God's Diamonds In The Ruff Podcast

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Catherine and Michael

Welcome to our uplifting podcast, where we aim to guide you on a journey to see yourself through the eyes of God and empower you to navigate life with this perspective. We wholeheartedly believe that you are as precious as a diamond, and it is our mission to constantly reinforce this truth.

#185 LTLT S5 EP 60: Genesis 11: Unity, Diversity, and the Transformation to God's Diamond Network
#60
10/24/2024

Send us a text

What if a simple shift in your online routine could open up new spiritual horizons? Join us as we bid farewell to Facebook Live and usher in an exciting new era with God's Diamond Network on YouTube, streaming live every Monday and Thursday at 7:30 PM Eastern Time. This transition isn't just about changing platforms; it's an invitation to deepen our exploration of faith with fresh eyes. Reflecting on Genesis Chapter 11 and the Tower of Babel, we delve into the timeless themes of unity and diversity in language. We invite you to join in...


#184 LTLT S5 EP 59: Unveiling the Threads of Biblical Genealogy
#59
10/23/2024

Send us a text

Unlock the profound connections between ancient genealogies and our modern spiritual journey as we celebrate a monumental transition after reaching an inspiring 184 episodes. Our exploration takes us to Genesis Chapter 10, where we unravel the complex lineage of Noah's sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and the generational curses that shaped their descendants, especially Canaan. We'll explore how these ancestral stories of division by tribe, language, and land serve as a vital historical compass for understanding the world today. Together, we seek to deepen our wisdom, guided by the divine beauty of each syllable in scri...


#183 LTLT S5 EP 58: Genesis 9: The True Unadultrerated Meaning of the Rainbow Covenant
#58
10/22/2024

Send us a text

Experience the profound promise woven into Genesis Chapter 9, where God's covenant with Noah is illuminated by the vibrant symbol of the rainbow. What does this covenant truly signify, especially when the rainbow is seen through the lens of contemporary interpretations? Discover the deeper, spiritual essence of the rainbow as a divine assurance that the earth will never again be swallowed by floodwaters. I, Catherine, your host of Learning to Live in Truth, invite you to reflect on the potential conflicts between adopting powerful symbols for modern causes while striving to remain true to...


#183 LTLT S5 EP 57: Genesis 9 Purpose in Destruction
#57
10/21/2024

Send us a text

Have you ever thought about what truly living in truth means? Join me, Catherine, as we embark on a heartfelt journey into Genesis 9, where we explore Noah’s covenant with God and its profound teachings. As we prepare for our exciting transition to YouTube, I share the joy of our connections and reflect on this spiritual journey we've been on together. We delve into the importance of engaging deeply with God's word, focusing on themes of fruitfulness, multiplication, and respecting the divinely set boundaries, particularly concerning the consumption of blood. It’s a rich...


#182 S5 EP 56: Embracing Authenticity and Mentorship: Insights from Doris Jackson Shazier's Journey
#56
10/19/2024

Send us a text

Imagine uncovering the essence of your true identity beyond professional titles and societal roles. Join us as we host the insightful Doris Jackson Shazier, a woman whose faith and experience as a new author provide a profound look into living authentically. Doris's journey as a mother of four and her 20-year marriage offer a rich tapestry of life lessons, all infused with her remarkable intellectual curiosity. She passionately discusses the transformative power of mentorship, not as a means of creating replicas of oneself, but as an avenue to help others realize their full...


#181 S5 EP 55: Embracing Core Values and Intentional Living with Andrea Johnson
#55
10/18/2024

Send us a text

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Andrea Johnson, a transformational leadership coach who brings a wealth of wisdom and optimism to our listeners. Andrea opens up about her deeply personal journey, from her diverse roles as a wife and a pastor's wife to her experience as a missionary kid. She shares how her mother's battle with breast cancer became a profound catalyst for her own intentional living. Andrea, a Maxwell leadership trainer and DISC consultant, offers invaluable insights into understanding oneself from the inside out and aligning actions with one's faith, inspiring...


#180 LTLT S5 EP 54: Genesis 7:11-8:27; Noah's Ark, Divine Timing, and the Power of Faith
#54
10/17/2024

Send us a text

Ever wondered what it truly means to trust in divine timing? Join me, Pastor Catherine, as we unravel the epic story of Noah's Ark from the Book of Genesis, particularly honing in on that pivotal moment in Genesis 7:11 when the heavens unleashed their might upon the earth. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of this ancient narrative by exploring the intricate details that led Noah, his family, and a myriad of creatures to seek refuge within the ark. Together, we'll reflect on the spiritual and historical dimensions of these events and delve...


#179 LTLT S5 EP 53: Faithful Obedience and the Legacy of Noah: Lessons from the Ark
#53
10/16/2024

Send us a text

Unlock the profound lessons of faith and obedience as Pastor Catherine guides us through the timeless tale of Noah. How did one man's unwavering righteousness secure the future of humanity? Discover lesser-known details about Noah's Ark, including the significance of bringing seven pairs of clean animals and just one pair of unclean ones. These insights not only enrich our understanding of this biblical narrative but also challenge us to reflect on our own potential impact on the course of history through faithfulness and adherence to divine guidance.

As we look forward...


#178 S5 EP 52: Genesis 6:14-22; Noah's Ark: Divine Instructions
#52
10/15/2024

Send us a text

Uncover the incredible wisdom behind Noah's Ark as we explore Genesis verse 14 to finish, where divine instructions and the grace Noah found before the Lord are at the forefront. We'll guide you through the fascinating details of the ark's construction, from the robust gopher wood to the water-sealing pitch akin to modern caulk, highlighting the purposeful design and sheer scale intended for the preservation of life. You'll gain a fresh perspective on the significance of each room and the profound obedience Noah demonstrated, which can inspire your own journey of faith and trust...


#177 LTLT S5 EP 51: Reflections of Descendents In and Out of God
#51
10/14/2024

Send us a text

What if understanding your divine purpose could change how you perceive your life journey? Join me as we embark on a spiritual exploration filled with profound themes of truth and purpose, inspired by biblical stories. Transitioning to YouTube has opened a new avenue for sharing insights, where I encourage listeners to recognize their potential as "Diamonds in the Ruff." Together, we seek divine guidance for a fulfilling life, drawing inspiration from Enoch's unique relationship with God. His story stirs reflections on the longevity of life in biblical times, raising questions about its intended...


#176 S5 EP 50: Embracing Responsibility, Overcoming Victimhood with Robert Hunt's Wisdom
#50
10/12/2024

Send us a text

Esteemed author and man of faith, Robert Hunt, joins us to confront the pervasive victim mentality overshadowing personal accountability in our society. Through his thought-provoking book, "Nobody Cares," Robert guides us on a journey to embrace personal responsibility, sharing his own compelling life story of overcoming adversity. Reflecting on the contrast between being victimized and adopting a victim mindset, Robert reveals how accountability can become a powerful path to liberation and empowerment, encouraging us to recognize where we may unintentionally fall into the victim role.

Vulnerability takes center stage as we...


#175 S5 EP 49: Changing the Way you Think with Cliff Yates
#49
10/11/2024

Send us a text

Ever wondered how a retired cop could find comedy and motivation as his guiding principles? Join us as Cliff Yates, a former LA County Sheriff's Department officer turned comedian, reveals his remarkable story of transformation. Influenced by motivational giants like Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins, Cliff shares how he shifted from a bleak mindset to one of personal growth and gratitude, all while staying rooted in Christian values. This conversation sheds light on how changing our mindset can lead to profound personal and professional changes, allowing us to approach life with a thankful...


#174 LTLT S5 EP 48: Genesis 5:1-20; Adam's Lineage and Legacy of Faith
#48
10/10/2024

Send us a text

Discover the profound narratives of Genesis with me, Catherine, as we explore the remarkable stories of Adam's lineage. What can Adam's role as the first man teach us about our own lives? We engage in a reflective journey through the creation of man and woman, the generational legacy from Adam to Seth, and witness the enduring nature of God's blessings amid human failures. Join us as we examine the consequences of violence in Lamech's descendants and embrace the wisdom embedded in these ancient texts.

In this episode of Learning To Live...


#173 LTLT S5 EP 47: Genesis 4:16-26; The Door Cain Left Open
#47
10/09/2024

Send us a text

What can the lineage of Cain teach us about what can happen when sin is invited into the earth? Join me, Catherine, your host and pastor of Exposed Life Change Ministry, as we continue our exploration into Genesis, specifically chapter 4, verses 16 to 26. We'll unravel the journey of Cain after he leaves the presence of the Lord, settling in the land of Nod, and starting his family line with the birth of Enoch. Together, we reflect on the significance of Enoch's role as a builder and its deeper meaning within God's grand narrative.
<...


#172 LTLT S5 EP 46: Genesis 4:1-15; The Heart's Intentions and the Lessons of Cain and Abel
#46
10/08/2024

Send us a text

What if your heart and intentions mattered more than the offerings you bring? Join us as we explore the profound lessons hidden within Genesis chapter four, uncovering why Abel's offering won favor over Cain's, and what this ancient story teaches us about the essence of sincerity and devotion. With a heartfelt prayer to guide us, we search for deeper meaning in the different paths chosen by Adam and Eve's sons, urging introspection and spiritual growth. This episode isn't just about understanding scripture; it's about learning how to live with purpose and intention in...


#171 LTLT S5 EP 45: Genesis 3:17-24; The Curse of Disobedience and Its Impact on Our Lives
#45
10/07/2024

Send us a text

Unlock the profound mysteries behind one of humanity’s most significant moments in history: Adam's disobedience and the subsequent curse. How does this ancient story resonate in our lives today, and what can it teach us about our personal struggles and the importance of staying connected to divine guidance and strength? Join me, Catherine, your host and pastor at Exposed Life Change Ministries, as we journey through Genesis 3:17-24. Together, we'll explore how spiritual separation has transformed ease into toil, and how reflecting on our own disobedience might reveal unnecessary challenges we've imposed up...


#170 S5 EP 44: Pet Loss and Divine Healing: Navigating Grief with Rachel Shirley
#44
10/05/2024

Send us a text

What happens when a cherished pet becomes a source of profound grief? Join us as we explore this poignant topic with Rachel Shirley, a devoted advocate for grieving pet owners. During the pandemic, Rachel found her calling in comforting those who have lost beloved animal companions, and she shares the insights and healing messages from her new book, "Pet Loss and Divine Healing." Together, we uncover the unique ways individuals experience grief, whether mourning a pet or a human loved one, reflecting on the deep bonds we form with our furry friends and...


#169 S5 EP 43: Getting Beyond The Pain: Bridget Dunbar's Journey of Faith and Healing
#43
10/04/2024

Send us a text

What happens when a professional therapist faces the unimaginable loss that she often helps others navigate? Meet Bridget Dunbar, a licensed marriage and family therapist who opens up about her heartfelt journey through the devastating loss of two children, including a stillbirth. Bridget's candid account reveals the stark contrast between her professional training and the raw reality of personal tragedy. She shares the emotional turmoil, including moments of questioning her faith, and how her relationship with God became a foundation of resilience and growth.

Grief isn't confined to the loss of...


#168 LTLT S5 EP 42: Genesis 3:7-19 The Fall of Humanity and the Call for Accountability
#42
10/03/2024

Send us a text

What happens when the first humans make a choice that changes the course of history? In this episode, we promise to unravel the profound and cautionary tale of Genesis 3, exploring the pivotal moment of the fall of man. Together, we'll decipher the cunning actions of the serpent and the shame and fear felt by Adam and Eve. As we ponder the symbolic nature of the serpent and the deep-seated implications of this ancient story, we emphasize the pressing need for accountability on our spiritual paths. Through reflecting on the human tendency to hide...


#167 LTLT S5 EP 41: Genesis 3:1-6: The Fall of Man and the Battle Against Temptation
#41
10/02/2024

Send us a text

What if a simple question could unravel your faith? Join us today on Learning to Live in Truth as we explore the timeless story of Adam and Eve in Genesis chapter 3. We start by reflecting on the cunning nature of the serpent and how its deceptive words led Eve to question God's command. This episode isn't just a recount of biblical events—it's a mirror reflecting our own struggles with doubt and deception. We'll uncover how staying rooted in Jesus' word and maintaining a strong prayer life can help us discern truth from li...


#166 LTLT S5 EP 40: Genesis 2:19-25: The Divine Design for Human Companionship
#40
10/01/2024

Send us a text

What if you discovered that our deepest need for companionship was written into our existence from the very beginning? Today, I, Catherine, take you on an enlightening journey through the book of Genesis, examining the pivotal moment when God declared it wasn't good for Adam to be alone. Through a close reading of verses 19-25, we reflect on the profound significance of human connection and the divine design behind creating a suitable helper for Adam. Join me as we uncover the deep spiritual truths embedded in the early chapters of Genesis, where naming...


#165 LTLT S5 EP 39: Divine Purpose Reflected in Eden's Creation
#39
09/30/2024

Send us a text

How does God's meticulous creation of Eden reflect our divine purpose? Join me, Catherine, on this profoundly insightful episode of "Learning to Live in Truth" as we unpack Genesis chapter 2:8-18. Discover the deeper meanings behind God's provision in the Garden of Eden, from the trees that were both pleasing to the eye and nourishing for the body, to the river that sustained the garden, symbolizing God's unwavering support. We explore the profound symbolism of the tree of life and the tree of knowledge of good and evil, delving into the choices between...


#164 S5 EP 38: The True Cost of Following Christ, Karen Bejjani's Story
#38
09/28/2024

Send us a text

What does it truly cost to follow Christ in a world fraught with danger and persecution? Join us for a poignant conversation with Karen Bejjani as she recounts the harrowing journey of her mother-in-law, a resolute born-again Christian in Baghdad, Iraq. Despite facing severe persecution for her faith, her bravery left an indelible mark on Karen’s husband, shaping his spiritual journey in profound ways. Through Karen's contrasting experiences growing up in the American Midwest and subsequently traveling to the Middle East, we uncover how diverse trials and backgrounds can deepen our understanding of...


#163 S5 EP 37: Divine Steps to Rebuild Connections with Guest Branch Isole
#37
09/27/2024

Send us a text

Can damaged relationships truly be healed and rejuvenated? Join us as we welcome Branch Isole, a distinguished author and podcast host, to uncover the profound steps towards mending both personal and spiritual connections. We kick off our episode with a heartfelt prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide our conversation and seeking forgiveness for any past missteps. Branch, a devoted child of God, shares his insights on how we are born as electrically charged beings with a spirit from God, emphasizing the importance of nurturing both our physical and spiritual selves to understand...


#162 LTLT S5 EP 36: Genesis 2:1-7 Connecting Creation with Divine Power
#36
09/26/2024

Send us a text

What if understanding your true worth could transform your spiritual journey? Join me, Catherine, on today's episode of Learning to Live in Truth as we transition from Genesis chapter one into chapter two. Together, we’ll contemplate the profound idea of being God's "diamonds in the rough" and what it means to embody His power and anointing in our daily lives. Through prayerful reflection, we’ll seek new revelations and divine guidance. We’ll also connect the miraculous act of creation described in Genesis with the spiritual insights of Psalms 33:6, reinforcing the divine link b...


#161 LTLT S5 EP 35: Genesis 1: Days of Creation Pt. 3
#35
09/25/2024

Send us a text

What if our reverence for the wonders of nature is misplaced? Today, on Learning to Live in Truth, we take a closer look at Genesis 1:20-31 and unpack the profound purpose behind the creation of birds, marine life, and land animals. We emphasize the significance of recognizing God as the ultimate Creator and discuss the potential pitfalls of elevating creation above Him. Through this exploration, we aim to deepen our appreciation for God's intentional design and caution against allowing anything, even His creations, to divert our devotion away from Him.

As...


#160 LTLT S5 EP 34: Genesis 1: The Days of Creation Pt. 2
#34
09/24/2024

Send us a text

Ever wondered about the profound significance behind the early verses of Genesis? Join us as we embark on a journey through the creation narrative, reflecting on the divine orchestration of light and darkness, and the firmament's role in separating the waters. We open with a heartfelt welcome, sharing our personal struggles and seeking your prayers, emphasizing the importance of transparency and perseverance. Together, we express our gratitude to God and seek His forgiveness, striving to align our paths with His divine will.

As we delve deeper into Genesis, we visualize God’s...


#159 LTLT S5 EP 33: Understanding Genesis: A Spiritual Awakening with Pastor Catherine
#33
09/23/2024

Send us a text

What if understanding the very beginnings of creation could profoundly transform your spiritual journey? Join Pastor Catherine in an enlightening exploration of Genesis, where she shares valuable insights into the foundations of faith. In this episode of "Learning to Live in Truth," we kick off with Pastor Catherine introducing herself and extending an invitation to journey through the Bible together. Starting with a heartfelt prayer, we then delve into her unique teaching approach that begins with the book of First John to lay a clear foundation of salvation before transitioning to the majestic...


#158 S5 EP 32: Empowering Women's Wellness: A Holistic Approach with Dr. Ola
#32
09/21/2024

Send us a text

How can we nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits in a way that honors them as temples of God? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Ola, a compassionate family practice physician and the visionary founder of Empower Her Wellness, who shares her passion for holistic wellness and her mission to go beyond mere weight loss. Dr. Ola emphasizes the lifelong journey of health, where hydration, healthy eating, and regular exercise are vital components. Together, we discuss how adopting a lifestyle approach to wellness can transform women's lives, fostering a mindset shift...


#157 S5 EP 31: Stewarding Our Bodies: Confronting Health, Faith, and Inner Strength with Alan and Angie Thomas
#31
09/20/2024

Send us a text

What does it truly mean to steward our bodies as part of our spiritual and personal responsibility? This episode gets to the heart of that question as we welcome special guests Alan and Angie Thomas. Alan shares his wake-up call at 304 pounds, realizing his health threatened his future with his family. Listen as we confront how shame and obesity can weaken our message as believers and hear Alan’s unique perspective from his experience in the life insurance business. This chapter powerfully underscores the urgent need to manage our health to fulfill our li...


#156 LTLT S5 EP 30: Assurance In Christ: It is A Journey of Faith and Prayer
#30
09/19/2024

Send us a text

What if witnessing a fellow believer's sin could transform your prayer life? On this episode of "Learning to Live in Truth," we promise you'll gain new insights into the transformative power of prayer and intercession. Drawing from 1 John 5:16, we delve into how to respond when we see our brothers and sisters in Christ falter. Instead of rushing to judgment, we explore the profound impact of turning to prayer, trusting that God will address their missteps and grant them life. You'll learn the vital differences between sins that lead to death and those that...


#155 LTLT S5 EP 29: Jesus Does Hear, Believe On Him
#29
09/18/2024

Send us a text

Can faith in Jesus Christ truly change your life forever? Discover the transformative power of belief in this heartfelt episode of "Learning to Live in Truth" as we immerse ourselves in the teachings of 1 John, Chapter 5. We discuss the profound assurance of eternal life that comes from faith in Jesus as the Son of God and explore how this belief empowers us to overcome worldly struggles. Through a vivid analogy of unending thirst or hunger, we underscore the eternal consequences of belief and non-belief, urging listeners to revisit the entire book of 1 John...


#154 LTLT S5 EP 28: Finding Strength in the Symbolism of Water and Blood
#28
09/17/2024

Send us a text

What if the key to conquering life's challenges lies in a single, powerful belief? Join us as we unpack the transformative message of 1 John, chapter 5, where believing in Jesus as the Son of God empowers us to overcome the world. This episode explores the essence of faith, diving into the profound symbolism of Jesus coming by water and blood, and how these elements tie back to the crucifixion and the Spirit's role in our faith journey. Our discussion aims to deepen your understanding and strengthen your resolve in the face of adversity through...


#153 LTLT S5 EP 27: Trusting Jesus Is The Son Of God
#27
09/16/2024

Send us a text

Are you ready to uncover the truth and strengthen your faith? Join me, Pastor Catherine, in this enlightening episode of "Learning to Live in Truth" at God's Diamonds in the Roof, where we discuss how to trust in the Lord, especially during life's toughest moments. Guided by scriptures such as Proverbs 3:5-6 and Romans 8:28, we'll explore our ministry's mission to expose the enemy's tactics and transform lives through God's glory. We'll also highlight our unique approach to Bible study, diving deep into each book and verse to offer profound insights. Don't miss our...


#152 S5 EP 26: Healing Is Possible: Going Thru Grief and Loss with Bridget Dunbar
#26
09/14/2024

Send us a text

How do you hold onto faith when confronted with unimaginable loss? Join us for an intimate conversation with Bridget Dunbar, a licensed marriage and family therapist, who opens up about her deeply personal journey through the grief of losing two children—one through miscarriage and another who was stillborn. Bridget candidly shares the stark difference between knowing grief academically and experiencing it firsthand, bringing us into her world of struggle and resilience. Through her story, we learn about the vital role faith and community play in navigating such profound sorrow and the importance of...


#151 S5 EP 25: Finding Your Worth in Christ Despite Life's Hardships
#25
09/13/2024

Send us a text

What if your greatest trials could become your most profound spiritual blessings? Join us today as we speak with Anney Ngugi, a remarkable woman of faith whose journey from Kenya to Ireland is filled with God's transformative power. Raised in a religious family, Anney's personal relationship with Jesus began during a severe illness after high school. Through this hardship, she experienced God's presence in a way that changed her life forever, teaching her the importance of continually seeking to know Jesus more.

Discover how Anney's faith was further deepened through her...


#150 LTLT S5 EP 24: The Transformative Power of Confessing Jesus and Perfect Love
#24
09/12/2024

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered if accepting Jesus is truly non-negotiable for salvation? Discover the profound impact of this essential truth in our latest episode of "Living in Truth." Reflecting on 1 John 4:15-21, we dive into the heart of what it means to confess Jesus as the Son of God and the transformative power it holds. By recognizing this, we ensure our presence in God, and His presence within us. Yesterday's lesson reminded us that God looks beyond our flaws, seeing and showcasing the best in us. This episode reaffirms that acknowledging Jesus is...


#149 LTLT S5 EP23: Divine Love and Perfection: Insights from 1 John 4:9-14
#23
09/11/2024

Send us a text

What if the true essence of love could transform your life? Join me, Catherine, as we journey through the profound truths of 1 John, chapter 4, unraveling the very nature of divine love. We'll reflect on how God’s love was made manifest through the ultimate sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ—a powerful reminder that our existence is woven into a grand divine purpose. Through prayer and thoughtful study, we endeavor to align ourselves with God’s will, recognizing that our path is illuminated by His love.

In this heartfelt exploration, we also u...


#148 LTLT S5 EP 22: Rebirth and Renewal: Loving His Way in Christ's Teachings
#22
09/10/2024

Send us a text

Can exchanging your burdens for Jesus' yoke truly lead to a lighter, more peaceful life? Discover the profound impact of embracing Jesus' teachings as we reflect on Matthew 11:28-30 and engage deeply with the essence of genuine love, as highlighted in 1 John 4:7 and 1 Corinthians 13. This episode of "Learning to Live in Truth" invites you to explore the transformative power of living love through actions, not just words. I share heartfelt prayers for all listeners, asking for divine guidance and blessings so that we may all reflect God's light and love in our daily...


#147 LTLT S5 EP 21: Identifying False Prophets: Insights from 1 John 4:1-6
#21
09/09/2024

Send us a text

What if you could discern the true spirit of God in a world filled with misleading voices? On this episode of "Learning to Live in Truth," we embark on a heartfelt spiritual journey through 1 John, Chapter 4. Kicking off with a prayer that sets a reflective tone, we dig into the critical importance of spiritual discernment. Not everyone who speaks in God's name is truly sent by Him, and by examining the scriptures, we gain insights into recognizing God's presence in others and situations through their fruits. We also tackle the sobering reality of...