The Art of Successful Living with Joanne Williams

Rising From Ruins Part 4: Action

Nehemiah Chapter 2 verses 17-18. Also, Chapter 3: 1, New King James Version. Nehemiah First, had an affinity for the ruins, then he addressed the father about the ruins, next he assessed the ruins, and after all that he acted in regard to the ruins.
The key moments in this episode are:
ACTION
1.  After you assess your situation, what action do you need to take?
2.  Spiritual leaders must lead not only by word, but also by action. 
3.  The work of the church requires every member’s effort in order for the body of Christ to function effectively 1 Cor. 12:12-27.  Are you doing your part?  
4.  Finish the work. 
5. Learn how to build and fight!
 
 

Rising from Ruins: Assessment

In today’s lesson we begin with Nehemiah chapter 2:17-18. Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.”
Verse 18: And I told them of the hand of my god which had been good upon me, and of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. So, they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set their hands to this good work.
 
 
The key moments in this episode are:
1. Nehemiah assessed the ruins,
2. He knew it would require a lengthy period of time,
3. He needed secure travel.
4. Nehemiah knew he would need some special supplies that only the king's authority could provide.
5. We must assess what we will actually need, what steps we should take, and what may be involved in changing our habits so that we can be freed to be what God wants us to be. 
6.
. To assess is to evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of. He assessed the ruins. What if any situation are you facing right now that you need to take a good honest look at and assess the damage?
 

Addressing the Mess: A Guide to Rebuilding and Restoring with God’s Direction

As the shattered walls of Jerusalem came into focus, Nehemiah was overwhelmed by the pain and suffering etched into their ruins. Little did he know, this journey of despair would lead to an unexpected twist. To rise from the ashes and rebuild, this man sought solace in God, fasting and praying with a heart heavy with sorrow. But as I delved deeper into this bible story and my own reflections, an unforeseen truth emerged. In the midst of my ruins, I discovered a secret, a hidden revelation that would change everything my future. And so, with bated breath, I embarked on a quest for answers, unsure of where it would ultimately lead me...
In this episode, you will be able to:
Draw strength from the ashes of your personal difficulties, turning defeat into victory.
Cultivate a deeper sense of empathy in prayer as a balm for others.
Find out how to tap into the divine guidance during challenging times and pave your pathway out of the dark.
Realize the potency of targeted prayer in directing your focus towards your spiritual purpose.
Get ready to tackle your problems head-on, seeking the divine help needed to rebuild and revitalize from the foundations.
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:08 - Welcome to the Art of Successful Living, 00:01:05 - The Power of Identifying with Others, 00:04:06 - Seeking God for Restoration, 00:06:02 - Intentional Prayer for the Future, 00:08:31 - The Power of Prayer, 

RISING FROM RUINS

 Rebuilding in Times of Ruin
In this captivating episode of The Art of Successful Living podcast, I delve into the theme of rising from ruins amidst societal challenges. Join me as we explore the inspiring story of Nehemiah, a man burdened with a mission to rebuild.  Will he overcome? Find out in this gripping episode.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Dive into the ways of overcoming life's challenges and rebuilding stronger bases.
Comprehend how your concern can alleviate others' struggles and contribute to their wellbeing.
Explore innovative methodologies to incite a change, moving beyond your comfort zone.
Acknowledge the role and impact of personal responsibility in the journey of restoration and rebuilding.
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:06 - Introduction, 00:01:07 - Current Issues, 00:03:44 - Nehemiah's Prayer, 00:08:43 - Ruins and Affinity, 00:18:53 - Seeking Resources, 

The Basis of Alertness

Awaken your spiritual senses with me as I delve into the irony of how deer remain vigilant in seemingly safe environments, inspiring my goal to guide Christian believers towards constant spiritual alertness and discernment in the face of an unseen enemy.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore the essence of spiritual vigilance.
Understand the art of developing spiritual alertness using your physical and spiritual senses.
Delve into the scriptures for safeguarding against unseen threats from adversaries.
Find the keys to nurturing a divine bond and arming oneself with faith.
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:03 - Introduction, 00:01:09 - The Basis of Alertness, 00:05:26 - Developing Spiritual Senses, 00:09:30 - The Scriptures 00:11:31 - Conclusion, 

SPIRITUAL ALERTNESS: WHAT MUST WE PROTECT?

Spiritual Alertness presupposes that there are dangers that threaten to diminish or destroy the resoureces that God has given us. We must protect these resources.
What must we protect:
Our time: Time is a valuable asset that attracts many robbers.
(See Ephesians 5:16.)
Our health: Energy and vitality will be dissipated through immoral living. (See Proverbs 5:11.)
Our purity: Evil men and women prey upon the unsuspecting and defile the strength and wealth of their purity. (See Proverbs 5:10, 6:26.)
  Our fellowship with God: “Your iniquities have separated between you and your God” (Isaiah 59:2).
  Our family and friends: Beware of whisperers, for they separate chief friends. (See Proverbs 16:28.)
Our good name: A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1).
Our money and possessions: “A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches” (Proverbs 11:16).
Our eternal rewards: “Hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown” (Revelation 3:11).

How Can We Develop Greater Alertness?

• By recognizing that we are in perpetual warfare
Since Satan’s fall, evil has warred against good and Satan has aimed to kill, steal, and destroy Godly generations and the foundations of righteousness. (See John 10:10.) Scripture urges us to be “good soldiers” of Jesus Christ (see II Timothy 2:3). A soldier gives up his personal desires and comforts for the sake of the cause for which he is fighting. As believers, we also are to forsake worldly pleasures so that we can fight the good fight of faith. (See I Timothy 6:12.)
Realize that our enemy is a master of deception!
(see John 8:44). (II Corinthians 11:13–14).
Ask God for spiritual understanding.
(I Kings 3:9). 
Understand that life involves cause-and-effect sequences.
(See Galatians 6:8–9.)
Alertness is motivated by the realization that many actions have predictable results.
Be alert to resist:(see II Corinthians 10:4–5).
Be alert to avoid:(Romans 16:17).
Be alert to escape: (1  Corinthians 10:13).
Be alert to flee:(See II Timothy 2:22 and I Corinthians 6:18.).
Personal Evaluation: How Alert Are You to Danger?
Do you daily remind yourself that you are in a spiritual war?
Do you compare everything you are taught with Scripture?
Do you guard your daily time with the Lord and His Word?
Do you reject all whisperers and talebearers?
Do you protect your good name by doing only what is right?
Do you ask God for daily guidance and find His will?
 
 
 
 
 

Gideon’s Secret Weapon: Mastering Spiritual Alertness

Just when I thought I had learned all there was to know about Gideon's story, an unexpected twist completely changed my understanding of spiritual alertness. It's a lesson that continues to challenge me to this day. Want to know what happened? Keep listening.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Comprehend the crucial role of spiritual alertness and perception in your life.
Uncover the wisdom embedded in Gideon's biblical account and apply it to your personal journey.
Recognize and avoid the pitfalls of false doctrines and misleading spiritual leaders.
Understand the enemy's tactics and create a robust defense against them.
Strengthen your spiritual life by engaging with the Word of God and utilizing it as your spiritual weapon.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:11 - Introduction, 00:01:30 - Spiritual Alertness, 00:02:45 - Learning Spiritual Alertness from Gideon.

Seasons of Spiritual Growth: Trusting God’s Divine Plan

Are you feeling tired, lost, and uncertain in your faith journey, despite following all the traditional steps? It's time to shift your perspective and discover the power of trusting in God's divine timing. In this episode, you'll learn how to align yourself with His plan, embrace difficult seasons, and grow spiritually by connecting with Jesus. Say goodbye to frustration and hello to a content, thriving Christian life.
In this episode, you will be able to:
• Discern the value of pursuing God's master plan and timetable for personal fulfillment.
• Sustain a perpetual season of thankfulness and adoration during times of waiting.
• Acknowledge how seasons of discomfort contribute to forming a Christlike identity.
• Deepen your bond with Jesus by pondering His insights as a catalyst for spiritual enhancement.
• Have confidence in God's impeccable timing to guide you towards a flourishing life as a believer.
Your season is coming. Spring always follows winter, and there is always a due season. God will open doors of opportunity for you. - Joanne Williams
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
• Click the subscribe button to be notified of future podcasts.
• Share this podcast with family and friends.
• Get on your knees and pray if you find yourself out of season.
• Ask God to show you his timing for your life.
• Stay in a season of continuous praise while your change comes.
• Pray and talk to God about your situations.
• Meditate on God's word day and night.
• Abide in Jesus to act, look, love, and pray like Him.
• Be like trees planted by the waters and refuse to sit in the seat of the scornful.
• Believe and trust in God to pour out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive.
In God's TimeBeing aware of the divine schedule that governs our lives is essential for experiencing personal and spiritual growth. This divine timing, orchestrated by God, enables us to flourish in our work for Him and to overcome adversity. Recognizing the importance of understanding and abiding by God's timing helps us achieve a harmonious and successful Christian living experience. In the podcast, Joanne Williams emphasizes the significance of God's timing by illustrating the story of Jesus turning water into wine, waiting for the right moment to reveal His miracle. This example demonstrates that placing our trust in God's divine schedule leads to wondrous outcomes, and highlights the necessity of fully embracing His timing to prosper in all areas of our lives.
The Forecast is SunnyThe podcast emphasizes that seasons of pain and adversity ultimately serve a greater purpose, shaping and refining us into the best versions of ourselves. Trusting that God's plan is at work, even through difficult times, allows us to persevere and thrive. By embracing His timing, we gain the wisdom and strength to navigate and prosper in all circumstances. Joanne Williams refers to biblical verses, such as John 15 and Psalm 1, to showcase how trusting and abiding in Jesus can enable us to bear fruit, even in difficult times. By holding on to God's promises, individuals can withstand any storm and experience the blessings of the sunny days ahead.
Don't ProcrastinateWhile it's important to trust in God's timing, we must also be careful not to idle or procrastinate. By moving too slowly or avoiding opportunities presented to us, we risk missing out on essential growth experiences and opportunities to serve God. Maintaining a balance between trusting in divine timing and taking action is crucial for our spiritual development. During the conversation, Joanne Williams points out the dangers of procrastination and the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise. By staying aware of both God's timing and the need to act, individuals can more effectively navigate their lives and achieve their true potential.
 

SURVIVING A DIFFICULT SEASON

Taking Root in God’s Love to Weather Difficult Seasons
Are you tired of being told to just pray harder when facing tough times? Are you feeling hopeless and lost despite your efforts to stay faithful? It is time to shift your perspective and discover a new approach. In this episode, you will learn how to cultivate resilience and hope by embracing your faith in a way that aligns with the natural cycle of growth and renewal. Say hello to a transformative journey towards restored faith and abundant blessings.
In this episode, you will be able to:
1. Triumph over Life’s Adversities by nourishing your faith in the Almighty God.
2. Discover how God's love can empower you through tough seasons.
3. Develop trust in the divine plan for your life, leading to restoration and abundance.
4. Anchor yourself in the Lord's love and face the trials of life with resilience.
The Key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 – Introduction,
00:01:50 – Surviving a Difficult Season,
00:06:34 – Healthy Growth,
00:10:43 – Anchored in Love,
00:14:11 – Conclusion.