Keep the Heart

Digital peer pressure is a real thing, and it's creating a chaotic way of life for many. From seeking validation to comparing ourselves, the online world has become the modern day Wild West. Point. Shoot a video. Post it for the world. Repeat. Joining me in this episode is a fellow Bible-loving sister friend, Quortney Jernigan from Running Redeemed, a ministry that Quortney started to help women learn to study their Bibles. We're examining the effects of digital peer pressure on women, children, relationships, and then we're wrapping it up with a brief discussion on risks vs. benefits. This episode would make a great study topic in a small group discussion. Save it and share it! Follow Quortney from Running Redeemed on Instagram The Blog and Website for Running Redeemed VISIT THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART! Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor What Do I Have to Lose: A 50-Day Devotional (Book Two) by Janice Wolfe   From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

Welcome to Teachback Tuesday, where you'll hear some of the most popular episodes from previous seasons. I blame the beauty queen in the waiting room. She prompted this podcast. We were talking about things in general when she suddenly inserted that she was a former beauty queen. It was such an odd insert that it confused me at first, but as I continued to listen, I heard the voice of insecurity in the background. I don't remember inviting insecurity into our conversation. Insecurity is a creepy beast that preys on our vulnerabilities. Whether we're frequently putting ourselves down or elevating ourselves on pedestals, insecurity is the driving force behind the self-absorption. There are ways we can overcome this unhelpful habit. Let's consider five suggestions in this episode. Book Club Selections in the Shop Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton What Do I Have to Lose?-Book 2 Devotional by Janice Wolfe Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

Have you ever felt like a person or a people group deserve punishment, but you don’t? There was a man in scripture like that. His name was Jonah, and he lacked mercy but expected to receive it. Are we like Jonah? Sometimes I think we're more like the bad actors in the Bible than the good ones. A careful study of the book of Jonah reveals several common problems. It’s easy to point out Jonah’s faults, but he really was a lot like us. We want people to forgive us when we’re wrong, but we may not be so willing to show them the same kind of mercy. Let’s study four lessons from the book of Jonah. Book Club Selections in the Shop Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton Vitamins for the Soul: A Study on Maintaining Spiritual Health by Kathy Ashley Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2025

Welcome to Replay Wednesday, where you'll hear the most popular episodes from previous seasons. This week's episode, "Did God Answer Your Prayer?" was downloaded thousands of times. Many people wonder why God supposedly "didn't answer," but is that accurate? If the answer to our prayers is according to God's will, things may turn out differently than how we prayed. If we really mean it when we pray, "Thy will be done," then we must accept that God's will may or may not match our prayer request.  "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10) VISIT THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART! Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley NEW! From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton What Do I Have to Lose?--Devotional by Janice Wolfe Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2025

It is May 2025 and I am in a sling, recovering from rotator cuff repair surgery. This episode was recorded two days post-op, so my voice may be a little slurred at times as I tried to speak into a microphone while under the influence of strong pain medications!  Why didn't I record before surgery? Because I was in conference season, which is the same as saying that I was living in airplanes and sleeping in hotels. But I wanted to provide an episode that would share some lessons that I have learned and continue to learn every time I face a new challenge--medical or otherwise. Are you going through a medical challenge? This episode is for you. Are you going through some other challenge? This episode will still be helpful. Things may be tough now, but you've been through tough things before and experienced the blessing of God turning trials into blessings.  "Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit." (Ecclesiastes 7:8) SALVATION: You Need to Know About Eternal Life VISIT THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART! Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley NEW! From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton What Do I Have to Lose?--Devotional by Janice Wolfe Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

There is a word for relationships that are stuck in a zone of alienation. That word is “estranged.” There are many reasons for people to distance themselves, but there are times when you may not even know what led to the separation. Sometimes we may know why a relationship has been damaged, but not always. There are those times when you can’t think of anything you've done and God hasn’t brought anything to mind, and yet you are dealing with the pain of a loved one who has cut off communication without explanation. Whether it’s a family member or a friend, the result is the same: there is pain. It’s puzzling to go through estrangement, but we don’t want to do or say anything to make it worse. This episode covers four things to remember when someone we love won’t speak to us. Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley NEW! From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton What Do I Have to Lose?--Devotional by Janice Wolfe Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Welcome to Teachback Tuesday, where we play the most popular episodes from previous seasons. This week's episode, "Don't Correct a Scorner," prompted emails, messages, and thousands of downloads. We are not the first people to have loved ones who are rejecting God, disregarding biblical living, and engaging in behaviors that cause a loss of sleep for those who love them. If you have a scorner in your life, this episode is for you. When it comes correcting a scorner, the Bible says "reprove not." That's Bible for "Don't." Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley NEW! From Overwhelmed to Overcomer by Natalie Raynes Blanton What Do I Have to Lose?--Devotional by Janice Wolfe Elegant Olive Petal Snap Flap Bible--Great for travel! The "Be Like Jesus is Better Than You Do You" T-Shirt Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Welcome to Teachback Tuesday, where we play the most popular episodes from previous seasons!  This week's episode, "Three Great Relationship Habits" has a short list of goals that are easy to achieve. Life is a vapor, and that includes our relationships. Take a 10-minute break to listen to this helpful relationship-building episode from Season Three.  Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Herbs for the Heart: A Study of James by Kathy Ashley Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias What Do I Have to Lose?--Devotional by Janice Wolfe Elegant Olive Petal Snap Flap Bible--Great for travel! The "Be Like Jesus is Better Than You Do You" T-Shirt Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

Do you have a problem that is over 12 years old? Maybe your situation has gone on longer. One thing is certain: your issue is not too hard for God. We may not understand His timing, but we can trust His goodness. When we don’t understand, Psalm 119:68 makes an excellent prayer request: "Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes."  There was an unnamed woman in the New Testament who had a "12-year issue of blood," which meant that she was hemorrhaging for a major portion of her adult life. Let's examine four lessons from her long-running story. Whether your problem is physical or something else, your faith is being tested. Click HERE to visit the Shop at Keep the Heart Apply: Living What We Learn--31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias What Do I Have to Lose?--Devotional by Janice Wolfe ICU--In Christ Unconditionally: Heart Conditions Bible Study by Francie Taylor Elegant Olive Petal Snap Flap Bible--Great for travel! The "Be Like Jesus is Better Than You Do You" T-Shirt Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

When I was a senior in high school, I was selected to participate in a foreign exchange student program that led me to live in Chile for a year. My first few months were hard. I felt like a person who didn’t fit in anywhere. There were some days when I just felt lonely and wanted my old familiar life back.  Grief is like that. The foreign land of grief is unfamiliar and can even make us feel hopeless at times, but there is hope beyond grief. No matter who it is who passes from our lives—husband, child, parent, sibling, close friend—we may go through a season of feeling lost and out of place, but just as seasons change, this too, shall pass. Let’s consider four reasons why we have hope beyond grief. Click HERE to visit the Shop at Keep the Heart Apply: Living What We Learn--Great for small groups! Elegant Olive Petal Snap Flap Bible--Great for travel! The "Be Like Jesus is Better Than You Do You" T-Shirt Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

Welcome to Replay Wednesday, where you'll hear some of the most popular episodes from the previous season. This week's episode, Calm in the Chaos, struck a chord with last season's listeners. When life is chaotic for too long, it changes from challenging to tormenting. It's doubly distressing when we don't know why things are so disorderly and confusing. If you missed this episode in 2024, take a break for less than 15 minutes to consider four questions you can ask yourself when life is stuck in the uncomfortable zone of chaos. Pray for God to "give you understanding" as you carefully consider the questions you'll hear. "Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: give me understanding according to thy word." (Psalm 119:169) VISIT THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART Apply: Living What We Learn--Great for small groups! Elegant Olive Petal Snap Flap Bible--Great for travel! The "Be Like Jesus is Better Than You Do You" T-Shirt Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

The Bible has historic accounts of the lives of people who were just like us. We are not the first to wrestle with uncertainty, disbelief, or even skepticism. God can help us to grow in our ability to trust Him, but we'll need to deal with the doubt. Let’s look at three ways that doubt works against our faith, and consider how we can surrender our doubts to God. Mentioned in this episode: Secret Doubts: Working Through Unspoken Unbelief by Tim Zacharias Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor Elegant Olive Petal Snap Flap Bible--Great for travel! The "Be Like Jesus is Better Than You Do You" T-Shirt Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Welcome to Replay Wednesday! This episode, "How to Handle Discouragement" from Season One continues to be one of the most frequently-downloaded episodes. No surprise. Discouragement is a common experience, and it has a lot of causes. Maybe you've lost a job and haven't been able to find another one yet. Or perhaps there's trouble in your family and it feels like the problems are multiplying. Or maybe there's something you have been longing for in your life and it hasn't come to pass, and you're wondering if it ever will? Discouragement can make our spirits heavy, but this is a temporary condition, not a permanent address. Find a comfy chair and pause for these helpful insights designed to encourage. There is hope. Even when we lose our own. "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance." (Psalm 42:5) Helpful tools here in the Shop at Keep the Heart: Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor Elegant Olive Petal Snap Flap Bible--Great for travel! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2025

Prideful thoughts sound like these: Who do they think they are? She/he thinks her/his way is the only way to do things. Why do they get praised for doing the same work that I do? I should get recognition for this. I'm not bragging, but... Welcome to a Bible Study segment from the series, ICU: In Christ Unconditionally-Heart Conditions. This week's episode is a study of "The Proud Heart." This is a 25-minute episode, since it is the entire lesson from ICU. We do not need lessons on how to be prideful. It comes naturally. In this episode, we'll look at a poster child for the prideful heart: King Nebuchadnezzar. He thought way too highly of himself, but aren't there times when we're doing the same thing? If you're planning to teach a Bible study group, get the Leader Guide which includes teaching notes. The Leader Guide is also appropriate for solo study. The participants in your group would each need a Participant Guide, which includes interactive blanks to fill in, along with space for study notes. Get your group together and play this episode. You'll complete this lesson in less than 30 minutes. You'll confidently teach the other lessons on your own. Bible study groups are a great way to form lasting bonds of friendship around the Word of God! The episode ends with a BONUS SEGMENT of tips for leading your next Bible study group. "Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom." (Proverbs 13:10) START YOUR BIBLE STUDY GROUPS WITH THESE TOOLS! ICU: In Christ Unconditionally--Heart Conditions Leader Guide ICU: In Christ Unconditionally--Heart Conditions Participant Guide ICU: In Christ Unconditionally--New Testament Leader Guide ICU: In Christ Unconditionally--New Testament Participant Guide ICU: In Christ Unconditionally--Old Testament Leader Guide ICU: In Christ Unconditionally--Old Testament Participant Guide Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

When I had a heart procedure done a few years ago, I was told that I would be feeling great afterwards. This was not my experience! Instead, shortly after going home I was taken right back to the ER with overwhelming pains that were shooting through my body. The heart procedure had damaged some nerves at the point of entry for the surgery. These nerves went crazy and sent lightning bolts of pain through my body for a few days. Once the pain resolved, I actually did feel much better than I had felt before going into the procedure. The end was better than the beginning, but I had to be patient and walk through some pain before getting to that "better" part. In this Season 5 Intro episode, I'm sharing my theme verse with you, explaining the blessing of how this simple habit helps. If you don't have an annual theme verse, pick one today. Watch how God uses that verse, often in ways that bring both "growing pains" and joy!  My theme verse for 2025: Ecclesiastes 7:8 "Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit." Helpful tools here in the Shop at Keep the Heart: Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

Have you ever had a problem that you could not figure out? That's like asking if you have a pulse. It is part of life to face things that are hard to understand, let alone solve. That's a good time to pray at least three words: "Give me understanding." The words, "give me understanding" appear five times in Psalm 119. This episode briefly covers those five verses, all of which make excellent prayer requests. Stumped? No clue what to do? Ask God to "give you understanding." It's a biblical prayer request. Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 20 December 2024

Welcome to Replay Friday, where you'll hear some of the most popular episodes from previous seasons! This week's episode, "Are You a Drama Mama," was played and replayed and shared thousands of times. It is easy to become a Drama Mama. All a person needs is an attitude. A bad attitude. This replay covers five marks of a Drama Mama. This episode is like a self-exam. Sometimes we need to check our behaviors and thought processes for blind spots. Share this episode. Let's reduce the drama. Book & Bible Bundle: Apply-This Liberty of Yours-Olive Snap Flap KJV Bible Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick NEW! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2024

Family gatherings have the potential to put people together who have strong disagreements over their philosophies of life, as well as other topics. One simple statement can start an argument that turns what was supposed to be a joyous time into an event-ending conflict. Sometimes this can feel like walking into a trap! The holiday season in particular is the time when people often get together after months or even years of not having seen each other. Why should we mess up these rare gatherings with disagreements when we can find so many other things to discuss and enjoy? Let’s consider three things we can do to handle the potential pitfalls with wisdom.  Book & Bible Bundle: Apply-This Liberty of Yours-Olive Snap Flap KJV Bible Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick NEW! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2024

Welcome to Replay Friday! This episode had thousands of downloads when it first aired in 2021, and maybe that's partly because people like to hear about how others blew it! Ha! "Dumb Things I Did as a Newlywed" is not just for brand new wives. It's for married women of all stages. The problem with doing things incorrectly is that it may become habit-forming, persisting into the later years of marriage. Marriage is a "work of heart," including routine maintenance as well as occasional repairs. This episode covers four things that qualify for the "Not to Do" list. Self-directed marriages are filled with struggles, but biblical marriages improve with age.  "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD." (Proverbs 18:22) More on this topic here: Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick NEW! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team   Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 15 November 2024

When someone says or does something that irritates you, what comes out of your mouth? Unfiltered speech that stings, or carefully chosen words spoken according to the "law of kindness"? We are at great risk of picking up the infections of the culture, including the tendency to open the mouth with unedited harshness. If your companions, electronic or "in real life" are mouthy and careless, you will be influenced by them. But if your role models are biblically sound, that beautiful soundness will become an admirable pattern for you. The best companions are God-fearing ones, as it says in Psalm 119:63: "I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts." This episode is an excerpt from Apply: Living What We Learn. Day 31 examines "the law of kindness." People who have learned how to apply this kindness to the way they communicate are precious, encouraging, and rare.  "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness." (Proverbs 31:26) Get your copy of Apply here: Apply: Living What We Learn--A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2024

Welcome to Replay Thursday, where we play the most popular episodes from the previous season! This episode, "When Plans Change," was recorded after I was released from the hospital following a health emergency. I had to cancel a trip, was grounded from flying for over a month, and had to make several other unplanned changes on my calendar and in my life. This was hard, but people face much harder changes.  We won't always understand why plans change, but it's good to remember that this is a page in the story, not the end of the story. In this vaporous life, we simply cannot know what will happen by the end of the day, let alone tomorrow. This is worth another listen, especially if you're experiencing an abrupt and unexpected change in your plans. "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." (James 4:14) Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick NEW! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2024

According to various online sites, "self-care" is a term that became popular within the medical community in the 1950's. Regardless of its origin, the definition of the phrase is flawed. It's missing the soul: "Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. This can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact."--National Institute of Mental Health ("Caring for Your Mental Health," NIMH) What about the soul? Doesn't it need self-care, too? Yes, it does. God knows how to guide us into the best overall self-care, and He doesn't limit it to just the physical and mental aspects. His Word nourishes, strengthens, and fortifies our souls as well.  "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians 5:23) We are more than physical bodies with mental faculties. The soul is our "inner person" and it needs daily self-care. In this episode, we'll look at Day Eight in the devotional, Apply: Living What We Learn. Day eight addresses our need for daily soul food. To get a copy of this helpful Bible-habit-building tool, see the link below, or click on the book title in this paragraph. Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 11 October 2024

Welcome to BAM: Your Bible Application Moment. Today's application comes from Proverbs 23:9, which tells us what not to do: "Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words." (Proverbs 23:9) So why do we disobey this scripture so often and so boldly? Did you know that when we're disregarding scripture while trying to correct someone else, we will be totally ineffective because of our own disobedience? "Speak not" means "don't speak." So don't. More Bible Application Here: Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2024

Welcome to Replay Thursday, where we play the most popular episodes from the previous season.  Have you ever almost side-swiped a car because they were in your blind spot? We often "side swipe" people in our daily lives for the same reason: they were in our blind spot. When new cars added the Blind Spot Warning System to vehicles, it really helped drivers to know when someone was in that zone. The system detects vehicles in the blind spot and notifies the driver of their presence, often with a light in the sideview mirror and an audible warning ping. It's great that there's a warning system to help us avoid car crashes. Too bad there’s not a Blind Spot Warning System to keep us from human clashes. This episode covers three common blind spots, and what we can do to avoid side-swiping other people in our lives. Apply: Living What We Learn--Daily Devotional by Francie Taylor NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick NEW! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2024

Have you ever had negative thoughts replaying in your mind, and you felt powerless to stop them? This merry-go-round that you never asked to get on is taking you in circles inside your head. And what’s worse about it, is these thoughts are indicators of the condition of our hearts. Why is that? Because thoughts come from the heart. This episode title, “Managing Our Thoughts” is carefully worded. Notice that I didn’t say “Controlling Our Thoughts,” because clearly, we are not in control. If we were, we’d all be enjoying so much peace and abundant quiet, because thoughts are noisy! We can’t control our thoughts, but God can teach us how to manage them, and as we continue to yield this area to God, He can even teach us to discipline our thinking so that we become masterful at managing our thoughts. The Bible has a lot to say about our thoughts, and it helps us if we know these truths. Let’s consider three ways that God’s Word gives us for managing our thoughts. Be sure to visit the Shop at Keep the Heart for helpful devotional books, Bible studies and more! Links below. Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor NEW! What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick NEW! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 6 September 2024

Disagreements with people are nothing new, but we are seeing an increase in the contentious nature of the disagreements. This is mainly because our culture is promoting a mentality that you must agree with only one line of thinking or you are automatically wrong and therefore intolerant. That’s a two-way street. Expecting people to agree with us 100% of the time is unrealistic. How did we get here? The answer is as old as the Old Testament. Listen to this verse from Judges 21:25: "In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes." This verse is our clue. We are facing a reenactment of Judges 21:25. This results in people making up things and then insisting that their way is right.  How can we disagree without the mudslinging and labeling? Let’s consider three suggestions for walking in wisdom when handling disagreements. Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor NEW! What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick NEW! Encouragement for Young Women: A 30-Day Devotional for Teens by Charity Berkey & Team Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2024

Welcome to Replay Friday, where we play the most popular episodes from previous seasons. This week's episode, “Four Ways to Stop Double Mindedness” was in demand back in season 3. No surprise, because this is a common problem, especially when we're faced with tough decisions.  Double mindedness overcomplicates our lives, making us unstable. This episode shares ways that we can avoid this unhelpful habit.  "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." (James 1:8) Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor NEW! What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe NEW! Far Above Rubies: A 31-Day Devotional by Melissa Hedrick Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 9 August 2024

We tend to think of losing as an automatically negative event, but in her new devotional, "What Do I Have to Lose," Janice Wolfe demonstrates how Christ reframes losing into the miraculous discovery of an abundant life in Him. Losing is culturally scorned, but it is biblically desirable.  To find our lives, we must first lose them in Christ. This is a painful yet strength-building journey designed by God, but not actively pursued by many. Let’s face it: by nature, we like life to be predictable, comfortable, and enjoyable. How could losing have anything to do with our life goals? In God’s plan, losing our lives and setting aside our personal agendas allows us to experience the abundant life in Christ. Janice Wolfe is an author, conference speaker, and radio host of the popular women's program, eleven2one on Faith Music Radio. After hearing this interview with Janice, be sure to click the link below to get a copy of her book in the shop at Keep the Heart. NEW! What Do I Have to Lose: Losing My Way and Finding God's by Janice Wolfe Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2024

Welcome to Replay Thursday, where we play the most popular episodes from the previous season.  Imperfect people can’t have perfect relationships, but God left us with the wisdom of scripture to help us do a better job. This episode shares three verses that are great for our interactions with each other. When we have better relationship habits, we'll have better relationships.

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2024

Welcome to REPLAY THURSDAY, where you'll hear the most popular episodes from the previous season. What does it mean to be “double minded? The Strong’s Concordance defines it as “two spirited,” “TWO” as in number. It goes on to define it as “wavering, doubting, and uncertain.” We’re going back and forth on an issue in our opinion, our purpose, or both. This phrase only appears twice in the New Testament, and both times are in the book of James. Listen to the bottom line from James 1:8: "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." Granted, this verse was speaking about asking God for wisdom without wavering, but it applies to any area where we’re wavering. Being double minded is uncomfortable on purpose. It's an helpful way to live. Let’s consider four ways to stop this confusing habit. Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2024

No matter how many times I read the book of Job, I pause and try to imagine the traumatic shock waves that must have been passing through the souls of both Job and his wife, not to mention the unnamed people who were a part of their lives. What happened to their family was beyond comprehension. It was as if they were living in a horror movie. People still go through heartbreaking tragedies today that we simply cannot comprehend. There are modern-day versions of Job. Have you ever wondered why God included Job’s story in scripture? We can only guess, but I wonder if one of the reasons was so that we would know that it is possible to go through the darkest, most pain-filled time and still survive. It may feel like we are not going to make it, but time passes and the razor-sharp edges of pain soften and we find a way to breathe again. Job’s survival of trauma beyond comprehension is proof that devastating events do not have to destroy our lives. Out of 42 incredible chapters, let's consider four lessons from the book of Job.  Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Sister Friends by Francie Taylor--Same book NEW LOOK Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2024

Don’t you hate self-sabotage? You know, those times when you are planning to do something that is good for you, but then you’re forced to battle the inner toddler that wants to do the opposite. There was someone who had this same struggle in the New Testament, and he wrote these words in Romans 7:15: "For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I." The apostle Paul was writing about the battle with self, also known as the a lack of temperance. According to the Strong’s Concordance, temperance is another word for “self-control.” It’s that very difficult spiritual workout of learning how to have the mastery over our desires, passions, and appetites. And when the definition says “appetites,” that’s not just referring to food. Some people have an appetite for power, while others have an insatiable desire for pleasure. Webster’s 1828 Dictionary includes this definition for temperance: “Patience; calmness; sedateness; moderation of passion.” So how can we achieve this calm, patient, management of the self? Let’s consider three truths from Scripture, and then you can pray for God to show you where to begin. Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Olive Petal KJV Snap Flap Bible Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2024

Welcome to REPLAY THURSDAY, where you'll hear the most popular episodes from the previous season. Have you ever heard someone say they were "speaking their own truth?" The absence of God plus the presence of deception equals strong delusion. We need to protect ourselves from deception by keeping our souls nourished. God's Word is our "necessary food," as Job observed in Job 23:12: "Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food."  The Word of God is as essential to our souls as physical food is to our bodies. Don't be fooled. Three suggestions in 12 minutes. INSPIRING NEW DEVOTIONAL BOOK! Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Olive Petal KJV Snap Flap Bible Rose Gold Beautifully Embossed KJV Bible Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2024

There are regular conflicts, and then there are MESSY conflicts. Regular conflicts are easily resolved, but messy ones take more time. Messy conflicts are a part of the cost of having relationships. There will be awkward, uncomfortable, embarrassing, infuriating, and even shocking events that happen in daily life. Maybe you’re facing a messy conflict right now. It’s like trying to walk over a bed of hot coals without burning your feet. Anywhere you step, there’s heat. Trouble is human. We see this stated in Job 5:7: "Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward." Imperfect people will not have perfect relationships. The more relationships you have, the more opportunities you have for conflict. And not everyone has mastered the biblical practice of appropriate conflict resolution, so that means you may have to face a few toddlers stuck in adult bodies. We know that run-ins and strong disagreements happen, but we may make conflicts worse if we are not handling matters with wisdom. Wisdom comes from God, and He has left us a lifetime supply of wisdom in His Word. What can we do when we’re facing messy conflicts? Let’s consider four suggestions together. INSPIRING NEW DEVOTIONAL BOOK! Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Olive Petal KJV Snap Flap Bible Rose Gold Beautifully Embossed KJV Bible Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2024

Here’s a question I’ve been asked a lot since my Norman passed away: "Francie, are you ever going to remarry?" There’s nothing wrong with the question itself, but may I tell you how it sounds to my ears? (I am only speaking for Francie here, not for all of widowkind!) It sounds like this: Francie, when are you going to become whole again? Francie, when are you going to stop being single? Francie, what’s a nice girl like you doing in a place like this? (as if widowhood is a bad neighborhood) Not everyone sees the simple question about remarriage in the same way, but it's worth noting that the question raises questions. Some widows and widowers remarry. Some do not. This personal episode will look at the complicated things that we consider when we’re trying to figure out whether we will commit to another marriage. If you are not a widow or widower, this will be informative. If you are, you probably already know these things so this may be more of a refresher. If you’re a new widow or widower, save this for future reference. Let’s examine some verses from 1 Corinthians chapter 7 to dive into this topic about widows, widowers, and remarriage. INSPIRING NEW DEVOTIONAL BOOK! Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2024

REPLAY THURSDAY: Guile is the art of being deceitful, dishonest, and double-dealing in our interactions with others. Guile is easy to practice because it's carnal, and carnal behaviors come naturally. It's also problematic, because a person with guile cannot be trusted. Genuine Christianity is hard to find, but if we'll let God "create clean hearts" within us, we can become people who are without guile. Without the false front. Real. And a real blessing. "Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile." (Psalm 32:2) INSPIRING NEW DEVOTIONAL BOOK! Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2024

Does it seem to you like people are more stressed out lately? The further we move along the timeline of what the Bible calls “last days,” the more we are seeing people who are operating in a constant level of distress. But is this our lot in life? Do we have to live as if life is ganging up on us and we have no way to stop it? It’s unreasonable to expect life to be free of trouble. Job recognized this when he spoke these words in Job 5:7: “Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward.” We’re going to have things happen that weren’t in our planners, but if your life is one continuous stream of chaos, that’s like a check-engine light on the dash in your car. Something needs to be examined. Chaos happens, but it doesn't have to become our operating system. Let's consider four questions to ask ourselves when life is more chaotic than calm. EXCITING NEW DEVOTIONAL BOOK! Apply: Living What We Learn by Francie Taylor Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2024

REPLAY THURSDAY: A friend of mine once said to me, "If you don't like my cooking, lie to me." She was just kidding, but it reminded me how easy it is for us to pick and choose when we're going to lie or tell the truth. Lying is habit forming, but it is also a breakable habit. When we know better, we can do better. God can help us to remove this habit from our lives, but we will need to ask for His help and yield to His Word. "Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously." (Psalm 119:29) NEW IN THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART! Apply: Living What We Learn--A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2024

Welcome to REPLAY THURSDAY, where you'll hear the most popular episodes from the previous season. This episode first aired on February 13, 2023, the day before Valentine's Day. Not exactly the kind of episode for a romantic holiday, but thousands of downloads later, it was one of the most played episodes of 2023. It's devastating to hear about marriages and families exploding because of inappropriate relationships. This has become its own pandemic, with too many people walking into traps baited with flattery and excessive attention. When all the lust is exhausted, two people are left with empty brokenness. It's not so exciting then. God never intended for the sacred beauty of the physical relationship to be treated like a fast-food restaurant meal. His boundaries are for the blessing and benefit of our lives. "Keep my commandments and live" is not a suggestion; it's an instruction for our wellbeing. Proverbs chapter seven details the anatomy of an inappropriate relationship. This is not an episode for children. "Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye." (Proverbs 7:2) Visit the shop links below at Keep the Heart for books by Francie Taylor and other authors, as well as a beautiful selection of Bibles. Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Vitamins for the Soul: Maintaining Spiritual Health by Kathy Ashley Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley Call Upon Him: An Examination of Prayers Throughout Scripture by Kathy Ashley Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 22 February 2024

AN INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR KATHY ASHLEY When Kathy Ashley heart about "AI," those letters brought two different words to her mind. Not "artificial intelligence," but Arrogance and Ignorance. This is the kind of AI that leads to an artificial inflation of self, and it's hazardous to our spiritual health. Arrogance is pride on steroids. When you mix arrogance with ignorance, this creates a puffed up conceit that is deceptive. We can become our own worst enemies when we're infected with the dynamic duo of arrogance and ignorance. The antidote to this infection is God's Word. He has the prescription for healing and recovery. "The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate." (Proverbs 8:13) Visit the shop links below at Keep the Heart to find Kathy Ashley's trio of excellent books: Vitamins for the Soul, Minerals for the Mind, and Call Upon Him. Vitamins for the Soul: Maintaining Spiritual Health by Kathy Ashley Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley Call Upon Him: An Examination of Prayers Throughout Scripture by Kathy Ashley Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 8 February 2024

Welcome to a REPLAY REFRESHER from Keep the Heart! "Don't Be Fooled" first aired in January of 2023, and thousands of downloads later, people are still clicking this episode. These are confusing times, and we need more wisdom and discretion to be alert to the hazards of falling from the truth of God's Word.  Have you ever listened to someone who was trying to sound like they knew what they were talking about, but you could tell that they were just making things up? That’s what’s going on today as people have coined the phrase, “I am speaking my truth.” It's impossible to create our own truth, but we can be deceived into thinking that it's possible. Jesus said this plain statement to His disciples in John 14:6: "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Are we becoming confused because  spiritually we're starving? Let’s look at three things you can do to protect yourself from deception. ICU-In Christ Unconditionally-Heart Conditions Leader Guide ICU-In Christ Unconditionally-Heart Conditions Participant Guide The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions This Liberty of Yours: Unlocking Your Liberty in Christ Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 25 January 2024

Wouldn’t it be great if we could have advance instructions from God for the day? I mean, what if God could warn us in writing, guiding us to the right way to handle stressful situations that often catch us off guard? Wouldn’t that be grand? God already does this. He gives us instructions in advance, but we don’t always read or heed them. Instead, we try to live the Christian life on our own terms, making up solutions as we go along. We will have greater struggles by trying to live the Christian life without the Bible. Daily Bible reading provides us with instructions for daily living. This episode provides three examples of how God gives us instructions in advance. Why keep running into trouble or making unnecessary mistakes when we have better options? God can help us learn how to do life His way. His way is perfect. "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him." (Psalm 18:30) BOOKS IN THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Mirror Talk: A Journey from Hurt to Healing Through God's Redemptive Love by Marianne Barnett In Christ Unconditionally: Heart Conditions by Francie Taylor (Leader Guide or Solo Study) Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 11 January 2024

Christmas Replay This episode, "Minimizing Strife at Family Gatherings" is one of the most-replayed episodes in our podcast library. There's something about "the most wonderful time of the year" that tends to bring out the some of the least wonderful qualities in people. How can we have gatherings with loved ones who have strongly held opinions that differ from ours without things turning into a war of words? Or what about the guests with the list of special requests? And how can we host when we're worn out from so many special events? Is a peaceful gathering even possible? Yes, but we need to be prepared. This season-ending episode shares three guidelines that I quietly employ when we're having large groups of family and friends. These three suggestions are not a guarantee that you won’t have any issues at your next gathering. These are just starter ideas to help you prepare for hosting with a greater chance of having a pleasant and peaceful outcome. BOOKS IN THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Mirror Talk: A Journey from Hurt to Healing Through God's Redemptive Love by Marianne Barnett In Christ Unconditionally: Heart Conditions by Francie Taylor (Leader Guide or Solo Study) Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2023

How many of you love it when things go according to plan? Most of us do, but real life inserts some strange changes when we least expect it. In fact, that’s part of our problem: we expect things to go normally all the time. Things may go way off script: The wedding wasn’t supposed to be called off, but suddenly it was. The doctor appointment was supposed to be just a routine check-up, not a frightening diagnosis. The car was running fine before you packed it for a road trip. You were supposed to be holding a newborn, not recovering from a miscarriage. And how could it be that a loved one has passed away when you just saw them? You were just talking with them… Add your unplanned situation, and whether it’s better or worse, the outcome was the same: your plans changed. One thing that directly affects our responses to unplanned changes is the condition of our relationship with God. If we are close to the Lord before a crisis, we will tend to accept changes without becoming foul in our spirits. How close are you to the Lord in your life? It really makes a difference in how we respond to the events that we face. What can we do when the change of plans makes life harder? This episode covers three reminders. BOOKS IN THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART Ponder the Path: A 31-Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Mirror Talk: A Journey from Hurt to Healing Through God's Redemptive Love by Marianne Barnett In Christ Unconditionally: Heart Conditions by Francie Taylor (Leader Guide or Solo Study) Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 7 December 2023

Are you in a disagreement with someone you love because you stand on opposite sides of an issue where God's Word is clear? This is becoming increasingly common. It is challenging to live biblically in an antagonistic society that questions God's existence, let alone His authority. Proverbs 29:27 reminds us that "An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked." We could probably handle the strain if the division was coming from a stranger. But when the pressure is from someone we know and love, the differences of opinion can become painfully personal and superheated. This episode is for anyone interested in walking wisely with those who are living in rebellion against God. After this episode, pause to spend time in earnest prayer for your loved ones. BOOKS IN THE SHOP AT KEEP THE HEART Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Tim Zacharias Minerals for the Mind: A Study of Romans 12 by Kathy Ashley Rough Patches: Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor Mirror Talk: A Journey from Hurt to Healing Through God's Redemptive Love by Marianne Barnett In Christ Unconditionally: Heart Conditions by Francie Taylor (Leader Guide or Solo Study) Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 9 November 2023

Do you feel pressured to convey a certain image because of what others expect of you? Are you afraid to disappoint others, so you hide your honest opinions and thoughts so that you can be accepted? Are you angry because you feel pushed around by others, but you haven’t been honest with others or even with God about it? You’re not alone. You’re in a huge club called “The People Pleasers.” What is a people pleaser? According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it’s "a person who has an emotional need to please others often at the expense of his or her own needs or desires." We can’t get over our issues with people pleasing when we don’t understand why we’re doing what we’re doing. This is not a light matter, and while I can only scratch the surface in this brief episode, I encourage you to ask God to search your heart to uncover deeper things that may be going on. We have reasons for doing whatever we do, and when it comes to people pleasing, guilt, shame, fear, and a lack of trust in God are on the list. At the end of this episode, take some time to pray and ask the Lord to show you what’s going on in your heart and let Him help you. God’s way is perfect. Ours is flawed. Let’s consider four signs that you may be a people pleaser, followed by suggestions on what to do about it. Ponder the Path-31 Day Devotional by Francie Taylor   Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Dr. Tim Zacharias Vitamins for the Soul: Maintaining Spiritual Health by Kathy Ashley The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Olive Petal Snap-Flap KJV Bible-Imitation Leather Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 26 October 2023

We're moving the podcast from Tuesdays to Thursdays. The episodes will upload overnight on Wednesdays and will be ready for you immediately if you are a subscriber. (We are based in the central time zone in the USA, so if you're oversees, this podcast will land two days later than previously.) Thanks for listening, and remember:  "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." (Proverbs 4:23)

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2023

Welcome to Teachback Tuesday, where we play the most popular episodes from previous seasons. This episode, “Be the First to Apologize” addresses a common but sometimes complicated matter. Leaving situations in an awkward holding pattern where you can tell there’s “funny air” between you and someone else is not a strategy for reconciliation. When we’ve hurt someone, even if it was unintentional and even if we feel they were also in the wrong, our part is to apologize sincerely, and then wait humbly for their response. And if we’ll remember that not everyone forgives right away, that will help us to wait patiently.  Ponder the Path-31 Day Devotional by Francie Taylor The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Dr. Tim Zacharias Vitamins for the Soul: Maintaining Spiritual Health by Kathy Ashley Olive Petal Snap-Flap KJV Bible-Imitation Leather Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2023

My daughter-in-love and I were rolling my luggage through the garage to load into her car. She was driving me to the airport for my flight. As we were leaving the garage, I saw that the “CatchMaster” sticky board was upside down, and there was a tail snapping back and forth out from underneath the sticky board. Oh oh. Time for some courage steps. I made an executive decision to leave it there until I returned from my trip. That way, it would be done thrashing…or so I thought. When I returned from the conference, I noticed that the board was moved a bit from where I first saw it. I knew that the creature moved it, but still couldn’t tell what was under there. The tail could have been a gecko or a skink, but I suspected from the patterns that it was more likely to be a snake. I share the rest of the story in this episode, along with how this experience reminded me that it’s often better to handle things that frighten or intimidate us in steps rather than trying to do everything at once. Let's examine three courage steps together. Ponder the Path-31 Day Devotional by Francie Taylor The Mirror of God's Word: A Biblical View of Physical Beauty by Robin Parton Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Dr. Tim Zacharias Olive Petal Snap-Flap KJV Bible-Imitation Leather Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2023

Welcome to Teachback Tuesday, where we replay the most popular episodes from previous seasons. This week, we’re revisiting an episode that touched on a common yet complex topic: “Facing the Gray Area Decisions.” Whether you’re a new listener or you’ve been with us since the first episode, we hope that these suggestions will provide some insights for those who are facing decisions on matters not directly addressed in scripture. God’s Word is completely sufficient to aid us, and we can always be confident of this truth.  Ponder the Path-31 Day Devotional by Francie Taylor Rough Patches-Temporary Marital Tensions by Francie Taylor This Liberty of Yours by Dr. Tim Zacharias Fret Not: Peace of Mind in Perilous Times by Dr. Tim Zacharias Olive Petal Snap-Flap KJV Bible-Imitation Leather Follow Keep the Heart on Instagram Like Keep the Heart on Facebook Francie on Facebook

Transcribed - Published: 3 October 2023