101 Turn Ons, Turn Offs, and Savoring Sex in Marriage with Dr. Jennifer Konzen

27 Apr 2020 · The Savvy Sauce

00:42:24

*DISCLAIMER* This episode is intended for adults

101. Turn Ons, Turn Offs, and Savoring Sex in Marriage with Dr. Jennifer Konzen

**Transcription Below**

Song of Solomon 4:7 (AMP) “O my love, you are altogether beautiful and fair. There is no flaw nor blemish in you!"

Dr. Jennifer Konzen is a certified sex therapist, award winning researcher, and international speaker who lives in San Diego, California. She and her husband Time have four kids. She has been a parent educator, a marriage, parenting, and sexuality seminar and conference speaker, and yes, a Broadway showtimes performer (her undergraduate degree is in Musical Theater and Vocal Performance).

Dr. Jennifer Konzen’s Website

Art of Intimate Marriage by Tim Konzen and Dr. Jennifer Konzen

Redeemed Sexuality by Tim Konzen and Dr. Jennifer Konzen

Intimate Marriage Cards by Tim Konzen and Dr. Jennifer Konzen

ACT Worksheets

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Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)

Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”

Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”

Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”

Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”

Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”

Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”

Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“

Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“

Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

**Transcription**

[00:00:00] <music>

Laura Dugger: Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.

[00:00:18] <music>

Laura Dugger: Today's message is not intended for little ears. We'll be discussing some adult themes, and I want you to be aware before you listen to this message.

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Dr. Jennifer Konzen returns today as our three-peat guest. We are talking about sexual intimacy in the context of marriage, and we are planning to cover three themes: Turnoffs, turn-ons, and ways to enjoy sex more than we currently do.

Here's our chat.

Welcome back to The Savvy Sauce, Dr. Konzen.

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: It's great to be here. [00:01:18]

Laura Dugger: Well, you are a friend of The Savvy Sauce since the beginning. We're going to put a link in the show notes so everyone can easily click on our previous chats together. But for today, let's begin here. How did you decide to work in this field?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Well, specifically in the field of sexuality, I was in the middle of getting my doctorate in psychology, and I took a required class on couples counseling. Most of the class was focused on intimacy, and I had to do an assignment. I had to interview a couple, and then I had to write and create an intervention for the couple.

So the couple I interviewed had a hard time talking about sex openly. They had a good sexual relationship and a good marriage, just a hard time talking about it for various reasons. So I created this intervention, and I presented it in class, and my professor said, "That's your dissertation." [00:02:20]

It became my dissertation, and it became what I studied for the next five years. Then I specialized in a certification for sex therapy. So it just rose out of a need to help people talk more openly around sexuality. So yeah, out of a class assignment. Go figure.

Laura Dugger: Go figure. You are such an overachiever and a very naturally gifted communicator, so I can see where that opened up doors on your path.

I know that you've had years of experience. So what have couples consistently told you is a turnoff, both for men and women?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Well, the number one is conflict. The number one turnoff is when there's either been conflict ongoing in their relationship, and so therefore they're not wanting sexuality in any form or some forms, or the conflict just happened and it's unresolved. [00:03:26] So it doesn't sound like a typical turnoff in the sense of like, Ooh, your breath smells bad. And let me tell you, those come up too. You know, please shower, all of that. But the number one is the verbal, especially conflict.

Now, it's interesting because I was sharing this with somebody, and they said that for them, talking about serious issues was a turnoff. And I said, "What do you mean?" And she said, "Well, when it becomes an argument." And I was like, "Yeah, that's exactly it."

It's not the talking about the serious issue that's the problem. Like, let's say that happens, you know, 30 minutes before someone's going to have sex. It's the fact that that serious issue turns into some kind of conflict between them.

Laura Dugger: Wow. And that's for men as well.

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Oh, by far. It's the number one thing that men should bring up and the number one thing that women bring up. I would say the men might word it differently. When she speaks in certain tones. In fact, the feeling of being demeaned in any way for men is on the larger scale. [00:04:29] And so that will come up in the argument when she uses certain phrases. Then anger for women. So they phrase it differently, but it's the same issue.

Laura Dugger: Oh, that is interesting. I'm sure if women are critical or contemptuous, that would feel disrespectful and be a turnoff for a man. And then you mentioned anger. Are there any other topics that are considered turnoffs commonly?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: You know, it's really interesting as people do bring up things like body odor and breath and, you know, things that have to do with the five senses. You know, smell, touch, sight. So people will bring up concerns that their spouse has turned off by looking at their body. That comes up a lot.

But as far as this turns me off, I would say 90% of the time what they're talking about is conflict. [00:05:32] So not the senses. They do talk about the senses in terms of what turns them on, but not as far as turnoffs. Not as often anyway.

Laura Dugger: Okay. I want to go a little bit further with that just to clarify. So you're saying the husband or wife may be concerned about their own body image. Is that what you're saying? They're concerned about that with their spouse, but that's actually not what their spouse is saying is a turnoff.

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Correct. Now, they might individually in my office say, "I'm not attracted to my spouse and I think it affects my desire levels for sex." That happens. But honestly, that's pretty rare. It's usually the partner who feels like their partner thinks their body is unattractive that then affects their level of desire, interest, turn on for sex. So it's more the "I think you're thinking this." [00:06:31]

Laura Dugger: That is profound. Let's stay on body image for just a moment. Most people are probably aware that body image affects sexual intimacy, but we often don't hear any details beyond that fact. So will you unpack this a little bit more and share specific body image struggles for both genders?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Body image is a pretty big piece. Well, when we wrote our book, we dedicated a whole chapter to it for that reason, because self-consciousness in the midst of sexuality, self-consciousness about the body is known through research to cause all kinds of different challenges. It'll cause a challenge with sexual functioning itself.

So that can be with erectile functioning as well as the ability to reach orgasm and experience arousal. And that self-consciousness becomes a withdrawal. So it affects the quality of the time together.

And you would think it would just be a female thing. [00:07:33] It's not at all. The very, very first couple I did sex therapy with his was he had a lot of hair on his back and he would feel really self-conscious whenever she would touch his back. And hers was that she had extra weight on her body. So whenever he would touch her stomach, she would withdraw. And they had never talked about it ever.

And just breaking that barrier of not being able to talk about it was really quite a shift for them. So, yeah, it comes up for men and women across the board.

Laura Dugger: Would you say it affects around 100% of people or is that too strong?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: With the couples that I've seen, I've literally had probably two that just it wasn't an issue. And you would think these were the slim in shape couples. Yes. In one... no, probably three couples. Two of the couples, young, slim in shape, didn't even cross their minds. [00:08:31] But one of the couples was they were both obese, actually, and they both really enjoyed each other's bodies and never worried about it.

So I've worked with people who are what you would consider, you know, on the front of a magazine, gorgeous, beautiful, both men and women. And the concern about body image isn't just for those who the world even might consider less attractive.

In fact, those who would be considered on the high end of attractiveness have very strong concern about negative views of their own body. So it's pretty much across the board, across gender, and across even cultural barriers.

Laura Dugger: Why do you think that is, that someone who may appear perfect in appearance to others, why are they the ones that often struggle with this shaming or critical self-talk?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Well, it can come from super early on. I mean, it really almost isn't connected to what they look like as the person talking to me. Like, you know, here they are in their mid-20s, mid-30s and on that beautiful end of the scale, you know. [00:09:39]

But the message is they've been getting their entire life either to themselves or from media or from their family are pretty strong. They've had, Oh, you know, make sure not to eat that messages since they were young. You know, they've watched their parents.

Often what you'll have is women with their children, the moms are making comments about their own dieting and how they need to lose weight. So this child is hearing comments about other people's bodies. And so they're applying that to themselves at 8, 9, 10 years old. And then they're still applying at 20, 30 years old.

So you've got family messages that are negative about their body or family messages that are negative about their own bodies or about someone else's body. It's very common for people to tell me about comments that their siblings or parents made about another sibling's body or somebody else's body as they were walking past them out in public. [00:10:36]

So you've got family messages about the body, which is huge. And that even with somebody that maybe doesn't have any typical problems with weight, they're concerned about it because they've heard those messages for so long.

Then you've definitely got the huge piece on media that can't even be measured how big that is. And then honestly, that message gets stamped in religious communities big time on this is more spiritual. And so, yeah, the negative view of the body is across the board.

Laura Dugger: What you just said there at the end, what do you mean it gets stamped in religious communities?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: So you'll notice you'll get women sitting around a table at a church lunch and pay attention to what they're talking about. Across the board, you'll get lots of comments on what you call fat talk, which is that they're talking about their diets and that there's no calories in this food because you're not eating it with a fork. [00:11:32]

So women will sit around even at a social function, including church functions, and they're having this conversation about their diets and what they're eating and how many calories are in things. This is happening everywhere.

And then you've got zillions of websites that will connect thinness with spirituality. So that message gets stamped in workshops and lessons from the podium, during a sermon, on a website, in a book, that spirituality is connected to what your body looks like.

Laura Dugger: Wow. So there are definitely some deep roots in these issues. And then I'm curious, how does that negative body image then affect our sexual desire and our sexual pleasure?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: The self-consciousness that happens makes it especially difficult. I would say it comes up the most with women. [00:12:32] It definitely comes up with men.

But let me just explain it with women. So when women will have that message, they feel uncomfortable being naked in front of their husbands. They don't want to dress in front of their husbands. They don't get out of the shower without covering up because they're worried about what their husband might be thinking.

The husband might be like, I love looking at her body. I love seeing her naked, but she's not feeling that for various reasons. So it'll affect way before they even get into the bed. Then definitely, nakedness in and of itself is what's often happening with sexuality. Some people do have sex when they're still slightly covered.

So there they are, naked in that bed and all of that self-consciousness is there, and so the ability to relax and really enjoy the orgasmic and arousal response is difficult. So it cuts it off at both ends. It cuts arousal and turn-ons before things even start. And then it affects it while things are going.

Laura Dugger: So a very negative impact that it has. [00:13:32] Let's take a quick break to hear a message from our sponsor.

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Laura Dugger: I remember this from graduate school. We were always taught that the brain is the most important sexual organ. So how can we understand and apply this truth in order to override these negative body image issues and negative self-talk?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: You know, cognitive behavioral therapy would approach it... so this is one of the main approaches that has been studied and researched. [00:15:37] They would approach it with a bit more of a clamp down on it, get rid of it, get it out of your mind.

I would say actually I use acceptance commitment therapy, which is ACT, A-C-T. ACT. And I would say when those sentences come into your mind, when those feelings enter your body, they're kind of common. They're normal. And to be able to say... and so this is the brain part of things. To be able to notice the thoughts, notice the feeling, notice the sensation in your body, and to be able to say to yourself, well, I understand why this thought's here. You know, I can be insecure about my body, so it's understandable that this thought is here in my brain.

And then that acceptance piece of "it's understandable this thought is here" instead of "get away from it, get away from it, ignore it," which doesn't work anyway, is a huge piece of shifting the thinking. [00:16:35] So accepting the thought.

And then how do we replace that thought with a thought that might be based on our values? I love the approach in ACT, acceptance commitment therapy, with what they do is they work a lot on values, which matches a lot with those with religious beliefs.

What are my values? Let's say I'm engaging with my spouse, and my values about my time with my spouse are to be loving and giving and to have fun. So now I'm going to say, "Hello, thought. I know that you're here. I understand why you're here. However, right now, I am going to..." And then you go into your valued choice of I'm going to go ahead and give to my partner and be real and genuine with my partner and let myself enjoy the sensations that I'm experiencing in this time.

So that would be, wow, in the quickest nutshell, I've probably ever done an explanation of the process I do with those kinds of thoughts. [00:17:35]

Laura Dugger: That's incredible. I want to hear more about these values. Could you give an example of what that might look like in a real-life couple?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: I actually do bodywork from early on so that it's value-oriented. With individuals. I will encourage them to really look at the scriptures, Psalm 139, that God made us while we were still knit in our mother's womb and then throughout the scriptures. But my favorite is you are fearfully and wonderfully made.

So there's often a relearning of the view of the body that has to occur for the individual. I have some exercises I send people home with to really relearn God's view of their body.

I always joke, you know, like the Bible says that you're fearfully and wonderfully made. The word "fearful" actually means.. it's the same word we use in the scriptures about that we are to approach God with fear and trembling with awe. Like, wow. That that's the word that's used about how your body is made. [00:18:34]

And when's the last time you were naked standing in front of a mirror and you said, Wow, my body is awesome. But God did such a good job. So, you know, we don't do that.

So it starts with the individual view of the body. Then I have couples do exercises where they talk about that really openly as they face each other fully clothed. Then they do that exact same exercise talking about their bodies as they face a mirror standing next to each other. And then as they do it partially clothed to naked and then naked in bed.

So I have a process I take them through to sort of desensitize these negative views of the body, to just kind of normalize those negative views and to still be fun and giving and real with each other. That these are things that people think. How do we still be giving in the midst of those thoughts so that those thoughts don't control what we do?

Laura Dugger: And I don't want to go on too much of a tangent, but I'm loving this explanation of ACT. [00:19:36] Could you say what it means again?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Yeah. Acceptance Commitment Therapy. You can actually go on Amazon and there's several popular books. It's one of the approaches to therapy that's super generous.

You can do what you call a values clarification tool. It's really lovely. You can Google it and go do it and talk with someone about it so that you can make valued choices instead of automatic reaction choices.

Laura Dugger: That seems like it would apply even in other areas where I've heard-

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Oh, yes.

Laura Dugger: I mean, for example, somebody who had experienced trauma and they were hypervigilant a lot. So they would say, "Hello, hypervigilance. I can feel you." But plain old vigilance will do the job any day.

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Yeah. Any day. Yeah, all emotional states. I actually just had a client that they're missionaries south of the border here. So they're in Mexico. [00:20:35] We did therapy for several years online, actually. And she sent me this beautiful, lovely set of sketched drawings that exhibit this expression. It's about grief and how I talk to grief, I let it talk to me. I mother it. I let it speak. I don't tell it shh, or be quiet. And then we stand up and we go do the dishes.

And she said, "This reminded me of how we did therapy." And I was like, "Yep." You know, and then we stand up and we go do the dishes. We don't try to get rid of it. We say it's understandable that you're here and now I have some things I need to do.

Laura Dugger: Well, my hypothesis is that that type of therapy actually is much more effective than, like you said, stop it. Shut it down. Ignore it.

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Well, I always ask people, "Did it work the last time, and the many times that you've tried to stop it, shut it down? Did it work?" And it's like, "No." [00:21:36]

Laura Dugger: Well, changing the subject now, what are some common turn ons for both genders?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: You know, definitely women will always share romance and dates and non-sexual affection. We tend to think of those things as just women. I think women are just more vocal about it.

But good emotional connection for both genders and ongoing playful touch. When sex becomes a problem, couples stop touching. They stop having playful affection because the partner who's not wanting to have sex or who's feeling reactive around sexuality starts to interpret every touch as he or she is wanting sex. And so they pull back.

One of the biggest things that are a turn-on and that people usually miss from their relationship is playful affection throughout the day. So that's a big one for both. [00:22:36]

And definitely men will say this more often, but women say it as well, that when a partner plans and initiates special stuff sexually, that that's a turn-on. And then not just affectionate touches, but then playful, sensual touches.

So this would be kind of messing around. You're in public and nobody can see what you're doing, but you playfully touch your spouse sensually and make a funny remark in their ear. So I would say the word playfulness is huge. That playfulness around touch and comments and glances at the eyes are definitely turn ons for both men and women.

Laura Dugger: For these couples that come to see you, is there any specific homework you assign to them to enhance their pleasure and intimacy?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Actually, I send them home with a box of cards called the Ungame. I start off with the all ages version and then I go to the couples version. [00:23:34] And then I created cards called the Intimate Marriage cards as well.

So I send them home literally every week to spend five minutes a day talking openly and honestly about, first of all, their overall intimacy and then their sensual intimacy and then their sexual intimacy.

The talking openly and honestly about sex is one of the biggest things that helps people enhance their pleasure and their intimacy. I tell people, go find a good book on sex. I love Douglas Rosenau's Celebration of Sex. We have our book, The Art of Intimate Marriage. Go buy that book, read a chapter, talk about it, read a chapter, talk about it, read a chapter, talk about it. There's something about learning how to talk openly that enhances the whole process.

Laura Dugger: In general, how many couples would you say come into your office that already talk about sex?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: One in a thousand, maybe one in a hundred. I mean, I will occasionally at a workshop have a couple come up and say, "Oh my goodness, this was great. [00:24:37] We talk really openly around sexuality." But those couples don't walk in my office.

Because we know this from research and I know this from my clinical practices. If people are openly and honestly talking about sexuality, they're often not having the problems around sexuality. Like I said, there are some. We do openly and honestly talk, but we're stuck, and so they come to see me.

Laura Dugger: If a couple is already talking about sex with each other, how do you frequently see them getting stuck?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: I would say probably one of the biggest things is although they might be talking openly, they're not actually hearing one another. So the ability to have compassion and empathy and genuinely listen is problematic. But then also sometimes they'll hear the information. They'll genuinely hear the information their spouse might be sharing with them, but they don't know what to do with it.

I'm a pretty active kind of therapist. I'm like, Okay, well, let's try this. [00:25:36] You know, sending home with... I had one husband say to me, "This was so helpful. You gave us the language to be able to say these things. Can you also give us direction on now what to do with this information?" So sometimes people get the information but aren't sure how to put it into practice for various reasons.

Laura Dugger: And I think that would be really helpful then. Could you think of a hypothetical scenario and walk through what you would instruct that couple?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Well, this wouldn't be hypothetical. It's a real one. They hadn't engaged sexually for 10 years. They had a lot of challenges in their marriage. By the time we got to really directly working on their sexual relationship, they were in a much, much better place.

So they were talking every day because they had my cards. So they were talking every single day openly about sexuality. And she felt like she was super direct. "Let's go spend some time together." In his mind, that meant go cuddle. In her mind, she was like, I'm thinking we're going to have intercourse. [00:26:40]

So in my office, they had to clarify when I use this language, this is actually what I mean. And he had to say to her, I need you to directly tell me that this is what you mean.

Sometimes people have to be open and real and not defensive about the way that they communicate that it might not be clear for the other partner. But then also sometimes, and in this case, this was the truth for this couple and with many others, that he wanted to be more thoughtful and send little playful sexual comments but he didn't think that way. So he set a reminder on his phone to go off once a day and he would send her a little joke by text.

So sometimes people need promptings. Sometimes they need to learn how to communicate more clearly and then they need to be more specific. So I'd say a number of different things.

Laura Dugger: That is so helpful. And I can see where a third party would be so beneficial there to help get someone unstuck. Let's move on to the final section of this chat, beginning with your opinion on how we can savor sex more than we currently do. [00:27:45]

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: That's a very good question. I'm going to sound like I'm repeating myself. Sexual assertiveness. Helping people be very direct instead of indirect in how they say what they need and what they want. So I would say assertiveness. Is this more of an issue for women? It is.

Women in general they are uncomfortable saying what they like and what brings them pleasure because our culture says that it's negative for women to do that. We don't prioritize female pleasure. I would say that's a huge piece.

Women will say, You know what, I just make it about him. And let me tell you, that hugely affects the level of pleasure that the couple and the partner, the husband and the wife, feel in their sexual relationship.

If you look at it in Song of Solomon, it's not like that at all. They're very, very, very mutual in the way that they interact. So I think that's God's plan that sex be mutually enjoyable. [00:28:48]

So for women, that often means that they need to learn to prioritize their own pleasure and to be assertive with what brings them pleasure. And that might mean when he says, "Hey, do you want to have sex?" it might mean saying, "I am just shot today. Could you give me a back rub tonight? And then we go to sleep. And then how about on Saturday we have some great time?"

This assertiveness could mean a not tonight message that does still prioritize I have a bodily need. And then let's make sure to have some really great time at this time. I teach... I joke... I'm a sex therapist, but I teach people to reject one another. No, to refuse in a way that doesn't feel shaming or like a rejection.

Laura Dugger: That makes it more meaningful when your yes is yes and your no is no.

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Yeah. You're prioritizing your needs. Not making them above his needs, but you're being assertive with your needs as a female. That's vital. [00:29:51]

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What are all the benefits of mutually agreeing to engage sexually with our spouse on a consistent basis and, dare I say, with enthusiasm? [00:30:51]

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Right? What an idea! Well, I do think in order to get that enthusiasm and in order to get that mutual peace, sometimes what we have to do on a spiritual level is relearn some of the messages we've gotten.

I do a whole section when I'm doing a workshop on relearning 1 Corinthians 7. This whole idea of mutuality that's taught in 1 Corinthians 7 isn't like how it often gets taught, which is it says you're supposed to give to me, so, you know, you're not giving to me, so you better give. And it becomes a demand when actually what 1 Corinthians 7 is talking about is this. I have been given my spouse's body. I am a steward of their body. It's their body, but they are giving authority over it to me. And so I am called by God to steward their body and to bring it pleasure. [00:31:51]

That actually is what 1 Corinthians 7 is teaching, this mutuality of giving, not of, hey, it's your duty, you better do it. The word duty actually in 1 Corinthians 7 is the same idea that's throughout the scriptures that we are so deeply grateful for what Jesus did, therefore we.

That's what the word is in 1 Corinthians 7, not like we think of it's my duty. That the mutual giving to one another, the mutual I want to bring pleasure to, I want to steward my partner's body well, that's aiming for the genuine benefits that God intended for sexuality.

Laura Dugger: You have such a gift of bringing scripture to life. For married couples who have an exciting and fulfilling love life, what have you found to be a few of their secrets?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: Definitely even what you just asked about the mutual giving piece. [00:32:52] And then really making sure that things are fun and playful. That's such a big one. Having what I would call sexual play, doing enjoyable, creative new things.

But there is also the reality of, for these couples, they are having sex regularly. "Regular" can be a wide range. They are engaging, so they're respectful, they're fun, they've resolved their conflict well. That's a huge one. I can't emphasize that enough. They've resolved their conflict well. And then they're playful and creative and regular.

Laura Dugger: So it sounds like communication is just a huge thread throughout all of this. Is there anything else on this topic that we've failed to cover yet today?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: I would say the one thing I would emphasize as far as all this about desire is two pieces. One, take the time to relearn your view, your spiritual view of sexuality. Most people haven't done that. They don't even know what the scriptures teach about sex other than don't do it until you're married and things like that. [00:33:56] So relearn your view of sexuality. That's one of the big ones.

Then really making sure to incorporate sensual touch. A lot of times sex goes, we hold hands as we go on our date and then we get in bed and have sex and touch genitals. There's no sensual touch in there. Getting back to good, healthy, sensual touch. In fact, engaging in sensual touch with no sex after. Touching each other, doing all that foreplay stuff, and go to sleep. No intercourse, no orgasm. So returning to good, sensual, playful touch is just vital.

Laura Dugger: As you mentioned this topic of playfulness and fun, could you give a few more examples?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: I literally do this as a part of assessing couples. How much do they walk through the house and lightly brush the hand against their partner's buttocks? How much are they leaning across while they're driving in the car and caress their partner? [00:34:55]

Even sexually, essentially. How much are they caressing the thigh as they're sitting next to one another? So not groping and grabbing in the sense of... because women will often say, you know, all he does is grab my boobs or my crotch. Is that what people want? No, not necessarily.

This is a respectful, playful, loving, fun type of sensual touch that is vital to the process of healthy sexuality. The reality is it often takes couples quite a while to get back to that when sex has become problematic.

Laura Dugger: I think you've given everybody a starting place. I appreciate that. Now where can listeners go to learn more about you and your work?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: I have a website. It's all one phrase. The Art of Intimate Marriage. It's the name of my book, The Art of Intimate Marriage. So it's TheArtofIntimateMarriage.com.

Then there are podcasts on there. So a lot of different variety of different topics. [00:35:57] A lot of it reflective of the chapters of the book.

And then the books are available on Amazon. So there's The Art of Intimate Marriage. There's also Redeemed Sexuality.

There's the Intimate Marriage cards that are available on the website.

And then we have a new book coming out. I have a new book coming out called The Ransomed Journey, which is a book on couples' recovery from addiction. So specific to sexuality, there's of course a whole chunk on the recovery from sexual addiction. So yeah, any of those listening or reading or playing games tools, those would be good ones.

Laura Dugger: I love that because you've got it for so many different types of learners. If you're visual or through reading, auditory, you've got the podcasts, the interactive cards. Thank you for sharing all that. We'll link to all of that.

Dr. Konzen, my final question for you today. We are called The Savvy Sauce because "savvy" is synonymous with practical knowledge. [00:36:59] So I'd love to know from you, what is your savvy sauce?

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: The thing I end almost every workshop with, and I don't mean this in a cliché way, is we have to be deeply embedded in not just reading our scriptures and going to church, but in who God is, not just reading our Bible, but what's His character, what's His heart. And that when we have that with Him, it helps us all individually. So I would say this slides over into the part two of what I think is practical, is that we have to be genuine and real and direct. We have to do that in our marriages.

But we also need to have, in a very practical way, other couples in our lives. I can't tell you the number of times I'm working with people that the only person they're talking to openly is me, or maybe their sister or their brother, you know.

Couples do need to be in relationship, in community with others, where they have people that are willing to be honest and open with them, and that they can be honest and open with, and that people will tell them the truth. [00:38:08] That's the whole speak the truth and love out of Ephesians. So the whole realness with God, the whole realness with one another, I would say is the biggest practical that I think is important.

Laura Dugger: I love it. Dr. Konzen, your intentional work continues to benefit people's lives every day. And I hope that you get to leave this time feeling as encouraged as I do. You're so wonderful to interview, and I just always love spending time with you. So thanks for being my guest.

Dr. Jennifer Konzen: It's been lovely. I'm so glad to do it.

Laura Dugger: One more thing before you go. Have you heard the term "gospel" before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you. But it starts with the bad news. Every single one of us were born sinners and God is perfect and holy, so He cannot be in the presence of sin. Therefore, we're separated from Him.

This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. [00:39:08] So for you and for me, it means we deserve death and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved. We need a savior. But God loved us so much, He made a way for His only Son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute.

This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with Him. That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life we could never live and died in our place for our sin. This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus.

We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished if we choose to receive what He has done for us. Romans 10:9 says that if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

So would you pray with me now? [00:40:08] Heavenly, Father, thank You for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to You. Will You clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare You as Lord of their life? We trust You to work and change their lives now for eternity. In Jesus name, we pray, amen.

If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring Him for me, so me for Him, you get the opportunity to live your life for Him.

At this podcast, we are called Savvy for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So you're ready to get started?

First, tell someone. Say it out loud. Get a Bible. The first day I made this decision my parents took me to Barnes and Noble to get the Quest NIV Bible and I love it. Start by reading the book of John.

Get connected locally, which basically means just tell someone who is part of the church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. [00:41:11] I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.

We want to celebrate with you too. So feel free to leave a comment for us if you made a decision for Christ. We also have show notes included where you can read Scripture that describes this process.

Finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.

If you've already received this good news, I pray that you have someone else to share it with today. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

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Episodes

240 Stories Series: God's Rescue and Covering in Parenting with Brenda Dugger
16 Sep· The Savvy Sauce
240. Stories Series: God's Protection and Covering in Parenting with Brenda Dugger
Psalms 34:7 (NIV) "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them."
Questions and Topics We Cover:
What was life like, growing up as an identical twin?
Will you share how He miraculously protected your sons multiple times?
Do you have any favorite stories that come to mind about Mark?
Brenda Dugger is a retired chief nursing executive and hospital administrator. She is married to Russ and they are the parents of three grown, married sons. They are also grandparents to 11 grandchildren.
Previous Episodes on The Savvy Sauce with Mark Dugger:
The Inside Scoop on Chick-fil-A with Mark Dugger
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Thank You to Our Sponsor: Dream Seller Travel, Megan Rokey
Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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239 Stories Series: Experiencing the Supernatural with Jackie Coleman
9 Sep· The Savvy Sauce
239. Stories Series: Experiencing the Supernatural with Jackie Coleman
Genesis 50:20 + 21 (NIV) "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them."
Questions and Topics We Discuss:
Are you willing to share some of the supernatural happenings you experienced with you family and your dad near the end of his life?
Will you share a few of your God stories you've experienced through your daughter, Olive's medical journey?
What are some recent things the Lord has been teaching you?
Jackie Coleman completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Georgia in 2005. She later earned an M.A. in Counseling from Richmont Graduate University and an M.Ed. from Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she was named an Urban Scholar. While in Boston, she worked as a bilingual Family Counselor for Youth Villages, and later launched the Transitional Living program, which is designed to assist at-risk youth aging out of state custody. While in Atlanta, she worked on marriage and family issues with Building Intimate Marriages and research and writing projects for best-selling author Shaunti Feldhahn. In 2012, as Executive Director, Jackie helped design and implement Governor Deal's REACH (Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen) Georgia program, a mentoring and college scholarship opportunity for low-income middle school students. Eventually Jackie taught at Winters Chapel School where her children attended. Jackie is married to John and she now stays home with their four children.
Other Episodes Mentioned from The Savvy Sauce:
23 Nurturing Friendships with Jackie Coleman
99 Sabbath Rest with Sandy Feit
Total Forgiveness Sermon by R.T. Kendall
Thank You to Our Sponsor: WinShape Marriage
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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238 Stories Series: God Delights in His Children with Pastor Brad Habegger
2 Sep· The Savvy Sauce
Stories Series: God Delights in His Children with Pastor Brad Habegger 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." Questions or Topics We Cover:Reflecting back, can you identify any specific habits or experiences that seemed to be catalysts for deepening your faith?How did God show you He sees our individual needs and delights in blessing His children?What are a few of your favorite stories that come to mind from working with children for so many years? Brad Habegger has been attending Grace Church since he was five years old and attended the children's ministries he now oversees as the Associate Pastor of Children's Ministries. After graduating from Morton High School, he earned a degree in Christian Education from Taylor University. For the next 12 years, he served as Program Director and later Executive Director at Camp of Champions USA (COCUSA), a Christian summer day camp. In November 2014, he became Grace Church’s first Children’s Ministry Pastor. Brad and his wife, Cali, were married in September 2004 and have two daughters. In addition to being a faithful mom, Cali works a few days a week as a sign language interpreter at Illinois State. Brad likes playing basketball and tennis and following the St. Louis Cardinals and college basketball. Thank You to Our Sponsor: Sam Leman Eureka Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website Also, check out our Patreon Page to find out how to gain access to additional podcasts and goodies! Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast! Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“ Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“ Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Special Patreon Re-Release: Unexpected Story of Trauma, Anxiety, Adoption, and Hope with Bettina Stevens
26 Aug· The Savvy Sauce
Special Patreon Re-Release: Unexpected Story of Trauma, Anxiety, Adoption, and Hope with Bettina Stevens
Psalms 69:29 + 30 (NIV) "But as for me, afflicted and in pain - may your salvation, God, protect me. I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving."
Bettina Stevens is married to her high school sweetheart, Paul, and they have been married 11 years. She is mama to three - Jordan and Sebastian, both adopted from Uganda, and Olivia adopted from China. She navigates special needs and trauma between all 3 of her kiddos, and she and Paul are also licensed foster parents. Her house is always filled with noise and the scent of something baking in the oven. Bettina has her doctorate in Physical Therapy, but has stepped away from this role to pursue caring for her children full-time and running their nonprofit, Reclaimed Hope Initiative. Reclaimed Hope was founded in 2018 and seeks to support and advocate for foster, adoptive and special needs families in their community. It was born from a place of loneliness, isolation and grief in their own journey, and exists to be a voice for families walking through trauma, crisis or hardship. Bettina couldn't do what she does without Jesus, and cherishes the quiet moments of prayer in the morning before the sound of footsteps begin. She loves to serve others through good food, scrumptious desserts and a listening ear, and seeks to sit with people through their darkest moments.
Reclaimed Hope Initiative
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The Connected Child
The Connected Parent
Karyn Purvis Institute
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Slumber Sleepwear
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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237 Stories Series: Prodigal and Redemption with Renee Endress
19 Aug· The Savvy Sauce
237. Stories Series: Prodigal and Redemption with Renee Endress Isaiah 61:1-3 (KJV) "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified." Questions and Topics We Cover:
1. Will you tell us a bit about your experience of surrendering your life to Christ?
2. Will you share your journey with your prodigal daughter, Andrea?
3. Will you tell us about Grace Catering and your cookbooks?
Renée Endress is blessed to be the mother of seven children ranging from 16-32 years old, all of whom she homeschooled. Four of the seven are married and her six precious grandchildren bring her much joy and laughter! She is also part of a church family she loves and her dear parents passed on to her a love of sunsets, flowers, and the beauty of God's creation. Cooking has been a passion for much of her life and she's written three cookbooks, which were later combined into one large book. For the past ten years, she enjoyed catering, which kept growing and eventually blossomed into an almost full-time job. A couple years ago, she refurbished a building in Peoria, Illinois, which is now her catering kitchen where they make homemade take and bake meals for people to purchase. Through it all, God has been so good! Renée says, "I could share just the pretty parts of my life, but I've come to realize that something special can happen when people are real with each other -- when we share the muddy parts of our lives as well as the lovely parts. This can be used to encourage each other on the journey, and most of all, to point to the faithfulness of our amazing Savior, who loves to redeem our mud stories. My story looks much different than my idealistic hopes for my future as a young woman, but through it all, God has been faithful every single step of the way. He was faithful in teaching me as an immature newlywed struggling through some very difficult relationship situations. He was faithful as I walked, tripped, and floundered with a daughter through some very dark teenage years, deep rebellion, ten months at a residential facility for troubled teens, and a teenage pregnancy. He was oh, so faithful when my difficult marriage of twenty-four years turned more and more destructive and led to an ongoing separation. He was faithful two years later when I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent two surgeries and radiation treatments. He has been faithful through ten years of "single" motherhood. He was faithful as He opened doors for me to start a thriving catering business at the perfect time. He was faithful when He allowed me to be a part of starting "Beauty for Ashes," a group for women from my national church who have come from painful marriages. As I look back on my life, I see plainly His footprints all the way through. These verses have been so meaningful in my life: "...He hath sent me (Jesus) to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound... to comfort all that mourn... to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified." Isaiah 61:1-3" Visit Renée's Business or Order Her Popular Cookbook at Grace Catering Other Related Episode from The Savvy Sauce:78 Parenting the Prodigal Child And God’s Desire For Redemption With Mother-Daughter Duo, Claire Stanfill and Tindell Baldwin Thank You to Our Sponsor: Magic Mind (Get up to 56% off your subscription or save 20% off your one time purchase when you use the code SavvySauce20 at checkout.) Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast! Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“ Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“ Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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236 Stories Series: God's Power and Light with Jaime Farrell
12 Aug· The Savvy Sauce
236. Stories Series: God's Power and Light with Jaime Farrell
John 3:30 (NIV) " He must become greater; I must become less.”
Jaime Farrell is first of all, a beloved of her Lord. She is also wife to Jonathan, and mother to Jorja, Jolie, Jemma, and Job. She can be reached through Instagram or Facebook and she would also love to invite you to sit with her at church! Find out more about the church where her family attends and her husband serves as Lead Pastor at gracemorton.org.
Questions we discuss:
As an adult now, when you reflect back on your childhood, what was it that specifically made the most significant impact on you and your faith journey?
Now as a wife and mom of four, what values and traditions and rhythms have you carried forward in your family?
Since becoming a Jesus-follower, what ways have you continued to see God at work, in ways both big and small?
Other Episodes mentioned from The Savvy Sauce:
#2 From 2022: Fresh Take on Hospitality with Jaime Farrell
Patreon 48 Conversations with Your Teen About Sex, Puberty, and Identity with Janelle Rupp (Interview with Jaime's Sister)
Patreon 43 Better Together with Jon and Jolene Rocke (Interview with Jaime's Parents)
Recommended Books and Series for Tween/Teens:
This Changes Everything: How the Gospel Transforms The Teen Years by Jaquelle Crowe
Choosing Love by Heidi Johnston
God's Great Story Devotional by Jon Nielson
Lies Young Women Believe and The Truth That Sets Them Free by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth and Dannah Gresh
10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) About Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlin
Truth Matters by Andreas J. Kosstenberger
The Case for Christianity by C.S. Lewis
The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Timothy Keller
Fiction:
Mark of the Lion Series by Francine Rivers
The Rendigo Tales J.A. Meyer
The Epic Order of the Seven Series
Allegories:
The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan
Hinds Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard
Other Book Mentioned:
When People are Big and God is Small by Edward T. Welch
Little Pilgrim's Progress by Erik M. Peterson
Food Recommendations and Recipes for Hosting:
*Reach out to Jaime for Rocke's "Essential" Seasoning through Instagram or Facebook.*
Pretzel Cereal Crunch from Taste of Home (Optional: add MnMs)
Ranch Snack Mix from Taste of Home (Optional: replace cashews with Cheese-itz and Rice Chex)
Cookies and Creme Puppy Chow from Sally's Baking Addiction
Red Velvet Oreo Brownies from Sally Baking Addiction
Cookie Dough Bars from The Recipe Critic
Salted Caramel Cookie Bars from Brown-Eyed Baker
Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars from Brown-Eyed Baker
Recipes:
Joy's Dip:
Mix together:
1 block Velveeta
2 cans Hormel Chili No Beans
Several Dashes of Worcestershire Sauce
Honey Mix:
⅔ cup butter
1 ½ cup brown sugar
½ cup honey
Combine in a sauce pan. Do not stir! Boil 2 ½ minutes. Add 1 tsp of vanilla.
Pour over 6 cups of Crispix, 2 cups mini pretzels 1 cup salted peanuts.
Put into a greased baking sheet and bake at 250 for ½ hour stirring half way through. Pour onto wax paper to dry. Break apart.
Candy Bar Bars- Freeze Halloween Candy Bars/Chocolate
2 ½ sticks of butter
¾ cup sugar
¾ cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. Vanilla
1 tsp salt
2 ¼ cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup chocolate chips
Cream butter and sugar together. Add eggs and vanilla.
Add the dry ingredients and mix well. Add in chocolate chips.
Grease a jelly roll pan and spread dough. It may be hard to do but keep patting and spreading.
Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes. It will be golden brown. Cool completely.
*Cut candy bars while cooling. Cut into small bits and bites. Any type of bar/chocolate works!!
Melt 1 ½ cup chocolate chips and 1 ½ cup peanut butter in a microwave slowly. Spread over the bars and immediately sprinkle with cut candy bars- always end the top with M&Ms for color!
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Sue Neihouser
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Bonus Episode: Special Patreon Re-Release: Purposeful and Practical with Emily Thomas
7 Aug· The Savvy Sauce
Special Patreon Re-Release: Purposeful and Practical with Emily Thomas
Proverb14:18b (AMP) “But the sensible [are thoughtful and far-sighted and] are crowned with knowledge."
Emily Thomas is the Chief of Staff at Cultivate What Matters, the home of the PowerSheets® Goal Planner and all things intentional living. With over 11 years at Cultivate, Emily loves helping women uncover what matters, set good goals, and live them out with joy. Her free time is spent with her high-school-sweetheart husband and two young kiddos, going on everyday adventures, and writing her personal blog, Em for Marvelous.
Recommended Resources for Goal Setting and Intentional Living:
Girls Goal Planner
Write the Word Journal
Connect with Emily Thomas on Instagram: @emilyyayer and @cultivatewhatmatters
Recommended Previous Episode from The Savvy Sauce: Fruitful in 2020 with Laura Dugger
Links to Some of Emily’s Blog Posts:
Keeping things simple with kids
My practices and boundaries around work
EFM archive of personal finance posts
Emily’s 2020 goals
Net Worth Meetings
Monthly Relationship Prep Days
Holiday Prep
How I use Instagram
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Magic Mind (Get up to 56% off your subscription or save 20% off your one time purchase when you use the code SavvySauce20 at checkout)

Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #1 School Series: Benefits of Homeschooling with Jodi Mockabee
5 Aug· The Savvy Sauce
Top Ten from 2023: #1 School Series: Benefits of Homeschooling with Jodi Mockabee
Deuteronomy‬ ‭6:5-7‬ ‭(NIV) “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
‭‭
Questions and Topics We Cover:
How did your grandfather teach you about “kingdom economy”?How have you set up your life in such a way that your entire family pursues wholeness?Do you have any other practical tips for parenting or homeschooling you'd like to share?
Jodi Mockabee is a photographer, writer, blogger, speaker, social media influencer, and homeschooling mother of five living in the Black Hills of South Dakota. With a passion for health, wellness, parenting, and more, Jodi blogs her family's journey and shares tips for a healthy and active lifestyle. She also writes curriculum for creative and artistic learning in a homeschool environment. Find her at JodiMockabee.com.
Jodi's Book: The Whole & Healthy Family
Follow Jodi on Instagram
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Four30 Scones
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #2 Tremendous Testimony and Adding Spark into Your Marriage with David & Terri Sumlin
29 Jul· The Savvy Sauce
*Disclaimer* This episode is not intended for young ears.
Top Ten from 2023: #2 Tremendous Testimony and Adding Spark into Your Marriage with David & Terri Sumlin
James 4:8 (NKJV) "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
Questions/Topics We Discuss:
As it so often happens, What the enemy meant for evil, God used for your good. How did He begin to do that?What are some practical things we can be doing in our own relationships to prioritize and delight in our marriages?What specific stories can you share to encourage married couples and parents?
David and Terri Sumlin are co-founders of Marriage Life Ministries and authors of the Oneness of Marriage®, Intimacy of Marriage®, and Marriage Innovators Workshop® series designed to help couples enrich their marriages through the application of biblical principles and adventure-based learning. They both have served over the last 18 years as international marriage educators, retreat leaders, pastoral counselors, and conference speakers.
Their unique approach to marital education is built upon some of the advances found in neuroscience, psychology, physiology, and adventure-based therapy, which ultimately is tested through the lens of God’s word for validation. The result is an Activity-Based Marital Enrichment process that helps couples derive behavioral transformation and sustained learning. Couples who participate in these types of marital enrichment programs are 84% more likely to report having increased levels of marital satisfaction long after the program has ended.
David is a native Texan and earned his bachelor's degree in finance from the University of North Texas. He served as a management consultant with the American Productivity & Quality Center and later as an executive for Hewlett Packard. In 2002, after sensing God’s call to enter full-time vocational ministry, David enrolled at Dallas Theological Seminary to pursue a master’s degree in biblical counseling as well as a doctorate in marriage and family ministry. Upon graduating from DTS, he received his call to pastor a church in northwest Houston for seven years before serving as a full-time marriage educator.
Terri was born in Ashland, Kentucky. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of North Texas. Upon graduating, Terri has been blessed with a 23-year career as an English teacher. Terri is a leader in women’s ministry and serves full-time alongside David in their combined marriage and family ministry.
David and Terri currently live in Houston, TX and will celebrate their 34th wedding anniversary this year. They have two children, a son Robin and a daughter Morgan who married the love of her life, Zach and gave the Sumlin’s their first grandson, Brooks and granddaughter Sadie.
The Types of Marital Programs that we offer are three-fold. Marriage Adventures are 7-day high adrenaline programs that include white-water rafting, challenge courses, and other high adventure activities designed to engage the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral parts of marital enrichment. Marriage Outbacks provide much of the same experiential-based learning objectives as our Adventure programs except that it is condensed into a weekend version where couples rough it in the great outdoors. The third type of program that we offer is our romantic Marriage Getaways hosted in intimate locations around the world.
Conferences, Workshops, & Pastoral Counseling. In addition to our highly successful marital enrichment programs, we also facilitate marital education for churches, small groups, and organizations in both large conference and intimate workshop venues. In addition, we offer pastoral marriage support and pre-marital counseling on a case-by-case basis.
Marriage Life Ministries
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Dream Seller Travel, Megan Rokey
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #3 Making Your Home a Place of Love and Peace With Late Author and International Speaker, Devi Titus
22 Jul· The Savvy Sauce
Top Ten from 2023: #3 Making Your Home a Place of Love and Peace With Late Author and International Speaker, Devi Titus
“Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.” -Titus 2:3-5 (NIV)
Devi Titus was wife of Larry Titus and an international Christian conference speaker and author. She was an award winning communicator with the Washington Press Women’s Association and spoke to multiple thousands annually, both nationally and globally. She first came to the attention of women nationwide in 1978 when she founded and edited VIRTUE magazine, a successful Christian alternative to secular women’s magazines. VIRTUE magazine raised a standard of excellence for women’s lives for 22 years. She was an author and founder of The Mentoring Mansion (eventually called the TITUS HOME). Married for over 58 years, Larry and Devi had two children, six grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren. She and her husband resided in the Dallas/Ft Worth, TX area and traveled extensively worldwide.
At The Savvy Sauce, we will only recommend resources we believe in! We also want you to be aware: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Devi’s Website
Home Experience by Devi Titus and Trina Loranzo
The Table Experience by Devi Titus
When Leaders Live Together by Devi Titus
Thank You to Our Sponsor: The Sue Neihouser Team
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten From 2023 #4 Parenting for the Relationship with Sandra Stanley
15 Jul· The Savvy Sauce
Top Ten from 2023: #4 Parenting for the Relationship with Sandra Stanley
Proverbs 27:18 a “He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit,“
Questions and Topics We Discuss:
Will you share the story of how you and Andy arrived at your overall vision and goal for parenting?How does the “law of the harvest” apply to parenting?Will you share your family's personal "keystone habits" you chose to set in place, rather than creating a long list of rules?
Sandra Stanley received her bachelor of science degree from Georgia Tech and master of arts from Dallas Theological Seminary. Sandra has a heart for foster kids and foster families, as she and Andy have been foster parents since 2010. Her ministry passion is promoting foster care in the local church. Much of her time these days is spent working on various writing projects and continuing her involvement with Fostering Together, the foster care initiative of North Point Ministries.
North Point Community Church Resources
Thank You to Our Sponsors: For Girls Like You
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #5 Planting Seeds of Faith in Our Children with Courtney DeFeo
8 Jul· The Savvy Sauce
Top Ten from 2023: #5 Planting Seeds of Faith in Our Children with Courtney DeFeo
Galatians 6:7 (NIV) Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.
Questions and Topics We Discuss:
When you reflect back on parenting, what are you most pleased with, regarding ways you and your husband chose to invest in your family?
What are a few of your favorite ways to plant and cultivate seeds of faith in everyday family life with your own kids?
How can we disciple our children to be a friend to God?
Courtney DeFeo wants to be a resource and help to YOU, more than she want you to be impressed by HER. She believes God gifted all of us with unique talents and passions. She's had fun discovering a few of hers and using them to support her fellow moms, parents and women in this journey called life. What’s the point of great ideas if we just hoard them to ourselves? However, it’s important to note – she in a “Season of Rest” right now! Find out more on her website: www.courtneydefeo.com.
Other Episodes Mentioned:
Finding Your Purpose as a Mom with Courtney DeFeo
*Special Patreon Release* Ideas for Spreading Generosity with Courtney DeFeo
Self-Care in Motherhood with Karen Stubbs
Life is Better with the Holy Spirit with Jeannie Cunnion
Special Patreon Re-Release: Patreon 2 Discipline Strategies and Managing Mom Guilt with Karen Stubbs, Founder of Birds on a Wire
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Spark Academy (Mention The Savvy Sauce to Unlock Your Special Discount!)
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #6 Secrets of Sex and Marriage: An Interview with Dr. Michael Sytsma
1 Jul· The Savvy Sauce
*DISCLAIMER* This episode is intended for adults
Top Ten from 2023: #6 Secrets of Sex and Marriage: An Interview with Dr. Michael Sytsma
Micah 6:8 (NIV) "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Questions and Topics We Cover:
Will you share a few practical sexual education tips with us?
What are the best ways spouses can practice communicating well about sex and what are the potential benefits?
How does "desire tend to work differently for men and women"?
Dr. Michael Sytsma is a certified sex therapist, ordained minister, and co-founder of sexual wholeness. Dr. Mike has been working with couples in a variety of capacities since 1987. He currently works with Building Intimate Marriages in Atlanta, GA as he meets with clients, teaches, and speaks at various conferences. He and Karen have been married since 1985 and have two sons, Josiah and Caleb, and one daughter-in-law.
Secrets of Sex and Marriage Website
Building Intimate Marriages Website
Previous Episodes with Dr. Mike on The Savvy Sauce podcast:
Ten Common Questions About Sex, Shared Through a Biblical Worldview with Dr. Michael Sytsma
Enjoying a God-Honoring, Healthy Sex Life with Your Spouse with Certified Sex Therapist and Ordained Minister, Dr. Michael Sytsma
Desire Discrepancy in Marriage with Dr. Michael Sytsma
Patreon 29 Remaining Sexually Engaged Through The Years with Dr. Michael Sytsma
Thank You to Our Sponsor: The Sue Neihouser Team
Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website
Donate to Savvy Sauce Charities here!
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Bonus Re-Release: Enriching Sexual Function, Part Two with Dr. Kris Christiansen
25 Jun· The Savvy Sauce
*DISCLAIMER* This episode includes adult content and is not intended for young ears.
Bonus Re-Release: Enriching Sexual Function, Part Two with Dr. Kris Christiansen
1 Corinthians 6:12 (NIV) “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.
Questions and Topics We Discuss:
What are a few benefits of orgasm?
What is the treatment plan for clients who have never experienced an orgasm?
What is Perimenopause?
Dr. Kris Christiansen is a board-certified family physician who specializes in sexual medicine. She attended medical school and completed her residency in family medicine at the University of Minnesota. She practiced full spectrum family medicine for 10 years and then pursued additional training to specialize in sexual medicine. She works as a sexual medicine specialist at two different clinics in the twin cities. Her clinical interests include both male and female sexual dysfunction, and she loves working with individuals and couples to restore an important part of life.
Dr. Christiansen is involved with teaching medical students and residents at the University of Minnesota Medical School, and she has presented at multiple local, national, and international medical conferences. She is involved with the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) and serves on committees, collaborates with other experts to publish articles for medical journals, and edits informational articles for the society’s new patient facing website. She is passionate about teaching patients, students, and colleagues about the importance of sexual health and well-being.
In her free time, she started her own business called Intimate Focus which provides information and quality products to enhance and restore sexual health and wellness. She also enjoys shopping, hiking, and spending time with her family.
Dr. Kris Christiansen's Website
North American Menopause Society
Women's Sexual Health Information
ISSWSH Website
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Savvy Sauce Charities
Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #7 Enriching Sexual Function, Part One with Dr. Kris Christiansen
24 Jun· The Savvy Sauce
*DISCLAIMER* This episode includes adult content and is not intended for young ears.
Top Ten from 2023: #7 Enriching Sexual Function, Part One with Dr. Kris Christiansen
Hosea 4:6a (KJV) "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge,"
Questions We Discuss:
What type of sexual dysfunctions are common for your clients to experience?
What all can you teach us about hormones?
Will you educate us on hormone therapy?
Dr. Kris Christiansen is a board-certified family physician who specializes in sexual medicine. She attended medical school and completed her residency in family medicine at the University of Minnesota. She practiced full spectrum family medicine for 10 years and then pursued additional training to specialize in sexual medicine. She works as a sexual medicine specialist at two different clinics in the twin cities. Her clinical interests include both male and female sexual dysfunction, and she loves working with individuals and couples to restore an important part of life.
Dr. Christiansen is involved with teaching medical students and residents at the University of Minnesota Medical School, and she has presented at multiple local, national, and international medical conferences. She is involved with the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) and serves on committees, collaborates with other experts to publish articles for medical journals, and edits informational articles for the society’s new patient facing website. She is passionate about teaching patients, students, and colleagues about the importance of sexual health and well-being.
In her free time, she started her own business called Intimate Focus which provides information and quality products to enhance and restore sexual health and wellness. She also enjoys shopping, hiking, and spending time with her family.
Websites Mentioned:
Dr. Kris Christiansen's Website
North American Menopause Society
Women's Sexual Health Information
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Ring Bandits (Use code SAVVY at checkout to receive 20% off your order!)
Other Episode Mentioned from The Savvy Sauce:
216 Enriching Women's Sexual Function, Part Two with Dr. Kris Christiansen
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #8 School Series: Benefits of Private High School with Luke Baker
17 Jun· The Savvy Sauce
Top Ten from 2023: #8 School Series: Benefits of Private High School with Luke Baker
Proverbs 9:9 (NIV) "Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning."
Questions and Topics We Cover:
In your private school setting, what is something unique you get to teach?
What sets apart private high school from other schooling options?
For parents deciding which school option is best for their family situation, what are a few of your favorite reasons to recommend they choose private high school?
Luke Baker is an Adjunct Professor at Bradley, Illinois Central College, and former Social Studies Teacher at Peoria Christian School in Central Illinois. He is a veteran teacher, world traveler, active club sponsor, and passionate scholar of history.
Thank You to Our Sponsor: The Sue Neihouser Team
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023: #9 School Series: Benefits of Public School with Kelsey Kirk
10 Jun· The Savvy Sauce
Top Ten from 2023: #9 School Series: Benefits of Public School with Kelsey Kirk
Proverbs 3:13 (NIV) "Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding," ‭‭ Questions and Topics We Cover:What is something you teach that is unique?What systems have you put into place in your own classroom that have been most beneficial?From your perspective, what are a few benefits of children attending public school? Kelsey Kirk is an enthusiastic educator, who has taught for seven years. She is faith driven and aims to show God's love, grace, and patience through her words and actions in and outside of the classroom. Kelsey holds a master's degree in reading and is currently pursuing her second masters in professional school counseling. Outside of school, Kelsey enjoys spending time with her large family and her friends (bonus points if Pickleball is involved!). Thank You to Our Sponsor: T Photography Use code SAVVY when booking to receive 10 extra full-res digital negatives in your session package! Other Episode Mentioned from Savvy Sauce:200 Planting Seeds of Faith in Our Children with Courtney DeFeo Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast! Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“ Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“ Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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Top Ten from 2023 #10 Cultivating Character in Our Children with Cynthia Yanof
3 Jun· The Savvy Sauce
Top Ten from 2023: #10 Cultivating Character in Our Children with Cynthia Yanof
Luke 16:10a (NLT) If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.
Questions and Topics We Discuss:
As a working mom, what perspective and wisdom can you offer us parents?What are a few core values or prayers that you find to be helpful as a parent?Will you speak to the importance of independent play?
Cynthia Yanof is an author, blogger, and host of MESSmerized Podcast. She loves Jesus, her family, foster care, and having as many friends around her as possible. She is married to Mike, and together they have three kids ranging from college age all the way down to first grade. (No, that’s not a typo.)
She’s excited to introduce her debut book, Life is Messy, God is Good.. You can follow her on social media @CynthiaYanof, and the Pardon the Mess podcast is available on iTunes, Spotify, and all the usual places.
Cynthia strives to be authentic, vulnerable, and full of laughter as she encourages people on the messy roads of life.
Connect with Cynthia:
Cynthia's Website
Pardon the Mess Podcast
@cynthiayanof
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Spark Academy (Mention The Savvy Sauce to Unlock Your Special Discount!)
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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235 Stories Series: Jesus, Our Ever-Present Help in Trouble with Kent Heimer
27 May· The Savvy Sauce
235. Stories Series: Jesus, Our Ever-Present Help in Trouble with Kent Heimer
Psalm 32:1 (KJV) "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered."
Kent Heimer is a Jesus-follower and grateful recipient of God's love and forgiveness. He is happily married to Jan, father to three married adult children, and grandfather to 12. Professionally, Kent is the President at Heimer Construction Company in Taylor, Missouri.
Questions and Topics We Cover:
When you were 13, a significant event occurred. Will you share that story with us?
What did life look like, both before and after you put your faith in Jesus Christ?
Even after you became a Christ-follower, you still had troubles in this world. Will you pick up your story again?
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Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
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234 Stories Series: Redemption From Sexual Sin in Marriage with Garrett and Brenna Naufel
20 May· The Savvy Sauce
*DISCLAIMER* This episode includes adult content and is not intended for young ears.
234. Stories Series: Redemption From Sexual Sin in Marriage with Garrett and Brenna Naufel
1 John 1:7 (NIV) "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."
Questions and Topics We Discuss:
Will you tell us how you two met Jesus?
What significant event happened next?
What were some ways God spoke to each of you throughout your healing process?
Garrett Naufel is a Midwest guy who grew up amongst the cornfields and coal mines of central Illinois. He loves the outdoors, hiking and challenging theological reads. He has served in full-time vocational ministry for 22 years, operating in pastoral roles for the majority of the time, and has navigated heartbreak, hope, life, death, failed church plants and the unveiling of the goodness of Jesus throughout this time. Garrett currently serves as the Discipleship Pastor at Open Bible Baptist Church in Colorado Springs. He has been married to the love of his life for 25 years and has two amazing kiddos (as well as 5 babies in heaven).
Brenna Naufel is a pastor's wife who committed adultery, a mother to two children here on Earth, and five babies in heaven. But, most of all, she knows she is a beloved, precious, cherished, and sweetly forgiven daughter of God. Besides being passionate about sharing God's scandalous love and redeeming grace, Brenna also loves chocolate, games, Sci-Fi movies, and ping pong. And, of course, Jesus and her amazing family! She is the author of From Lover to Beloved - Experience God's hope, healing, and forgiveness after committing adultery. She resides in Colorado Springs, CO with her husband of 25 years and her two beautiful children.
From Lover to Beloved Book
From Lover to Beloved Website
Connect with Brenna on Instagram @brennanaufel
Thank You to Our Sponsor: WinShape Marriage
Other Episode Mentioned from The Savvy Sauce:
222 Pornography: Protecting Children and Personal Healing, Victory, and Recovery in Christ with Sam Black
Additional Episodes on Similar Topics from The Savvy Sauce:
Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder
Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner
Pornography Healing for Spouses with Geremy Keeton
Sexual Sin Recovery for You and Your Spouse (Part Two)
Patreon 28 Re-Release: Protecting Your Marriage Against Unfaithfulness with Dave Carder
Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website
Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)
Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”
Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”
Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of his glory.”
Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“
Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“
Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
- Listen Listen again Continue Playing...
- Listen later Listen later
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