Write this Down! with Dot Bowen

Today Dot and Cara turn from the younger son to the older brother. Looking at Luke 15 and sharing insights from The Prodigal God by Tim Keller, they explore how we can “do all the right things” and still miss the Father’s heart. This Christmas, what if we let God expose both the prodigal and the older brother in us so we can receive His grace? Grab your Bible, a cozy drink, and maybe your Christmas hat too and settle in for this hope-filled conversation.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Intro (00:00)Start by writing down Luke 15:25-32 (0:14)It’s easy to forget what we have been saved from (3:14)Like the Pharisees, we forget we need a Savior  (7:00) Both sons were using the Father for their own sake (11:00)We think the story is about actions, but it's about their hearts (14:15)Remember the context of this story is the disciples and the Pharisees (19:00)Ask God to protect you from a judgmental heart (23:30)None of us deserve it or could earn it, but we get to receive the Father’s love (25:00)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse:  Luke 15:11-19 (ESV) ““Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’”The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller: https://amzn.to/44Qrj71

What does the prodigal son have to do with Christmas? In this episode, Dot and Cara look at Jesus’ parable in Luke 15 through the lens of the Christmas story and the “prodigal God” who lavishly gives us everything, even His own Son. They talk honestly about our desire to live life on our terms and the grace that awaits us when we turn back to the Father. This conversation will remind you that Jesus left heaven to bring you home, so grab your Bible, a cozy drink, and settle in with us.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Luke 15:11-19 (0:08)God was recklessly extravagant by giving us Jesus (3:39)We all have a bit of the older son and a bit of the younger son in us  (6:55)) The word ‘prodigal’ means recklessly extravagant (11:41)This story is a picture of God’s love for us through Jesus (13:00)The younger son doesn’t care about the Father’s provision (22:32)We tend to hide behind shame and guilt and can get comfortable there (24:39)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller: https://amzn.to/44Qrj71Scripture Verse:  Luke 15:11-19 (ESV) “And he said, “There was a man who had two sons.And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to[a] one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’

Reflecting on Galatians 4:4–5, Dot and Cara unpack the difference between chronos (our day-to-day, chronological time) and kairos (God’s appointed, intersecting moments) and share honestly about their fear of wasting time, singleness, and aging. This conversation invites you to loosen your grip on the clock and trust that God has not forgotten you. Grab your Bible and a journal and settle in with us! Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Galatians 4:4-5 (0:08)God brought the idea of time to Dot and Cara simultaneously (4:07)Time isn’t passing us by, we are moving through time (7:40) Moses’ life shows us that time is not wasted even when we don’t understand (11:10)God’s timing is perfect (15:35)Jesus had to be born at the time He was to fulfill prophecy (20:27)Our faith is our response to what God is doing (22:59)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse:  Galatians 4:4-5 (ESV) “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.”Jamie Winship's "Time Isn’t Running Out" video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABuYaHGx438

Today Dot and Cara are talking about the life-changing practice of gratitude, not just as a holiday tradition, but as a daily spiritual discipline. Starting with Paul’s words in  1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, they share how giving thanks protects our hearts from bitterness and helps us remember God’s goodness in difficult seasons. If you’ve struggled to find something to be thankful for this year, this conversation is for you. Grab your Bible and a journal, and join us as we discuss what it means to live with a heart of gratitude.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down 1Thessalonians 5:16-18 (0:08)The practice of gratitude has helped Cara more than any other discipline (3:00)You can acknowledge when things aren’t good and give thanks simultaneously (6:11)We can give thanks because God always meets us where we are (9:35) Remembrance is a key to gratefulness (13:08)You can practice something you don’t fully understand (18:54)You don’t have to wait until you feel like it (20:54)Ask God to help you see what to be thankful for (22:50)Cara is finding thankfulness in quiet Thanksgivings with just her mom and dad (27:11)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse:  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV) “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Confession isn’t just admitting you did something wrong, it’s about seeing your sin through God’s eyes and agreeing with Him about it. In this conversation, Dot and Cara talk about what true confession looks like, how it differs from repentance, and why it’s one of the most freeing spiritual practices we can embrace. Together they explore how confession restores closeness with God, why it’s meant to bring unity rather than shame, and how it helps us live the abundant life Jesus promised. Grab your Bible, a journal, and your coffee, and lean in for this tender conversation on the beauty of confession.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Psalm 32:1-5 (0:08)Confession is seeing your sin through the eyes of God (2:23)Repentance is turning from your sin (4:43)Confession releases the Holy Spirit within us to empower repentance (9:45) God’s rules are for our flourishing (13:10)Is confession just between you and God? (17:29)Never ask forgiveness from someone who doesn’t know you’ve hurt them (18:24)Confession to another person should always  bring about unity (21:23)These spiritual disciplines bring about the abundant life Christ has for us (24:50)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse:  Psalm 32:1-5 (ESV) “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven,    whose sin is covered.Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity,    and in whose spirit there is no deceit.For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away    through my groaning all day long.For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;    my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. I acknowledged my sin to you,    and I did not cover my iniquity;I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,”    and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.”

What does it mean to fast, and why does Scripture tie it so closely to prayer? In this episode, Dot and Cara open Matthew 4:1–4 and talk about fasting not as a way to manipulate God, but as a way to draw near, remove distractions, and realign our hearts with His will. Together they explore how biblical fasting differs from today’s health trends, how hunger can point us back to prayer, and how this practice can tune our hearts to trust God more deeply. Grab your Bible, a journal, and a cup of coffee, and join this conversation about dependence, desire, and hearing from God!Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Matthew 4:1-4 (0:08)Today we are talking about the spiritual practice of fasting (0:50)Spiritual disciplines help us pull us away from the noise of the world (3:33)So often, we try to be God (7:45) Praying and fasting purify your heart and realign it (10:59)Fasting is about removing things that take your time/desire away from God (14:04)When we get hungry, what are we going to fill that desire with? (15:15)Both practices are guardrails we can put in place (19:28)Fasting and prayer precede big moments in the Bible (20:40)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Matthew 4:1-4 (ESV) “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written,“‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Sabbath is more than just a day off, it’s an invitation to trust, delight, and remember who God is. Today Dot and Cara read from Genesis 2:1–3 and trace Sabbath through Scripture to Jesus. They talk about rest as resistance to self-trust, delighting in God’s gifts, and how a 24-hour rhythm can shape the other six days, whether your “delight” looks like quiet study, planting flowers, or cheering for your favorite team. Pull up a chair, grab your Bible and coffee, and lean into rest with us! Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Genesis 2:1-3 (0:08)Today we are talking about the spiritual discipline of rest (0:43)What does it look like for Christians to observe the Sabbath? (3:59)Sabbath is a practical weekly opportunity to trust God (6:34) Sabbath is meant for us to enjoy and delight in God’s creation (11:45)Sabbath is spiritual, it’s not just taking the day “off” (16:20)The Sabbath is for you, so you can enjoy what God is doing in your life (20:01)Sabbath is all about trusting God and stop striving for control in life (22:30)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Genesis 2:1-3 (ESV) “Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.  And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.”

What does it really mean to live with bold faith? In this conversation, Dot and Cara look at the story of Peter in Acts 4 and talk about what changed in him after he denied Christ and then witnessed the resurrection. They unpack why bold faith isn’t about personality or volume—it’s about living out what you believe and being willing to share the good news about your rescued life when those around you get curious. Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee, and join in the conversation!Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Acts 4:10-13 (0:09)Peter became incredibly bold after denying Christ and the resurrection (2:16)People are intimidated to get into conversations about God and Scripture (6:09)If God’s rescued you and saved you, you’ve got a story to tell (8:37) Wherever your little “world” is, that’s where and how God wants to use you  (13:47)Those around you will see the fruit of how you are living (17:30)Bold faith is telling others about the one who rescued you (21:00)Some people in your life really want to hear about what God has done for you  (24:00)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Acts 4:10-13 (ESV)"Let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone.  And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.

Dating is complicated at any age, but what does it look like to date in a way that honors Christ? In this conversation, Dot and Cara talk about what it means to pursue relationships with integrity, purity, and trust in God’s timing. From navigating red flags to letting go of the pressure to figure it all out, they remind us that we are defined by our relationship status with God, and no one else! Grab a cup of coffee and your Bible and settle in with us as we talk all about dating today.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down 1 Timothy 4:12 (0:08)Dating in today’s culture is difficult (2:00)You have to navigate between judging too harshly and giving too much grace (6:02)Whether you’re 16, 26, 36, or 66 these principles still apply  (10:36) Christlike dating looks like giving God the last word (16:23)Christlike dating looks like not letting dating define you (17:05)Dating is not about fulfilling your needs (20:21)Cara has helped Dot see the lies that single people often believe (23:15)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: 1 Timothy 4:12 (NASB1995)  Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example [a]of those who believe.

How do we know if it’s the Holy Spirit speaking or just our own thoughts? In today’s conversation, Dot and Cara unpack a common question believers wrestle with: discerning God’s voice. Looking at John 14:16–18, they explore the role of the Holy Spirit and the peace that comes from obedience even when we’re unsure. Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee, and join the conversation as Dot and Cara remind us that hearing from God is rooted in an ongoing relationship, not perfection.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down John 14:16-18 (0:10)How do I know if it’s the Holy Spirit or just my own thoughts? (1:07)How do you discern God’s voice? (3:46)It’s okay to act on what the Spirit is telling you imperfectly (5:45) Always ask God, “is this true?” (9:30)God, if you want me to say something to them, have them bring it up. (12:04)Sometimes it’s not what’s wrong or right, but what is the wise thing to do? (16:54)Just start the conversation: “God, this is what I think you’re telling me to do...” (20:17)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: John 14:16-18 (NASB1995) “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”Check out the book, Familiar Stranger by Tyler Staton: https://amzn.to/4q6XPLnAndy Stanley’s book, The Best Question Ever: https://amzn.to/4hesGli

How do you balance ambition and career with trusting God and finding contentment? In this honest conversation, Dot and Cara unpack Paul’s words in Philippians and the misunderstood concept of “doing all things through Christ.” They explore what it looks like to be driven and ambitious while keeping your heart’s true motivation in check. Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee, and join the conversation.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Philippians 4:11-13 (0:14)How do I balance ambition and career with trusting God and being content? (2:35)Jesus was purposeful in his mission, but also made time for people and prayer (4:47)No one ever ends their race wishing they had worked more (7:32) Not every open door is a door that God has opened (9:42)We have to check our hearts, are you serving God or money? (14:28)Pray and ask God to help you keep pure motives and a pure mindset (16:33)We need to be very careful of our motives (19:05)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Philippians 4:11-13 (NASB1995) “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

Today Dot and Cara pause to reflect on the days following Charlie Kirk’s assassination and what God might be saying to each of us at this moment. Anchored in 2 Timothy 4:6–8, they talk about Charlie’s memorial service, Erika’s bold example of faith, and keeping their “why” nearby as our culture feels increasingly hostile to truth. This conversation is an invitation to examine your heart, hold tight to Scripture, and move forward by trusting the power of the Holy Spirit. Grab your Bible, journal, a warm drink, and settle in with us.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down 2 Timothy 4:6-8 (0:14)At every moment in history when evil looks like it has won, it hasn’t (5:50)Persecution made the early Church explode with growth (8:06)Ask God, what are you teaching me through this event? (12:05) Don’t be apologetic for the Truth (13:00)Man can’t manufacture that kind of peace (14:40)Pray that the seeds that have been planted will take root and grow (17:02)Keep your ‘why’ nearby (21:09)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: 2 Timothy 4:6-8 (NASB1995) “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.”

Anxiety and fear can easily overwhelm our hearts, leaving us wondering where our faith went when worry takes over. Today, Dot and Cara talk honestly about handling fear as a believer, why “what ifs” never bring peace, and how God’s Word invites us to trust Him with both today and tomorrow. Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee, and lean in with us.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Matthew 6:31-34 (0:14)What’s the difference between fear and anxiety?  (3:02)Both of these emotions are a response to “what if?”  (6:07)Anxiety is essentially choosing to  struggle through a potential situation twice (9:31) How Corrie Ten Boom handled fear during World War II (11:38)What does it look like practically to deal with fear/anxiety as a believer?  (13:52)What we think plays a huge role in what we feel (17:21)How Cara practically uses Scripture to combat fear (19:58)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Matthew 6:31-34 (NASB1995) “Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

When someone you love doesn’t share your faith, how do you stay faithful to God while staying close to them? Today Dot and Cara unpack 2 Corinthians 6:14 in context, discussing what “bound together” does and doesn’t mean. They get practical about close friendships, marriage to a nonbeliever, and setting wise boundaries. You’ll hear how to be a light without becoming a judge, how to let God be God, and how to participate with God through prayer! Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee and join us.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down 2 Corinthians 6:14 (0:14)This verse has been used in judgmental, unloving ways (1:45)How do we balance going to the lost with this command? (4:59)How should we define “close” relationships? (6:31) When we love something, we naturally share it (11:30)When a believer is married to an unbeliever, they  have different goals (15:50)Walk in such a way that Jesus looks attractive to other people (18:53)Engage in the power of prayer (21:25)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: 2 Corinthians 6:14 (NASB1995) Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?

When your faith feels flat, what does it look like to draw near to God? Today Dot and Cara unpack James 4:8, talking about paying attention to your desire to be near Him, finding simple, life-giving prayers to pray, and choosing discipline and habits over your feelings. Grab your Bible, journal, and a cup of coffee, and be encouraged that God is only a prayer away today! Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down James 4:8 (0:14)Sometimes our daily walk gets boring (2:45)Pay attention to the tension and think about what you enjoy (6:45)Dot has a habit of praying, “God, don’t let me miss you.” (8:45) Ask God if there’s anything in your heart or life between you and Him (12:42)Choose discipline over your feelings (14:27)We don’t have to stay close to God, He stays close to you (18:35)God is only a prayer away (20:25)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: James 4:8 (NASB1995) “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

What does it mean that the Bible is “living and active”? In this conversation, Dot and Cara wrestle with Hebrews 4:12 and explore why Scripture is far more than a book of rules. They share how God’s Word reveals His heart, brings life, and even exposes what’s hidden in our own hearts. Don’t miss Dot’s personal story at the end, a profound reminder of God’s love that will stick with you. Grab your Bible, coffee, (and maybe a tissue today!) and join the conversation.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Hebrews 4:12 (0:14)What does it mean that the Bible is “alive?” (1:30)Look within Scripture to find God - not yourself (5:30)Reading God’s Word exposes the intentions of our hearts (8:34)Jesus is the Word (10:34) We go to everyone else for words of advice, we should go to the Word first (13:18)We can read the Bible for decades and still have the Word hit us differently (19:06)We have never audibly heard our heavenly Father say, “I love you,” but we can read it in His Word. (22:38)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Hebrews 4:12 (NASB1995) “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”Revelation 19:11 (NASB1995) “And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. His eyes are a flame of fire, and on His head are many diadems; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself. He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.”

How can you be sure of your salvation? In this episode, Dot and Cara tackle one of the most foundational questions of faith: How do I know I’m saved? Together they walk through Scripture, their personal stories, and the role of the Holy Spirit, reminding us that salvation is not earned but received as a gift of grace. If you’ve ever wrestled with doubt or wondered if you’ve done “enough,” this conversation will point you back to Christ alone. Grab your Bible, and a cup of coffee, and settle in with us for today’s episode.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Ephesians 2:8-10 (0:14)How do I know I am saved? (1:06)Being secure in your salvation brings confidence (2:52)This question is usually based on not feeling like you’ve done “enough”(7:30)There will be some evidence of life change  (11:00) The pastor’s words that have stuck with Dot on this subject for years (14:50)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Ephesians 2:8-10 (NASB1995) “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”

Are you in a season where you’re desperate to know what God has for your next step? Today Dot and Cara open Matthew 10:26–31 and talk about what it looks like to trust God’s will when the future feels unclear. With a brand-new studio setup, there’s a fresh energy in the room as they record face-to-face. From wrestling with fear and control to learning how to walk in the light with confidence, this episode invites you to rest in God’s leading. Grab your Bible, your journal, and a cup of coffee, and settle in with us.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Matthew 10:26-31 (0:14)It’s easy to put ourselves in neutral as Christians and not check in with God (1:54)God’s will for us is to know Him (5:45)Focus on the Lord in your darkness, lean in, listen, and learn (9:28)Don’t take to the grave the things God has taught you (14:13) If you want to know God’s will, pray and be patient, then move forward (16:31)Don’t let fear of making the wrong move paralyze you (19:28)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Matthew 10:26-31 (NASB1995) “Therefore do not fear them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops. Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.”

“We don’t see things as they are, we see things as we are.” Today we’re revisiting a conversation on the life-changing impact of perspective. Cara and Dot unpack how seeing life through God’s light can transform us emotionally, spiritually, and even physically. As we step into a new school year and transition from summer to fall, this episode offers fresh encouragement for bringing light into dark places. Grab your coffee and settle in for this uplifting discussion! Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Matthew 6:22-23 (0:14)There are two ways to look at things; through the lens of light or of darkness (4:09)“We see things not as they are, but as we are.” (5:54)We try to play God instead of going to God and asking Him what is really going on (14:04)Only the Holy Spirit can tell us what is true (17:13) Choosing a healthy perspective is sometimes moment by moment (20:12)If you are being tempted to focus on darkness, it’s ok to put a boundary up (30:35)Go to God and pray, “Is what I am seeing real/true?” (33:30)We approach things based on our limited perspective and knowledge (36:06)There is danger in focusing so much on the dark that our eyes adjust and become comfortable in darkness. (38:30)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Matthew 6:22-23 “The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!”

We’re re-airing this listener-favorite today! Dot and Cara explore how King David’s quickness to recognize and address his sins provides an example for our own walk with God. Though known as shepherd, warrior, and king, David’s life was characterized by humility, confession, and repentance. Don’t we all want to be like David- a people after God’s own heart? Pour yourself a fresh cup of coffee and join us as we revisit what David’s story teaches us about our relationship with our heavenly Father.Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Psalm 61:1-4 (0:14)Let’s take a look at David’s backstory (4:15)We misunderstand true repentance (9:00)There is a difference between confession and repentance (13:10)We aren’t really concerned about how our sin separates us from God (16:45)David knew his place, he knew he wasn’t The King (26:45)David’s heart was what was truly attractive about David (27:28)Sin creates a breech in our intimacy and fellowship with God (31:48)Ask God, is there anything coming between us? (36:02)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Psalm 61:104Hear my cry, O God;    listen to my prayer.From the ends of the earth I call to you,    I call as my heart grows faint;    lead me to the rock that is higher than I.For you have been my refuge,    a strong tower against the foe.I long to dwell in your tent forever    and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.