Drawing Deeper in Devotion

From Pit to Palace: Will You Keep the Faith?

Are you holding onto your dreams even when circumstances seem dire? In this episode of Drawing Deeper in Devotion, I dive deep into the remarkable story of Joseph and examine what it means to have unwavering faith amidst trials and tribulations. I've been absorbed in Joseph's narrative during my devotions, and it's been a transformative journey. Joseph's story is widely known, thanks to musicals like "Joseph’s Coat of Many Colors" and movies like "The Prince of Egypt," but have you ever truly reflected on the profound lessons it offers about faith, resilience, and God-given purpose? I take you through a whirlwind recount of Joseph's life—from being his father's favorite child facing envy from his brothers, to being sold into slavery, imprisoned unjustly, and finally rising to power in Egypt. Through all his pitfalls and peaks, Joseph never wavered in his connection with God. His story is a testament to the incredible power of keeping faith in God's promises, even when your current reality seems to contradict those promises. You’ll hear about my personal insights and struggles as a child and young adult who was deeply connected to God, yet often misunderstood by others. But like Joseph, I learned that the journey wasn't so much about immediate validation but about trusting God's larger plan. This episode isn't just a retelling of Joseph's life. It's a call to action for you. Will you maintain your faith when the going gets tough? Do you have the strength to hold onto God’s promises, even when the world tells you otherwise? By exploring Joseph's life and my own experiences, I challenge you to examine your faith, expectations, and the visions you hold for the future. Join me in this conversation that pushes you to reinterpret your struggles as stepping stones and encourages you to stay anchored in faith. This is for anyone needing a reminder that God’s promises don’t always align with our timelines but will manifest in their rightful time. Remember, faith is the currency in the kingdom of God. I pray this episode inspire you to be active in your belief and to see every challenge as a path to greater blessings and a key part of stepping into your destiny. Will you keep the faith? Dive into this enlightening episode now and strengthen your trust in God's unwavering plan for your life. Get full access to Leading Whole | the garden at akwese.substack.com/subscribe [https://akwese.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

The Goodness Trap: Leaving Good to Get to Great.

Are you ready to elevate from good to great? In this eye-opening episode of Drawing Deeper in Devotion, I uncover a game-changing truth about discernment and its role in unlocking God’s greater plans for your life. Have you ever wondered if the “good” things you’re pursuing are actually standing in the way of God’s best for you? This message might just be the breakthrough you’ve been seeking. I take you on a deeply personal journey, reflecting on meditative practices and Scripture, especially Isaiah 45:22, to ask a simple yet profound question: “Am I truly looking to God?” Through a moving story about perceived distance from God, I illustrate the power of shifting your perspective and leaning into His presence to find salvation, clarity, and purpose. Here’s why you need to tune in: * Feel closer to God than ever before. Discover how feeling distant is often just that—a feeling—and learn how to close the gap and deepen your connection with Him. * Uncover the hidden obstacles holding you back. The good things in your life may be the very things keeping you from the greatness God has prepared for you. * Learn to navigate tough choices with confidence. I share real-life examples of saying no to good opportunities to make room for the divine. * Build a faith-driven life of alignment. Practical strategies will help you cultivate a routine that prioritizes God’s voice, guiding you toward clarity and purpose. If you’re someone who feels stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed by decisions, this episode will meet you where you are and inspire you to take bold steps forward. I don’t just talk about faith—I invite you into a countercultural process of grounding your decisions in intuition, truth, and divine guidance. It’s about stepping away from the noise and aligning your heart with God’s plan. Don’t miss this transformative episode, “Leaving Good to Get to Great,” where we go deeper than surface-level inspiration. This is about real growth, breakthrough, and the kind of faith that changes everything. Ready to take the next step?Click play now and let’s journey together. Get full access to Leading Whole | the garden at akwese.substack.com/subscribe [https://akwese.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Seeing Beyond: The Truth of Forgiveness

Are you ready to release the grievances holding you back and step into a life of love and true freedom? In this powerful episode of Drawing Deeper in Devotion, I explore the transformative practice of forgiveness and the profound impact it can have on every aspect of your life. We'll dive into how daily acts of forgiveness—both towards others and yourself—can help release anger, resentment, and pain, leading you toward a more peaceful, harmonious existence. Forgiveness is not just a one-time act; it’s a way of living. It’s a spiritual practice that aligns us with our true nature, which is love, and reminds us of our inherent interconnectedness. I’ll share moving stories, including one about a man living out of his car, who finds a deep sense of compassion in the midst of his struggles. These examples highlight the power of empathy and the healing that comes from acknowledging our shared humanity. As we explore the relationship between anger and love, I’ll discuss how recognizing the source of your anger can transform it into a powerful catalyst for positive change. I’ll also share personal experiences and practical tips for cultivating forgiveness in your daily life—tips that help anchor this practice so that it becomes an enduring part of who you are. Throughout the episode, I’ll reflect on the importance of separating our identity from the physical body, drawing inspiration from figures like Gandhi, who embraced their spiritual essence despite external circumstances. We’ll also dive into the societal lies of separation and the importance of breaking free from these false narratives to live more authentically. This episode is an invitation to reframe your grievances, recognize everyone as a reflection of yourself, and move forward in love and understanding. If you’ve struggled with feelings of inadequacy or are seeking deeper spiritual fulfillment, this episode provides the insights and tools you need to begin transforming your life. I’ll also share an exciting opportunity to join Aligned and Anchored , a membership designed to support your spiritual growth and alignment as we walk together on this journey. So, if you’re ready to unlock your true power, step into compassion, and experience the freedom that comes with living a life rooted in love, this episode is your guide. Tune in for a soul-stirring conversation that will encourage you to embrace forgiveness, confront false narratives, and walk a path of true spiritual awakening. Get full access to Leading Whole | the garden at akwese.substack.com/subscribe [https://akwese.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

From Shallow Roots to Deep Faith p2

Are you ready to deepen your spiritual roots and impact the world in profound ways? In this episode of Drawing Deeper in Devotion, I delve into the transformative power of being deeply rooted in God's Word and His purpose for your life. We’re back for part two of our exploration of the Parable of the Seeds, focusing on how the seeds that fall on good soil can yield a harvest of 30, 60, or even 100 times more than what was initially planted. This means that what God plants in you has the potential for exponential growth and impact—if you nurture it properly. Join me as I encourage you to examine the soil of your spiritual life. Are you in an environment that allows you to flourish, or are there thorns and distractions choking out your growth? I share practical wisdom on discerning when to remain in a challenging situation to grow alongside the "weeds" and when it's time to move to a more nurturing environment. We'll reflect on the power of faith as the currency of God's kingdom and how surrendering to God's plan can lead us to unimaginable heights. I'll discuss the importance of developing deep spiritual roots that anchor you through life's storms and allow you to not just survive, but thrive. This episode also touches on the importance of community and the value of surrounding yourself with like-hearted individuals committed to spiritual growth. I'll introduce you to our community, Aligned and Anchored, where you can find support and deepen your practice alongside other women of purpose and power. If you’re ready to transform your spiritual journey, maximize your impact, and truly embody the belief that you are complete, whole, and lacking nothing, then this episode is for you. Listen now to discover how you can cultivate fertile soil in your life and yield a bountiful harvest that glorifies God and serves others. Don’t miss this spiritually enriching conversation designed to empower you to embrace your highest potential and live a life of maximum impact. Tap into the power of deep roots and see how God can use you to bless the world in ways you never imagined. Join us now and take the first step toward a spiritually fulfilled and impactful life. Get full access to Leading Whole | the garden at akwese.substack.com/subscribe [https://akwese.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

From Shallow Roots to Deep Faith p1

Are you prepared to defy societal norms and embrace a calling beyond success? In this transformative episode of Drawing Deeper in Devotion, I delve into the complex interplay between societal ideals of success—wealth, power, prestige—and our personal identities. We’ll uncover how these worldly markers often leave us feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from our true purpose. But more importantly, we’re going to explore how understanding God’s word and producing positive outcomes can exceed any earthly expectations. As we focus on the Parable of the Farmer Scattering Seeds from Matthew 13, I'll share insights on how easily we can get caught up in surface-level success, especially in the age of social media. Quick growth is often deceptive, much like seeds sprouting in shallow soil, and true, sustainable growth requires depth and a supportive environment. I'll reflect on my personal experiences, sharing how I've transitioned from being a practitioner to embracing a CEO mindset, all while resisting the dilution often found in online spaces. We'll discuss real, actionable ways to develop deep roots in your faith and personal growth, moving beyond the "fake it till you make it" mentality to stand boldly in your authentic self—regardless of formal credentials. Joining this spiritually enriching conversation means diving into the significance of obedience to divine direction over worldly strategies, focusing on authentic expression and sharing as means of fulfilling your divine purpose. We’re fostering a supportive environment where sustained growth and transformation can take root, highlighting the messy but invaluable nature of genuine, God-inspired communication. Embrace this intimate, soul-stirring exploration and join me in discovering how to use our relationship with God to create a profound social impact, address critical societal issues, and find deeper fulfillment and purpose. If you're ready to listen, grow, and allow God to use you in incredible ways, this episode is for you. Remember, true contentment and lasting impact come not from surface-level experiences, but from nurturing deep, meaningful connections with God and your community. Tune in and let’s journey together towards a more aligned, purpose-driven life. PS. It cuts off in the end but I pick back up in the next episode ;) Get full access to Leading Whole | the garden at akwese.substack.com/subscribe [https://akwese.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]