<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[Rise & Shine with Celeste]]></title><description><![CDATA[Subscribe now and receive my exclusive guide, "Unlock Your True Identity," along with reflections on faith, resilience, and life’s messy middle—because it’s never too late to become who God created you to be.]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com</link><image><url>https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png</url><title>Rise &amp; Shine with Celeste</title><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com</link></image><generator>Substack</generator><lastBuildDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 11:28:51 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><copyright><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></copyright><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><webMaster><![CDATA[celestesowder@substack.com]]></webMaster><itunes:owner><itunes:email><![CDATA[celestesowder@substack.com]]></itunes:email><itunes:name><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></itunes:author><googleplay:owner><![CDATA[celestesowder@substack.com]]></googleplay:owner><googleplay:email><![CDATA[celestesowder@substack.com]]></googleplay:email><googleplay:author><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></googleplay:author><itunes:block><![CDATA[Yes]]></itunes:block><item><title><![CDATA[Influence, Impact, & Income: What I am Learning as an Entrepreneur]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/influence-impact-and-income-what</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/influence-impact-and-income-what</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2025 15:27:26 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/166720363/2a509ab928dd6ced217db663c0c53acf.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app.</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Don’t Despise Small Beginnings]]></title><description><![CDATA[Reclaiming Your Voice, One Faithful Step at a Time]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/dont-despise-small-beginnings</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/dont-despise-small-beginnings</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:01:18 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/166590523/b9335f7ca29c15f65832e403edeb45fa.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Have you ever felt the weight of silence holding you back, keeping you from stepping into your true purpose? Or perhaps you've struggled with self-doubt, wondering if your voice truly matters? &#127775; </p><p>Today, I want to share an inspiring message about breaking free from those chains, reclaiming your voice, and embracing the power of small beginnings. Let's dive into this transformative journey together. &#128330;&#65039;</p><h2>The Power of Small Beginnings</h2><p>&#8220;Don&#8217;t despise small beginnings.&#8221; These words have been resonating deeply with me lately. They remind us that every significant journey starts with a single step. Often, we underestimate the importance of those initial, seemingly insignificant actions, but they lay the groundwork for the bigger things to come. For me, it began with saying "yes" to going live online&#8212;a small, faithful step that opened doors I never imagined possible. &#127897;&#65039;</p><p>God&#8217;s word is living and revealing, unique in every season of our lives. What may seem small and unimportant now could be the very thing that transforms your future. So, if you&#8217;re hesitating or doubting yourself, remember this: bold, faith-filled steps, even small ones, carry you closer to your God-given purpose. &#128170;</p><h2>Understanding Birth Assignments</h2><p>One of the profound lessons I&#8217;ve recently learned is about "birth assignments." God has woven purpose, calling, and unique gifts into our DNA. However, there&#8217;s a very real enemy that tries to assign counterfeit identities and obstacles to us. For me, that counterfeit assignment was silence and isolation. It kept me in bondage for years, making me believe that my voice didn&#8217;t matter. But God says otherwise. He created us for boldness, strength, and influence. &#127775;</p><p>The journey of breaking free from the enemy's lies and embracing God&#8217;s truth about who we are isn&#8217;t always easy. It requires faith, resilience, and the willingness to step into the unknown. Are you ready to reclaim your voice and embrace your true identity? If so, let&#8217;s journey together. &#128588;</p><h2>A Dumpster Fire or a Sweet Aroma?</h2><p>Here&#8217;s a powerful insight God revealed to me during worship: &#8220;The aroma of a dumpster fire is more pleasing to my nostrils than incense burning on a self-righteous altar.&#8221; &#128293; This revelation cut deep. It reminded me that God doesn&#8217;t delight in pretense or ticking religious boxes. What He desires is authenticity and surrender.</p><p>For years, I tried to fit into cultural expectations, making my life seem perfect on the outside while my spirit suffered in silence. But God calls us to be bold, authentic, and obedient out of love&#8212;not out of obligation. He delights in the raw, unfiltered versions of ourselves, the ones He created us to be. &#128150;</p><h2>Breaking Generational Cycles</h2><p>In Deuteronomy, we read about blessings that extend for a thousand generations. That promise is for you and your family. But someone has to stand up and break the cycles of pain, silence, and bondage. Are you willing to be the cycle breaker? To speak boldly, walk in spiritual authority, and pass on a legacy of freedom and purpose? &#127793;</p><p>Generational blessings are real, and so are generational curses. But when you step into your God-given authority, you can break the chains of the past and create a new path for your children and future generations. This is your time to rise. &#10024;</p><h2>Walking in Your Birth Assignment</h2><p>Isaiah 61 speaks of a mission: to proclaim good news, heal the brokenhearted, and set captives free. That mission isn&#8217;t just for Jesus&#8212;it&#8217;s for us as co-heirs with Christ. We are called to make a difference, to use our voices to bring light to the darkness. &#127749;</p><p>For years, I was silent. I believed the lies that my voice didn&#8217;t matter. But God had a different plan. He gave me a bold voice and a vision to speak on stages, to help others reclaim their voices, and to disrupt the status quo for His Kingdom. If you feel that same calling to step up, to speak out, and to make a difference, know that you&#8217;re not alone. This is your season of voice reclamation. &#127908;</p><h2>Join a Sisterhood of Empowerment</h2><p>Are you ready to take the next step? To work alongside a community of women who will support, encourage, and collaborate with you? Together, we can amplify your voice, refine your message, and create a lasting impact. &#128149;</p><ul><li><p><strong>Daily Power Hours:</strong> Join us every morning to co-work, strategize, and hold each other accountable. It&#8217;s proven that working in a supportive group increases your chances of success to 95%! &#128640;</p></li><li><p><strong>Voice Reclamation:</strong> Let&#8217;s uncover your authentic voice and break the chains of silence that have held you back.</p></li><li><p><strong>Tech &amp; Strategy Support:</strong> I&#8217;ll help you navigate digital tools and ecosystems to amplify your message and reach your audience effectively.</p></li></ul><p>If you&#8217;re ready to join this journey, visit <a href="https://www.thesoulsisterproject.com/ssp-power-hours">The Soul Sister Project</a> and learn more about how we can empower each other to thrive. &#129419;</p><h2>A Final Encouragement</h2><p>Friend, don&#8217;t despise small beginnings. God sees your efforts, your faithfulness, and your willingness to step out in obedience. Remember, He delights in you&#8212;not in who you try to be, but in the person He created you to be. &#128330;&#65039;</p><p>As Psalm 32:8-9 says, &#8220;I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle.&#8221; Let&#8217;s walk this out together in faith and boldness. &#128170;</p><p>What step will you take today toward reclaiming your voice? Are you ready to embrace your purpose and break the cycle? Let&#8217;s start this journey together. &#128150;</p><h3>&#128156; Celeste</h3><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/?utm_source=substack&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=share&amp;action=share&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Share Rise &amp; Shine with Celeste&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/?utm_source=substack&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=share&amp;action=share"><span>Share Rise &amp; Shine with Celeste</span></a></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/dont-despise-small-beginnings/comments&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Leave a comment&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/dont-despise-small-beginnings/comments"><span>Leave a comment</span></a></p><p></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tell Him Everything; Then Peace]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/tell-him-everything-then-peace-e89</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/tell-him-everything-then-peace-e89</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 11 Mar 2025 13:41:53 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/158843602/1d6b6c448eed11ed411dffa1a5cd7026.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Tell Him Everything, Then Peace</strong></h2><h3><strong>What Season Is This?</strong></h3><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Good Morning, Friends!</strong></h3><p>I almost didn't go live today. I almost convinced myself that it didn&#8217;t matter, that I could just skip it. But all I kept hearing in my spirit was: <strong>&#8220;Tell them everything, then peace.&#8221;</strong></p><p>And so here I am.</p><p>Maybe you&#8217;ve been in a season like that too&#8212;where showing up feels hard, where the noise of life drowns out the still, small voice you used to hear so clearly. I&#8217;ll be honest, I don&#8217;t know exactly what this season is, but I do know that God is in it.</p><h3><strong>Scriptural Foundation</strong></h3><blockquote><p><strong>Psalm 139:23-24 (TPT)</strong></p><p><em>&#8220;God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares. See if there is any path of pain I&#8217;m walking on, and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting ways&#8212;the path that brings me back to You.&#8221;</em></p></blockquote><p>I don&#8217;t have to search myself to figure out what&#8217;s wrong. I don&#8217;t have to dissect every anxious thought. God is the One who searches me, who finds the pain, who leads me to where I need to be. That&#8217;s a relief, isn&#8217;t it?</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h3><ul><li><p><strong>Spiritual Insight:</strong> Sometimes, we don&#8217;t have to have the answers&#8212;we just have to be willing to be led.</p></li><li><p><strong>Personal Story Impact:</strong> This season feels like a stripping away, a pruning. And yet, I trust that God is making room for new growth.</p></li><li><p><strong>Scripture Application:</strong> When I pray Psalm 139, I realize that I don't have to fix myself&#8212;God does the searching, the refining, the leading.</p></li><li><p><strong>Practical Action Step:</strong> Start your day by simply telling God everything. No filter. No holding back. Then rest in the peace that follows.</p></li><li><p><strong>Emotional Transformation:</strong> There&#8217;s freedom in realizing we are not meant to have it all figured out. Our job is to trust, to follow, to abide.</p></li></ul><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Personal Reflection: When Everything Feels Uprooted</strong></h3><p>Lately, I&#8217;ve felt uprooted. Have you ever felt that way? Like everything that once gave you stability is being shaken?</p><p>I have a plant in my living room that was thriving&#8212;until it wasn&#8217;t. My daughter, Grace, looked up what to do and did some &#8220;surgery&#8221; on it. She cut it all the way back, down to nothing but sticks. She placed the cuttings in water, and they are now thriving. The plant in the soil, though? It&#8217;s still bare. But&#8212;there&#8217;s new growth sprouting from the base.</p><p>That&#8217;s what God does with us, isn&#8217;t it? He prunes. He uproots. And even when we feel like we&#8217;ve been stripped bare, He is still working beneath the surface.</p><blockquote><p><strong>John 15:2 (NIV)</strong></p><p><em>&#8220;He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.&#8221;</em></p></blockquote><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Trusting Him with the Outcome</strong></h3><p>I&#8217;ll be honest&#8212;right now, I don&#8217;t like people. Not because of anything specific, but just&#8230; people. I feel anxious in public. I struggle to leave my house. I wrestle with spending money when I don&#8217;t know what the future holds. This is not who I used to be. And yet, God is still here. Even in this discomfort.</p><p>Sometimes, trusting God means letting Him take us to places we don&#8217;t want to go. But He is leading us to peace, even if the road feels rocky.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Psalm 32:8-9 (TPT)</strong></p><p><em>&#8220;I hear the Lord saying, &#8216;I will stay close to you, instructing and guiding you along the pathway for your life. I will advise you along the way and lead you forth with my eyes as your guide. So don&#8217;t make it difficult; don&#8217;t be stubborn when I take you where you&#8217;ve not been before. Don&#8217;t make Me tug you and pull you along. Just come with Me!&#8217;&#8221;</em></p></blockquote><p>Just come with Me.</p><p>That&#8217;s it. That&#8217;s the invitation. Not to strive. Not to have all the answers. Just to come.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>For an Audience of One</strong></h3><p>This morning, as I sat wrestling with whether or not to show up, God reminded me: <strong>&#8220;Tell them everything, then peace.&#8221;</strong></p><p>What if peace is waiting on the other side of honesty? What if the only thing standing between us and the comfort of His presence is our own hesitation to be real with Him?</p><p>I don&#8217;t want to be a &#8220;What now?&#8221; person. I want to be a &#8220;Yes, Lord&#8221; person.</p><p>How about you?</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Final Reflection &amp; Call to Engagement</strong></h3><blockquote><p><em>Have you ever felt uprooted? Stripped down to nothing? How did God show up for you in that season?</em></p></blockquote><p>I&#8217;d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment, share your heart, and let&#8217;s walk this road together.</p><p><strong>Praying for you,</strong><br>Celeste</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[When God Gives You the Vision, but Not the Roadmap]]></title><description><![CDATA[Taking Action in Faith]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-god-gives-you-the-vision-but</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-god-gives-you-the-vision-but</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:29:05 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/158765608/544bfb61fe6b82c36d3a21c399be3ceb.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>You Have the Vision&#8212;Now What?</strong></h2><p>Let&#8217;s be real&#8212;stepping into something new is exhilarating but also terrifying. You know you&#8217;re called to build something bigger, but the roadmap? It&#8217;s nowhere in sight. And that can feel paralyzing.</p><p>If that&#8217;s you, I want to remind you: <strong>You don&#8217;t need to see the whole staircase to take the first step.</strong></p><p>Many of the most impactful entrepreneurs, faith leaders, and visionaries didn&#8217;t start with a detailed plan&#8212;they started with a conviction and a willingness to move forward, even when the path wasn&#8217;t clear. The key is learning to trust the process and take aligned action, knowing that God will reveal the next step when it&#8217;s time.</p><div><hr></div><h2><strong>1. Faith Over Clarity: Biblical Leaders Who Moved Without a Map</strong></h2><h3><strong>Abraham: Called Without Directions</strong></h3><ul><li><p><strong>Scripture Reference:</strong> <em>&#8220;By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.&#8221;</em> (Hebrews 11:8, ESV)</p></li><li><p><strong>Takeaway:</strong> Abraham moved <strong>before</strong> he had all the answers. Your clarity will come through obedience, not before it.</p></li></ul><h3><strong>Peter: Walking on Water Requires Focus</strong></h3><ul><li><p><strong>Scripture Reference:</strong> <em>&#8220;Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, &#8216;Lord, save me!&#8217;&#8221;</em> (Matthew 14:29-30, NIV)</p></li><li><p><strong>Takeaway:</strong> The moment Peter focused on the storm, he started sinking. Keep your eyes on Jesus, not the uncertainty.</p></li></ul><h3><strong>God Orders Your Steps, Even If You Don&#8217;t See Them All</strong></h3><ul><li><p><strong>Scripture Reference:</strong> <em>&#8220;The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.&#8221;</em> (Proverbs 16:9, ESV)</p></li><li><p><strong>Takeaway:</strong> Your responsibility is to take the step in front of you. God is responsible for the long-term direction.</p></li></ul><div><hr></div><h2><strong>2. Faith and AI? Using Technology to Support Your Calling</strong></h2><p>Many entrepreneurs hesitate to embrace AI because it feels too &#8220;new&#8221; or &#8220;complicated.&#8221; But think of AI as just another tool&#8212;like the printing press once was or the internet when it first arrived.</p><h3><strong>How AI Can Support, Not Replace, Your Vision</strong></h3><p>&#9989; <strong>Automate busywork</strong> so you can focus on impact. </p><p>&#9989; <strong>Refine your ideas</strong> when clarity is lacking. </p><p>&#9989; <strong>Expand your reach</strong> through AI-powered content creation.</p><p>The bottom line? <strong>AI isn&#8217;t the replacement for your vision&#8212;it&#8217;s the amplifier.</strong></p><div><hr></div><h2><strong>3. Taking the First Step Without the Whole Plan</strong></h2><h3><strong>Step 1: Start With What You DO Know</strong></h3><ul><li><p>Instead of waiting for perfect clarity, ask: <em>What&#8217;s one small step I can take today?</em></p></li><li><p><strong>Example:</strong> If launching an online business feels overwhelming, start by setting up a simple landing page.</p></li></ul><h3><strong>Step 2: Learn as You Go</strong></h3><ul><li><p>You don&#8217;t have to be an AI expert or branding guru before you start.</p></li><li><p><strong>Example:</strong> Start using AI for content ideas, then refine your skills over time.</p></li></ul><h3><strong>Step 3: Surround Yourself with the Right People</strong></h3><ul><li><p><strong>Scripture Reference:</strong> <em>&#8220;Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.&#8221;</em> (Proverbs 15:22, NIV)</p></li><li><p><strong>Action:</strong> Find mentors, peers, or a mastermind group to guide you.</p></li></ul><h3><strong>Step 4: Done is Better Than Perfect</strong></h3><ul><li><p>Perfectionism is just fear in disguise. Start, refine, improve later.</p></li></ul><h3><strong>Step 5: Trust That Provision Follows Obedience</strong></h3><ul><li><p>When God gives a vision, He provides resources at the right time.</p></li><li><p><strong>Example:</strong> The right clients, financial provision, and opportunities will align <em>after</em> you take action.</p></li></ul><div><hr></div><h2><strong>4. Fear is a Liar&#8212;Here&#8217;s How to Silence It</strong></h2><h3><strong>Name the Fear</strong></h3><ul><li><p>Are you afraid of failure? Of looking foolish? Of not being &#8220;ready&#8221;?</p></li></ul><h3><strong>Combat Fear with Truth</strong></h3><ul><li><p><em>&#8220;For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.&#8221;</em> (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV)</p></li><li><p><em>&#8220;I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.&#8221;</em> (Philippians 4:13, NKJV)</p></li></ul><h3><strong>Reframe Setbacks as Learning</strong></h3><ul><li><p>Instead of seeing obstacles as failures, view them as data to help you pivot.</p></li></ul><div><hr></div><h2><strong>5. What&#8217;s Your Next Step? (And a Gift to Help You Take It!)</strong></h2><p>Here&#8217;s the truth: You&#8217;re not stuck. You&#8217;re just one aligned action away from momentum.</p><h2>&#128156;Celeste</h2><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-god-gives-you-the-vision-but?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Share&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-god-gives-you-the-vision-but?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share"><span>Share</span></a></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">Thanks for reading Rise &amp; Shine with Celeste! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Leadership vs. Management: not the same thing.]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/leadership-vs-management-not-the</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/leadership-vs-management-not-the</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:58:15 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/158514400/7cd374eb696670bcc14fe0df44d03a6f.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Building, or Planning to Build? That is the Question.]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/building-or-planning-to-build-that</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/building-or-planning-to-build-that</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 05 Mar 2025 14:12:28 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/158438066/b37b39a6f8b1989a06b8e77bdf9b8e7c.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Purpose or Ego? You tell me.]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/purpose-or-ego-you-tell-me</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/purpose-or-ego-you-tell-me</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:09:33 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157962453/d637df2548271e2317025cbbec915d46.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[For Such a Time as This: Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/for-such-a-time-as-this-discerning</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/for-such-a-time-as-this-discerning</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 25 Feb 2025 14:16:30 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157883817/32ea7b014f2595b96e4d74525a506fc5.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[2/24/25: Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/22425-discerning-the-voice-of-god</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/22425-discerning-the-voice-of-god</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 24 Feb 2025 14:08:11 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157808382/235d3605f36ce5ebfd3b96a182eeaf2d.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Blueprint? Yes, and No: Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/blueprint-yes-and-no-discerning-the</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/blueprint-yes-and-no-discerning-the</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:11:11 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157618514/0fa11dbaf3756ef6ab4c51a1af97b935.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Endurance Season: Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/the-endurance-season-discerning-the</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/the-endurance-season-discerning-the</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 20 Feb 2025 14:24:05 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157547082/eb7a846599622d1071ba78b36bc32d7e.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[I Don’t Need to Know it All: Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/i-dont-need-to-know-it-all-discerning</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/i-dont-need-to-know-it-all-discerning</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 19 Feb 2025 14:17:21 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157462247/c13f3d22f747ff470aa8a0bd519f5640.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Finding Joy in the Struggle: Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/finding-joy-in-the-struggle-discerning</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/finding-joy-in-the-struggle-discerning</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:20:03 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157389190/cb3b2877e6f58e5129019d0f4bdd8287.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Walking on Purpose with Purpose: Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/walking-on-purpose-with-purpose-discerning</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/walking-on-purpose-with-purpose-discerning</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:01:35 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157317487/a73df25fcd4f266af8a596ad6e180719.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tell Him Everything, Then Peace]]></title><description><![CDATA[Breaking Cycles, Discerning His Voice, and Finding True Peace]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/tell-him-everything-then-peace</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/tell-him-everything-then-peace</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 14 Feb 2025 14:03:38 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157071198/685c0d0ef5b4f08707c53fc6cfcc8335.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><hr></div><h3><strong>Good Morning, Friends!</strong></h3><p>How&#8217;s everyone doing today? I have to be honest&#8212;this morning was a struggle. I didn&#8217;t spend as much time in study as I&#8217;d hoped, but I know God is speaking. And I wonder&#8230; is anyone else in a season where He&#8217;s making something apparent that you weren&#8217;t seeing before? Where you&#8217;re suddenly recognizing a pattern you&#8217;ve lived with for far too long?</p><p>Maybe He&#8217;s been speaking all along, and we just weren&#8217;t listening. Or maybe, just maybe, we&#8217;ve been conditioned to tolerate things that are stealing our peace. Either way, today, we&#8217;re talking about <strong>discerning the voice of God</strong> and breaking free from the cycles that keep us stuck.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h3><ul><li><p><strong>Spiritual Insight:</strong> God often reveals the patterns we tolerate long before we&#8217;re ready to break them.</p></li><li><p><strong>Personal Story Impact:</strong> I realized I had allowed certain behaviors and relationships to siphon my peace for too long. Recognizing this was the first step to freedom.</p></li><li><p><strong>Scripture Application:</strong> Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us that peace follows honesty with God.</p></li><li><p><strong>Practical Action Step:</strong> Speak His Word out loud over your life. Declare His promises. <strong>Tell Him everything.</strong></p></li><li><p><strong>Emotional Transformation:</strong> When we stop trying to justify unhealthy cycles and trust God to break them, peace floods in.</p><div><hr></div></li></ul><h3><strong>Scriptural Foundation</strong></h3><blockquote><p><strong>Philippians 4:6-7</strong> &#8212; "Tell Him every detail of your life... Then God&#8217;s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding will make the answers known to you."</p></blockquote><p>I love how clear this is: <strong>Tell Him everything, then peace.</strong> But here&#8217;s what I realized&#8212;I thought I was telling Him everything, but there were things I didn&#8217;t even recognize as problems. I had lost my peace, and I didn&#8217;t even notice <strong>when</strong> it left. Have you ever gaslit yourself into believing you weren&#8217;t seeing a pattern, even though it was right in front of you? I have. But when God starts revealing, He does it for our good.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>When You Finally See It</strong></h3><p>For years, I&#8217;ve defaulted to silence when I struggle. It&#8217;s my safety mechanism. But recently, God has been challenging that. <strong>Healing out loud</strong> is my act of worship. It&#8217;s how I fight back. It&#8217;s how I refuse to let the enemy keep me bound.</p><p>I&#8217;ve been battling something heavy&#8212;since before Christmas, honestly&#8212;and I didn&#8217;t even realize the root of it until now. The truth is, I&#8217;ve probably taken more anti-anxiety meds in the last month than in all of last year combined. Why? Because I was living in a cycle I wasn&#8217;t even acknowledging.</p><p>But God. He never stops working. If it&#8217;s not good, He&#8217;s not done. Amen?</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Trusting Him with the Outcome</strong></h3><p>God is showing me that some things in my life aren&#8217;t just struggles&#8212;they&#8217;re cycles. And when we start recognizing the patterns, <strong>that&#8217;s when He tells us: turn away.</strong></p><p>Some of the hardest lessons come disguised as "good opportunities." But if something is repeatedly stealing our joy, making us question our worth, or pulling us away from peace, <strong>it&#8217;s not from Him.</strong></p><p>So I&#8217;m asking you today: What are you tolerating that is siphoning your peace? Where do you need to trust Him enough to walk away?</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>For an Audience of One</strong></h3><blockquote><p><strong>Galatians 1:10</strong> &#8212; "Am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ."</p></blockquote><p>I&#8217;ve been wrestling with this lately. I realized I was seeking validation from the very relationships that were draining me. I was bending over backward to prove myself when God had already said, <strong>&#8220;You are enough.&#8221;</strong></p><p>And the wild thing? The opportunities that God has opened for me <strong>never questioned my worth.</strong> They saw the value in what He placed inside me without hesitation. That&#8217;s how you know. <strong>When God opens a door, you don&#8217;t have to beg to walk through it.</strong></p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Final Reflection &amp; Call to Engagement</strong></h3><p>Is there a place in your life where you&#8217;re standing on God&#8217;s promises but still feel stuck? Are you truly speaking His Word out loud, or just keeping the battle in your mind?</p><p>I want to challenge you today&#8212;<strong>tell Him everything.</strong> Out loud. Write it down. Bring it into the light. Because healing starts when we stop hiding.</p><p>Let&#8217;s talk about it: <strong>What&#8217;s one cycle you&#8217;ve recognized that you know God is calling you to break?</strong> Drop it in the comments or just take a moment to bring it to Him.</p><p>Praying for you,<br>Celeste</p><div><hr></div><p>P.S. If this resonated, share it with a friend who needs a reminder that <strong>God&#8217;s peace is available&#8212;but we have to be honest first.</strong></p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/tell-him-everything-then-peace?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Share&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/tell-him-everything-then-peace?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share"><span>Share</span></a></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">Thanks for reading Rise &amp; Shine with Celeste! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[When the Spiritual High Fades]]></title><description><![CDATA[Discerning the Voice of God Series]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-the-spiritual-high-fades</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-the-spiritual-high-fades</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 13 Feb 2025 14:03:21 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/157063189/744f365a7f5183b12349605caeaf9dbd.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><hr></div><h3><strong>Finding Stability Beyond the Dopamine Hit</strong></h3><div><hr></div><p>Hey, hey! How is everyone today? Happy Wednesday! We&#8217;re on <strong>Day 3</strong> of looking at <strong>discerning the voice of God</strong>, and let me tell you&#8212;this one is hitting home for me.</p><p>Have you ever found yourself chasing that <em>spiritual high</em>? You know, that fresh, exciting rush of new revelations, answered prayers, and those moments where God&#8217;s presence feels almost tangible? But then, a season comes where it feels quieter, where you&#8217;re not riding that same wave of excitement. And you wonder&#8212;<em>am I doing something wrong?</em></p><p>I&#8217;ve been there. Honestly, I&#8217;m still there. But God is showing me something new in this space, and I think it might resonate with you too.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h3><ul><li><p><strong>Spiritual Insight:</strong> God doesn&#8217;t just want us to experience Him&#8212;He wants us to <em>know</em> Him.</p></li><li><p><strong>Personal Story Impact:</strong> Like a long-term relationship, faith deepens when we trust God beyond the <em>feeling</em> of His presence.</p></li><li><p><strong>Scripture Application:</strong> <em>Psalms 32:8-9</em> reminds us that God is always guiding us&#8212;we just have to listen and trust.</p></li><li><p><strong>Practical Action Step:</strong> Take a moment today to reflect&#8212;are you seeking a <em>feeling</em>, or are you seeking <em>Him</em>?</p></li><li><p><strong>Emotional Transformation:</strong> When we shift from chasing <em>experiences</em> to resting in <em>relationship</em>, we find true peace.</p><div><hr></div></li></ul><h3><strong>Are We Seeking an Experience or a Relationship?</strong></h3><p>There was a time when I found myself constantly looking for that next spiritual breakthrough, that next moment where I felt God so powerfully. And then, this year? It&#8217;s different. The newness, the rush, the thrill&#8212;it&#8217;s not the same.</p><p>God gently asked me: <strong>Do you trust me even when the excitement fades?</strong></p><p>It&#8217;s like the difference between being a newlywed and being married for twenty years. That <em>dopamine hit</em> of a new relationship eventually gives way to something deeper&#8212;<strong>commitment, trust, and steady love</strong>.</p><p>That&#8217;s what God is inviting us into. Not just the thrill of the new, but the security of the known.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Scriptural Foundation</strong></h3><blockquote><p><em>"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."</em> &#8212; <strong>Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)</strong></p></blockquote><p>God isn&#8217;t distant. He&#8217;s not withholding. But sometimes, He invites us into a season of deeper trust, a faith that doesn&#8217;t rely on emotional highs but is rooted in <strong>knowing Him</strong>.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>When Silence Feels Like Distance</strong></h3><p>I&#8217;ll be real with you&#8212;I went silent for a season. Not because I was angry with God, but because I was hurting. And in my pain, I defaulted to what I&#8217;ve always done: <strong>withdraw</strong>.</p><p>But here&#8217;s what I realized&#8212;God wasn&#8217;t the one who went silent. <strong>I did.</strong></p><p>And in His kindness, He&#8217;s showing me that He never left. He&#8217;s not waiting for me to get my act together before He speaks again. He&#8217;s just inviting me to trust Him, even when the <em>spiritual high</em> isn&#8217;t there.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Trusting Him with the Outcome</strong></h3><p>Sometimes, we confuse <strong>doing good</strong> with <strong>being good</strong>. We strive to <em>look</em> like we have it all together instead of surrendering and allowing God to shape us from the inside out.</p><p>But God&#8217;s voice isn&#8217;t about performance. It&#8217;s about <strong>relationship</strong>. And that means learning to trust Him, even when He&#8217;s leading us somewhere new and unfamiliar.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>For an Audience of One</strong></h3><p>At the end of the day, it&#8217;s not about impressing others. It&#8217;s about obedience. It&#8217;s about trusting the One who calls us forward&#8212;even when we don&#8217;t see the full picture.</p><blockquote><p><em>"Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."</em> &#8212; <strong>Galatians 1:10 (NIV)</strong></p></blockquote><p>If He calls you, He equips you. If He leads you, He&#8217;ll sustain you. If He speaks, we need to listen&#8212;not just in the highs, but in the quiet seasons too.</p><div><hr></div><h3><strong>Final Reflection &amp; Call to Engagement</strong></h3><p>So, let me ask you:</p><p><strong>Can you recall a time when God prompted you to trust Him even when the excitement wasn&#8217;t there? How did that season change your faith?</strong></p><p>Drop a comment below or journal about it today. Let&#8217;s walk this journey together.</p><p><strong>Praying for you,</strong><br>Celeste</p><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-the-spiritual-high-fades?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Share&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/when-the-spiritual-high-fades?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share"><span>Share</span></a></p><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">Thanks for reading Rise &amp; Shine with Celeste! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Discerning the Voice of God]]></title><description><![CDATA[In Business & Life]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-bff</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-bff</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:03:58 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/156458243/d0f8286969bb196ec82c85ad5a1a4330.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Good morning, friends! If you&#8217;re reading this, take a deep breath and know that today is full of new mercies. I want to dive into something that&#8217;s been weighing on my heart, and if you&#8217;re an entrepreneurial woman of faith, I have a feeling you might relate.</p><p>This morning, I woke up thinking about business. My to-do list, my clients, the strategies I need to implement&#8212;my mind was racing. And almost instantly, shame crept in. <em>How dare I think about business before thinking about God?</em> But then, a gentle whisper from the Lord reminded me: <em>What if I want you to think about business? What if I am in this?</em></p><div><hr></div><h2>Key Takeaways:</h2><ol><li><p><strong>Commitment Means Surrender</strong> &#8211; The Hebrew meaning of <em>commit</em> is to <em>roll onto</em>, meaning we should transfer our work burdens onto God rather than carrying them alone.</p></li><li><p><strong>Business is Spiritual</strong> &#8211; There is no category of work that is excluded from being spiritual; every decision and action in business can be an act of worship.</p></li><li><p><strong>No More Shame in Ambition</strong> &#8211; Women often feel guilty about success, but God delights in our growth and purpose when rooted in Him.</p></li><li><p><strong>Shift from Personal to Purposeful Branding</strong> &#8211; Instead of focusing on personal branding as a trend, we should focus on branding with intentional strategy and a Kingdom-driven mission.</p></li><li><p><strong>God&#8217;s Will is What He Delights In</strong> &#8211; His will isn&#8217;t just what He allows but what brings Him joy for our lives, and discerning His voice requires surrender and alignment with Him.</p><div><hr></div></li></ol><h2>The Struggle Between Faith &amp; Ambition</h2><p>For so many of us, especially as women, there&#8217;s an underlying guilt tied to ambition. We question: <em>Am I too focused on success? Am I neglecting my spiritual life by thinking about work?</em> But here&#8217;s the truth&#8212;when we commit our work to the Lord, He establishes our steps.</p><blockquote><p><em>&#8220;Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.&#8221;</em> &#8212; Proverbs 16:3</p></blockquote><p>The Hebrew word for <em>commit</em> doesn&#8217;t mean grinding away out of obligation. It means to <strong>roll onto</strong>&#8212;as in, transferring the weight from yourself to God. What a shift! Commitment isn&#8217;t about burdening ourselves; it&#8217;s about surrendering our work to the One who called us to it.</p><div><hr></div><h2>No More Compartmentalizing God</h2><p>Somewhere along the way, we&#8217;ve been taught to separate faith from business, as if God is only present in our quiet time and not in our strategic planning. But the truth is, there&#8217;s no category of work that is excluded from being spiritual.</p><p>Colossians 3:23 reminds us to <em>put our heart and soul into everything we do as though we&#8217;re doing it for the Lord Himself</em>. That means our business decisions, client meetings, financial strategies&#8212;all of it&#8212;can be acts of worship.</p><div><hr></div><h2>Overcoming the Shame of Success</h2><p>Why do so many women feel guilty about being ambitious?</p><p>Some of us have been conditioned to believe that success equals selfishness. Maybe we were part of work cultures that felt transactional or impersonal. Maybe we&#8217;ve been burned by unhealthy leadership in network marketing, corporate settings, or even church communities.</p><p>But here&#8217;s the truth: God delights in your success when it is rooted in Him. His will for you isn&#8217;t just what He allows&#8212;it&#8217;s what He <em>delights in</em>.</p><blockquote><p><em>&#8220;This will empower you to discern God&#8217;s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in His eyes.&#8221;</em> &#8212; Romans 12:2 (TPT)</p></blockquote><p>No more apologizing for your calling. No more shrinking back from the vision He&#8217;s given you. God has given you a sharp mind, a strategic heart, and a vision that is meant to serve others. Your obedience in business could be the breakthrough someone else is waiting for.</p><div><hr></div><h2>From Personal to Purposeful Branding</h2><p>Lately, I&#8217;ve been shifting my mindset from <em>personal branding</em> to <em>purposeful branding</em>. Personal branding can sometimes feel like a trend, but purposeful branding is rooted in strategy and calling. What is the <strong>mission</strong> behind your work? Who are you serving? How are you making an impact for the Kingdom?</p><p>If you&#8217;re struggling with doubt or shame in your business journey, ask yourself: <em>Am I committing my work to the Lord, or am I trying to carry it alone?</em> The moment I pressed <em>live</em> on my video again, I saw how everything&#8212;my business, my ministry, my faith&#8212;was connected. When we roll our burdens onto Him, He guides our steps.</p><div><hr></div><h2>Let&#8217;s Reflect</h2><ul><li><p>How can we shift from seeing business as a distraction to seeing it as part of our calling?</p></li><li><p>What does it look like to roll our business concerns onto God in a practical way?</p></li><li><p>Why do so many women feel guilty about being ambitious?</p></li></ul><p>I&#8217;d love to hear your thoughts&#8212;comment below or reply to this email. Let&#8217;s process this together.</p><div><hr></div><h2>Final Encouragement</h2><p>Psalm 32:8-9 reminds us:</p><blockquote><p><em>&#8220;I hear the Lord saying, &#8216;I will stay close to you, instructing and guiding you along the pathway for your life. I will advise you along the way and lead you forth with My eyes as your guide. So don&#8217;t make it difficult! Don&#8217;t be stubborn when I take you where you&#8217;ve not been before. Don&#8217;t make Me tug you along&#8212;just come with Me!&#8217;&#8221;</em> (TPT)</p></blockquote><p>You don&#8217;t have to figure this out alone. Walk in obedience, commit your work to Him, and trust that He is leading you.</p><div><hr></div><p>&#8212; Celeste </p><h3>P.S. If you want to be notified when I go live, let me know so I can add you to the email list!</h3><div class="subscription-widget-wrap-editor" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/subscribe?&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Subscribe&quot;,&quot;language&quot;:&quot;en&quot;}" data-component-name="SubscribeWidgetToDOM"><div class="subscription-widget show-subscribe"><div class="preamble"><p class="cta-caption">Thanks for reading Rise &amp; Shine with Celeste! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.</p></div><form class="subscription-widget-subscribe"><input type="email" class="email-input" name="email" placeholder="Type your email&#8230;" tabindex="-1"><input type="submit" class="button primary" value="Subscribe"><div class="fake-input-wrapper"><div class="fake-input"></div><div class="fake-button"></div></div></form></div></div><p class="button-wrapper" data-attrs="{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-bff?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;Share&quot;,&quot;action&quot;:null,&quot;class&quot;:null}" data-component-name="ButtonCreateButton"><a class="button primary" href="https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-bff?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&action=share"><span>Share</span></a></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Discerning the Voice of God: When the Dopamine Isn’t There]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-when</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-when</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 12 Feb 2025 13:52:57 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/156992397/bd6d79a249196d1171b6a85487d952ff.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Discerning the Voice of God: On Purpose with Purpose]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-on-purpose</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-on-purpose</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 11 Feb 2025 13:52:17 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/156922735/52c4a63caff53ea9c5dc1a20d1531d83.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Discerning the Voice of God: Rise, Don’t Shrink]]></title><description><![CDATA[A recording from Celeste Sowder's live video]]></description><link>https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-rise</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.riseandshinewithceleste.com/p/discerning-the-voice-of-god-rise</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Celeste Sowder]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 10 Feb 2025 13:51:01 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/156852510/6c9bab385c4471ddc1431870af68cbe4.mp3" length="0" type="audio/mpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join me for my next live video in the app</p><div class="install-substack-app-embed install-substack-app-embed-web" data-component-name="InstallSubstackAppToDOM"><img class="install-substack-app-embed-img" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!tPKR!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fea389e27-8ba5-4c36-b55a-f5f3ab6d347a_256x256.png"><div class="install-substack-app-embed-text"><div class="install-substack-app-header">Get more from Celeste Sowder in the Substack app</div><div class="install-substack-app-text">Available for iOS and Android</div></div><a href="https://substack.com/app/app-store-redirect?utm_campaign=app-marketing&amp;utm_content=author-post-insert&amp;utm_source=celestesowder" target="_blank" class="install-substack-app-embed-link"><button class="install-substack-app-embed-btn button primary">Get the app</button></a></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>