Rise, Reclaim and Step Out After Divorce | Christian, Divorce, Encouragement

By: Dana L Williams Author Podcast Host Founder of Redeemed-Identity Ministries
  • Summary

  • Are you tired of feeling like you can’t be used by God because you are divorced? Have you set aside your ministry dreams because of your divorce? Have you ever felt judged by the body of Christ because you are divorced? Hi, I’m Dana. Like you or someone you care about, I am a divorced Christian. As a former ministry leader and pastor’s wife, I faced misguided judgment, criticism, and misinformed opinions (often based on faulty theology) within the church. After enduring years of judgment and shame, I chose to spiritually fall asleep. Nearly a decade later, I woke up to the realization that my identity hadn’t changed because of divorce. God’s call on my life remained unchanged. I discovered that the same is true for you. Whether in ministry or the marketplace, your divine calling persists despite divorce. In this podcast you will find encouragement to walk free from judgements from yourself or others, and reclaim your identity. My mission (and I’ve chosen to accept it) is to equip Christian divorced and divorced leadership in the church to rise up, reclaim, and step out into the ministry God place on their heart. If you are ready to say yes to redeeming your life and call - you are in the right place. Join me on a journey to re-remember who and whose you are and reclaim what He has called you to do. I want to hear your story! Dana@redeemed-Identity.com
    Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
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Episodes
  • Ep_21_Overcoming_Judgment_in_the_Church_After_Divorce_and_Stepping_Into_Freedom_part_2
    Sep 24 2024

    Hello everone!

    In this episode of *Rise and Reclaim After Divorce*, I continue my discussion with Toni about stepping into freedom from judgement in the church. If you haven't yet, I encourage you to listen to episode 20 which is part 1 of this topic.

    Episode Highlights:

    - Facing Judgment in the Church as Divorced Christians:

    Divorce often carries a stigma, especially in church communities. In this episode, I talk about how I processed through the feelings of disqualification and judgment from the church. We discuss the importance of understanding your identity in Christ and overcoming the negative self-talk that often accompanies judgment.

    - Steps to Overcome Judgementalism and Reclaim Your Destiny:

    We outline key steps to reclaim your identity and step into your calling:

    - Know Who You Are in Christ:

    It’s crucial to dispel the negative talk in your own head by reminding yourself of who and WHOSE you are. I share my journey of realizing my true identity in Christ after my divorce.

    - Educate Yourself on What the Word Says About Divorce:

    The Bible has much to say about divorce, and understanding the truth can bring healing. Recommended resources include, The Divorced Christian by Pastor Darius Good and *Divorce: God's Will?* by Stephen Gola.

    - Surround Yourself with Supportive People:

    We discuss the importance of having people around you who can help you rediscover your identity, pouring truth into you during challenging times.

    - Seek Therapy or Life Coaching:

    A therapist or life coach can help you sift through lies and find the truth, which is a key step in healing and growth.

    - Walking as a Child of God:

    Once you fully know who you are, you can walk confidently as a child of God, no longer defined by past mistakes or societal judgments.

    - Pray the Word of God Over Yourself Daily:

    Continual prayer and speaking God's promises over yourself are powerful tools to maintain spiritual strength.

    - Prophetic Words and Encouragement:

    Use prophetic words and scriptures, like 1 Timothy 1:18-19, to encourage yourself as you fight the good fight of faith.

    - My Journey to Accepting My Calling:

    We talk about how I was initially resistant to the idea of starting a podcast, but God’s calling continued to press on my heart. Through obedience and "learning to build my wings on the way down," I chose to step into my calling. Even now, I'm actively walking in obedience to God, not man.

    - Healing Before Ministry:

    We also touch on the importance of healing before stepping into ministry. If there are areas of disobedience or unresolved issues from your divorce, it’s crucial to seek repentance and healing before stepping into something big. Ministry should never be entered into without first ensuring that your heart is healed and prepared.

    Join me and Toni in this candid conversation as we encourage those who have experienced divorce to rise up and reclaim their God-given destinies!

    Blessings,

    Dana

    Scripture Reference:

    1 Timothy 1:18-19 (NKJV)

    *Fight the Good Fight*

    "This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, having faith and a good conscience."

    Recommended Reading:

    - The Divorced Christian by Pastor Darius Good

    - Divorce: God's Will? The Truth of Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible for Christians by Stephen Gola

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    20 mins
  • Ep_20_Overcoming_Judgment_in_the_Church_After_Divorce_and_Stepping_Into_Freedom_part_19eqst
    Sep 17 2024

    Hello everone!

    In this episode of *Rise and Reclaim After Divorce*, I share a special interview where I was featured on *Start Your Comeback*, hosted by Toni Thrash. Toni graciously allowed me to share this conversation with my listeners as we dive deep into the topic of facing judgmentalism in the church and Christian circles as divorced Christians.

    Episode Highlights:

    - Facing Judgment in the Church as Divorced Christians:

    Divorce often carries a stigma, especially in church communities. In this episode, I talk about how I processed through the feelings of disqualification and judgment from the church. We discuss the importance of understanding your identity in Christ and overcoming the negative self-talk that often accompanies judgment.

    - Steps to Overcome Judgementalism and Reclaim Your Destiny:

    We outline key steps to reclaim your identity and step into your calling:

    - Know Who You Are in Christ:

    It’s crucial to dispel the negative talk in your own head by reminding yourself of who and WHOSE you are. I share my journey of realizing my true identity in Christ after my divorce.

    - Educate Yourself on What the Word Says About Divorce:

    The Bible has much to say about divorce, and understanding the truth can bring healing. Recommended resources include, The Divorced Christian by Pastor Darius Good and *Divorce: God's Will?* by Stephen Gola.

    - Surround Yourself with Supportive People:

    We discuss the importance of having people around you who can help you rediscover your identity, pouring truth into you during challenging times.

    - Seek Therapy or Life Coaching:

    A therapist or life coach can help you sift through lies and find the truth, which is a key step in healing and growth.

    - Walking as a Child of God:

    Once you fully know who you are, you can walk confidently as a child of God, no longer defined by past mistakes or societal judgments.

    - Pray the Word of God Over Yourself Daily:

    Continual prayer and speaking God's promises over yourself are powerful tools to maintain spiritual strength.

    - Prophetic Words and Encouragement:

    Use prophetic words and scriptures, like 1 Timothy 1:18-19, to encourage yourself as you fight the good fight of faith.

    - My Journey to Accepting My Calling:

    We talk about how I was initially resistant to the idea of starting a podcast, but God’s calling continued to press on my heart. Through obedience and "learning to build my wings on the way down," I chose to step into my calling. Even now, I'm actively walking in obedience to God, not man.

    - Healing Before Ministry:

    We also touch on the importance of healing before stepping into ministry. If there are areas of disobedience or unresolved issues from your divorce, it’s crucial to seek repentance and healing before stepping into something big. Ministry should never be entered into without first ensuring that your heart is healed and prepared.

    Join me and Toni in this candid conversation as we encourage those who have experienced divorce to rise up and reclaim their God-given destinies!

    Blessings,

    Dana

    Scripture Reference:

    1 Timothy 1:18-19 (NKJV)

    *Fight the Good Fight*

    "This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, having faith and a good conscience."

    Recommended Reading:

    - The Divorced Christian by Pastor Darius Good

    - Divorce: God's Will? The Truth of Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible for Christians by Stephen Gola

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    19 mins
  • Ep 19 The Surprising Truth Behind Unforgiveness and Six Strategies to Help You Let Go.mp3
    Sep 10 2024

    Hi Everyone!

    In this episode, we explore the serious consequences of harboring unforgiveness. While unforgiveness is often seen as a justified response to hurt or betrayal, it is a destructive force that can affect your physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual life. We delve into how unforgiveness can manifest in chronic health issues, emotional disturbances, and spiritual disconnection. We also discuss the transformative power of forgiveness, guided by Scripture, and how it leads to healing and freedom.

    Key Points:

    1. The Nature of Unforgiveness:

    - Unforgiveness is not just a psychological state but a spiritual condition that distances us from God.

    - Holding onto anger and resentment traps us in a cycle of negative emotions with far-reaching consequences.

    1. Impact on Physical Health:

    - Unforgiveness triggers the body's stress response, leading to chronic health issues such as high blood pressure, weakened immune function, and increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

    - Personal testimony: Childhood stress from abuse led to lifelong gut issues and chronic health problems, even after forgiving the offender.

    1. Impact on Mental Health:

    - Unforgiveness can contribute to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, trapping the mind in a negative loop.

    - Continuous rumination over past hurts prevents joy, peace, and contentment.

    1. Impact on Spiritual Life:

    - Unforgiveness creates a barrier between us and God, hindering spiritual growth and answered prayers.

    - Key Scriptures:

    - *Matthew 6:12, 14-15 (ESV)* - Forgiveness is essential for receiving God's forgiveness.

    - *Matthew 18:21-35 (ESV)* - Parable of the Unforgiving Servant emphasizes the severity of unforgiveness.

    - *Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV)* - Paul urges believers to let go of bitterness and embody forgiveness.

    1. The Power of Forgiveness:

    - Forgiveness leads to physical healing, mental peace, and spiritual freedom.

    - Key Scriptures:

    - *Romans 3:23 (ESV)* - We all need God's grace.

    - *Colossians 3:13 (NIV)* - Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

    - *Luke 23:34 (ESV)* - Jesus' example of forgiveness on the cross.

    1. The Role of the Holy Spirit:

    - The Holy Spirit empowers believers to forgive, even when it seems impossible.

    - Key Scripture:

    - *Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)* - The fruit of the Spirit includes qualities crucial for forgiveness.

    - *Philippians 4:13 (ESV)* - "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me," including forgiveness.

    1. Practical Steps to Embrace Forgiveness:

    - Acknowledge the pain.

    - Seek God's help.

    - Release the debt.

    - Practice empathy.

    - Let go of resentment.

    - Focus on God's forgiveness.

    Conclusion:

    Unforgiveness has severe consequences for both the body and soul, but through forgiveness, we can experience healing and freedom. With the Holy Spirit's help, we can overcome the pain and walk in the footsteps of Christ, embodying His love in the world.

    We are the fragrance of Christ,

    Dana

    Find me on Social Media:

    https://www.facebook.com/redeemidentity/

    https://www.instagram.com/redeemidentity

    My Free ebook, "Who Am I After Divorce?" can be downloaded here:

    https://dl.bookfunnel.com/4k769kpebf

    Website and Blog link:

    https://redeemed-identity.com/blog/

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    23 mins

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