayers.

Through accounts of people being protected from harm and rescued from danger, of needs being met and hearts being encouraged, you’ll see that God is involved in an active and dynamic relationship with us—and that we can be part of his plan to bless others.

GottoPray.com

n

Available wherever books and ebooks are sold.

features

CHARITY REEB is the blogger-in-chief of Good Bad Real Life with Charity Reeb, speaker and the founder of Do Good Business, she is a trusted advisor to faith-based non-profits and ministries. She believes in the power of business savvy for just causes. Charity lives with her husband Jeff and their three beautiful children. www.charityreeb.com KAREN PORTER is an international speaker and the author of six books and a successful business woman. She is president of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, serves on several boards, and coaches aspiring writers and speakers. She and her husband, George, own Bold Vision Books a Christian publishing company. www.karenporter.com

meet linda

LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD @LINDASHEPHERD is publisher of Leading Hearts magazine. She is also a best-selling author, an in-demand speaker, and president of Right to the Heart ministries. She is founder of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA). She lives in Colorado with husband Paul, daughter Laura and son Jimmy. www.Sheppro.com

PAM FARREL along with husband Bill are speakers and authors of 40 books including their newest: 7 Simple Skills for Success for Men. For more information visit www.LoveWise.com TORRY MARTIN is an award-winning actor, screenwriter, and comedian. He has written for Focus on the Family’s Adventures in Odyssey and has cowritten screenplays for several films. As an actor, Torry has appeared in many movies, including Hallmark’s The Ultimate Legacy. www.torrymartin.com DOUG PETERSON is the Gold-Medallion winning author of over 60 books, including 42 for the VeggieTales series and 4 historical novels. He lives in Champaign, Illinois, where he also writes for the University of Illinois. www.disappearingman.com RHONDA RHEA is an author, humor columnist and radio personality. She lives in the St. Louis area with her pastor-hubs and has five grown children. www.rhondarhea.com

meet amber

AMBER WEIGAND-BUCKLEY @BAREFACEDGIRL is managing editor and art director for Leading Hearts magazine. She is a writer, speaker and multi-award winning editor, having spent 21 years in the magazine industry. When not working on Leading Hearts, she provides communications and social media support for non-profits and missionaries. She and her Brit-native husband Philip live in Missouri with their three daughters: Saffron, Imogen and Penelope. www.barefacedgirl.com

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