The Art of Successful Living with Joanne Williams

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.
 

IN DUE SEASON: The Art of Persevering Through Adversity

In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore the concept of awaiting kairos time to foster personal growth and transformation. Uncover the risks linked to accelerating or dictating growth before it's due. Delve into the essence of natural, bona fide progression for a spiritually balanced life. Acknowledge the power of patient perseverance in adhering to the divine clockwork of God. Imbibe a motivating reminder to endure and thrive through adversities thrown your way.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:13 - Introduction, 
00:01:06 - In Due Season, 
00:05:01 - Best Time, 
00:09:39 - You Can't Hurry God, 
00:13:26 - Wait on God, 

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

April Showers Bring May Flowers: Embracing Life's Seasons and Adversity
Struggling with a difficult period in life, I never expected to discover the beauty of embracing adversity and its power to bring growth. But when I found solace in the words of 1 Corinthians 3:7, my journey of faith and resilience began - transforming my outlook and helping me appreciate the lessons hidden in life's changing seasons.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover the connection between overcoming adversity and achieving personal, professional, and spiritual growth. Break down the six types of adversity to enhance understanding and develop effective coping strategies. Master healthy habits that bolster resilience and success even during challenging times. Cultivate a positive mindset, faith, and trust in God in the face of life's difficulties. Identify how embracing life's seasons and adversity can create opportunities for personal learning and growth.
Develop good habits that could benefit you during times of adversity, such as joining prayer lines or prayer teams.
Focus on tiny, incremental steps forward to overcome struggles.
Maintain a positive mental attitude by keeping the faith, praying with others, and reading the Word of God daily.
Meditate on scriptures that relate to your situation.
Choose your response in difficult situations and decide your perspective.
Wait on God's timing and trust His plan.
Be grateful for the knowledge you gain through adversity.
Remember that adversity is only a season and it will pass.
Subscribe to the podcast for more inspirational content every Wednesday.
Spread the news about the podcast to family and friends for their spiritual growth and encouragement.

Daniel Chapter 7: Being the Salt of the Earth: Thriving in a Pluralistic World

In this episode of The Art of Successful Living, I, Joanne Williams, delve into the challenges Christians face in our secular society. Drawing inspiration from the book of Daniel, I discuss the importance of living as a believer, maintaining a strong connection to God through prayer, and embodying the Word of God that we preach. I emphasize the need for Christians to be like Daniel, who held on to his convictions despite facing numerous obstacles, and to fight the good fight while finishing their course. By listening to this episode, Christians will feel better equipped to navigate and make a positive impact in today's secular world.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Make a positive difference in the world while staying true to Christian principles.
Appreciate the significance of prayer, conviction, and leading a sanctified life.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introduction, 00:01:05 –
 Living in a Pluralistic World, 00:04:09 –
Being the Salt of the Earth, 00:11:09 –
 The Importance of Prayer, 00:18:40 –
 Courage of Convictions, 00:21:03 –
Connect with me:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minister_joanne_williams_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannecobbswilliams
Books:
My Shade Lipstick Is Red:
https://amzn.to/3ysdv2v
10 Life Lessons From the Life of King David: How to Embrace the Journey of a God-Filled Life:  https://amzn.to/3CCaSh3

Daniel’s Dream and the destiny of America

The Rise and Fall of Empires: Is America Next?
As I studied the book of Daniel and discovered the stages of empire-building, I couldn't help but see the similarities between them and America's decline. I was filled with despair at the thought that this great nation might be destined for destruction--but then, I found strength and hope in the power of our faith.
In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Uncover the hidden messages behind Daniel's Dream and its impact on modern times. 2. Contemplate the destiny of America through the lens of biblical perspective. 3. Delve into Glubb Pasha's Seven Stages of Empire Building and their relevance today. 4. Grasp the complexities of immigration, cultural issues, and expansive welfare programs. 5. Learn how to craft an informed Christian response to America's decline. 6. Reflect on personal beliefs and responsibilities in light of the presented topics.  The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:08 -                              Introduction,
00:01:30 -                              The Destiny of America,
00:09:09 -                              The Intellectual Age,
00:13:56 -                              Christian Response,
00:15:17 -                              Closing Thoughts,

Daniel’s Dream: The Son of Man

Here's what I cover in this episode:
1. What is the significance of Jesus being referred to as the "Son of Man" in Daniel chapter seven?
2. What is the message of repentance being preached prior to the second coming of Jesus?
3. What does it mean that two people in one bed, one will be taken and the other left, as described in Luke chapter 17?
0:02:07Let's begin with Daniel chapter seven, verses 13 through 14. It reads, I was watching in the night visions and behold one like the Son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. Heaven coming with the clouds of heaven. Let me do this all over again.
00:02:43And it reads, I was watching in the night visions and behold one like the Son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He came to the Ancient of Days and they brought him near before him. Then to him was given dominion and glory, and a kingdom that all peoples, nations and languages should serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion which shall not pass away, and his kingdom, the witch, shall not be destroyed. Okay, so we need to note right here that this is the first reference to the Messiah as the Son of man.
00:03:34Jesus is also referred to as the Son of man all throughout the New Testament as well. In 2 Thessalonians2:8, Paul told the church at THESSALONICA he said this and the Lawless One will be revealed. Who is that lawless one? The Antichrist, the beast that I spoke about last time with the mouth, uttering great boasts. He's going to be revealed.
00:04:08Whom, Paul goes on to say, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of his mouth and destroy with the brightness of his coming. But we're going to flip back to Daniel. And Daniel goes on to say the same stone mentioned in Daniel chapter2 is the Son of man.
00:04:41The same stone who is the Son of man receives the fifth and final kingdom, which endures forever and will not be destroyed. You can go back and read that in Daniel, chapter two, verses 34 through 35. That stone is another reference to Jesus. Jesus is the Messiah, who is being referred to as the stone. The Bible goes on to tell us something more.
00:05:15So here's where I want you to really pay attention about this Son of man. I am going to be reading from the NIV version of the Bible. Luke, chapter 17, and I'm going to start reading from verse 26. And I'm going to stop at verse 37,
00:07:57Okay, so that's the word of the Lord. Now, what this is talking about is the coming of Christ. And these Scriptures speak to his second coming. And it tells us what it will be like. It's telling us about the culture, about society, what things will be happening in the world.
00:13:14Here is what was happening in the days of Noah. Genesis, chapter six and seven. Go back and read those two chapters. 1. Noah had God's message calling the people to enter into the ark. He told everybody, get ready, get ready, get ready.
00:13:382. The problem was the people were content to keep the status quo and they didn't care about God's message. They didn't give a hoot or a holler about that. They were busy, they were doing their own thing. Everybody's having a good time and life is good, and we're not worried about a thing. 3. God brought destruction upon the world at that time with the flood.
00:15:244. So why does God tell us about Sarah's heart?
00:16:265.God pulled lot out of Sodom using two angels. Genesis chapter 19.
00:16:526. God burned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. And that's also in Genesis chapter 19.
00:17:251. The second coming, the presence of the Son of God is an event that will take place at a certain period of time. Nobody knows the day or the time, but it will take place.  2. The Bible tells unbelievers to repent and come to Christ, who is the only place of safety. 3. At Jesus second coming, he will be plainly visible to all.
00:18:07
No matter how close two people may be in life, they have no guarantee of the same eternal destiny.