In this episode, Sonny and Cindy reveal some of the challenges they had to depend on God for through examining and claiming their beliefs and faith. They also explore the benefits of belief that Christ is encouraging the disciples to embrace (as well as each of us) as He prepares them for His departure. Sonny and Cindy discuss the superpower available to each believer as you speak out and confess God’s word speaking life and belief without doubt into your marriage, your life, and whatever your situation.

Join us and tap into your superpower!

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In this episode, Something Old, Something New, Sonny and Cindy continue their discussion of the power that lies within shifting your mindset from old to new, from limited to limitless, from fixed to growth.

Victories usually don’t happen overnight, and not only do they require endurance, but they will build your endurance.

Tap into the new mindset, a growth mindset, that will get you where you want to go.

In your life, in your marriage, and in your relationships!

In our next Epic Journey Podcast episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss managing your mindset and the incredible impact that this can have in your life and marriage!

You don’t even need your spouses’ permission or cooperation to do this!

You’ll need God’s help because He’ll reveal to you your false beliefs if you ask Him to.

Managing your mindset is POWERFUL and will change your marriage and change your life!

Join us as we explore the connections between your beliefs, your mindset, and your decision-making ability.

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In this episode, Stepping Out of the Boat, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power and role that our mindset has in both limiting and stretching our faith to new levels. They discuss the two mindsets of fixed and growth as described in the book by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., titled Mindset, How We Can learn to Fulfill Our Potential. They also discuss the back-to-back occurrences of the stories of the feeding of the five thousand and Peter walking on water from the book of Matthew. These stories teach us much of Christs’ work in giving the disciples, as well as each of us, opportunities and challenges that will take our faith to the commitment level to “step out of the boat,” and help our marriages continue to live out a plan that wins.

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Episode #20 Stepping Out of the Boat – Episode Notes

In this episode, Stepping Out of the Boat, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power and role that our mindset has in both limiting and stretching our faith to new levels. They discuss the two mindsets of fixed and growth as described in the book by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., titled Mindset, How We Can learn to Fulfill Our Potential. They also discuss the back-to-back occurrences of the stories of the feeding of the five thousand and Peter walking on water from the book of Matthew. These stories teach us much of Christs’ work in giving the disciples, as well as each of us, opportunities and challenges that will take our faith to the commitment level to “step out of the boat,” and help our marriages continue to live out a plan that wins.

Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D. Mindset, How We Can Learn To Fulfill Our Potential.

https://www.shortform.com/blog/change-your-mindset/

In the book, Carol describes two types of mindsets. A fixed mindset and a growth mindset.

In an article we found from the Shortform Summary of “Mindset” it quotes this excerpt from her book:

Your mind is constantly monitoring and interpreting what’s happening around you. Your mindset guides how you interpret things.

A fixed mindset sets up a mental monologue focused on judging - you feel judged and you judge others.

For instance, you might think, “this means I’m a failure,” “what a bunch of losers,” “I’ll never be good at handling money.”

The excerpt continues, and says this:

But you can change your mindset. Growth-oriented people don’t constantly judge themselves and others this way.

Like people with fixed mindsets, they keep a running mental account of events and feelings, but their interpretations of what’s going on focus on learning and action.

They think, “This situation is painful, but what can I learn to avoid repeating it?” and “How can I improve?”

The fixed mindset hangs around, competing with the growth-oriented ways of thinking that you’re trying to adopt.

But the growth mindset frees you from constantly judging yourself so you can be authentic and explore your full potential.

Matthew 14:13-36 The Feeding of the Five Thousand and Walking on Water

Hebrews 11:6 God reminds us of this:

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Psalm 37: 23-24

A person’s steps are established by the Lord, and he takes pleasure in his way. Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, because the Lord supports him with His hand.

Psalm 31: 24 Be strong, and let your heart be courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord.

Thanks for joining us!

Sonny & Cindy

In this episode, Next Level Faith, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of growing your faith to set the course of your marriage on a growth curve over your lifetime. They discuss the 7 Realities of Experiencing God from the book and small group study, Experiencing God by Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King. God provides many opportunities to strengthen your faith and the 7 realities provides an amazing framework for this and to experience God in your marriage and in your life.

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Epic Journey Podcast #19 – Episode Notes

In this episode, Next Level Faith, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of growing your faith to set the course of your marriage on a growth curve over your lifetime. They discuss the 7 Realities of Experiencing God from the book Experiencing God by Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King and the framework it offers to learn how to grow your faith and experience God in your marriage and in your life.

Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King

https://blackaby.org/experiencing-god/

The 7 Realities of experiencing God:

1. God is always at work around you.
2. God pursues a continuing love relationship with you that is real and personal.
3. God invites you to become involved with Him in His work.
4. God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes, and His ways.
5. God’s invitation for you to work with Him always leads you to a crisis of belief that requires faith and action
6. You must make major adjustments in your life to join God in what He is doing.
7. You come to know God by experiences as you obey Him, and He accomplishes His work through you.

Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. – John 16:7

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5

Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him. – John 14:21

Matthew 13:54-58

54 And He came to His hometown and began teaching them in their synagogue, with the result that they were astonished, and said, “Where did this man acquire this wisdom and these miraculous powers? 55 Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is His mother not called Mary, and His brothers, James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? 56 And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this man acquire all these things?” 57 And they took offense at Him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not dishonored except in his hometown and in his own household.”

58 And He did not do many miracles there because of their unbelief.

Thanks for joining us!

Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the opportunities and blessings that God intends through unexpected friendships and the power of compassion and kindness.

Through strengthening your deep friendship with your spouse, you can extend your love and concern for others and love your “neighbors” as God intended.

Diving into the stories of Ruth and the Good Samaritan, God reveals His design for you to build multicultural and multigenerational relationships into your lives for His purposes and for your benefit.

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Epic Journey Podcast #18 – Unexpected Friendships – Episode Notes

In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the opportunities and blessings that God intends through unexpected friendships and the power of compassion and kindness.

Through strengthening our deep friendship with our spouse, we can extend our love and concern for others and love our “neighbors” as God intended.

Diving into the stories of Ruth and the Good Samaritan, God reveals His design for you to build multicultural and multigenerational relationships into your lives for His purposes and for your benefit.

The Book of Ruth

Luke 10:25-37 ESV – Gods Greatest Command and the Parable of the Good Samaritan

Summary – The Good Samaritan

https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-stories/the-good-samaritan-bible-story.html

“The Importance of Christian Friendships that Defy Expectations.” Loving one another across generational and cultural differences. By Jamaal Williams and Jim Tipton

https://erlc.com/resource-library/articles/the-importance-of-christian-friendships-that-defy-expectations/

Cottrell, Stan. To Run and Not Be Weary, Fleming H. Revell Company,1986.

Here are some truths from scripture that speak to love and friendship that Christ has modeled and taught us.

1 John 4:7 - "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God."

Leviticus 19:18 - "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord."

John 15:13

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

1 Peter 4:8-10 ESV

8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace:

Luke 6:31 ESV

31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.

We hope this discussion has gotten you thinking and expanding your mindset about friendships and the command to love your neighbor.

And thinking about developing some unexpected friendships that God may be putting together for you.

Because He loves you and wants you to share His love with others through friendship on many different levels.

Commit to revisiting the friendship with your spouse and determine to be intentional in making sure you’re best friends with each other, and you’re expressing kindness and compassion and understanding toward each...]]>Epic Journey Podcast #18 – Unexpected Friendships

In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the opportunities and blessings that God intends through unexpected friendships and the power of compassion and kindness.

Through strengthening your deep friendship with your spouse, you can extend your love and concern for others and love your “neighbors” as God intended.

Diving into the stories of Ruth and the Good Samaritan, God reveals His design for you to build multicultural and multigenerational relationships into your lives for His purposes and for your benefit.

-------

Epic Journey Podcast #18 – Unexpected Friendships – Episode Notes

In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the opportunities and blessings that God intends through unexpected friendships and the power of compassion and kindness.

Through strengthening our deep friendship with our spouse, we can extend our love and concern for others and love our “neighbors” as God intended.

Diving into the stories of Ruth and the Good Samaritan, God reveals His design for you to build multicultural and multigenerational relationships into your lives for His purposes and for your benefit.

The Book of Ruth

Luke 10:25-37 ESV – Gods Greatest Command and the Parable of the Good Samaritan

Summary – The Good Samaritan

https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-stories/the-good-samaritan-bible-story.html

“The Importance of Christian Friendships that Defy Expectations.” Loving one another across generational and cultural differences. By Jamaal Williams and Jim Tipton

https://erlc.com/resource-library/articles/the-importance-of-christian-friendships-that-defy-expectations/

Cottrell, Stan. To Run and Not Be Weary, Fleming H. Revell Company,1986.

Here are some truths from scripture that speak to love and friendship that Christ has modeled and taught us.

1 John 4:7 - "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God."

Leviticus 19:18 - "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord."

John 15:13

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

1 Peter 4:8-10 ESV

8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace:

Luke 6:31 ESV

31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.

We hope this discussion has gotten you thinking and expanding your mindset about friendships and the command to love your neighbor.

And thinking about developing some unexpected friendships that God may be putting together for you.

Because He loves you and wants you to share His love with others through friendship on many different levels.

Commit to revisiting the friendship with your spouse and determine to be intentional in making sure you’re best friends with each other, and you’re expressing kindness and compassion and understanding toward each other.

Begin to explore the power of friendships in your marriage and in your life.

We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

Sonny and Cindy

In this podcast, we (Sonny and Cindy), will encourage you to start dreaming again or stir up and keep the fire of your dream going!

We believe that God brings two unique individuals together with their own strengths and weaknesses, gifts, and talents to become one unified team and when on purpose with God will be an unstoppable force for good.

Every marriage has a purpose that will have eternal impact and God either has already or will stir your heart with compassion and invite you into fulfilling a dream that starts with you but depends on Him!

You were designed to dream big and have visions of faith to accomplish great things in life!

Join us we explore Gods plan for us to dream big and share the great accomplishments of others and their dependence on God to live out their dreams!

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Epic Journey Podcast #17 - Permission to Dream – Episode Notes

Proverbs 3: 11-12

11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,

and do not resent his rebuke,

12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,

    as a father the son he delights in.

Miriam-Webster dictionary – discipline is defined as this:

Training expected to produce a specific character or pattern of behavior, especially training that produces moral or mental improvement.

In an article by Earl Nightingale, How Big are Your Plans,

Nightingale-Conant Insight, Issue 89 he is discussing the power of our mind that influences the life that we live out.

He makes the comment that if the average person realized the power he wields over his own life and destiny, he would live in a perpetual state of wonder and thanksgiving.

He is free as his imagination; he is limited only by the fences he himself erects and maintains.

We came across an article written by Stan Cottrell, Fire and Jade, Nightingale-Conant Insight, Issue 86. He was an ultradistance runner and actually had a dream to run 2, 125 miles across China.

He accomplished this goal and averaged 40 miles a day for 53 consecutive days.

Cottrell made it a point to say that in the process of this adventure of a lifetime, what emerged was something far more challenging than the actual physical stress to his body, but that it brought him face to face with himself.

He states, “everything I believed came to the surface and I found meaning in a new way.”

Maybe that’s exactly what God is intending!!

Cottrell also shared this:

"Give yourself permission to dream – to dream greathearted dreams. Give yourself permission to not be frightened by the magnitude of the dream.

Dreaming is as natural as breathing. As the poet La Fontaine once said, “When the soul of man is on fire with imagination, impossibilities vanish.”

Nehemiah 1: 5-11

5“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,

6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel.

I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you.

We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses. 8 “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations,

9 but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’

10 “They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your...]]>Epic Journey Podcast #17 – Permission to Dream

In this podcast, we (Sonny and Cindy), will encourage you to start dreaming again or stir up and keep the fire of your dream going!

We believe that God brings two unique individuals together with their own strengths and weaknesses, gifts, and talents to become one unified team and when on purpose with God will be an unstoppable force for good.

Every marriage has a purpose that will have eternal impact and God either has already or will stir your heart with compassion and invite you into fulfilling a dream that starts with you but depends on Him!

You were designed to dream big and have visions of faith to accomplish great things in life!

Join us we explore Gods plan for us to dream big and share the great accomplishments of others and their dependence on God to live out their dreams!

-------

Epic Journey Podcast #17 - Permission to Dream – Episode Notes

Proverbs 3: 11-12

11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,

and do not resent his rebuke,

12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,

    as a father the son he delights in.

Miriam-Webster dictionary – discipline is defined as this:

Training expected to produce a specific character or pattern of behavior, especially training that produces moral or mental improvement.

In an article by Earl Nightingale, How Big are Your Plans,

Nightingale-Conant Insight, Issue 89 he is discussing the power of our mind that influences the life that we live out.

He makes the comment that if the average person realized the power he wields over his own life and destiny, he would live in a perpetual state of wonder and thanksgiving.

He is free as his imagination; he is limited only by the fences he himself erects and maintains.

We came across an article written by Stan Cottrell, Fire and Jade, Nightingale-Conant Insight, Issue 86. He was an ultradistance runner and actually had a dream to run 2, 125 miles across China.

He accomplished this goal and averaged 40 miles a day for 53 consecutive days.

Cottrell made it a point to say that in the process of this adventure of a lifetime, what emerged was something far more challenging than the actual physical stress to his body, but that it brought him face to face with himself.

He states, “everything I believed came to the surface and I found meaning in a new way.”

Maybe that’s exactly what God is intending!!

Cottrell also shared this:

"Give yourself permission to dream – to dream greathearted dreams. Give yourself permission to not be frightened by the magnitude of the dream.

Dreaming is as natural as breathing. As the poet La Fontaine once said, “When the soul of man is on fire with imagination, impossibilities vanish.”

Nehemiah 1: 5-11

5“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,

6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel.

I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you.

We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses. 8 “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations,

9 but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’

10 “They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand.

11 Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”

We believe God loves to put dreams and desires in our hearts through our compassion for others. We believe God will sometimes allow it to be a burden on your heart, to help stir you and move you to action.

Nehemiah 6: 8-9

I sent him this reply: “Nothing like what you are saying is happening; you are just making it up out of your head.”

9 They were all trying to frighten us, thinking, “Their hands will get too weak for the work, and it will not be completed.”

But I prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.”

Have faith in what God can do as you go after your dreams.

Nehemiah 6:15

15 So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days.

16 When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God.

Remember this, as you begin the good work, God is pleased with your faith and he will help you see it through.

Zechariah 4:10 NLT 

Do not despise this small beginning, for the eyes of the Lord rejoice to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.

Phillipians 1:6   6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work [a]among you will complete it [b]by the day of Christ Jesus.

God is speaking to us today. We hope He is speaking to you as well, and we’re going to be praying for you and the fulfillment of your dreams!

We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

Sonny and Cindy

God has thought of everything and designed each of us with the ability to decrease stress levels, improve mood, boost the immune system, find more joy, and strengthen our relationships, and more.

Join us as we talk about the superpower God has given us to add more fun and laughter intentionally into your marriage and your daily life.

It’s a great time to free up your sense of humor, lighten up and laugh, and perhaps share a good laugh with others.

Everyone could use a good laugh these days, and besides, it’s FREE!

Join us!

-------

Epic Journey Podcast #16 – Lighten up and Laugh – episode notes

In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the benefits of laughter for your health and your relationships.

Laughter is a superpower God has given us and created us with and we need to tap into it more often!

Everyone could use a good laugh these days, and besides, it’s FREE!

Here are some highlights and resources from the podcast:

Luke 6:21 Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied, Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.

Proverbs 14:13 Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief.

Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us there is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.

Proverbs 17:22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Psalm 126:2

Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”

We need to remember that God created us with this superpower to change our state of being, our physiology. He knows we will benefit from laughter and so we need to tap into it!

So here we go for a few more benefits of laughter:

• It is believed that laugher stimulates the release of endorphins.  These are basically the brain’s natural opiate which are produced inside of us.
• Endorphins can result in decreased pain and a sense of euphoria.
• Laughter can decrease the secretion of the stress hormone, serum cortisol.
• Laughter can benefit the immune system.
• Research has shown a relationship between laughter and activation of natural killer cells and T lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), which are important for effective immune system functioning.
• Laughter can help improve your mood
• Laughter is free, except maybe you’re purchasing movies to watch or something but we can at least say it’s very affordable.

• Laughter lacks harmful or unwanted side effects – except maybe if you’ve got a hurt back, a broken rib, or you just had abdominal surgery or something.

If you’re struggling with health issues or illness, moodiness, stress,  I’ll just bet you will benefit from introducing laughter more consistently and more intentionally into your life and will carry over into your marriage and your relationships.

It just might be exactly what you need right now with whatever is going on in your life.

Remember, you can use laughter to help you change your physiology.

You’re not laughing at the stressful things going on in your life but because of them.

To help you.

So here’s some things you might want to do:

1. Start paying attention to your habit of laughter or maybe lack of.
2. Decide that you are going to find ways to introduce more laughter into your life and your relationships.   
3. Begin to use laughter as a measure of the health of your moods and attitudes in your marriage relationship. If you’re not smiling and laughing, this could be a red flag for you like it is for us, and you might need to lighten up and seek some wise counsel if you need...]]>In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the benefits of laughter for your health and your relationships.

   God has thought of everything and designed each of us with the ability to decrease stress levels, improve mood, boost the immune system, find more joy, and strengthen our relationships, and more.

   Join us as we talk about the superpower God has given us to add more fun and laughter intentionally into your marriage and your daily life.

   It’s a great time to free up your sense of humor, lighten up and laugh, and perhaps share a good laugh with others.

   Everyone could use a good laugh these days, and besides, it’s FREE!

   Join us!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #16 – Lighten up and Laugh – episode notes

   In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the benefits of laughter for your health and your relationships.

   Laughter is a superpower God has given us and created us with and we need to tap into it more often!

   Everyone could use a good laugh these days, and besides, it’s FREE!

   Here are some highlights and resources from the podcast:

   Luke 6:21 Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied, Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.

   Proverbs 14:13 Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief.

   Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us there is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.

   Proverbs 17:22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

   Psalm 126:2

   Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”

   We need to remember that God created us with this superpower to change our state of being, our physiology. He knows we will benefit from laughter and so we need to tap into it!

   So here we go for a few more benefits of laughter:

   • It is believed that laugher stimulates the release of endorphins.  These are basically the brain’s natural opiate which are produced inside of us.
   • Endorphins can result in decreased pain and a sense of euphoria.
   • Laughter can decrease the secretion of the stress hormone, serum cortisol.
   • Laughter can benefit the immune system.
   • Research has shown a relationship between laughter and activation of natural killer cells and T lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), which are important for effective immune system functioning.
   • Laughter can help improve your mood
   • Laughter is free, except maybe you’re purchasing movies to watch or something but we can at least say it’s very affordable.
   
   

    

   • Laughter lacks harmful or unwanted side effects – except maybe if you’ve got a hurt back, a broken rib, or you just had abdominal surgery or something.
   
   

   If you’re struggling with health issues or illness, moodiness, stress,  I’ll just bet you will benefit from introducing laughter more consistently and more intentionally into your life and will carry over into your marriage and your relationships.

   It just might be exactly what you need right now with whatever is going on in your life.

   Remember, you can use laughter to help you change your physiology.

   You’re not laughing at the stressful things going on in your life but because of them.

   To help you.

   So here’s some things you might want to do:

   1. Start paying attention to your habit of laughter or maybe lack of.
   2. Decide that you are going to find ways to introduce more laughter into your life and your relationships.   
   3. Begin to use laughter as a measure of the health of your moods and attitudes in your marriage relationship. If you’re not smiling and laughing, this could be a red flag for you like it is for us, and you might need to lighten up and seek some wise counsel if you need to.   
   4. Recall some funny stories or circumstances that have happened to you in the past. These could be great stories to share with others sometimes and you’ll spread laughter into others’ lives as well.
   5. Explore your and your spouses sense of humor and identify what really makes you laugh. They might be very different and that’s ok.   
   6. Choose to laugh with someone instead of at them (unless it’s on video like me and they can’t see you). But by enjoying laughter more and both of you understanding the power of it, you just might get less sensitive and be able to laugh at yourself more often as well and not be offended when someone gets tickled about something you do.
   
   

   Here’s a few more ways to bring laughter into your life from the article we’ve been referencing as well.

   • Make it a goal to laugh once per day. Each day, make it a point to identify the most amusing thing that occurred.
   • Slow down and recognize absurdities that inevitably occur daily.
   • Schedule laughter: look forward to something! Research indicates that simply the anticipation of laughter can improve cortisol and epinephrine levels.
   • Surround yourself with a social network of people who appreciate and reciprocate your humor.
   
   

   We hope you’ll embrace the creativity with which God has created you and the gifts that He has given you through your ability to smile and laugh and enjoy life.

   Decide to have more fun together.  Make it intentional. Lighten up if you need to.

   Use laughter to help you through tough times as well.

   Resources: Goodnewsmovement.com

   Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient,

   by Norman Cousins.

   The Physiological Effects of Laughter

   https://www.findapsychologist.org/the-physiological-effects-of-laughter-by-lindsay-wilson-barlow/

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

   Sonny and Cindy

   ]]>a80f970e-8e57-4687-ad8a-9bdab81fd51aWed, 09 Mar 2022 12:49:00 -050035:05nofull16Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerThe Power of Your LegacyIn this episode, Sonny and Cindy celebrate the lives of others whose legacies have left impact and influence through their unique God-given design and purpose.

   God created you with passions and a heart like His. He wants to use your gifts and talents, the things that you love and what ignites your soul to reach out to others here on earth and He reminds you of the eternal rewards and perspective on life.

   Our life here is very short but we are headed into an eternal life beyond this one through Jesus Christ.

   God is always pointing you heavenward and reminding you that your life here is connected to your life in eternity.

   Join us as we celebrate the power of legacy.

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #15 – The Power of Your Legacy - episode notes

   Today we are honoring our dear friends and mentors Don and Sally Meredith, Founders of Christian Family Life, and authors of the Two Becoming One book and small group study.

   Don passed away this past week and we were honored to attend his celebration of life.

   We are also honoring the lives of George, and Jennifer, whom we also had to say goodbye to this week. You’ve made a difference in our lives. Thank you for the gift of renewing our hearts and minds to what matters most.

   You will be missed but not forgotten, because your legacies live on, and they are powerful.

   In today’s podcast, as we continue to dive into the importance of marriage, we reflect on Don and Sally’s journey together. Their marriage has been a journey of belief and trust and sharing with others how God will transform your marriage from performance to faith.

   Their message is this: God designed marriage and He can make it work. Never give up. Never give up on what God can do in your marriage and learn His word and follow through by acting in faith on God's plan for marriage.

   We are so grateful for their insight and encouragement and the mentorship they have given us over the years.

   Don will be missed but we’re so grateful that the ministry they started will continue on and through the many marriages they have impacted.

   We are also honoring the legacies of George and Jennifer and the gift they have given so many people, to remind each of us to continue on, live out what matters most, love others well, and fulfill our legacy as we journey through the wilderness of life.

   Mark 12:29-31 When Jesus was asked which command was the most important one, He answered with this:

   “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

   In the Two Becoming One study, Don also encouraged this: and this is a quote from the study:

   “Clearly, loving and serving God should be our greatest goal in life. While marital oneness is a key part of loving or serving God, it is simply a vital part of the greater goal. He goes on to say this: You should not let a good marriage become the only goal in your lives. Instead, your marriage should be the means to the end, which is serving and glorifying God.”

   In short, Todd encouraged everyone to live life like his dad through simplifying the words His Father lived out so well.

   Love God and Love people.

   Proverbs 16:3 says Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.

   Colossians 3:23-24

   Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25

   Colossians 3:1-4

   3 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on...]]>In this episode, Sonny and Cindy celebrate the lives of others whose legacies have left impact and influence through their unique God-given design and purpose.

   God created you with passions and a heart like His. He wants to use your gifts and talents, the things that you love and what ignites your soul to reach out to others here on earth and He reminds you of the eternal rewards and perspective on life.

   Our life here is very short but we are headed into an eternal life beyond this one through Jesus Christ.

   God is always pointing you heavenward and reminding you that your life here is connected to your life in eternity.

   Join us as we celebrate the power of legacy.

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #15 – The Power of Your Legacy - episode notes

   Today we are honoring our dear friends and mentors Don and Sally Meredith, Founders of Christian Family Life, and authors of the Two Becoming One book and small group study.

   Don passed away this past week and we were honored to attend his celebration of life.

   We are also honoring the lives of George, and Jennifer, whom we also had to say goodbye to this week. You’ve made a difference in our lives. Thank you for the gift of renewing our hearts and minds to what matters most.

   You will be missed but not forgotten, because your legacies live on, and they are powerful.

   In today’s podcast, as we continue to dive into the importance of marriage, we reflect on Don and Sally’s journey together. Their marriage has been a journey of belief and trust and sharing with others how God will transform your marriage from performance to faith.

   Their message is this: God designed marriage and He can make it work. Never give up. Never give up on what God can do in your marriage and learn His word and follow through by acting in faith on God's plan for marriage.

   We are so grateful for their insight and encouragement and the mentorship they have given us over the years.

   Don will be missed but we’re so grateful that the ministry they started will continue on and through the many marriages they have impacted.

   We are also honoring the legacies of George and Jennifer and the gift they have given so many people, to remind each of us to continue on, live out what matters most, love others well, and fulfill our legacy as we journey through the wilderness of life.

   Mark 12:29-31 When Jesus was asked which command was the most important one, He answered with this:

   “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

   In the Two Becoming One study, Don also encouraged this: and this is a quote from the study:

   “Clearly, loving and serving God should be our greatest goal in life. While marital oneness is a key part of loving or serving God, it is simply a vital part of the greater goal. He goes on to say this: You should not let a good marriage become the only goal in your lives. Instead, your marriage should be the means to the end, which is serving and glorifying God.”

   In short, Todd encouraged everyone to live life like his dad through simplifying the words His Father lived out so well.

   Love God and Love people.

   Proverbs 16:3 says Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.

   Colossians 3:23-24

   Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25

   Colossians 3:1-4

   3 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

   Colossians 3: 12-14

   12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.

   Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

   Colossians 3:15-17 continues to encourage us:

   15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

   16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

   17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

   The lives of others, the legacy of others are great reminders to us to reset when we need to.

   To check the condition of our own hearts for compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience and resolve our conflicts and sins through the power of forgiveness and then ultimately point us back to Gods greatest command to love Him, to love ourselves, and to love others.

   Don, George, Jennifer, you’ve made a difference in our lives. Thank you for the gift of renewing our hearts and minds to what matters most.

   You will be missed but not forgotten, because your legacies live on, and they are powerful.

   Christian Family Life, Don and Sally Meredith Founders

   Two Becoming One by Don and Sally Meredith

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

   Sonny and Cindy

   ]]>363898a5-2050-47b9-a0a5-5aa7cbb23906Wed, 02 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -050017:50nofull15Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerPlug Into The PowerIn this Epic Journey Podcast episode – Plug Into the Power, Sonny and Cindy will give you 6 keys to tap into the supernatural power of God in your life and in your marriage.

   Do you want a marriage that wins?

   Do you want your marriage to be a source of strength and joy in your life?

   Do you want your marriage to be growing and thriving over time?

   Then learn what it means to tap in and by all means, TAP IN!

   You want to win big TOGETHER and you do that NOT through your own plan, a human plan, a limited plan, but through Gods’ plan which is supernatural and unlimited!

   Be willing to make adjustments in your game plan.

   Get in the locker room, get some coaching from God and others that are living this out, make some adjustments and get out there and go kick some butt and experience the supernatural power that will lead you into a marriage that wins!

   Thanks for joining us!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #14 – Plug Into the Power – Episode notes

   Tapping into Gods Supernatural Power and Love

   #1 Decide to find out more about God’s plan for marriage, how to participate in His plan, and be willing to apply what you learn and invest time into that.

   Colossians 1:17 He is before all things, and by Him all things hold together. (this is a great example of His supernatural power in our lives)

   #2 Make the choice to step into the supernatural power of God so that you will experience the supernatural in your marriage.

   Well, how do you do that?

   1John 3:23

   23 Now this is His command: that we believe in the name of

   His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as he commanded us.

   His command is two-fold here: believe in Christ and follow His command to love one another.

   Your faith + loving as He commanded = a decision that will lead you to experience the supernatural that God has for you.

   Faith with follow through. Faith with obedience.

   #3 If you want God to do a supernatural work in your marriage, then ask Him to start with your own heart.

   He wants to address the condition of your heart and restore your heart…He wants to win you back.

   Godquest.com

   “Ever since that day Adam and Eve decided that their way was better than God’s way, God lost his beloved. “

   They weren’t all that different from us.

   When we think our plan is better than Gods’ plan then we are positioning ourselves for less than Gods best and outside of His protection just like Adam and Eve.

   Godquest.com

   “Even as he watched his children grow further and further away from him, he vowed to one day win them back.

   He has even gone to the extent to give it His all. He sent His son to die on the cross for you.”

   God is way more intimately involved in your marriage and in your life than you know.

   “The story of the Bible is God’s quest to restore His broken family.”

   #4 Be willing to make adjustments.

   Confess your sin and acknowledge you’ve been trying to do marriage your way.

   Receive Gods grace, mercy and forgiveness.

   Your marriage is an epic and heroic journey through the wilderness. You are in the middle of a chivalrous enterprise involving an adventurous journey.

   Remember, your journey should be filled with honor, loyalty, respect and heroic behavior that considers each others hearts.

   So if it hasn’t, confess that to God, take it to Him, and then confess to your spouse that you want Gods plan and not your own.

   Listen, if there’s someone out there and you’re questioning your marriage, don’t give up!

   Our own plans are limited, but God’s plan is unlimited. He can do the unexpected and way more than we even ask or imagine!!

   #5 Set your mind on things above and realize that while you’re here on earth you are involved in a quest for more of what God has for you and your marriage.

   You need to see...]]>In this Epic Journey Podcast episode – Plug Into the Power, Sonny and Cindy will give you 6 keys to tap into the supernatural power of God in your life and in your marriage.

   Do you want a marriage that wins?

   Do you want your marriage to be a source of strength and joy in your life?

   Do you want your marriage to be growing and thriving over time?

   Then learn what it means to tap in and by all means, TAP IN!

   You want to win big TOGETHER and you do that NOT through your own plan, a human plan, a limited plan, but through Gods’ plan which is supernatural and unlimited!

   Be willing to make adjustments in your game plan.

   Get in the locker room, get some coaching from God and others that are living this out, make some adjustments and get out there and go kick some butt and experience the supernatural power that will lead you into a marriage that wins!

   Thanks for joining us!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #14 – Plug Into the Power – Episode notes

   Tapping into Gods Supernatural Power and Love

   #1 Decide to find out more about God’s plan for marriage, how to participate in His plan, and be willing to apply what you learn and invest time into that.

   Colossians 1:17 He is before all things, and by Him all things hold together. (this is a great example of His supernatural power in our lives)

   #2 Make the choice to step into the supernatural power of God so that you will experience the supernatural in your marriage.

   Well, how do you do that?

   1John 3:23

   23 Now this is His command: that we believe in the name of

   His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as he commanded us.

   His command is two-fold here: believe in Christ and follow His command to love one another.

   Your faith + loving as He commanded = a decision that will lead you to experience the supernatural that God has for you.

   Faith with follow through. Faith with obedience.

   #3 If you want God to do a supernatural work in your marriage, then ask Him to start with your own heart.

   He wants to address the condition of your heart and restore your heart…He wants to win you back.

   Godquest.com

   “Ever since that day Adam and Eve decided that their way was better than God’s way, God lost his beloved. “

   They weren’t all that different from us.

   When we think our plan is better than Gods’ plan then we are positioning ourselves for less than Gods best and outside of His protection just like Adam and Eve.

   Godquest.com

   “Even as he watched his children grow further and further away from him, he vowed to one day win them back.

   He has even gone to the extent to give it His all. He sent His son to die on the cross for you.”

   God is way more intimately involved in your marriage and in your life than you know.

   “The story of the Bible is God’s quest to restore His broken family.”

   #4 Be willing to make adjustments.

   Confess your sin and acknowledge you’ve been trying to do marriage your way.

   Receive Gods grace, mercy and forgiveness.

   Your marriage is an epic and heroic journey through the wilderness. You are in the middle of a chivalrous enterprise involving an adventurous journey.

   Remember, your journey should be filled with honor, loyalty, respect and heroic behavior that considers each others hearts.

   So if it hasn’t, confess that to God, take it to Him, and then confess to your spouse that you want Gods plan and not your own.

   Listen, if there’s someone out there and you’re questioning your marriage, don’t give up!

   Our own plans are limited, but God’s plan is unlimited. He can do the unexpected and way more than we even ask or imagine!!

   #5 Set your mind on things above and realize that while you’re here on earth you are involved in a quest for more of what God has for you and your marriage.

   You need to see your marriage as being on a quest for answers, a quest to discover truth, and a quest for true love, Gods supernatural love.

   Gods’ love will cause supernatural things to take place.

   Gods’ love restores. Gods’ love redeems. Gods’ love saves.

   #6 If you want to access the supernatural, then don’t isolate your marriage and think that everybody else has it all together but you.

   That’s a lie. We all have work to do in our marriage in order to love different, God's way.

   So, be willing to be coached by God’s word, stop at the aid stations, and get fueled up and powered up for the great supernatural adventure God has for you.

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

   Sonny and Cindy

   ]]>bb69ab05-6225-4f0f-a3ab-baf379f51e67Wed, 23 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -050023:22nofull14Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerLove DifferentEpic Journey Podcast #13 – Love Different

   In this week’s podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss the different types of love that you will experience in your marriage as a Christian, and the overwhelming power of Gods agape and unconditional love to impact your marriage in supernatural ways.

   S U P E R N A T U R A L   W A Y S!!!

   Tapping into the supernatural comes only through your relationship with Jesus Christ. The supernatural is unavailable to you without your relationship of faith.

   Your faith is a direct connect into God’s ability to perform supernatural acts on your behalf through His unconditional agape love.

   Faith is the key that unlocks the closed door and once opened anything is possible…

   In your life, your marriage, your future.

   Gods agape love will reveal itself to you in unexpected ways.

   We’re glad you’re here!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #13 – Love Different – Episode Notes

   Gods agape and unconditional love will impact your marriage in supernatural ways.

   S U P E R N A T U R A L   W A Y S!!!

   Tapping into the supernatural comes only through your relationship with Jesus Christ. The supernatural is unavailable to you without your relationship of faith.

   In Greek, eros is romantic love.

   And Philos is a friendship love, and in the bible was expressed as a devotion to one another, brotherly love.

   In eros, lovers are preoccupied with each other, but friends are preoccupied with the same thing, interests in common.

   Christianity.com states this about agape love:

   “Agape love is unconcerned with the self and concerned with the greatest good of another.

   Agape isn’t born out of emotions, feelings, familiarity, or attraction, but from the will and as a choice. 

   We have the free will to choose a relationship with God which makes Gods agape love available to work through us.

   Agape requires faithfulness, commitment, and sacrifice without expecting anything in return.”

   There’s a psychiatrist by the name of Karl Benzio, his organization is Lighthousenetwork.org and they work with addictions - it’s a Christian organization –

   He has done a lot of study on decision-making and he talks about when emotions are high that is the worst time to try and make a good decision because the emotion will distort your ability to think clearly and make a sound decision.

   You have to get those emotions down so you can think clearly and respond in the best way.

   Gods unconditional love can be unexpected but also protective.

   1 John 4:7-9

   God Is LOVE

   7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. ( see that there’s a relationship with Him connected to His love)

   8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

   9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. (Love is a person)

   His love is not natural, it’s supernatural.

   1 John 3:23-24

   23 Now this is His command: that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as he commanded us.

   24 The one who keeps his commands remains in Him, and he in Him. And the way we know that He remains in us is from the Spirit he has given us.

   His command is two-fold here: believe in Christ and love one another. It’s a command to those who believe in Christ, so it truly is an act that is tied to our faith.

   If you are a believer, then you are expected to love others God’s way, not your way, not the worlds way. As a believer, you have access to His agape love in order to pass it to others. Scripture says when you keep His commands, when you’re obedient to what God tells you to do, there is unity with God and the...]]>Epic Journey Podcast #13 – Love Different

   In this week’s podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss the different types of love that you will experience in your marriage as a Christian, and the overwhelming power of Gods agape and unconditional love to impact your marriage in supernatural ways.

   S U P E R N A T U R A L   W A Y S!!!

   Tapping into the supernatural comes only through your relationship with Jesus Christ. The supernatural is unavailable to you without your relationship of faith.

   Your faith is a direct connect into God’s ability to perform supernatural acts on your behalf through His unconditional agape love.

   Faith is the key that unlocks the closed door and once opened anything is possible…

   In your life, your marriage, your future.

   Gods agape love will reveal itself to you in unexpected ways.

   We’re glad you’re here!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #13 – Love Different – Episode Notes

   Gods agape and unconditional love will impact your marriage in supernatural ways.

   S U P E R N A T U R A L   W A Y S!!!

   Tapping into the supernatural comes only through your relationship with Jesus Christ. The supernatural is unavailable to you without your relationship of faith.

   In Greek, eros is romantic love.

   And Philos is a friendship love, and in the bible was expressed as a devotion to one another, brotherly love.

   In eros, lovers are preoccupied with each other, but friends are preoccupied with the same thing, interests in common.

   Christianity.com states this about agape love:

   “Agape love is unconcerned with the self and concerned with the greatest good of another.

   Agape isn’t born out of emotions, feelings, familiarity, or attraction, but from the will and as a choice. 

   We have the free will to choose a relationship with God which makes Gods agape love available to work through us.

   Agape requires faithfulness, commitment, and sacrifice without expecting anything in return.”

   There’s a psychiatrist by the name of Karl Benzio, his organization is Lighthousenetwork.org and they work with addictions - it’s a Christian organization –

   He has done a lot of study on decision-making and he talks about when emotions are high that is the worst time to try and make a good decision because the emotion will distort your ability to think clearly and make a sound decision.

   You have to get those emotions down so you can think clearly and respond in the best way.

   Gods unconditional love can be unexpected but also protective.

   1 John 4:7-9

   God Is LOVE

   7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. ( see that there’s a relationship with Him connected to His love)

   8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

   9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. (Love is a person)

   His love is not natural, it’s supernatural.

   1 John 3:23-24

   23 Now this is His command: that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as he commanded us.

   24 The one who keeps his commands remains in Him, and he in Him. And the way we know that He remains in us is from the Spirit he has given us.

   His command is two-fold here: believe in Christ and love one another. It’s a command to those who believe in Christ, so it truly is an act that is tied to our faith.

   If you are a believer, then you are expected to love others God’s way, not your way, not the worlds way. As a believer, you have access to His agape love in order to pass it to others. Scripture says when you keep His commands, when you’re obedient to what God tells you to do, there is unity with God and the way you know that is, from the Spirit.

   God’s love reveals our true identity.

   1 John 3:1

   See what great love the Father has given us that we should be called God’s children – and we are!

   God’s love gives us eternal life.

   John 3:16

   16 “For God so loved the world,[a] that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

   Your obedience in faith leads you to the love of God being made complete in you.

   1 John 2:15

   But whoever keeps His word, truly in Him the love of God is made complete. This is how we know we are in Him.

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

   Sonny and Cindy

   ]]>76bc7239-aec7-400c-8f62-c92f7e5562b6Wed, 16 Feb 2022 17:00:00 -050026:23nofull13Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerUnified Team - Part 2In this episode #12, The Unified Team Part 2, Sonny and Cindy continue to discuss the importance and power of becoming a unified team in your marriage and will give you some great practical ideas for you to continue your journey of two becoming one!

   Get your creativity going as you rekindle your commitment to one another and continue to be intentional to strengthen your unified team. Join us!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast episode #12 – The Unified Team Part 2 Episode Notes

   TRUTH #1

   # 1 God recognized from the very beginning that it was not good for man to be alone.

   Tim and Kathy Keller, The Meaning of Marriage, Tim Keller says, “It is the first thing in the universe that God finds imperfect.”

   Genesis 2:18 NIV The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

   TRUTH #2

   #2 Your marriage should be recognized as a covenant with God, not a contract with man.

   So, marriage God’s way is established as a Holy Matrimony… set apart …

   In an article by Victoria Riollano, she describes Holy Matrimony and says it is not just the act of agreeing to spend your life together,

   but it is a sacred act of togetherness, honored by God, and created as a lifelong dedication to one another.

   Holy Matrimony focuses on building a home that honors God.

   Eph 2:10 ESV – For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for Good Works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

   TRUTH #3

   #3 God established that Two Shall Become One - A Unified Team:

   Genesis 2:24ESV Therefore, a man shall leave his Father and his Mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

   TRUTH #4

   #4 God has a plan for oneness that is Certain in a world of uncertainty.

   TRUTH #5

   #5 God’s plan is abundant life. But the enemy has a plan for your marriage too.

   John 10:10 ESV “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

   #6 Through oneness, you will reign over the enemies plans to divide you.

   Matthew 16:23 But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, satan!

   You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.”

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

   Sonny and Cindy

   ]]>In this episode #12, The Unified Team Part 2, Sonny and Cindy continue to discuss the importance and power of becoming a unified team in your marriage and will give you some great practical ideas for you to continue your journey of two becoming one!

   Get your creativity going as you rekindle your commitment to one another and continue to be intentional to strengthen your unified team. Join us!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast episode #12 – The Unified Team Part 2 Episode Notes

   TRUTH #1

   # 1 God recognized from the very beginning that it was not good for man to be alone.

   Tim and Kathy Keller, The Meaning of Marriage, Tim Keller says, “It is the first thing in the universe that God finds imperfect.”

   Genesis 2:18 NIV The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

   TRUTH #2

   #2 Your marriage should be recognized as a covenant with God, not a contract with man.

   So, marriage God’s way is established as a Holy Matrimony… set apart …

   In an article by Victoria Riollano, she describes Holy Matrimony and says it is not just the act of agreeing to spend your life together,

   but it is a sacred act of togetherness, honored by God, and created as a lifelong dedication to one another.

   Holy Matrimony focuses on building a home that honors God.

   Eph 2:10 ESV – For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for Good Works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

   TRUTH #3

   #3 God established that Two Shall Become One - A Unified Team:

   Genesis 2:24ESV Therefore, a man shall leave his Father and his Mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

   TRUTH #4

   #4 God has a plan for oneness that is Certain in a world of uncertainty.

   TRUTH #5

   #5 God’s plan is abundant life. But the enemy has a plan for your marriage too.

   John 10:10 ESV “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

   #6 Through oneness, you will reign over the enemies plans to divide you.

   Matthew 16:23 But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, satan!

   You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.”

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

   Sonny and Cindy

   ]]>26871898-e3e3-4a79-b456-9321806b310eWed, 09 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -050029:33nofull12Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerUnified Team - Part 1Epic Journey

   Podcast #11 – Unified Team Part 1- podcast description

   In this Epic Journey podcast episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the importance of becoming a unified team and the power of fighting FOR each other not AGAINST each other.

   You are often fighting an unseen enemy whose main goal is division and destruction.

   satan is like a hit and run driver.

   He swoops in and wreaks havoc, and then goes on his way leaving behind a big mess to clean up and you assume it must be your spouse’s fault… and the fighting or silence begins.

   But WAIT! God has given you everything you need to fight good fights!

   He has given you weapons to WIN.

   It’s time to pick up your weapons and fight the good fight for your marriage!

   Join us!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #11 – Unified Team Part 1 – Episode Notes

   You are often fighting an unseen enemy whose main goal is division and destruction. satan is like a hit and run driver. He swoops in and wreaks havoc, and then goes on his way leaving behind a big mess to clean up and you assume it must be your spouse’s fault… and the fighting or silence begins.

   But WAIT! God has given you everything you need to fight good fights!

   He has given you weapons to WIN.

   It’s time to pick up your weapons and fight the good fight for your marriage!

   Here is a great hidden treasure from scripture, and if you truly take hold of this God is going to give you a new perspective of your mate.

   In Ecclesiastes 4:9 ESV It says this,

   ⁹ Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.

   (He expects that you will be working together)

   ¹⁰ For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.

   (you are intended to be a source of encouragement and support for each other, not criticism against each other when you get knocked down. This might be a bad habit on how you try to resolve conflict and you can learn a better way)

   But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! (Life is hard. You’re going to get knocked down. God knows you need each other. He doesn’t want you isolated and alone)

   ¹¹ Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone?  ¹² And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

   The power of two against one is strong but your power with God makes three and is not easily broken. Your unity has strength and power and is a HUGE advantage!

   Becoming more aware of the enemy’s tactics will position you for winning and staying unified as a team.

   John Bevere – The Bait of Satan

   Beware of choosing to be offended by your spouses’ actions! This is a tactic of the enemy and instead choose to resolve conflict in healthier ways by making agreements with God about your spouse.

   God has a purpose for you as a unified team, He has assignments, a call to contribute and the enemy does not want this to happen. It is very effective to distract you from the impact you are designed to have by creating conflict that doesn’t get resolved, or unforgiveness, or choosing to be offended.

   When you’re not unified as a team you are not able to accomplish what a unified team can accomplish.

   Put on your armor and pick up your weapons.

   Biblegateway.com

   The Whole Armor of God

   ¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against...]]>Epic Journey

   Podcast #11 – Unified Team Part 1- podcast description

   In this Epic Journey podcast episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the importance of becoming a unified team and the power of fighting FOR each other not AGAINST each other.

   You are often fighting an unseen enemy whose main goal is division and destruction.

   satan is like a hit and run driver.

   He swoops in and wreaks havoc, and then goes on his way leaving behind a big mess to clean up and you assume it must be your spouse’s fault… and the fighting or silence begins.

   But WAIT! God has given you everything you need to fight good fights!

   He has given you weapons to WIN.

   It’s time to pick up your weapons and fight the good fight for your marriage!

   Join us!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #11 – Unified Team Part 1 – Episode Notes

   You are often fighting an unseen enemy whose main goal is division and destruction. satan is like a hit and run driver. He swoops in and wreaks havoc, and then goes on his way leaving behind a big mess to clean up and you assume it must be your spouse’s fault… and the fighting or silence begins.

   But WAIT! God has given you everything you need to fight good fights!

   He has given you weapons to WIN.

   It’s time to pick up your weapons and fight the good fight for your marriage!

   Here is a great hidden treasure from scripture, and if you truly take hold of this God is going to give you a new perspective of your mate.

   In Ecclesiastes 4:9 ESV It says this,

   ⁹ Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.

   (He expects that you will be working together)

   ¹⁰ For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.

   (you are intended to be a source of encouragement and support for each other, not criticism against each other when you get knocked down. This might be a bad habit on how you try to resolve conflict and you can learn a better way)

   But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! (Life is hard. You’re going to get knocked down. God knows you need each other. He doesn’t want you isolated and alone)

   ¹¹ Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone?  ¹² And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

   The power of two against one is strong but your power with God makes three and is not easily broken. Your unity has strength and power and is a HUGE advantage!

   Becoming more aware of the enemy’s tactics will position you for winning and staying unified as a team.

   John Bevere – The Bait of Satan

   Beware of choosing to be offended by your spouses’ actions! This is a tactic of the enemy and instead choose to resolve conflict in healthier ways by making agreements with God about your spouse.

   God has a purpose for you as a unified team, He has assignments, a call to contribute and the enemy does not want this to happen. It is very effective to distract you from the impact you are designed to have by creating conflict that doesn’t get resolved, or unforgiveness, or choosing to be offended.

   When you’re not unified as a team you are not able to accomplish what a unified team can accomplish.

   Put on your armor and pick up your weapons.

   Biblegateway.com

   The Whole Armor of God

   ¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. ¹⁴ Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; ¹⁷ and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, ¹⁸ praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,

   God’s word is a sword. Prayer is a powerful weapon against the enemy’s schemes. Your relationship with Christ gives you power and authority over the enemy.

   The enemy is taking shots at you and often you think it’s a battle against your spouse, but it’s not.

   YOU HAVE WEAPONS!!! Fight the good fight FOR each other and for other couples as well! We’re all part of the winning team!

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you!

   Sonny and Cindy

   ]]>af994bd6-56ae-439b-acc5-62fe29347630Wed, 02 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -050023:12nofull11Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerSecrets and TreasuresIn this episode, Secrets and Treasures, Sonny and Cindy explore Gods’ invitation to seek His hidden secrets and treasures and the rewards WHEN you find them.

   God has hidden treasures for you, and he intends that you find Him and them, in the pursuit, but it requires your determination and believing in the value of the treasures He has for you.

   God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to apply to your life for your benefit.

   He knows just what you need and when you need it.

   Apply it to your life, and you live out His amazing plan.

   Join us in this journey and quest for his hidden secrets and treasures.

   He has hidden them FOR you, not FROM you!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #10 – Episode Notes

   God has hidden treasures for you, and he intends that you find Him and them, in the pursuit, but it requires your determination and believing in the value of the treasures He has for you.

   God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to apply to your life for your benefit.

   He knows just what you need and when you need it.

   Apply these treasures of wisdom to your life, and you live out His amazing plan.

   So let’s take a look at some notes from a sermon that we came across by Robert Pace at revelationcentral.com about God giving us treasures…

   He writes this:

   “Several years ago, the Lord spoke to me from Isaiah 45, where God says, “I will give you the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places.”

   And then he mentions two ideas that the Holy Spirit suggested from this verse.

   (1)          When God says he will “give us the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places,” it means God wants to open your eyes to things that would otherwise remain unseen, so you can claim what would otherwise remain unclaimed.

    (2)         And #2, the question comes up in His mind, Where can I find these “treasures of darkness and riches hidden in secret places. (45:3)? Think about the answer: The “treasures of darkness” are stored in—of all places—darkness! And the “wealth of secret places” are hidden in—of all locations, secret places.”

   We can miss them if we’re not searching for them.

   These are hidden treasures that require acting in faith by seeking Him and His word in order to find them.

   In Colossians 2:2-3

   Paul is encouraging the Colossians, they were believers,

   That their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love,

   and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery,

   And he goes on to reveal what Gods’ mystery is:

   That is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

   Your hearts are valuable to Him and in Deuteronomy 26:18 it reminds you how valuable you are to Him.

   It says this:

   The Lord has today declared you to be His people, a treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you should keep all His commandments;

   You are His treasured possession. You are valuable to God. He claims you as His own and says you belong to me.

   Proverbs 3:13-15 reminds us of the benefits of wisdom

   How blessed is the man who finds wisdom,

   And the man who gains understanding.

   For her profit is better than the profit of silver

   And her gain better than fine gold.

   She is more precious than jewels;

   And nothing you desire compares with her.

   So you are reminded of how valuable your search for treasures is going to be.

   We hope you’ll get excited about the pursuit, and in knowing that it will lead you to great rewards for your life.

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1...]]>In this episode, Secrets and Treasures, Sonny and Cindy explore Gods’ invitation to seek His hidden secrets and treasures and the rewards WHEN you find them.

   God has hidden treasures for you, and he intends that you find Him and them, in the pursuit, but it requires your determination and believing in the value of the treasures He has for you.

   God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to apply to your life for your benefit.

   He knows just what you need and when you need it.

   Apply it to your life, and you live out His amazing plan.

   Join us in this journey and quest for his hidden secrets and treasures.

   He has hidden them FOR you, not FROM you!

   -------

   Epic Journey Podcast #10 – Episode Notes

   God has hidden treasures for you, and he intends that you find Him and them, in the pursuit, but it requires your determination and believing in the value of the treasures He has for you.

   God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to apply to your life for your benefit.

   He knows just what you need and when you need it.

   Apply these treasures of wisdom to your life, and you live out His amazing plan.

   So let’s take a look at some notes from a sermon that we came across by Robert Pace at revelationcentral.com about God giving us treasures…

   He writes this:

   “Several years ago, the Lord spoke to me from Isaiah 45, where God says, “I will give you the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places.”

   And then he mentions two ideas that the Holy Spirit suggested from this verse.

   (1)          When God says he will “give us the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places,” it means God wants to open your eyes to things that would otherwise remain unseen, so you can claim what would otherwise remain unclaimed.

    (2)         And #2, the question comes up in His mind, Where can I find these “treasures of darkness and riches hidden in secret places. (45:3)? Think about the answer: The “treasures of darkness” are stored in—of all places—darkness! And the “wealth of secret places” are hidden in—of all locations, secret places.”

   We can miss them if we’re not searching for them.

   These are hidden treasures that require acting in faith by seeking Him and His word in order to find them.

   In Colossians 2:2-3

   Paul is encouraging the Colossians, they were believers,

   That their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love,

   and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery,

   And he goes on to reveal what Gods’ mystery is:

   That is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

   Your hearts are valuable to Him and in Deuteronomy 26:18 it reminds you how valuable you are to Him.

   It says this:

   The Lord has today declared you to be His people, a treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you should keep all His commandments;

   You are His treasured possession. You are valuable to God. He claims you as His own and says you belong to me.

   Proverbs 3:13-15 reminds us of the benefits of wisdom

   How blessed is the man who finds wisdom,

   And the man who gains understanding.

   For her profit is better than the profit of silver

   And her gain better than fine gold.

   She is more precious than jewels;

   And nothing you desire compares with her.

   So you are reminded of how valuable your search for treasures is going to be.

   We hope you’ll get excited about the pursuit, and in knowing that it will lead you to great rewards for your life.

   We’re grateful for you and we’re praying for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>52ae1a57-a8b9-4448-9cd6-a9db16a86641Wed, 26 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -050021:17nofull10Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerThe QuestPodcast #9 The Quest – Description

   In this episode, “The Quest,” Sonny and Cindy discuss God’s great quest for humanity… His quest for our hearts and to win us back! They also discuss the quest we have been invited into that requires bravery, chivalry, romance, loyalty, commitment, villains, and honor! Every great quest is seeking something of great value! Your heart, your relationship with God, and your marriage are all worthy of your greatest efforts and quest. Join us and get even better equipped for the great adventure you are in!

   “Mawwiage is what bwings us togeder today!” The Princess Bride, 1987

   _______

   Show notes;

   Merriam Webster dictionary

   1 : a journey made in search of something  as in…They went on a quest for gold.

   2 : a long and difficult effort to find or do something

   Examples: a quest for answers, The team's quest to win a championship., a quest to discover the truth.

   3.: a chivalrous enterprise in medieval romance usually involving an adventurous journey

   God’s Quest for Humanity – God-Quest.com

   (excerpts)

   “In the beginning, God created human children for himself and gave them a perfect, well-ordered home where they could grow and thrive in peace and safety.

   He loved them and delighted in communing with them and giving them wonderful gifts.

   But one day, those children decided that all of God’s gifts were not enough. He must be holding out on them.

   They did not trust his love, so they did the one thing that he had forbidden them from doing.

   On that day, God lost his beloved. But even as he watched his children grow further and further away from him, he vowed to one day win them back.

   So began the story of God’s quest to reclaim his lost love, a quest that would cost him all he had to give.

   The story of the Bible is God’s quest to restore his broken family. God is the main character throughout, and God’s quest for the heart of humanity is the main message.

   Every story points to who he is and why he is worthy of our love and devotion.

   The Bible is not a history of humanity. It is not a scientific thesis.

   It is not a list of rules and regulations for proper living. It is certainly not a guide on how to be happy and prosperous.

   Parts of the Bible address these and many other topics, but none of them is the point.

   The point is God’s love for humanity and why we should love him back.

   It is an intimate love letter designed to draw us back to him.”

   So, listen, God is on a quest to capture your heart – He wants to address the condition of your heart and restore your heart…He wants to win you back.

   He wants you to be on a quest for Him and for your marriage that wins….

   Isaiah 30:21

   Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, (this is the way; walk in it.)

   God will reveal to you His wisdom knowledge and understanding in His quest to restore your hearts and as you make decisions about your marriage, about each other, for each other, on behalf of each other, and restore your oneness with Him as a unified team through the wilderness with Him.

   God is also giving you protection through the wisdom and knowledge He reveals as treasure.

   Lamentations 3(ESV)

   ²² The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;

       his mercies never come to an end;

   ²³ they are NEW every morning;

       great is your faithfulness.

   ²⁴ “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,

       “therefore I will hope in him.”

   ²⁵ The Lord is good to those who wait for him,

       to the soul who seeks]]>Podcast #9 The Quest – Description

   In this episode, “The Quest,” Sonny and Cindy discuss God’s great quest for humanity… His quest for our hearts and to win us back! They also discuss the quest we have been invited into that requires bravery, chivalry, romance, loyalty, commitment, villains, and honor! Every great quest is seeking something of great value! Your heart, your relationship with God, and your marriage are all worthy of your greatest efforts and quest. Join us and get even better equipped for the great adventure you are in!

   “Mawwiage is what bwings us togeder today!” The Princess Bride, 1987

   _______

   Show notes;

   Merriam Webster dictionary

   1 : a journey made in search of something  as in…They went on a quest for gold.

   2 : a long and difficult effort to find or do something

   Examples: a quest for answers, The team's quest to win a championship., a quest to discover the truth.

   3.: a chivalrous enterprise in medieval romance usually involving an adventurous journey

   God’s Quest for Humanity – God-Quest.com

   (excerpts)

   “In the beginning, God created human children for himself and gave them a perfect, well-ordered home where they could grow and thrive in peace and safety.

   He loved them and delighted in communing with them and giving them wonderful gifts.

   But one day, those children decided that all of God’s gifts were not enough. He must be holding out on them.

   They did not trust his love, so they did the one thing that he had forbidden them from doing.

   On that day, God lost his beloved. But even as he watched his children grow further and further away from him, he vowed to one day win them back.

   So began the story of God’s quest to reclaim his lost love, a quest that would cost him all he had to give.

   The story of the Bible is God’s quest to restore his broken family. God is the main character throughout, and God’s quest for the heart of humanity is the main message.

   Every story points to who he is and why he is worthy of our love and devotion.

   The Bible is not a history of humanity. It is not a scientific thesis.

   It is not a list of rules and regulations for proper living. It is certainly not a guide on how to be happy and prosperous.

   Parts of the Bible address these and many other topics, but none of them is the point.

   The point is God’s love for humanity and why we should love him back.

   It is an intimate love letter designed to draw us back to him.”

   So, listen, God is on a quest to capture your heart – He wants to address the condition of your heart and restore your heart…He wants to win you back.

   He wants you to be on a quest for Him and for your marriage that wins….

   Isaiah 30:21

   Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, (this is the way; walk in it.)

   God will reveal to you His wisdom knowledge and understanding in His quest to restore your hearts and as you make decisions about your marriage, about each other, for each other, on behalf of each other, and restore your oneness with Him as a unified team through the wilderness with Him.

   God is also giving you protection through the wisdom and knowledge He reveals as treasure.

   Lamentations 3(ESV)

   ²² The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;

       his mercies never come to an end;

   ²³ they are NEW every morning;

       great is your faithfulness.

   ²⁴ “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,

       “therefore I will hope in him.”

   ²⁵ The Lord is good to those who wait for him,

       to the soul who seeks him.

   ²⁶ It is good that one should wait quietly

       for the salvation of the Lord.

    And that is truly His QUEST for each of you!

   You are fully known and deeply loved!

   ]]>2d6799b2-8020-4890-a842-bdabe5dfabc5Wed, 19 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -050028:56nofull9Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerWhere are we in the Wilderness? - Part 2In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy continue to reveal some path-altering considerations as you answer the question “where are we in this wilderness adventure?” As you start to become more aware of where you are and what God may be revealing, you will uncover some difficulties in your realities as well as some new things God may be bringing to your attention and awareness. This podcast will bring into your mind God ‘s truth that will fill you with hope and vision as you become aware of where you are and how God wants to position you for your next steps in your journey.

   Also, go to Http://www.2B1life.com/wilderness you can get this free assessment form that will help you have some discussions together about where you are right now.

   -------

   Gods’ word reminds us that He created us and claims us and we belong to Him. He will walk with us and is present no matter what we are going through in the wilderness.

   Israel's Only Savior Isaiah 43:1-21

   Remember God is claiming you as His own.

   What a great picture of the wilderness and the difficulties we may find ourselves in.

   God wants to remind us of who He is and what He can do through the scriptures.

   God will make a way and a path regardless of your circumstances.

   God will provide and as you experience His provision- and things you may not even expect- you will acknowledge that it comes from Him and praise Him for what He is doing and providing in your life.

   He wants you to start recognizing that He is present with you!

   In Isaiah 43 God reminds us that no matter where we find ourselves and no matter what is going on He will be with us, provide for us and we will know its Him.

   Psalm 23

   In Psalm 23…. The Lord is my shepherd - We find that God is identified as a Shepherd that leads us in the wilderness and restores our soul. He meets us in the valley of darkness… wherever we are….

   As we were studying this, I was thinking of the beauty of restoration in Psalm 23 but then God prompted me to go back and see what took place in Psalm 22.

   Psalm 22 ESV

   Why Have You Forsaken Me?

   22 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

       Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?

   ² O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer,

       and by night, but I find no rest.

   There are times when we feel far from God and that He is not attending to us or noticing what’s going on. We can feel very alone.

   But it’s important that we remind ourselves of who God is and what He has done in the past both in our own lives as well as these of those we read about in scripture.

   In our trials we can begin to doubt ourselves and feel like a victim and rejected by others, but we must remind ourselves of who we are and what He can do.

   Again, He reminds himself of who God is and the history of his relationship with God and that He is alone except for God.

   He focuses on his current circumstances, which we all do, and he acknowledges what is happening.

   He reveals his emotions and the condition of his heart and body during this stressful time.

   He focuses again on his current circumstances.

   He acknowledges Gods’ presence where before he was “feeling” forsaken. Our feelings do not always hold the truth about our situation. Here he is now making requests to God to deliver Him from evil.

   Now his experience has led him back to God and he begins to share with others the adventure of his story.

   ²⁵ From you comes my praise in the great congregation;

       my vows I will perform before those who fear him.

   ²⁶ The afflicted^[In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy continue to reveal some path-altering considerations as you answer the question “where are we in this wilderness adventure?” As you start to become more aware of where you are and what God may be revealing, you will uncover some difficulties in your realities as well as some new things God may be bringing to your attention and awareness. This podcast will bring into your mind God ‘s truth that will fill you with hope and vision as you become aware of where you are and how God wants to position you for your next steps in your journey.

   Also, go to Http://www.2B1life.com/wilderness you can get this free assessment form that will help you have some discussions together about where you are right now.

   -------

   Gods’ word reminds us that He created us and claims us and we belong to Him. He will walk with us and is present no matter what we are going through in the wilderness.

   Israel's Only Savior Isaiah 43:1-21

   Remember God is claiming you as His own.

   What a great picture of the wilderness and the difficulties we may find ourselves in.

   God wants to remind us of who He is and what He can do through the scriptures.

   God will make a way and a path regardless of your circumstances.

   God will provide and as you experience His provision- and things you may not even expect- you will acknowledge that it comes from Him and praise Him for what He is doing and providing in your life.

   He wants you to start recognizing that He is present with you!

   In Isaiah 43 God reminds us that no matter where we find ourselves and no matter what is going on He will be with us, provide for us and we will know its Him.

   Psalm 23

   In Psalm 23…. The Lord is my shepherd - We find that God is identified as a Shepherd that leads us in the wilderness and restores our soul. He meets us in the valley of darkness… wherever we are….

   As we were studying this, I was thinking of the beauty of restoration in Psalm 23 but then God prompted me to go back and see what took place in Psalm 22.

   Psalm 22 ESV

   Why Have You Forsaken Me?

   22 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

       Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?

   ² O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer,

       and by night, but I find no rest.

   There are times when we feel far from God and that He is not attending to us or noticing what’s going on. We can feel very alone.

   But it’s important that we remind ourselves of who God is and what He has done in the past both in our own lives as well as these of those we read about in scripture.

   In our trials we can begin to doubt ourselves and feel like a victim and rejected by others, but we must remind ourselves of who we are and what He can do.

   Again, He reminds himself of who God is and the history of his relationship with God and that He is alone except for God.

   He focuses on his current circumstances, which we all do, and he acknowledges what is happening.

   He reveals his emotions and the condition of his heart and body during this stressful time.

   He focuses again on his current circumstances.

   He acknowledges Gods’ presence where before he was “feeling” forsaken. Our feelings do not always hold the truth about our situation. Here he is now making requests to God to deliver Him from evil.

   Now his experience has led him back to God and he begins to share with others the adventure of his story.

   ²⁵ From you comes my praise in the great congregation;

       my vows I will perform before those who fear him.

   ²⁶ The afflicted^[d] shall eat and be satisfied;

       those who seek him shall praise the Lord!

       May your hearts live forever!

   He is expressing the hope of God that comes from seeking him. He is encouraged and now encouraging others.

   He is now envisioning an impact on future generations and acknowledging Gods’ authority overall.

   He began the Psalm questioning Gods’ presence, feeling alone and forsaken in his circumstances, but by calling out to Him, talking of his circumstances then reminding himself of who God is, what He has done in the past, he is filled with expectation and hope for the future.

   Enter Psalm 23 ESV

   The Lord Is My Shepherd

   A Psalm of David.

   23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

   ²     He makes me lie down in green pastures.

   He leads me beside still waters.^[a]

   ³     He restores my soul.

   He leads me in paths of righteousness^[b]

       for his name's sake.

   Here he is acknowledging God leading and guiding and the result of that is restoration. There is a peace taking place here. And a change of direction and path. A new heading.

   If you are in your Psalm 22 right now, take heart… identify where you are, cry out to God… have the conversation! With Him!!

   Your Psalm 23 is coming because God is in pursuit, He will never give up on you, don’t give up on what He can do.

   Thanks for joining us!

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>562eab3c-3fb6-4b3e-9529-364be7b56c9eWed, 12 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -050026:17nofull8Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerWhere are We in the Wilderness? Part 1In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy will challenge you to step into the power of assessing where you are in your relationship with each other by using analogies of the wilderness. We can find ourselves in difficult times or valleys, we can find that somewhere along the way we started walking on different paths and not heading in the same direction. We can also find ourselves aligned and unified moving forward with a shared vision and enjoying each other. Identifying where you are is HUGE in helping you make the healthy shift toward a better and stronger marriage and will encourage you to begin taking action steps in a better direction of faith and trust in Gods’ plan for your life.

   -------

   Episode 7 Show Notes:

   Http://www.2B1life.com/wilderness you can get this free assessment form that will help you have some discussions together about where you are right now.

   You can determine where you are based on how far you’ve come or where you’ve come from, what’s happened in the past… 

   And for many that may really allow you to have a sense of awe and renewed thankfulness for what God has already seen you through, what you are grateful for and what God has already been doing in your marriage.

   Or…. Perhaps you look back and you see yourself currently in a declining phase rather than a growth phase. That things aren’t going as well as you would like.

   Now, you can also answer the question of where you are with a perspective of where you aren’t yet which you could say is a perspective looking toward the future.

   It can be really great for your marriage to take a look at the question where do you want to be in your marriage over the next decade?

   Looking at the next decade of life can sometimes really help put some things into perspective in regard to where you are now.

   It’s really helpful to assess where you are in terms of your spiritual relationship with God, your ability to walk in faith and how both of those affect your relationship with your spouse and your purpose together while you are here on this earth.

   Remember, God has invited you and your marriage into an epic and heroic journey that is going to leave a lasting and eternal impact.

   Consider these questions:

   Are you living out your marriage through faith? Are you applying spiritual practices like reading Gods word, praying together, asking forgiveness, resolving conflict and encouraging each other in the trials of life?

   Are you living out a marriage that’s on purpose and is a unified team and answering a call to contribute?

   If your ultimate desire in the journey is to have a Godly marriage that wins, are you finding your marriage aligning with God and in agreement with His plan for you?

   Are you stopping the journey regularly for rest and recovery?

   Do you know Gods unique purpose for you and your marriage?

   Are you in need of restoration and stopping to refresh for supplies and equipping to prepare for the next leg of the journey?

   Perhaps you’ve been climbing uphill, and you just need some oxygen to breathe life into your relationship?

   Maybe that comes from the wisdom and encouragement of wise counsel?

   Are you stopping and celebrating your wins and achievements along the way? Thanking God for all He’s done in your lives so far?

   The Parable of the Lost Sheep Matthew 15:1-7

   The Parable of the Lost Coin Matthew 15:8-17

   The Parable of the Prodigal Son Matthew 15:11-24

   In each of these examples there becomes a new level of awareness, a realization of loss, an effort of searching to regain what was lost, forgiveness and humility, finding what was lost and then rejoicing and celebrating with others.

   This will create action to get back on the path with God and celebrate the value of who you are and how valuable your marriage is not only to you but to God and...]]>In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy will challenge you to step into the power of assessing where you are in your relationship with each other by using analogies of the wilderness. We can find ourselves in difficult times or valleys, we can find that somewhere along the way we started walking on different paths and not heading in the same direction. We can also find ourselves aligned and unified moving forward with a shared vision and enjoying each other. Identifying where you are is HUGE in helping you make the healthy shift toward a better and stronger marriage and will encourage you to begin taking action steps in a better direction of faith and trust in Gods’ plan for your life.

   -------

   Episode 7 Show Notes:

   Http://www.2B1life.com/wilderness you can get this free assessment form that will help you have some discussions together about where you are right now.

   You can determine where you are based on how far you’ve come or where you’ve come from, what’s happened in the past… 

   And for many that may really allow you to have a sense of awe and renewed thankfulness for what God has already seen you through, what you are grateful for and what God has already been doing in your marriage.

   Or…. Perhaps you look back and you see yourself currently in a declining phase rather than a growth phase. That things aren’t going as well as you would like.

   Now, you can also answer the question of where you are with a perspective of where you aren’t yet which you could say is a perspective looking toward the future.

   It can be really great for your marriage to take a look at the question where do you want to be in your marriage over the next decade?

   Looking at the next decade of life can sometimes really help put some things into perspective in regard to where you are now.

   It’s really helpful to assess where you are in terms of your spiritual relationship with God, your ability to walk in faith and how both of those affect your relationship with your spouse and your purpose together while you are here on this earth.

   Remember, God has invited you and your marriage into an epic and heroic journey that is going to leave a lasting and eternal impact.

   Consider these questions:

   Are you living out your marriage through faith? Are you applying spiritual practices like reading Gods word, praying together, asking forgiveness, resolving conflict and encouraging each other in the trials of life?

   Are you living out a marriage that’s on purpose and is a unified team and answering a call to contribute?

   If your ultimate desire in the journey is to have a Godly marriage that wins, are you finding your marriage aligning with God and in agreement with His plan for you?

   Are you stopping the journey regularly for rest and recovery?

   Do you know Gods unique purpose for you and your marriage?

   Are you in need of restoration and stopping to refresh for supplies and equipping to prepare for the next leg of the journey?

   Perhaps you’ve been climbing uphill, and you just need some oxygen to breathe life into your relationship?

   Maybe that comes from the wisdom and encouragement of wise counsel?

   Are you stopping and celebrating your wins and achievements along the way? Thanking God for all He’s done in your lives so far?

   The Parable of the Lost Sheep Matthew 15:1-7

   The Parable of the Lost Coin Matthew 15:8-17

   The Parable of the Prodigal Son Matthew 15:11-24

   In each of these examples there becomes a new level of awareness, a realization of loss, an effort of searching to regain what was lost, forgiveness and humility, finding what was lost and then rejoicing and celebrating with others.

   This will create action to get back on the path with God and celebrate the value of who you are and how valuable your marriage is not only to you but to God and others that will celebrate with you.

   We are so excited for what God is going to be revealing to you and it’s a great time of year to take a look at where you are in your relationship with God and with each other and finding your way back to the Father will be a great time of celebration and rejoicing as He leads you onto His path and plan for you and your marriage.

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>7c0790d6-b0b6-4343-b5bf-0d279c094930Wed, 05 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -050026:50nofull7Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerThe Epic and Heroic JourneyIn this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss and define what the epic and heroic journey of marriage means. Your marriage is epic and heroic and you were created to be heroes and warriors as you live out Gods plan for your marriage. Be encouraged and strengthened as you learn more of Gods word and take the next steps into the wilderness, one step at a time.

   Our 2B1 Life Marriage Manifesto begins with this statement of belief:

   We believe that marriage is an epic and heroic journey through the wilderness with God while we are here on this earth.

   We believe the journey doesn’t stop when we are done on earth, but the journey is directing us heavenward.

   Philippians 3:14 I press on to the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

   Merriam/Webster Dictionary

   Epic - Essential Meaning of epic

   1 : a long poem that tells the story of a hero's adventures Homer's ancient Greek epic "The Odyssey"

   2 : a long book, movie, etc., that usually tells a story about exciting events or adventures

   Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.   Holman Christian Standard Bible

   The word workmanship in the original Greek is the word poeima.  The word poeima means “that which is made, something fashioned, crafted together, someone's’ workmanship, as in a masterpiece.”

   From poeima, comes the word poem and poetry.

   You dear friends, are Gods’ poem, Gods’ masterpiece.

   You are epic.

   Isaiah 43:1 Now this is what the Lord says, the one who created you, O Jacob, and The One who formed you, Israel – “Do not fear; for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; YOU ARE MINE.

   So, we would expand the definition of epic to say that we have each been uniquely created by God to be His Epic Poem (of heroic adventures) and masterpiece.

   Definition of hero

   (Entry 1 of 3)

   1a : a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability

   b : an illustrious warrior

   c : a person admired for achievements and noble qualities

   d : one who shows great courage

   Joshua 1:9 God is speaking to Joshua and encouraging him in His leadership and the battle he is getting ready to live out….

   Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

   The word Heroic describes the hero as strong and courageous.

   The definition of heroic is: of or relating to courageous people

   Gals…..you are married to a hero!

   You are married to a champion!

   You are married to the one designed by God and a masterpiece!!!

   Partnering with God, with each other, and with others that are like minded, believers seeking Gods best for your marriage is heroic.

   Journey

   : something suggesting travel or passage from one place to another

   Our marriage is designed to be an unstoppable force for good through this journey through the wilderness and heavenward!!!

   Genesis 2:18

   Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper corresponding to Him.”

   I found a great article about this by Mikella VanDyke, chasingsacred.com, The true definition of the word Helpmate, and she does a great job at explaining]]>In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss and define what the epic and heroic journey of marriage means. Your marriage is epic and heroic and you were created to be heroes and warriors as you live out Gods plan for your marriage. Be encouraged and strengthened as you learn more of Gods word and take the next steps into the wilderness, one step at a time.

   Our 2B1 Life Marriage Manifesto begins with this statement of belief:

   We believe that marriage is an epic and heroic journey through the wilderness with God while we are here on this earth.

   We believe the journey doesn’t stop when we are done on earth, but the journey is directing us heavenward.

   Philippians 3:14 I press on to the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

   Merriam/Webster Dictionary

   Epic - Essential Meaning of epic

   1 : a long poem that tells the story of a hero's adventures Homer's ancient Greek epic "The Odyssey"

   2 : a long book, movie, etc., that usually tells a story about exciting events or adventures

   Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.   Holman Christian Standard Bible

   The word workmanship in the original Greek is the word poeima.  The word poeima means “that which is made, something fashioned, crafted together, someone's’ workmanship, as in a masterpiece.”

   From poeima, comes the word poem and poetry.

   You dear friends, are Gods’ poem, Gods’ masterpiece.

   You are epic.

   Isaiah 43:1 Now this is what the Lord says, the one who created you, O Jacob, and The One who formed you, Israel – “Do not fear; for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; YOU ARE MINE.

   So, we would expand the definition of epic to say that we have each been uniquely created by God to be His Epic Poem (of heroic adventures) and masterpiece.

   Definition of hero

   (Entry 1 of 3)

   1a : a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability

   b : an illustrious warrior

   c : a person admired for achievements and noble qualities

   d : one who shows great courage

   Joshua 1:9 God is speaking to Joshua and encouraging him in His leadership and the battle he is getting ready to live out….

   Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

   The word Heroic describes the hero as strong and courageous.

   The definition of heroic is: of or relating to courageous people

   Gals…..you are married to a hero!

   You are married to a champion!

   You are married to the one designed by God and a masterpiece!!!

   Partnering with God, with each other, and with others that are like minded, believers seeking Gods best for your marriage is heroic.

   Journey

   : something suggesting travel or passage from one place to another

   Our marriage is designed to be an unstoppable force for good through this journey through the wilderness and heavenward!!!

   Genesis 2:18

   Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper corresponding to Him.”

   I found a great article about this by Mikella VanDyke, chasingsacred.com, The true definition of the word Helpmate, and she does a great job at explaining this.

   In Hebrew, the word helper or helpmate is derived from two words, ezer and k’enegdo.

   The word Ezer appears in the Bible 21 times.

   The word ezer is used to describe women, also used in reference to military support, and many times in reference to God’s help in saving His people. God uses the same word to describe women as helper that He uses to describe himself!!!

   The word ezer is used to describe a saving and strong presence and is continually used to describe military aid in battle.

   “Therefore, many interpretations of ezer have explained that ezer’s meaning is not just a “helper” it describes a warrior!”

   We are designed to be a strong helper and warrior for Christ!!

   So, let’s read the scripture again but insert what we’ve learned about the real meaning!!

   Genesis 2:18

   Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a warrior corresponding to Him.”

   Guys! You are married to a warrior!!

   Now keep the word corresponding in your mind and let’s listen to more of this same article.

   This is soooo cool!!!! This is one of the most unique and beautiful word pictures we’ve ever heard to describe the marriage relationship that God has created. Remember, you are each unique and different, but He has a purpose for the two of you together, as a team, in your oneness and unity with Him, that desires for you and your marriage to absolutely take flight and SOAR!!!

   “Lastly, the word that accompanies ezer to describe a helper is k’enegdo which means in front of him, opposite as to him, or corresponding to him.

   A great visual explanation of the word k’enegdo would be two wings on a bird, they are not the same, but are equal.

   They correspond to each other, both are useful for flight, but they are not identical. When both are used together they accomplish one purpose, movement towards Christ. K’enegdo denotes the idea of equality, a mirror image of a man, but the opposite of him.

   Girls He has created us to be on the front lines and navigating through the wilderness together with our husbands and with God!!

   Definition of wilderness is …a desert

   Another is a tract of land or region uncultivated and uninhabited by human beings, whether a forest or a wide barren plain….

   This is literally describing the wilderness as a place we’ve never been….

   God has invited us to join Him to adventure into the future and into married life with HIM into places we’ve never been. The truth is, we DON’T know what tomorrow holds but we want to be prepared for it. God is preparing us in the wilderness.

   Deuteronomy 8:2-3 ESV

   And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not. And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.

   Jesus was baptized, the Spirit of God descended like a dove coming down on him, and a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased.”

   Remember, God claimed Him as His own, just like He claims you.

   Matthew 4:1-4

   Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was hungry. Then the tempter approached Him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” He answered, “It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

   Christ knew the word of God and this protected Him in His decision making and experiences and relationship with His Father.

   God’s power and resources are unlimited!!!!

   So, get on with it. (That’s what God has been telling us to do!)

   Whatever He is encouraging you to do.

   Make the call to someone Gods been nudging you to call.  Ask for forgiveness with your husband or wife. Meet with God. Seek restoration of your own heart and seek restoration of your marriage and life together. Gods plan for you is amazing!

   He is doing something new in you and your marriage and He is inviting you to join Him.

   He will guide you in your next steps.

   Just take it One step at a time.

   You are His masterpiece; you and your spouse are epic and you are heroes.

   We are all truly in an epic and heroic journey through the wilderness with God.

   Be strong and courageous!

   Thanks for joining us!!

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>ac86d563-8d33-4813-9ae8-ba52590c8409Wed, 29 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -050032:17nofull6Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerThe Power of Investing in Your MarriageIn this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy will encourage you to tap into the power of investing in your marriage and positioning your marriage to win. Investing in your marriage Gods way will compound your commitment into a great return of future benefits and advantages in your relationship becoming better, more fulfilling and more fruitful. Expect that God is going to give you some huge revelations and help you realize just how involved He is in your marriage.

   Begin investing into your marriage by finding out more. God will use your curiosity and your desire to fuel this. Other God opportunities for investing in your marriage will take place through your time spent reading the bible, exploring God’s word, asking new questions and finding out answers, and developing a stronger prayer life together.

   When you pray together it is an exercise in oneness because you are placing yourself in agreement with each other and with God. The more often you pray the more you realize the value of your prayers and time spent together with God. We invested our money in books and babysitters to allow us to learn more through Two Becoming One study by Don and Sally Meredith. This meant more time together and to be with other couples wanting to strengthen their marriages.

   Scriptures: Jeremiah 29:11-14 NIV ¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ¹⁴ I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.^[a] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”

   Proverbs 23:7 for as he thinks within himself, so he is. TLV

   Let’s stick together! We need each other and God is calling on you to be the power couple that He intends you to be!

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy will encourage you to tap into the power of investing in your marriage and positioning your marriage to win. Investing in your marriage Gods way will compound your commitment into a great return of future benefits and advantages in your relationship becoming better, more fulfilling and more fruitful. Expect that God is going to give you some huge revelations and help you realize just how involved He is in your marriage.

   Begin investing into your marriage by finding out more. God will use your curiosity and your desire to fuel this. Other God opportunities for investing in your marriage will take place through your time spent reading the bible, exploring God’s word, asking new questions and finding out answers, and developing a stronger prayer life together.

   When you pray together it is an exercise in oneness because you are placing yourself in agreement with each other and with God. The more often you pray the more you realize the value of your prayers and time spent together with God. We invested our money in books and babysitters to allow us to learn more through Two Becoming One study by Don and Sally Meredith. This meant more time together and to be with other couples wanting to strengthen their marriages.

   Scriptures: Jeremiah 29:11-14 NIV ¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. ¹⁴ I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.^[a] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”

   Proverbs 23:7 for as he thinks within himself, so he is. TLV

   Let’s stick together! We need each other and God is calling on you to be the power couple that He intends you to be!

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>6a115123-4295-4b9a-9e86-c392c1fc0461Sun, 26 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -050022:34nofull5In this episode, Sonny and Cindy will encourage you to tap into the power of investing in your marriage and positioning your marriage to win. Investing in your marriage Gods way will compound your commitment into a great return of future benefits and advantages in your relationship becoming better, more fulfilling and more fruitful. Expect that God is going to give you some huge revelations and help you realize just how involved He is in your marriage.Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerThe Power of PerspectiveIn this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy share how powerful your perspective can be in positioning your marriage into a winning perspective.

   They also expose false beliefs that can come into play shaping your perspective of marriage and each other in negative ways.

   Definition of perspective: A particular attitude or way of regarding something; a point of view

   5 powerful realities that will affect your perspective:

   #1 We must realize things are not always what they seem.

   #2 A change in perspective can help you see the value in what matters most.

   #3 The enemy will use a negative perspective to divide us.

   #4 Beware of the “ME” filter – and switch to a WE filter or God’s filter!

   #5 God’s perspective will change your heart and lead you into His plan for your marriage.

   John 10:10 NIV

   ¹⁰ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

   Philippians 2: 3-4 NIV

   ³ Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, ⁴ not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

   Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.

   God wants to give you a greater vision and perspective of who He is and the plans He has for you.

   His perspective on your marriage includes an invitation to join Him in what He is doing.

   His perspective is that your marriage is intended to bless you and those around you.

   His intention is that your oneness with Him and each other will have great impact in this world and that you will become an unstoppable force for good.

   Thanks for joining us.

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny and Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy share how powerful your perspective can be in positioning your marriage into a winning perspective.

   They also expose false beliefs that can come into play shaping your perspective of marriage and each other in negative ways.

   Definition of perspective: A particular attitude or way of regarding something; a point of view

   5 powerful realities that will affect your perspective:

   #1 We must realize things are not always what they seem.

   #2 A change in perspective can help you see the value in what matters most.

   #3 The enemy will use a negative perspective to divide us.

   #4 Beware of the “ME” filter – and switch to a WE filter or God’s filter!

   #5 God’s perspective will change your heart and lead you into His plan for your marriage.

   John 10:10 NIV

   ¹⁰ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

   Philippians 2: 3-4 NIV

   ³ Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, ⁴ not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

   Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.

   God wants to give you a greater vision and perspective of who He is and the plans He has for you.

   His perspective on your marriage includes an invitation to join Him in what He is doing.

   His perspective is that your marriage is intended to bless you and those around you.

   His intention is that your oneness with Him and each other will have great impact in this world and that you will become an unstoppable force for good.

   Thanks for joining us.

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny and Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>ed82f475-ad0d-4c4e-817e-89c74dcfd392Thu, 23 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -050016:51nofull4Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerThe Huge AdvantageIn this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of oneness and unity in marriage. One horse individually can pull about 8,000 lbs but 2 horses harnessed and trained as a team can pull 4 times that amount! You make an incredible team! Unity in marriage on mission and purpose for God is an unstoppable force! God has an incredible plan for your marriage that is powered through the Holy Spirit and through unity and oneness in your relationship.

   Two Becoming One is not just a catchy phrase for the wedding ceremony.

   It is a HUGE provision from God to help us navigate through this wilderness on earth and be a force for Good! Sonny and Cindy also discuss some of the threats to marriage identified in Two Becoming One, by Don and Sally Meredith. Exposing threats and addressing them will be a huge advantage for your relationship as well.

   Scriptures:

   James 1:2-4

   ² Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

   Romans 15:13 NIV

   ¹³ May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny and Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of oneness and unity in marriage. One horse individually can pull about 8,000 lbs but 2 horses harnessed and trained as a team can pull 4 times that amount! You make an incredible team! Unity in marriage on mission and purpose for God is an unstoppable force! God has an incredible plan for your marriage that is powered through the Holy Spirit and through unity and oneness in your relationship.

   Two Becoming One is not just a catchy phrase for the wedding ceremony.

   It is a HUGE provision from God to help us navigate through this wilderness on earth and be a force for Good! Sonny and Cindy also discuss some of the threats to marriage identified in Two Becoming One, by Don and Sally Meredith. Exposing threats and addressing them will be a huge advantage for your relationship as well.

   Scriptures:

   James 1:2-4

   ² Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

   Romans 15:13 NIV

   ¹³ May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny and Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>e8f092f3-d119-494f-9846-06056e73217eTue, 21 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -050018:31nofull3Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerOur StoryPodcast #2 The Shift in Our Story- Episode Notes

   In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy talk about their wakeup call of living in a marriage by default instead of design. They share their story of making an intentional shift from an ok marriage to a marriage heading in a new direction that perseveres, thrives and wins.

   No one starts off their marriage expecting to fail, and even if we find that we have wandered from God and from each other, this mindfulness and awareness will allow us to find God and oneness with each other again. God has a plan for our oneness in the wilderness! Know that it is an Epic and Heroic Journey!

   Your marriage will benefit from the hope and encouragement that God gives as you live out His plan together. Your story matters as you pass on the hope and encouragement others need as well

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>Podcast #2 The Shift in Our Story- Episode Notes

   In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy talk about their wakeup call of living in a marriage by default instead of design. They share their story of making an intentional shift from an ok marriage to a marriage heading in a new direction that perseveres, thrives and wins.

   No one starts off their marriage expecting to fail, and even if we find that we have wandered from God and from each other, this mindfulness and awareness will allow us to find God and oneness with each other again. God has a plan for our oneness in the wilderness! Know that it is an Epic and Heroic Journey!

   Your marriage will benefit from the hope and encouragement that God gives as you live out His plan together. Your story matters as you pass on the hope and encouragement others need as well

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>20ec44da-c7d2-4292-bad4-6acd69144d2bSun, 19 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -050016:02nofull2In this episode, Sonny and Cindy talk about their wakeup call of living in a marriage by default instead of design. They share their story of making an intentional shift from an ok marriage to a marriage heading in a new direction that perseveres, thrives and wins.Sonny & Cindy ZentmeyerEpic Journey TrailerPodcast #1 Trailer Episode notes

   In this first episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy launch the first Epic Journey Podcast and invite you to join them into Gods Marriage Adventure Plan that wins. God has placed each of us in a wilderness adventure together here on this earth! He has a strategic plan for oneness outlined in His word which will give us the power to live different, love different, and finish strong! Join us as we explore God’s plan for oneness in the wilderness and live out an Epic and Heroic Journey together! God wants to start something new in your marriage and is ready to meet you in the wilderness wherever you are.

   Scriptures: Isaiah 43:18-21

   “¹⁸Forget the former things;

       do not dwell on the past.

   ¹⁹ See, I am doing a new thing!

       Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

   I am making a way in the wilderness

       and streams in the wasteland.

   ²⁰ The wild animals honor me,

       the jackals and the owls,

   because I provide water in the wilderness

       and streams in the wasteland,

   to give drink to my people, my chosen,

   ²¹     the people I formed for myself

       that they may proclaim my praise.

   James 1:2-4 NIV

   Trials and Temptations

   ² Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>Podcast #1 Trailer Episode notes

   In this first episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy launch the first Epic Journey Podcast and invite you to join them into Gods Marriage Adventure Plan that wins. God has placed each of us in a wilderness adventure together here on this earth! He has a strategic plan for oneness outlined in His word which will give us the power to live different, love different, and finish strong! Join us as we explore God’s plan for oneness in the wilderness and live out an Epic and Heroic Journey together! God wants to start something new in your marriage and is ready to meet you in the wilderness wherever you are.

   Scriptures: Isaiah 43:18-21

   “¹⁸Forget the former things;

       do not dwell on the past.

   ¹⁹ See, I am doing a new thing!

       Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

   I am making a way in the wilderness

       and streams in the wasteland.

   ²⁰ The wild animals honor me,

       the jackals and the owls,

   because I provide water in the wilderness

       and streams in the wasteland,

   to give drink to my people, my chosen,

   ²¹     the people I formed for myself

       that they may proclaim my praise.

   James 1:2-4 NIV

   Trials and Temptations

   ² Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

   We’re praying for you and we’re grateful for you,

   Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

   ]]>f4aad9d7-b488-4e23-83ca-fa6a8e509ca6Thu, 16 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -050011:46nofull1Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer