The Winning Response

The Winning Response

por Jennifer Matthews & Crystal Fleming

Temporada 1

Winning in Relationships Intro Part 2

In this episode of The Winning Response, Jen and Crystal explore the complexities of marriage, discussing its divine design and the challenges couples can face. They highlight the importance of selflessness, communication, and trust, while addressing issues like pornography, dishonesty, and the pressure of financial struggles. The conversation emphasizes forgiveness, setting boundaries, and seeking Godly counsel to nurture healthy relationships. Jen & Crystal encourage couples to create a safe space for open communication, to let go of past grievances, and strengthen their marriages with God’s guidance.

Winning in Relationships Intro Part 1

Jen and Crystal discuss the foundational truths about marriage in this episode of The Winning Response Podcast, emphasizing that marriage is God's idea. They explore the comforting truth that divorce does not disqualify anyone from God's love regardless of past mistakes. The conversation underscores the importance of compassion when supporting others during tough times and reminds listeners that being a support doesn’t require having all the answers. Selflessness, they highlight, is essential for a successful marriage, and God's design for marriage is beautiful and harmonious. Jen and Crystal discuss how love is the cornerstone of strong relationships and that walking in love can prevent divorce and strengthen bonds. Lastly, they offer encouragement, reminding listeners that prayer and trust in God can restore hope in relationships, no matter the challenges. Book reference- Marriage, Divorce & Remarriage Kenneth E. Hagin Isaiah 54:10 (NIV) Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. John 13: 34-35 (AMP) I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.” Ephesians 5:21-33 (ERV) Genesis 2:18 (KJV) And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (AMP CLASSIC) 4 Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. 5 It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. 6 It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. 7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]. 8 Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end].

The Jen and Crystal Story: Fun, Fellowship and Faith

Join Jen and Crystal in this episode of The Winning Response Podcast where they will dive into the heart of friendship—rooted in faith. They open up about their own journey, reflecting on how their bond grew through life’s highs and lows, mutual support, and a shared commitment to Christ. The conversation explores navigating differences with grace, the intentionality required to sustain friendships, and the importance of honoring leadership within relationships. Jen and Crystal offer heartfelt encouragement to pursue meaningful, God-led connections that grow deeper through trust, service, and spiritual alignment.

Winning in Friendships: The Power of Connection

In this episode of The Winning Response Podcast, Jen and Crystal look at the powerful role friendships play in both our mental and physical well-being. They share research on the impact of social connection, the risks of loneliness, and the defining traits of healthy, life-giving relationships. This episode will encourage listeners to pursue meaningful, God-centered connections that truly enrich their lives. Pew Research Center survey found that 23% of U.S. adults felt being married is important for living a fulfilling life, 61% said close friendships are essential. People who have friends and close confidants are more satisfied with their lives and less likely to suffer from depression, according to a 2020 study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry. A review of 38 studies found that adult friendships, especially high-quality ones that provide social support and companionship, significantly predict well-being and can protect against mental health issues such as depression and anxiety—and those benefits persist across the life span (Pezirkianidis, C., et al., Frontiers in Psychology, Vol. 14, 2023; Blieszner, R., et al., Innovation in Aging, Vol. 3, No. 1, 2019). People with no friends or poor-quality friendships are twice as likely to die prematurely, according to Holt-Lunstad’s meta-analysis of more than 308,000 people—a risk factor even greater than the effects of smoking 20 cigarettes per day (PLOS Medicine, Vol. 7, No. 7, 2010). Blood pressure reactivity is lower when people talk to a supportive friend rather than a friend whom they feel ambivalent about (Holt-Lunstad, J., et al., Annals of Behavioral Medicine, Vol. 33, No. 3, 2007). Participants who have a friend by their side while completing a tough task have less heart rate reactivity than those working alone (Kamarck, T. W., et al., Psychosomatic Medicine, Vol. 52, No. 1, 1990). In one study, people even judged a hill to be less steep when they were accompanied by a friend (Schnall, S., et al., Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, Vol. 44, No. 5, 2008).

Winning in Friendships: Created for Connection

In this episode of The Winning Response Podcast, Jen and Crystal dive into the idea of friendship as part of God’s divine design, unpacking why it’s essential to our spiritual journey. They reflect on biblical friendships—especially the bond between Jesus and His disciples—to illustrate how genuine connections can deepen our walk with God. The discussion touches on our need for companionship, the restoration found through Jesus, and the uplifting qualities of Godly friendships that inspire and support us. Genesis 2:18 (KJV) And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Genesis 2:18 (ERV) Then the Lord God said, “I see that it is not good for the man to be alone. I will make the companion he needs, one just right for him.” Genesis 2:19 (KJV) And out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. Genesis 2:19( EASY) The Lord God took soil from the ground and he made all the animals and birds. He brought them to the man. God wanted to know what names the man would call them. Whatever the man called each living thing, that became its name. Genesis 3:8 (KJV) And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. Psalm 8: 4 (NKJV) What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him? 1 Cor 1:9 (AMPC) God is faithful (reliable, trustworthy, and therefore ever true to His promise, and He can be depended on); by Him you were called into companionship and participation with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:10-11 (NLT) Exodus 33:11 (NKJV) So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. James 2:23 (NLT) And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God. Proverbs 17:17 (KJV) A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 27:9 (EASY) Beautiful oil and perfume may give you joy. But good advice from a friend is even better. 1 Thess. 5:11 (NIV) Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10 (NLT) Psalm 55:14 (CEV) We enjoyed being together, when we went with others to your house, our God. Matthew 17:1 (ESV) And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. Mark 14:32-34 (NKJV) John 21:7 (NKJV) Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea. John 19:26 (NKJV) When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” John 15:15 (ERV) I no longer call you servants, because servants don’t know what their master is doing. But now I call you friends, because I have told you everything that my Father told me. John 15:13 (NLV) No one can have greater love than to give his life for his friends. John 13:1-17 (MSG)

The Ultimate Winner: Jesus (Part 2)

In this episode, Jen and Crystal dive into the life of Jesus as the ultimate model of faith and winning in life. Join them as they explore how His sacrifice secured salvation for humanity and how faith empowers us to overcome life's struggles and fears. They will discuss the importance of knowing our identity in Christ and the transformative power of God's Word in shaping our faith. Be inspired to follow Jesus' example, trust in His victory over sin and death, and step into the freedom and victory He offers. John 8:31-32 (ERV) So Jesus said to the Jews who believed in him, “If you continue to accept and obey my teaching, you are really my followers. You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” John 14:6 (NIV) Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 8:36 (ERV) So if the Son makes you free, you are really free. Revelation 1:18 (NIRV) I am the Living One. I was dead. But now look! I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys to Death and Hell. 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 (EASY) ‘God has won against death. He has destroyed it completely!’ ‘Death, you can no longer win! Death, you no longer have any power to hurt us!’ Death only has power to hurt us because of our sins. And it is the authority of God's Law that gives power to sins. But now we thank God! Because of our Lord Jesus Christ, we win against death and its power. John 10:27 (AMP) The sheep that are My own hear My voice and listen to Me; I know them, and they follow Me.

The Ultimate Winner: Jesus

In this episode, Jen and Crystal explore Jesus as the ultimate example of God’s love and goodness. Through various biblical accounts, they highlight how Jesus responded to different situations with compassion, grace, and unwavering faith. They also discuss the importance of trusting God, showing love in all circumstances, and being a reflection of His goodness in our daily lives. Hebrews 12:1-4 (TLB) Since we have such a huge crowd of men of faith watching us from the grandstands, let us strip off anything that slows us down or holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up; and let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us. Keep your eyes on Jesus, our leader and instructor. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterwards; and now he sits in the place of honor by the throne of God. If you want to keep from becoming fainthearted and weary, think about his patience as sinful men did such terrible things to him. After all, you have never yet struggled against sin and temptation until you sweat great drops of blood. John 5:19-20 (NIV) “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, and he will show him even greater works than these so that you will be amazed.” John 14:9-11 (NIV) Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. John 8:1-11 (NLT) Matthew 12:10-13 (NLT) Matthew 26:36-46 (NLT) 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (ERV) Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous, it does not brag, and it is not proud. Love is not rude, it is not selfish, and it cannot be made angry easily. Love does not remember wrongs done against it. Love is never happy when others do wrong, but it is always happy with the truth. Love never gives up on people. It never stops trusting, never loses hope, and never quits. Love will never end.

Everyday Winners: Kathy Ford

In this episode, our guest Kathy Ford opens up about her transformative journey through a challenging, fiery furnace experience. Her story highlights how God is present with us, even in the toughest times, and how we can emerge stronger on the other side. As a licensed therapist and entrepreneur, Kathy discusses the role of faith in navigating life's struggles, and shares practical steps for healing and personal growth. She underscores the power of scripture, the importance of community, and the need to take actionable steps toward change. Kathy's story serves as an inspiring reminder for listeners to face their challenges with faith and live life to the fullest. Kathyfordofficial.com Kathydford.com

Everyday Winners: 3 Hebrew Children

In this episode of The Winning Response, we dive into the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and their unwavering faith in the face of extreme pressure. Even when threatened with death, they refused to compromise, choosing to honor God above all else. As a result, He was with them in the fire and brought them through without even the smell of smoke. Their obedience not only led to their deliverance but also brought glory to God and sparked change in an entire nation. Tune in as we explore the power of standing firm in faith, even in life’s toughest trials! Hebrews 11: 32-33 (NIV) And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets, 33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. Daniel 1:5-7 (ERV) Daniel 1:11-20 (ERV) Daniel 2:17-18 (ERV) Daniel 2:48-49 (ERV) Daniel 3:12-25 (NIV) 12 But there are some Jews whom you have set over the affairs of the province of Babylon—Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego—who pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They neither serve your gods nor worship the image of gold you have set up.” 13 Furious with rage, Nebuchadnezzar summoned Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. So these men were brought before the king, 14 and Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the image of gold I have set up? 15 Now when you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, if you are ready to fall down and worship the image I made, very good. But if you do not worship it, you will be thrown immediately into a blazing furnace. Then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?” 16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us[c] from Your Majesty’s hand. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” 19 Then Nebuchadnezzar was furious with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and his attitude toward them changed. He ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual 20 and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. 21 So these men, wearing their robes, trousers, turbans and other clothes, were bound and thrown into the blazing furnace. 22 The king’s command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, 23 and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. 24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” 25 He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” Isaiah 43:2 (NIV) John 16:33 (NKJV) Daniel 3:26-30 (ERV)

Everyday Winners: Carolyn Hill

Carolyn Hill is our special guest on the podcast this week. Carolyn shares how her faith in God and her decision to honor Him kept her grounded as she lived her dream of being a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader. Carolynhill.net

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