In our exploration of the New Testament, we turn our attention to the remarkable figure of Phoebe, as referenced in Romans 16:1-2, a woman of notable esteem and an exemplar of leadership within the early church. This episode delves into the significance of Phoebe's role as a trusted servant and bearer of Paul's epistle to the Romans, highlighting the profound trust and respect Paul held for her. As we discuss her character, we illuminate how Phoebe exemplified qualities of servant leadership, confidence in Christ, and courage, transcending the constraints of her time to fulfill her divine calling. We also consider the implications of her actions for women today, encouraging listeners to draw inspiration from Phoebe's example as they navigate their own paths of faith and leadership. Join us as we celebrate this extraordinary woman who embodies the essence of stepping forward in faith, illuminating the way for others in the pursuit of their divine purposes.

• The discussion centers on Phoebe, a remarkable woman mentioned in Romans 16:1-2, emphasizing her vital role as a leader in the early church, embodying the qualities of trust and service.
• Phoebe's journey to deliver Paul's letter to the Romans illustrates not only her physical courage but also the immense trust placed in her by Paul, indicating her significant status in the church.
• The podcast highlights the importance of women like Phoebe in the New Testament, who defied societal norms and served as leaders, demonstrating that women can indeed hold positions of influence and authority in faith communities.
• Listeners are encouraged to emulate Phoebe's confidence in God's calling, recognizing that each individual has unique gifts to fulfill their divine purpose, just as she did in her time.
• The conversation underscores the necessity of unity among Christian women and men, advocating for a collaborative spirit that transcends comparisons, enabling both genders to work together in fulfilling God's mission.
• Finally, the episode stresses the transformative power of embracing one's identity in Christ, as exemplified by Phoebe, who confidently navigated her role despite societal constraints, serving as a model for contemporary believers.

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her husband, Justin, she navigates the joys and challenges of parenting four children with autism, ADHD, and mental health hurdles. You can find out more about Tamara on her website: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/

Karalee Anjewierden @pocket.miracles

Karalee Anjewierden is an author, motivational speaker, and fulfilled mother of six. She has appeared on several podcasts and presented at various retreats and events. Karalee is an avid story seeker, passionate about connecting with people and places. She loves to travel and does so extensively, collecting new and wonderful stories, friends, and miracles she can share along the way. Find her online at www.pocketmiracles.com. She is also on Instagram and Facebook @karaleeanjewierden

Wendi Christensen @wendichristensencounseling

Wendi is the co-founder of Women Warriors of Light. In addition to being a wife and mother, she is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience. Wendi is an intuitive counselor helping individuals release pain, renew hope, and restore light through forgiveness. You can find out more about Wendi on her website:

Summary

Our guest, Bonnie Randall, candidly recounts her transformative journey, during which she learned to discern God's voice amidst the cacophony of life’s demands. She emphasizes that each woman possesses a unique calling, often shrouded in uncertainty, yet ripe for discernment through faith and reflection. Bonnie's narrative serves as a clarion call to those grappling with feelings of inadequacy or fear, reminding us of our inherent worth and purpose as vessels of divine intention. We delve into the nuances of pivoting in life, discussing the importance of surrendering our plans to God and trusting in His timing, ultimately leading us to a place of healing and fulfillment.

Show Notes

The illuminating discussion between Tamara K. Anderson and Bonnie Randall unveils the transformational journey of embracing one’s divine calling amidst life's complexities. Bonnie eloquently articulates her initial foray into the marketing world, which spurred her passion from a tender age, ultimately leading her to establish a successful agency. However, a pivotal moment arose during a Mastermind class where the divine promptings urged her to radically alter her trajectory by shutting down her agency and focusing on healing—both personally and within her family. This transition, Bonnie shares, was fraught with doubt and fear, yet she emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan, which often involves relinquishing what we hold dear for a greater purpose. Through her narratives, Bonnie inspires listeners to navigate their unique paths, ensuring that they remain attuned to divine guidance, especially when faced with daunting choices. The episode encapsulates the essence of faith, resilience, and the beauty of emerging stronger through life's trials, encouraging women to embrace their roles as warriors of light, ready to shine in a world that often seems overshadowed by uncertainty.

Takeaways

• In the podcast, Bonnie Randall emphasizes how divine design often comes disguised as challenges, such as her experience with ADHD, which she ultimately learned to embrace as a blessing rather than a curse.
• The conversation delves into the importance of recognizing when God is calling us to pivot in our lives, urging listeners to trust that these transitions are part of a larger divine plan.
• Bonnie shares her transformative journey of shutting down her successful marketing agency to focus on healing and spiritual growth, illustrating the necessity of prioritizing personal well-being over professional success.
• Listeners are encouraged to view life not as a rigid schedule but as a harmonious dance, adapting to the divine prompts that guide us through various phases of our lives.
• The discussion highlights the significance of building a strong connection with God, as Bonnie describes her personal methods of prayer and meditation that facilitate her ability to hear divine guidance more clearly.
• Finally, Bonnie reassures women that their feelings of inadequacy are not barriers but rather opportunities for God's greatness to shine through, encouraging them to embrace their unique journeys with faith.

Companies & Links referenced in this episode:

• divinebydesign.events
• Women Warriors of Light
• Come Off Conqueror

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her...

Sharon Leino, a remarkable woman in her late 70s, embodies the notion that it is never too late to heed the divine call placed upon one's heart. In this enlightening conversation with Tamara K. Anderson, Sharon recounts the profound journey that led her to become a children’s book author, a path she embarked upon after the loss of her husband. It was during this period of solitude and introspection that she discovered a newfound purpose, catalyzed by an invitation to a writer's retreat that would ultimately change the trajectory of her life. Through faith and perseverance, she has triumphed over various obstacles, including the daunting task of finding a publisher, and has since authored several books that resonate with the hearts of young readers. Join us as we delve into Sharon’s inspiring narrative, highlighting how she transformed her personal trials into stories that not only entertain but also impart valuable lessons on fear, anger, and the importance of faith, proving that age is but a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passions.

• Sharon Leino's journey of writing children's books began only after overcoming profound personal loss, showcasing that new callings can emerge even in life's twilight years.
• The obstacles Sharon faced, particularly in finding a publisher, exemplify the notion that divine callings often come with significant challenges that require perseverance and faith.
• Emphasizing the importance of community, Sharon's story illustrates how God orchestrates connections that aid us in fulfilling our divine purposes, particularly in our endeavors.
• Sharon's books tackle essential emotional themes for children, such as fear and anger, demonstrating her commitment to addressing real issues faced by young readers in a relatable manner.
• The transition to utilizing social media for marketing her books highlights the continuous learning process that accompanies pursuing one's purpose, regardless of age.
• Through acts of generosity, such as donating books to those in need, Sharon embodies the Christian principle of serving others, reinforcing that calling extends beyond personal achievements.

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her husband, Justin, she navigates the joys and challenges of parenting four children with autism, ADHD, and mental health hurdles. You can find out more about Tamara on her website: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/

Sharon Leino @sharonleinoauthor

Sharon Leino is an accomplished author and educator whose career began in Michigan, where she earned her Master's degree from Eastern Michigan University. She has served as a teacher, curriculum consultant, and diagnostician for children with special needs. Sharon is also the author of faith-inspired children's books, uniquely combining her passion for literature and child development to provide clean, values-based stories for young readers. Among her most fulfilling roles, she worked as an advocate for medically fragile children at Copper Country Mental Health. Sharon now lives in Central Florida with her daughter, son-in-law, and two sister cats.

• https://www.sharonleinoauthor.com/
• Sharon's Adventures of Lusair series for 8-10 year olds can be found on her website, on

What does it mean to be called by God—and what does it take to truly become chosen? In this thought-provoking episode of Arise, Women of God podcast, Tamara K. Anderson and the Women Warriors of Light advisory board explore the powerful difference between being called by God and being chosen by God, inspired by Matthew 22:14: “many are called, but few are chosen.”

You’ll hear deep, practical wisdom on how God often sends the same calling to many, but it’s those who receive, act, and walk with Him who become “chosen.” Through candid conversation and vivid analogies—like the “bum lamb” who knows the Shepherd’s voice and the parable of the ten virgins—you’ll discover why being chosen isn’t about perfection or qualifications, but about obedience, willingness, and a heart that puts God first.

This episode tackles overwhelm, spiritual resistance, and how insecurities try to hold us back. Dive into inspiring stories and dreams, including being lifted from darkness by Jesus, and learn how every call is a personal invitation to rise, shine His light, and lift others.

Ready for actionable spiritual insight and encouragement to step boldly into your God-given purpose? Listen in, be equipped to start with small steps, and see how you, too, can move from called to chosen—God’s way, God-strong.

• The distinction between being called and being chosen by God is profound, as it involves not only receiving a divine invitation but also actively responding to it with faith & action.
• Receiving God's call demands a heart open to divine direction, where we acknowledge His guidance and choose to walk in obedience, paving the way for fulfilling our unique purpose.
• A crucial aspect of being chosen involves maintaining humility and ensuring that our actions continually point others towards Christ, rather than allowing personal success to overshadow our divine mission.

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her husband, Justin, she navigates the joys and challenges of parenting four children with autism, ADHD, and mental health hurdles. You can find out more about Tamara on her website: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/

Wendi Christensen @wendichristensencounseling

Wendi is the co-founder of Women Warriors of Light. In addition to being a wife and mother, she is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience. Wendi is an intuitive counselor helping individuals release pain, renew hope, and restore light through forgiveness. You can find out more about Wendi on her website: https://wendichristensencounseling.com/

Tiffany Fletcher @tiffnyfletcher

Tiffany is a member of our Women Warriors of Light advisory board. She is an author, wife, mother and an example of faith & courage. Through her life experiences she shares hope in coming from a place of darkness to light and love. You can find her on social media @tiffnyfletcher or on her blog: motherhadasecret.blogspot.com

LeMira Wheelwright @launchwithlemira

LeMira is a member of our advisory board. She is a speaker, coach, and educator who is passionate about helping women heal insecurities, discover their divine potential and shine God's light through their gifts—especially helping them refine their message and marketing.

In this foundational episode of the Arise Women of God podcast, hosts Tamara K. Anderson, Wendi Christensen, and advisory board member Tiffany Fletcher delve into the profound meaning of "arise." This isn't just about waking up; it's a divine invitation to step into your purpose, grow, and overcome life's challenges. Discover how to identify and embrace God's whispers, even when they feel stretching or uncomfortable.

Tiffany shares powerful insights into the word "arise," from getting up to moving forward, emphasizing the spiritual beauty in each definition. Wendi opens up about the natural hesitation that comes with answering God's call, reminding us that it's normal to question "Me?" before embracing the excitement. Hear Tiffany's deeply personal story of returning to graduate school at 49, a journey filled with breakdowns and breakthroughs, illustrating the power of cheerfully submitting to God's will.

We explore the vital role of stillness amidst busyness to hear God's voice, drawing inspiration from the story of Jairus's daughter, the prodigal son, and the parable of the Ten Virgins. Learn practical ways to create space for your calling, including the concept of a "not to do" list. This episode affirms that women are God's "secret weapon," uniquely attuned to answering God's call and stepping forward in faith. Plus, discover the fierce strength found in a supportive community of women cheering each other on. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will empower you to arise, shine, and fulfill your divine potential!

• "Arise" is a Divine Invitation to Growth: The word "arise" extends beyond simply waking up; it's a spiritual call from God to step into a higher version of yourself, embrace your divine purpose, and overcome personal challenges, even when it feels uncomfortable.
• Hesitation is Normal, But Trust God's Calling: It's natural to feel doubt or ask "Why me?" when God extends an invitation to do something challenging. However, the episode emphasizes that God sees your potential and will equip you, encouraging listeners to move past self-doubt and embrace the excitement of their calling.
• Stillness and Introspection are Crucial for Hearing God's Voice: Amidst life's busyness and overwhelm, intentionally quieting your mind and reflecting allows you to hear God's whispers. This stillness helps clarify what you need to start, stop, or pivot in order to align with His will.
• You Are Not Alone in Your Journey; God Provides Support: Whether it's through His direct guidance (taking you "by the hand") or by sending supportive people (a "tribe" of women, or specific helpers like a counselor), God is with you every step of the way. Leaning on community and asking God for help in finding the right support is vital.
• Answering God's Call Transforms You (and Prepares the World): Stepping into God's call, even when it's messy or doesn't look as you imagined, leads to personal transformation. Furthermore, the episode highlights that women, in particular, are called to shine their light and help prepare the world for the future, using their unique talents to glorify God.

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her husband, Justin, she navigates the joys and challenges of parenting four children with autism, ADHD, and mental health hurdles. You can find out more about Tamara on her website: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/

Wendi...

Have you ever felt a gentle nudge—or even a bold push—toward a purpose bigger than yourself? In this inspiring episode of Bible Women in Bathrobes, hosts Tamara K. Anderson and Wendi Christensen dive deep into the journey of “stepping into your calling.” Drawing from powerful biblical stories like Samuel and Esther, they explore how God often calls ordinary women to do extraordinary things, even when it feels intimidating or uncertain.

Tamara and Wendi share personal experiences of wrestling with self-doubt, facing the fear of judgment, and ultimately discovering that each woman’s unique gifts are needed now more than ever. They discuss how embracing your calling can bring hope and healing to others, and why accountability and community—like the Women Warriors of Light groups—make all the difference.

If you’ve ever wondered how to recognize God’s voice, overcome doubts, or find the courage to shine your light, this episode is for you. Discover practical steps for embracing your calling, writing down inspiration, and connecting with others who are on the same path. Tune in to be uplifted, empowered, and reminded that you are enough—and that your light matters in a world that needs hope.

• In this episode, we delve into the profound experience of recognizing and responding to God's call in our lives, akin to Samuel's awakening to divine direction.
• The importance of community and accountability in pursuing one's calling is emphasized, reminding us that we need not embark on our journeys alone.
• Our podcast is undergoing a rebranding to reflect our mission of empowering women to embrace their unique callings and share their light with the world.
• We discussed how God often takes our past struggles and uses them as a source of strength to uplift others, a theme echoed throughout Scripture.
• The episode highlights the necessity of documenting God's promptings, as immediate doubts can cloud our understanding of His will for us.
• Tamara and Wendi share personal anecdotes that illustrate the journey of faith and the transformative power of stepping into one's purpose.

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her husband, Justin, she navigates the joys and challenges of parenting four children with autism, ADHD, and mental health hurdles. You can find out more about Tamara on her website: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/

Wendi Christensen @wendichristensencounseling

Wendi is the co-founder of Women Warriors of Light. In addition to being a wife and mother, she is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience. Wendi is an intuitive counselor helping individuals release pain, renew hope, and restore light through forgiveness. You can find out more about Wendi on her website: https://wendichristensencounseling.com/

If you’d like to read the transcript of today’s episode, you can find it on our Women Warriors of Light website blog. https://www.womenwarriorsoflight.com/blog/Heeding-the-Divine-Whisper-Women-Stepping-into-Their-Callings

In this inspiring episode of Bible, Women and Bathrobes, we explore the profound significance of the ancient names of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament and what they mean for women today. Hosts Tamara K. Anderson, Wendi Christensen, and Karalee Anjewierden dive deep into the origins of the name Jehovah, its reverence among the Israelites, and how Jesus’s declaration as the “Great I Am” shaped both history, and faith. Also discover how understanding the eternal, eternal nature of Christ—can empower you to see yourself through a divine lens.

The conversation is anchored in scripture, particularly the powerful declaration found in Exodus 3:14, where God identifies Himself as 'I AM THAT I AM'. This pivotal moment not only affirms God's unchanging presence but also serves as a foundation for understanding our own identities as children of God. By associating ourselves with Jesus Christ through empowering "I AM" affirmations, we uncover our intrinsic potential and identity as divine children.

“I am” statements can shape our identity as women of faith. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical examples, the hosts reveal how pairing affirmations with Jesus Christ helps us overcome self-doubt and negative self-talk. Whether you’re seeking to strengthen your spiritual identity or looking for practical ways to apply the teachings of Jesus to your daily life, this episode on embracing your divine identity offers actionable insights and heartfelt encouragement.

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts encourage listeners to engage in the practice of creating their own 'I AM' statements, inviting them to reflect on their identities in relation to Christ. This call to action serves as a powerful reminder that we are not merely defined by our circumstances or doubts; rather, we are called to recognize our inherent worth and potential as children of God. The episode beautifully intertwines theological insights with practical applications, leaving listeners with a renewed sense of purpose and identity rooted in the eternal truths of Jesus Christ.

Tune in to learn how the “I am” statements of Christ can inspire you to claim your worth, step into your purpose, and remember that you are enough—through Him. Don’t miss this empowering discussion on divine identity!

• The names of Jesus, particularly Jehovah and I AM, signify His eternal and unchanging nature, reminding us that He is always present in our lives.
• Utilizing I AM affirmations empowers us to recognize our potential and identity as children of God, aiding in the battle against self-doubt and negative thinking.
• The reverence with which the ancient Israelites regarded the name Jehovah teaches us about the importance of holding sacred our relationship with the divine.
• When we embrace our identity through Christ, we empower ourselves to transform negative self-talk into affirmations of strength and capability, reinforcing our connection to Him.

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her husband, Justin, she navigates the joys and challenges of parenting four children with autism, ADHD, and mental health hurdles. You can find out more about Tamara on her website: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/

Wendi Christensen @wendichristensencounseling

Wendi is the co-founder of Women Warriors of Light. In addition to being a wife and mother, she is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 28 years of experience. Wendi is an intuitive counselor helping individuals release

In this heartfelt episode of Bible Women in Bathrobes, host Tamara K. Anderson is joined by Kari Anjewierden and Bonnie Randall for a deep and relatable discussion on the powerful role of Jesus Christ as our advocate and mediator. Drawing from personal stories and scriptural insights, the trio unpacks what it truly means for Jesus to be our advocate—someone who stands up for us, defends us, and bridges the gap between us and God, especially when we fall short. The conversation explores how “Jesus Christ as our advocate” is not just a theological concept, but a source of comfort and hope for anyone feeling weighed down by mistakes or guilt.

Listeners will discover how Christ’s advocacy offers a pathway to reconciliation, healing, and a renewed sense of worth. The episode also highlights the contrast between the Savior’s loving defense and Satan’s role as the accuser, illustrating how Jesus lovingly guides us toward our potential rather than shaming us for our shortcomings. Whether you’re seeking to better understand the concept of a spiritual advocate or longing for reassurance in your faith journey, this episode on “Jesus Christ as our advocate” delivers encouragement, practical insights, and a reminder that you are never alone. Tune in for uplifting perspectives that will inspire you to embrace Christ’s mediating love in your own life.

• The concept of Jesus as our Advocate is akin to having someone vouch for our character during moments of accusation, providing us with solace and assurance.
• In the realm of spiritual matters, Jesus serves not only as our Advocate but also as our Mediator, bridging the gap between humanity and divinity with profound grace.
• Understanding Jesus as both Advocate and Mediator illuminates the importance of His intercessory role, especially in times of personal struggle and sin.
• The loving nature of Christ’s advocacy reminds us that we are not alone in our trials; He is continually praying for our strength and redemption.
• Repentance, as discussed in the podcast, is framed not as a burden, but as an invitation to embrace change and receive Christ's transformative love.
• The imagery of Jesus praying for us serves as a powerful reminder of His unwavering support, encouraging us to lean on Him during our most challenging moments.

Tamara K. Anderson @tamarakanderson

Tamara, founder of Women Warriors of Light, is a dynamic speaker, award winning author, and a podcaster. She is driven by her Christian faith to inspire faith in Jesus Christ. Alongside her husband, Justin, she navigates the joys and challenges of parenting four children with autism, ADHD, and mental health hurdles. You can find out more about Tamara on her website: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/

Bonnie Randall @bonnie.randall

Bonnie Randall is a wife, mother, trainer, speaker, actress, copywriter, heart centered life coach and has also been a business and marketing consultant for over 20 years. Her real passion is to help people grow as individuals and teach them how to resolve limiting beliefs. Bonnie enjoys teaching about mental health, abuse prevention and recovery classes. She runs a trauma recovery support group and YouTube channel called, Come Off Conqueror, which helps survivors of abuse find Christ centered healing. Find out more at: https://www.youtube.com/@comeoffconqueror

Karalee Anjewierden @pocket.miracles

Karalee Anjewierden is an author, motivational speaker, and fulfilled mother of six. She has appeared on several podcasts and presented at...