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    Be Inspired

    What Is In Your Hand, Part 1

    Your story.  It is one of the most powerful tools you can use for the advancement of the gospel.  It is not up for debate or discussion ... it is your story.  Be proud of it.  Share it.  Join our speaker, Ellie Lofaro, as she encourages you to embrace your story for your good and the good of those around you. 

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    Be inspired

    Welcome to Be Inspired, the podcast that brings you transformational teaching from Sandy Cove Ministries. Located on the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay, Sandy Cove exists to help people connect with God and each other, in order to be transformed into the image of Christ through His Word, His Creation, and community. Each episode of Be Inspired is hosted by Sandy Cove's President, Stephen J. Weaver, and features some of today's most effective communicators.

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    • Liz Curtis-Higgs, Pt. 2 Listen

      May 23, 2022

      Unity.  The word is so overused, and so often ignored that it has become a meaningless word. Yet, it is to be part of what distinguishes Christians from the rest of the world.  So what does unity actually look like ... and how can we truly strive for it every day?  Our speaker, Liz Curtis-Higgs paints a beautiful and doable picture of unity that you won’t want to miss.  

    • Liz Curtis-Higgs, Pt. 1 Listen

      May 16, 2022

      Do you have children?  Do they sometimes make you crazy?  The here and now can be daunting, but the future is worth the struggle, it’s worth the effort, it’s worth all the craziness.  Today’s episode of Be Inspired features Liz Curtis-Higgs who has a word of wisdom, and encouragement for you right now ... especially if you are having one of those days with your kids.

    • Peter Reid, Pt. 2 Listen

      May 09, 2022

      How do you move beyond despondency toward hope and healing? If you or someone you care about is going through a dark time encourage them to listen today.  Peter Reid may just have a word from the Lord for them. 

    • Peter Reid, Pt. 1 Listen

      May 02, 2022

      Are you … or someone you know … in a hard place right now?  Maybe the lingering effects of the COVID pandemic fallout … maybe a difficult relationship … perhaps a medical struggle.  Peter Reid shares a message of encouragement to help us move from despondency to joy and hope. 

    • Welcoming People That Are Not Like Us. Tom Christianson, Pt. 2 Listen

      April 25, 2022

      So how do you respond when someone who is not like you shows up at your church or your favorite local hang out?  What goes through your mind?  Thomas Christianson explores how our desire for unity can be mistaken for something completely different … and turn from desirable to destructive.

    • Welcoming People That Are Not Like Us. Tom Christianson, Pt. 1 Listen

      April 17, 2022

      Could it be that the very thing championed as a hallmark of the Christian life could actually be the thing hat is causing divisions and walls among us?  Is it possible that unity could be a bad thing?  Could it cause more problems than it solves?

    • Sharon Jaynes, Pt. 2 Listen

      April 11, 2022

      Sometimes we just need a reminder.  And today, our teacher, Sharon Jaynes has a message about life, and God, and difficult circumstances that will remind you of the hope you have at your disposal … 24/7.  Regardless of your situation … even in the midst of some pretty horrible life circumstances God is still faithful.

    • Sharon Jaynes, Pt. 1 Listen

      April 04, 2022

      Regardless of your upbringing … your personal challenges … or your current circumstances … Sharon Jaynes message today is sure to shine a light of hope and humor on your day that may be what God will use to bring some much needed joy and peace to your life.

    • The Real Apostle Peter, Part 2 Listen

      March 28, 2022

      How does someone with an abrasive personality, a limited education, and a track record of pretty bad mess ups become one of the most influential people in the Bible?  Today, Phil Tuttle shares the process God used to help mold the Apostle Peter into a masterpiece of His grace and goodness.

    • The Real Apostle Peter, Part 1 Listen

      March 21, 2022

      Is it possible to experience God’s forgiveness, grace and restoration even if you have messed up…a lot?  Today Phil Tuttle shares how God helped the Apostle Peter go from loud mouth to leader by giving him 2nd, 3rd, and 4th chances to get it right.  It’s an encouraging message ... and one you want to hear.

    • Growing Your Faith, Part 2 Listen

      March 14, 2022

      Why do some people seem to be at peace no matter what is going on around them?  Are they oblivious?  Or do they understand something about God that you don’t know?  Today Crawford Lorritts talks about how to grow your faith so your heart can rest.

    • Growing Your Faith, Part 1 Listen

      March 07, 2022

      What does it take to have faith that grows?  Faith that actually makes a difference in how you live, how you view God, and how you coexist with others.  Today Crawford Loritts shares some insight that will help you develop your faith starting today.

    • Overcoming Fear, Part 2 Listen

      February 28, 2022

      So ... when does being careful and prudent turn into fear?  And how can you know the difference?  Today, Kevin Thompson walks us through a timely discussion with practical, biblical wisdom you can use today ... and begin to enjoy greater peace in your life ... no matter what. 

    • Overcoming Fear, Part 1 Listen

      February 21, 2022

      Are you tired of living in fear?  Living under a cloud of constant negativity and the relentless threats to your health, your finances, and your future? Join us today as Kevin Thompson shares some profound, and much needed, information to calm your heart and bring you hope ... hope in the midst of whatever you might be facing today.

    • God’s Will, Part 2 Listen

      February 14, 2022

      What would happen if you believed, in your heart of hearts, that God not only loved you but was committed to helping you live your best life?  Far from the idea that God is an angry, rule-making deity … Ron Cline paints a picture of the Almighty that may change the way you see yourself and see God. 

    • God’s Will, Part 1 Listen

      February 07, 2022

      Knowing God’s will for your life is one of those concepts that most of us struggle understanding with any degree of confidence.  Today, Ron Cline peels back the layers of religiosity to reveal a method of knowing God’s will that may revolutionize your spiritual journey.

    • Marriage Advice, Part 2 Listen

      January 31, 2022

      Today’s episode is especially helpful for those of us who are married, but if you’re not married there is wisdom here for friendships, work relationships, family relationships ... honestly, any relationship you have in your world.  Gordon and Gail MacDonald share the tools and techniques they have learned over 55 years together to build a lasting and generous marriage. Their authentic, honest, and open dialogue is refreshing and helpful. 

    • Marriage Advice, Part 1 Listen

      January 23, 2022

      Gordon and Gail MacDonald have been married for 55 years … and have seen their fair share of ups and downs … good times and struggles. Yet, through it all they have remained together…and have remained generous to each other.  A goal, those of us who are married can all probably do a little better on. Gordon and Gail MacDonald offer straight talk about love, life, and marriage to an imperfect person.

    • The Wild Place of Calling, Part 2 Listen

      January 17, 2022

      with when God prompts us to do something out of our comfort zone? But when we do obey and step out ... it is the most exhilarating and fulfilling place we could ever have imagined.  Easy?  Not at all.  But so worth it.  Today, Richard Dahlstrom shares his journey into the wild place of the calling of his life.

    • The Wild Place of Calling, Part 1 Listen

      January 10, 2022

      Your story.  It is one of the most powerful tools you can use for the Do God does have a plan and design for each of us, and, yet, sometimes it can be hard to know where His plan and our plan intersect.  In church terms it’s that elusive thing called, “God’s Will.”  Knowing what God wants for you. It’s an important pursuit, and one that can radically change your life.  Today, our speaker is Richard Dahlstron, and he shares the unlikely, and unconventional way God showed him what he was supposed to do with his life.  It’s inspiring, and encouraging ... and I hope it sparks some ideas and courage in your heart as you listen.

    • What Is In Your Hand, Part 2 Listen

      January 03, 2022

      Do you ever feel forgotten?  Even if you are surrounded by people?  On this episode of Be Inspired, Ellie Lofaro, shares a beautiful message reminding us of our true significance and value to our Creator, and to those around us. And that we matter...regardless what our circumstances may be. 

    • What Is In Your Hand, Part 1 Listen

      December 27, 2021

      Your story.  It is one of the most powerful tools you can use for the advancement of the gospel.  It is not up for debate or discussion ... it is your story.  Be proud of it.  Share it.  Join our speaker, Ellie Lofaro, as she encourages you to embrace your story for your good and the good of those around you. 

    • The Sin of Achan, Part 2 Listen

      December 20, 2021

      It’s true that the times of greatest pain and suffering are often the times we grow and learn the most. On today’s episode of Be Inspired, Peter Reid gives us a front row seat to a story of greed and selfishness that had tragic consequences ... but brought about a great national awakening.  Reminding us that God always has a plan to redeem those He loves.

    • The Sin of Achan, Part 1 Listen

      December 13, 2021

      Sometimes history is the best teacher.  On this episode of Be Inspired, Peter Reid digs into the story of a tragic choice that cost the lives of many people and scarred the reputation of an entire nation. But more than just a history lesson, Peter connects the dots to us today in a powerful talk that is sure to generate important discussions. 

    • Who Are You Going to Believe? Part 2 Listen

      December 06, 2021

      Today Albert Tate speaks on a topic that many of you are probably familiar with ... at least intellectually familiar with.  Albert will take us deep into the meaning of one of the most recognizable verses in the entire Bible ... John 3:16.  Here’s the challenge: listen with an open mind and an open heart.  Because maybe ... just maybe ... you’ll hear something that you never heard before and it will open your eyes to something brand new that God wants to do in your life.

    • Who Are You Going to Believe? Part 1 Listen

      November 29, 2021

      Are you truly resting in your faith?  Or do you find yourself constantly wanting to take back control of the circumstances you find yourself in? If you’re in the middle of something that you cannot control ... and it is causing your heart to be troubled ... take a 20 minute break and listen to today’s podcast.  It’ll be a source of encouragement for you.

    • This Is a Test … It Is Only a Test, Part 2 Listen

      November 22, 2021

      Tests aren’t the most enjoyable activities we engage in … but one thing is for sure: tests reveal what we know about a subject.  In life, tests come in all shapes and sizes … and they often feel overwhelming and never ending.  But as we will learn today … tests are temporary … and have the power to help us see ourselves and God in a whole new light … and prepare us for the journey ahead.

    • This Is a Test … It Is Only a Test, Part 1 Listen

      November 15, 2021

      The reality is … we are all facing something tough.  Medical issues, relational issues, financial issues … but as our speaker on this edition of Be Inspired reminds us … it is just a test. It won’t last forever … and there is much to be learned from it along the way.  Encouraging and timely.

    • The Edge of Despair, Part 2 Listen

      November 08, 2021

      If life is beginning to take a toll on your heart and mind...this edition of Be Inspired will be a breath of fresh air.  Taking his cue from King David in the Old Testament, Rob Whittaker reveals what may be the most powerful tool we have to fight discouragement and despair.

    • The Edge of Despair, Part 1 Listen

      November 01, 2021

      With the holidays quickly approaching, and all that they bring...good and not-so-good ... today’s episode delivers some timely and helpful perspective on life, relationships, and shifting our focus from the here and now to the end game and what ultimately matters. 

    • Elizabeth & Mary, Part 2 Listen

      October 25, 2021

      Today we are going to hear the completion of the talk from Liz Curtis Higgs on Elizabeth and Mary the mother of Jesus.  While this may sound like something you might hear at a Sunday School class ... let me assure you, Liz’s insights into the story, the people, and the character of God ... bring a fresh perspective to this familiar story.  So, grab a cup of coffee, and listen in as Liz shares this amazing story with us.

    • Elizabeth & Mary, Part 1 Listen

      October 18, 2021

      So how does joy become your life’s calling card?  Well, it doesn’t happen through lots of good thoughts and a perfect personal track record.  On the contrary, today’s speaker’s journey is a testament to the power of God in a person’s life. Liz Curtis Higgs has allowed God’s power to take all of life’s mistakes, and poor choices and turn them into trophies of HIs grace and goodness.  And replace darkness with light ... sadness and regret with joy and hope. Liz brings her unique perspective to a very well known portion of scripture and sheds new light on the lives of Elizabeth and Mary the mother of Jesus.  And in her own unassuming way, Liz helps us see how the God that was very present in their lives is the same God who is present in our lives today.

    • The Case for Grace, Part 2 Listen

      October 11, 2021

      Today Michael Dorsey is talking about how to approach difficult situations in a way that brings understanding and healing rather than division and confusion.  Socially, politically, religiously, medically ... it seems that every corner of life is exposed to knee-jerk reactions of shaming, cancelling, calling out, or worse ... and it is bringing untold harm to our world.  We are in desperate need of grace in our communication.  Humility that expresses in real world terms ... and filters every communication through the Word of God so we can rightly respond in a way that brings truth and grace. Tall order?  Yes it is.  Possible?  Absolutely.  Join Michael Dorsey on this episode of Be Inspired to help us discover how. 

    • The Case for Grace, Part 1 Listen

      October 04, 2021

      Today, Michael Dorsey is going to take us on a journey to learn about grace ... and share with us why, today, possibly more than ever before, we need to embrace grace and then freely extend it to those around us.  Much of the pain, sadness, anger, and frustration we see around us is a result of a lack of grace.  But it doesn’t have to be that way.  Giving grace is a choice ... a choice you and I have the ability to make every day with every encounter either in person or online.  Michael’s talk has the power to change your perspective in ways that will benefit you and all those you come in contact with.  

    • Why We Need Hope, Part 2 Listen

      September 27, 2021

      Today, Carlos Whittaker will be talking about hope ... and not some kind of wishy washy concept of wishful thinking ... but a rock solid truth that has stood the test of time ... and will not be shaken by the circumstances around us.  It is a message we all need to hear and a truth we all can apply right now.  

    • Why We Need Hope, Part 1 Listen

      September 20, 2021

      If we’ve learned anything from these past 18 months it’s that very little in life is truly certain...and circumstances can change in a moment. If we’ve learned anything from these past 18 months it’s that very little in life is truly certain...and circumstances can change in a moment.  When that happens to you, you need hope that there is someone and something far bigger than all the chaos around you who will not change ... or let you down...or leave you alone...ever.  Today, Carlos Whittaker brings us some much needed good news in this Episode of Be Inspired.  

    • Conflict, Part 2 Listen

      September 13, 2021

      On today’s episode of Be Inspired, we’re talking about conflict.  Interpersonal tension between 2 or more people that has the potential to ruin a meal, or, if left unchecked, ruin a marriage, a family, a friendship ... even your own life.  For most of us, we learned how to approach conflict from our own family...and for many that is all we know to do.  But what if there was a better way to handle conflict?  What if there was a way to turn conflict from a foe to a friend?  Well, that’s today on this episode of Be Inspired.

    • Conflict, Part 1 Listen

      September 06, 2021

      Conflict. 

      Conflict is as universal as breathing.  But how we deal with our conflict is vastly different.  Some of us aggressively confront conflict ... some of us hide from it and hope it will go away ... while others have discovered how to make conflict a positive thing. Now, if that sounds like a radical idea ... listen in as Joe Holman and his wife Denise share some very practical wisdom about how to approach conflict. 

       

    • Fearlessly Looking at Our Past, Part 2 Listen

      August 30, 2021

      We all have them.  Life patterns of attitudes and behaviors that just seem impossible to break. The good news is, you CAN break them and establish new and healthier patterns for your life. Be prepared to be challenged, encouraged, and inspired.

    • Fearlessly Looking at Our Past, Part 1 Listen

      August 23, 2021

      If you’ve ever wondered why you do what you do, and maybe wish you could change your life for the better...today’s episode of Be Inspired delivers some eye opening truth about how our past influences our life today...and potentially our future.  This is content you can use right now.

    • Get it Right With God, Part 2 Listen

      August 16, 2021

      How does your failure impact your relationship with God?  In your heart of hearts, how do you think God feels about you when you mess up?  On today’s podcast, Dr. David Anderson reveals some truth about God that may just be life changing for you.

    • Get it Right With God, Part 1 Listen

      August 09, 2021

      Have you ever wondered what God is REALLY like?  Is He a cosmic policeman ... just waiting for you to mess up so He can punish you?  Or maybe you see Him  more like a doting Grandparent or perhaps a divine Santa Claus. Whatever you believe to be true about God will influence everything about your faith.  Everything.  Today, Dr. David Anderson peels back some of the mystery about God ... and the results are nothing short of amazing. 

    • What Does God Really Want from Me? Part 2 Listen

      August 01, 2021

      So, where is the intersection of faith and culture? Does the Bible ... does Christianity ... intersect with our lives today? Richard Dahlstrom takes a straight on look at why the church has failed to stay relevant, and what we need to do to get it ... and us ... back on track.

    • That Does God Really Want From Me? Part 1 Listen

      July 26, 2021

      We often hear what God wants FOR us...but have you ever wondered what God wants FROM you? Richard Dalhstrom reveals what God wants all of His children to be doing right now, and how this one activity can transform your perspective on God, others, and even yourself.

    • Why Knowing Is Half the Battle, Part 2 Listen

      July 19, 2021

      Is life just beating you down? Are you finding obstacles and hurdles at almost every turn? Perhaps today's episode will bring some clarity to your situation. Clarity found in an unusual place: an ancient story about a man and a fish.

    • Why Knowing Is Half the Battle, Part 1 Listen

      July 12, 2021

      The story of Jonah and the Whale has been told and retold in just about every communication medium. From cartoons, to songs, to movies, and books ... the story of Jonah's journey is almost universally known. But Albert Tate takes a different look at what Jonah might have been up to ... and why this ancient story can make an impact on us today.

    • Does God Really Talk to People? Part 2 Listen

      July 05, 2021

      Today’s episode tackles a topic that can be ... and has been ... very divisive. Rob Whittaker asks and answers the question: Does God Really Talk to People? His teaching style dials down the emotion, respects the various viewpoints, and still delivers a definitive talk that will hopefully broaden your thinking and understanding of how God speaks to us today no matter where you are on the spectrum of this topic.

    • Does God Really Talk to People? Part 1 Listen

      June 28, 2021

      So, does God still talk to people? If so, how do you know if what you are hearing is actually from God? Rob Whittaker pulls back the curtain on this often misunderstood topic and brings a fresh perspective for us to consider.

    • The Power of Soul Rest, Part 2 Listen

      June 21, 2021

      Is resting a hard thing for you to do? If you like to work ... if you like to be busy ... if you like having a list and checking it off ... you probably have a hard time just resting. Well, if you can relate to that, you will find today's episode both convicting and maybe life changing. It's a message that most of us in America need to hear. The Path to Rest ... with Curtis Zackery.

    • The Power of Soul Rest, Part 1 Listen

      June 14, 2021

      In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, be more, get more ... today's program provides a much needed reset. Curtis Zackery says that the cure for living under the pressure of today's breakneck pace is what he calls, Soul Rest. Hit the pause button on life for 30 minutes and find the path to true rest on this episode.

    • The Pearl of Patience, Part 2 Listen

      June 07, 2021

      Is there something in your life ... some health issue ... or relational problem ... or a job difficulty that just seems to go on and on and on? You've pleaded with God but the issue hasn't gone away ... and frankly, you are about to just throw in the towel? Today, Brian Loritts shares what God may be up to in your life ... and why you shouldn’t throw in the towel.

    • The Pearl of Patience, Part 1 Listen

      May 31, 2021

      It's been said, don't pray for patience! But what if patience is the key to a life filled with joy, gratitude, and grace? What if patience truly brings out the best in you? How can you move into that space? Brian Loritts provides insight and practical steps to embracing patience every day.

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