In this episode of the Equipped Podcast titled "God Wants More Than a Superficial Relationship," hosts Michael and Teresa Blaes introduce the topic of prayer and its significance in the lives of believers during challenging times. They welcome their guest, Valarie Rocha, who has dedicated her life to prayer and is the author of the book "Kneeling at the Throne."

Teresa begins by emphasizing the importance of prayer and introducing Valarie. Valarie shares her lifelong commitment to prayer, the inspiration behind her book, and her journey in understanding her role as an intercessor. She explains that the book serves to empower others in their prayer life and outlines different aspects covered in it.

The discussion shifts to the common misconception among believers who feel unqualified to pray as intercessors. Valarie reassures them by explaining that prayer is simply a conversation with God and emphasizes the necessity of maintaining an ongoing dialogue with Him.

Valarie identifies "lack of time" as a major roadblock to prayer, countering that it's more about the intentionality of using time wisely. She provides practical advice for establishing a prayer routine, stressing the importance of being intentional like one would be in sustaining any relationship. Michael and Valarie discuss the importance of hearing God's voice, noting that the relationship should be two-sided, where believers not only talk to God but listen as well.

They explore the importance of group prayer, fellowship, and the support gained from praying with others. Michael shares his experiences and the value of communal prayer in their ministry. Valarie emphasizes the need for the spiritual discipline of prayer and how consistent engagement can enhance one’s relationship with God.

Near the end of the episode, the conversation touches on the nature of prayer in the context of a believer’s life amid the chaos of the world, encouraging listeners to keep their hearts set on God and to approach their relationship with Him sincerely.

Valarie concludes with a powerful prayer, expressing God's love for His people and inviting them to open their hearts to Him. She also provides her contact information for those wanting to connect further. The hosts wrap up by thanking Valarie and reiterating the importance of developing a genuine relationship with God through consistent prayer, encouraging listeners to seek deeper connections with Him.

The episode closes with a call to action for anyone considering writing a book, inviting them to reach out to Kadosh Media for assistance in publishing their works.

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In this episode titled "Equipping Yourself for Spiritual Warfare," hosts Michael and Teresa Blaes discuss the importance of understanding spiritual warfare for Christians. They begin by emphasizing that once an individual accepts Christ, they enter a battlefield against spiritual enemies. Teresa explains that being a follower of Christ makes one a target for the enemy, who has been active for centuries. However, she assures listeners that they are not powerless and have been given authority through Christ.

The hosts then outline a basic spiritual warfare plan, starting with understanding God's battle plan from the Bible, particularly Ephesians 6, which details putting on the armor of God. Michael reads from the ESV version of Ephesians 6:10-18, emphasizing the command to be strong in the Lord and the necessity of putting on the full armor to stand against the enemy. Teresa highlights that our struggle is not against fellow humans but against spiritual forces, and the hosts break down the hierarchy of spiritual adversaries mentioned in the scripture.

As they discuss each piece of armor, they elaborate on its significance:

1. Belt of Truth - Understanding and speaking the truth, as Jesus is the truth.
2. Breastplate of Righteousness - Righteousness comes from the Lord, not ourselves.
3. Shoes of Peace - The readiness to share the good news of the gospel.
4. Shield of Faith - Protecting against the enemy's attacks, often in the mind.
5. Helmet of Salvation - Ensuring confidence in one's salvation against doubts.
6. Sword of the Spirit - The only offensive weapon, which is the Word of God.

They also discuss the importance of prayer, encouraging listeners to pray in the spirit and maintain a running conversation with God. Michael highlights the power of prayer in spiritual warfare and reassures them that God hears all prayers, including simple conversations.

The next part of the episode involves confronting the enemy through prayer techniques, such as using phrases like "The Lord rebuke you" and calling out specific spirits if names are revealed to them. Teresa and Michael emphasize the importance of using God's authority, as humans cannot contend with dark forces on their own. They suggest binding up spirits, cutting off communication between them, and restoring peace.

The hosts conclude by reiterating the daily practice of arming oneself, taking authority over the enemy, and seeking spiritual protection. They encourage listeners to engage in personal prayers tailored to their needs and to praise God as part of their spiritual preparation.

Finally, they invite listeners to reach out with questions or prayer requests and express gratitude to their mentor, Sanda Allison, for teaching them about spiritual warfare. The episode closes with the announcement reminding listeners they can find more previous shows at the equipped podcast website.

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In the second episode of the equipped podcast, we talk about discipleship, what it is, what it is not, and why it is so vitally needed for the believer in these last days. In the third episode of the equipped podcast, we talk about what it means to be equipped for every good work. We speak to the calling that every believer has on their life, and what your next steps should be.

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In Episode 1 of the equipped podcast We dive in to the murky realm of
what does it mean to be equipped.  With so many conflicting ideas,
of what a Christian is, we unpack what is true and what is not about
following Christ in these times.

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In this very first episode of the equipped podcast, Michael and Teresa
discuss who they are, what the show is about, and what you can look
forward to in up coming episodes.

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