Church Hurt: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How It Impacts Faith (Part I)

Church Hurt: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How It Impacts Faith (Part I)

Church hurt is one of the most painful and misunderstood experiences within the Christian community. In this first installment of a two-part series, Emunah host Dr. Tamara Henry sits down with Minister Eugene Howie of First Baptist Church of Glenarden International to explore what church hurt is, what causes it, and why it can have such a profound impact on a person's faith journey. Together, they unpack the difference between ordinary conflict and genuine church hurt, examine the role of pride, jealousy, insecurity, and unmet expectations, and discuss how wounds inflicted within the church can affect relationships with both God and others. Through biblical examples and practical insights, this conversation lays the foundation for understanding church hurt and preparing for the healing process discussed in Part II. Key Topics Discussed * What church hurt isand what it is not * Common causes of church hurt, including pride, jealousy, and insecurity * The difference between church hurt and everyday church conflict * How church hurt affects faith, trust, and relationships * Biblical examples of conflict, reconciliation, and healing within God's people Memorable Quotes "Church hurt is deeply personal." "Home is where the heart is." "Church hurt can shake faith." About Minister Eugene Howie Minister Eugene Howie serves in multiple leadership capacities at First Baptist Church of Glenarden International in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. He is also the host of The Second Shift, a podcast that offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and faith-based guidance for state, local, and federal government employees navigating layoffs, job uncertainty, and workplace challenges during a turbulent political season. A familiar voice to Emunah listeners, Minister Howie has previously appeared on: * Forgiveness with Brother Domonic and Minister Eugene Howie (April 18, 2025) https://open.spotify.com/episode/5WqQjc2Cer4uGaq8sRqSZH?si=E3avIgPPR9eQBb1uNJo_3A [https://open.spotify.com/episode/5WqQjc2Cer4uGaq8sRqSZH?si=E3avIgPPR9eQBb1uNJo_3A] * Forgiveness Reframed: Clearing Up the Confusion (July 9, 2025) https://open.spotify.com/episode/36pkz6TTLsu2dBzpO49yCy?si=18QkIwiyTSOfjHacF4YMxw [https://open.spotify.com/episode/36pkz6TTLsu2dBzpO49yCy?si=18QkIwiyTSOfjHacF4YMxw] * The Awakening (May 5, 2023) https://open.spotify.com/episode/1UydBDURQAyXjMXC3GxHzR?si=7g_MdILMQNa37TTfRu98Qw [https://open.spotify.com/episode/1UydBDURQAyXjMXC3GxHzR?si=7g_MdILMQNa37TTfRu98Qw]   Continue the Conversation Emunah wants to hear from you. Share your thoughts, questions, or experiences with church hurt and healing. Email: wordconsultingllc@gmail.com [wordconsultingllc@gmail.com] Website: https://wordconsultingllc.com [https://wordconsultingllc.com/]

Introducing Jesus to Family!

PASTOR RONNIE D. SIMMONS AND THE ABCS OF SALVATION Originally aired May 10, 2024 | Updated and re-released May 15, 2026 How do you share the message of Jesus Christ with the people closest to you? In this powerful episode of Emunah, host Dr. Tamara Henry welcomes Pastor Ronnie D. Simmons of House of Faith Christian Center in Smyrna. Pastor Simmons offers a practical and biblically grounded approach to introducing Jesus to family members using the simple yet life-changing ABCs of Salvation. Drawing from his book, 3 Bs That Do Not Sting! The 3-Step Process to Christian Discipleship, Pastor Simmons explains that witnessing to our families is not primarily the churchs responsibilityit is our personal responsibility as believers. > Its important, and we have to do it. It is not the churchs responsibility to witness to the family; its the familys responsibility to witness to the family. This updated episode provides clear guidance for Christians who want to share their faith with loved ones in a truthful, loving, and effective way. ---------------------------------------- THE ABCS OF SALVATION Pastor Simmons presents the gospel in three straightforward steps: A ADMIT Admit that you are a sinner and deserving of the penalty of sin. > You are a sinner not because you sin; you sin because you are a sinner. B BELIEVE Believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins and repent. C CONFESS Confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. These foundational steps offer a simple framework for explaining salvation to family members and friends who may not yet know Christ. ---------------------------------------- THREE COMMON ROADBLOCKS TO SHARING JESUS WITH FAMILY Pastor Simmons identifies three obstacles that often prevent believers from effectively witnessing to loved ones: 1. Avoidance Some people do not want to discuss spiritual matters and quickly change the subject. 2. Incorrect Information Others share opinions, feelings, or hearsay rather than biblical truth. 3. Incomplete Information Important parts of the gospel are omitted, leaving listeners confused or discouraged. ---------------------------------------- KNOW JESUS BEFORE YOU SHARE JESUS Pastor Simmons emphasizes that effective evangelism begins with a personal understanding of who Jesus is. By reading the Bible and studying what Jesus taught, commanded, and promised, believers gain clarity and confidence. > When Jesus says something in the Bible, thats His faith. Every time He speaks, Hes speaking His faith. When I say what Jesus says, now it becomes my faith. When we come to Jesus, listen to His words, and obey His teachings, our lives are transformed and our paths become clear. ---------------------------------------- KEY SCRIPTURES MENTIONED * Gospel of John 1:17 * Gospel of John 14:49 * Gospel of John 17:2526 * Gospel of Matthew 11:2728 * Epistle to the Colossians 1:15 * Acts of the Apostles 10 * Epistle to the Romans 10:910, 17 * Book of Hosea 4:6 ---------------------------------------- IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN * How to explain the gospel using the ABCs of Salvation * Why sharing Jesus with family is a personal responsibility * Common mistakes Christians make when witnessing * How to build confidence through biblical knowledge * Why repeating the words of Jesus strengthens your faith ---------------------------------------- RESOURCES * Pastor Simmons book: 3 Bs That Do Not Sting! The 3-Step Process to Christian Discipleship * House of Faith Christian Center [https://houseoffaithchristiancenter.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * Women of the Word [https://wordconsultingllc.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * Email feedback: wordconsultingllc@gmail.com ---------------------------------------- LISTEN AND SHARE If you have ever wondered how to talk to your family about Jesus Christ, this episode offers a clear and compassionate biblical roadmap. Share this episode with someone who wants to grow in faith and become more confident in sharing the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Jesus Does Exist! A Conversation with Dr. Craig Lantz

Did Jesus really existand what does history actually say? In this compelling episode of Emunah, host Dr. Tamara Henry sits down with Craig Lantz, author of Jesus Does Exist! The Historical Argument for Jesus of Nazareth, to explore one of the most debated questions in history: the historical reality of Jesus Christ. Together, they examine the evidence from ancient sources, the reliability of the New Testament, and why the existence of Jesus is not just a matter of faithbut a conclusion supported by historical reasoning. This conversation moves beyond theory to paint a vivid portrait of Jesus as a real personone who lived, taught, challenged religious systems, and continues to shape lives today. Whether you are strengthening your faith or exploring questions about Jesus for the first time, this episode offers a thoughtful, accessible look at Jesus as both a historical figure and spiritual leader. ---------------------------------------- Key Topics Discussed * Historical evidence for the existence of Jesus Christ * The reliability of the Gospels and eyewitness testimony * Non-Christian sources that reference Jesus * Jesus as a historical figure: teacher, healer, and disruptor * The connection between historical truth and personal faith ---------------------------------------- Key Takeaways * Multiple ancient sourcesboth biblical and non-biblicalsupport the existence of Jesus * Early eyewitness accounts affirm key details of Jesus life, ministry, and death * The New Testament holds strong historical credibility when examined alongside external evidence * Understanding the historical Jesus deepens both faith and personal connection ---------------------------------------- About the Guest: Dr. Craig Lantz Craig Lantz is a theological scholar, religious historian, and Christian apologist dedicated to exploring the intersection of faith, history, and the supernatural. He earned a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Trinity Theological Seminary (1994) and a Ph.D. in Religious Studies from International Seminary (1998), specializing in early Christianity and comparative religion. With over 20 years of experience as a university campus evangelist, Dr. Lantz has ministered both in the United States and internationally, including outreach work across Europe and South America. He previously served at Michigan State University as an evangelist and campus pastor. Dr. Lantz is the author of more than 25 books focused on Christian apologetics, theology, and spiritual growth. ---------------------------------------- Featured Book Jesus Does Exist! The Historical Argument for Jesus of Nazareth Available on Amazon ---------------------------------------- Join the Conversation Wed love to hear your thoughts, questions, and reflections on this episode. Email: wordconsultingllc@gmail.com Website: https://wordconsultingllc.com [https://wordconsultingllc.com/] ---------------------------------------- About Emunah Emunah (Hebrew for faith or belief) explores what it means to live a life that honors Jesusthrough honest conversations, biblical insight, and real-world application.

Grace Under Pressure: The story of Moses' wife, Zipporah

Join Emunah host, Dr. Tamara Henry, as she explores the powerful, and often overlooked story of Moses and Zipporah. In this episode, we uncover how grace reveals itself in critical momentsthrough obedience, decisive action, and divine mercy. Discover how Zipporahs swift and courageous response not only preserved Moses life but also protected Gods unfolding purpose. This episode reminds us that grace is not always quiet or gentleit often arrives unexpectedly, urgently, and right on time. ---------------------------------------- Key Topics * The significance of Zipporahs intervention in Moses life * How grace operates within leadership, obedience, and accountability * The role of covenant and identity in shaping biblical narratives ---------------------------------------- Sound Bites * Grace is not always soft and gentle. * Zipporahs quick action saved Moses life. * Grace often arrives in moments of urgency. ---------------------------------------- Scriptures Referenced * Exodus 4:20, 2426 * Genesis 17:14 * Psalm 84:11 * John 1:1617 * Romans 6:1415 * Ephesians 2:58 * 2 Peter 3:18 * Revelation 22:21 ---------------------------------------- Resources & Further Study * Ashby, Godfrey. The Bloody Bridegroom: The Interpretation of Exodus 4:2426. Expository Times 106 (1995): 203205. * Aubry, A. Zipporah: Fulfilling Her Purpose. Women of the Bible for Women of Color. Urban Spirit LLC, 2021. * Got Questions Ministries. Who Were the Midianites? GotQuestions.org * Kingdom, Rev. Dr. Denise. Women of the Bible Study Series: Zipporah Reminds Us Who We Are. Faithward.org * Newman, Stephen A. Why Moses Did Not Circumcise His Son. Jewish Bible Quarterly, Vol. 44, No. 1 (2016) * Szokovski, Miriam. What Does the Name Tzipporah Mean? Chabad.org * Wolf, Emera. Zipporah: Grace Under Pressure. The Blessed Woman, April 15, 2024 ---------------------------------------- Join the Conversation Wed love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, reflections, or personal testimonies: Email: Wordconsultingllc@gmail.com Website: https://wordconsultingllc.com [https://wordconsultingllc.com/]

What is Prayer, really - and why does it matter?

What is prayer, reallyand why does it matter? This episode first aired on June 2, 2023 and again on December 20, 2024 In this powerful episode of Emunah (Faith), Dr. Tamara Henry, her co-host Charisse Henry and two prayer powerhouses, guests Zereta Mother Z Young and Cynthia Howie, explore the true meaning of prayer, moving beyond routine words into a dynamic, personal connection with God. Whether youre new to prayer or seeking to deepen your spiritual life, this conversation will help you understand how prayer strengthens faith, builds trust, and transforms everyday life. Prayer is more than askingits a relationship, surrender, and alignment with Gods will. Both Mother Z and Cynthia Howie are members of First Baptist Church of Glenarden International and are active in a variety of ministries, especially the Adult Bible Study class that meets at 9 a.m. each Sunday at the FBCG Worship Center in Upper Marlboro, Md. Mother Z is a former/retired missionary, and Cynthia Howie teaches in the Prince Georges County, MD public school system. ---------------------------------------- Key Topics Covered * What prayer is (and what it is not) * Why prayer is essential to a growing faith * How prayer builds intimacy with God * The role of faith and trust in effective prayer * Barriers to prayer and how to overcome them * Learning to hear Gods voice through prayer * The difference between routine prayer and relational prayer ---------------------------------------- Key Takeaways * Prayer is a conversation, not a performance * God invites honesty, not perfection * Faith and prayer work togetherprayer strengthens belief * Consistency in prayer deepens spiritual awareness * Even unanswered prayers have purpose and meaning * Prayer aligns our hearts with Gods will, not just our desires ---------------------------------------- Spiritual Insight Throughout Scripture, prayer is shown as a powerful and personal actone that connects believers directly to God. True prayer is not about eloquence or length, but sincerity and faith. ---------------------------------------- Practical Application * Set aside intentional time daily for prayer * Speak to God honestlyin your own words * Incorporate Scripture into your prayer life * Listen as much as you speak * Keep a prayer journal to track growth and answered prayers ---------------------------------------- Why You Should Listen If youve ever struggled with what to say, how to pray, or whether your prayers matter, this episode will encourage and equip you to approach God with confidence and clarity. ----------------------------------------   Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, subscribe to Emunah, and continue growing in faithone prayer at a time. ---------------------------------------- Closing Thought Prayer is not about getting God to hear youits about positioning your heart to hear Him. Email Emunah with comments at wordconsultingllc@gmail.com [wordconsultingllc@gmail.com]. Leave a testimony on our Women of the Word website at: https://wordconsultingllc.com.