So Much More: Scripture Meditation (Lectio Divina)

This Christian meditation and prayer on Psalm 71 reminds us of God’s power to restore and renew. Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here. Will God redeem the mess? Will He restore what’s been broken? Scripture gives a resounding “yes”—but restoration doesn’t always mean returning to how things were. God’s work is often about transformation, making something new from the broken pieces. If you’re feeling unsure about what God can do with your challenges, take heart. Your God is a God of restoration. This meditation reassures us that He is good, He is at work, and we can trust Him. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Praying with the Psalms series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Psalm 71:19-21, NLT 19 Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the highest heavens. You have done such wonderful things. Who can compare with you, O God? 20 You have allowed me to suffer much hardship, but you will restore me to life again and lift me up from the depths of the earth. 21 You will restore me to even greater honor and comfort me once again. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This Christian meditation and prayer from Psalm 25 invites us to ask God to direct our steps. Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here. Is there an area in your life where you fear God could let you down? You aren’t alone. David, the author of Psalm 25, expressed this same fear to God when he said: “Do not let me be disgraced; do not let my enemies gloat over me.” And then David reminded his soul that God is trustworthy; therefore, he would not be disgraced if he waited on God. This led David to pray the prayer we all need: Show me the way, Lord. If you’re facing something that concerns you and wonder how to move forward, take some time to meditate on and pray through this Psalm. God will show you the way. He will help you know how to move forward. You can trust him. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Praying with the Psalms series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Psalm 25:1-5, CSB 1 Lord, I appeal to you. 2 My God, I trust in you. Do not let me be disgraced; do not let my enemies gloat over me. 3 No one who waits for you will be disgraced; those who act treacherously without cause will be disgraced. 4 Make your ways known to me, Lord; teach me your paths. 5 Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; I wait for you all day long. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 37 will strengthen you to change your fretting into faith as you remember that God will bring justice in his time and way. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. Let’s talk about justice. Or, really, the lack of justice. Evil seems to be winning. The underhanded always seem to get ahead. Injustices seem to go unanswered. We fear God may never set things right. But our faith says he will. Revelation 21 reminds us that a day is coming when all that is wrong will be made right. But until that day, we live in a world where the broken way seems to be advancing. Yet it is here, in this broken world, that Scripture exhorts us to lay aside our fears and trust God and his good plans. Psalm 37 is about laying aside our fretting and learning to wait well. I pray that as you meditate on this Psalm, your heart will be encouraged to turn your fears into trust. God has it under control. You do not need to be afraid. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Psalm 37:1-8, NET 1 Do not fret when wicked men seem to succeed! Do not envy evildoers! 2 For they will quickly dry up like grass, and wither away like plants. 3 Trust in the Lord and do what is right! Settle in the land and maintain your integrity! 4 Then you will take delight in the Lord, and he will answer your prayers. 5 Commit your future to the Lord! Trust in him, and he will act on your behalf. 6 He will vindicate you in broad daylight, and publicly defend your just cause. 7 Wait patiently for the Lord! Wait confidently for him! Do not fret over the apparent success of a sinner, a man who carries out wicked schemes! 8 Do not be angry and frustrated! Do not fret! That only leads to trouble! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Matthew 6 will help you remember that God cares about your future and will meet your needs. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. Will there be enough for tomorrow? What if the economy collapses? Will I lose all I have? There’s no shortage of fears swirling around about the economy and our future. While there is wisdom in preparing for our future through wise living and saving, we cannot let what we’ve stored away, or what we haven’t stored away, become an idol. Idols are false Gods, and they only make hollow promises. God is the only one who promises to truly take care of us. And God keeps his promises. Matthew 6 reminds us that if God cares for the bird's daily needs, he will also care for yours. As you meditate on Matthew 6, part of Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount, let it comfort you with the reminder that God will take care of you today and in the future. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, as well as the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Matthew 6:31–34, NIV So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. The other passages mentioned in this podcast are: Matthew 6:19-21, NIV 19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:25-26, NIV 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 23 will ease your fears about walking through difficult seasons. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. If we’re in a dark valley, we fear— Will we ever find the other side? Will life ever feel normal again? If we aren’t in a dark valley— We fear we’ll be taken there soon. The fear of living in pain, loss, and difficulty can be paralyzing. There is no doubt we will all walk through difficult seasons. You already have. It’s a part of living in a fallen world in bodies that are breaking down. And yet, here you are. You’re still standing. God has seen you through thus far, and he won’t stop here. Let that encourage you. Let this meditation on Psalm 23 also encourage and remind you that God is good, he is with you, and he will guide you through all the twists and turns of life. May you lay aside any fears that feel crippling and return your focus to God, who will be faithful to you always. God is with you. He will never let you go, even when you must walk through a dark valley. You have nothing to fear. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Psalm 23, NET 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He takes me to lush pastures, he leads me to refreshing water. 3 He restores my strength. He leads me down the right paths for the sake of his reputation. 4 Even when I must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff reassure me. 5 You prepare a feast before me in plain sight of my enemies. You refresh my head with oil; my cup is completely full. 6 Surely your goodness and faithfulness will pursue me all my days, and I will live in the Lord’s house for the rest of my life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Philippians 4 will help you release the anxiety and fear you feel about the future of our world. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. Dire predictions about world events and the coming US election fill us with fear and confusion. So much feels out of our control. And with so many voices speaking in, many of them spreading disinformation, how do we even know what to do or how to respond? It’s easy to get immobilized with fear. This meditation is not intended to address any political party or ideal. Instead, it is intended to help us turn back to God, release the fears that are gripping us, and remember that everything will be ok because God holds the future. In this meditation, we will discuss our call to the impossible task of unity and Scriptures that remind us to pray for, not against, our leaders and potential leaders. I pray this meditation gives you space to pause, remember, and pray for God’s gracious leading. May it help you release some of the anxiety you feel about the future of our world. God is with us. He is in control, and therefore, we have nothing to fear. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Philippians 4:4-7, NIV Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Additional Scriptures mentioned in this podcast are: John 17:20-21, NLT (Part of Jesus’ final prayer to the Father on our behalf.) I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. 1 Timothy 2:1-4, NET First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanks be offered on behalf of all people, even for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. Such prayer for all is good and welcomed before God our Savior, since he wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Isaiah 41 reminds us that we are called, chosen, and upheld by God. He is with us, and therefore we have nothing to fear. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. Ancient Israel wandered away from God—but God never gave up on them. They were his called, chosen, and upheld people. Isaiah’s words were a balm to their wayward souls. And they are strong words to comfort and encourage us today. God is with you. You are his called and chosen son or daughter. And because of this: God longs to help you. God longs to strengthen you. He is holding you up with his righteous right hand. And his righteous right hand is stronger than anyone or anything else. No matter where you find yourself today, let these truths guide you. You do not need to be afraid because God is on your side. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Isaiah 41:9-10, NIV 9 I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. 10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Joshua 1 reminds us we can be strong and courageous as we face the future because God is with us. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. The fear of the unknown plagues us. What if something happens that turns our lives upside down and inside out? These imagined worst-case scenarios breed fear and anxiety that can spiral out of control. Yet God will not give you the grace to handle your imagined futures, but he will give you the grace you need to walk through your reality. When fear starts to spiral, pause and remember these truths from Joshua 1. Joshua was called to lead the people into a new land. God knew the journey wouldn’t be easy, so he exhorted Joshua three times–be strong and courageous. Joshua could remain strong and courageous because he knew God would never leave him, God would help him succeed, and God would be with him each step of the way. While this was a specific promise for Joshua, it is also for us. God is with us. He will never leave us or forsake us. We will have success when we follow his plans—maybe not success as the world deems success, but success in all the ways that really matter. Take a few moments to settle in and allow this passage from Joshua to encourage your heart. You do not need to fear the future. God is with you. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Joshua 1:5-9, NIV As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. 7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Romans 8 reminds us that there is nothing we can do to separate ourselves from God’s love. We are held secure in his love. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. Do you wonder… Will God ever turn away from me? Even if I’m really awful? If my loved one walks away from their faith, will they still be with me in heaven? Am I in this difficult season because God is upset with me? Am I being punished? The core of these questions is fear. Fear that God will stop loving us. Many Scriptures affirm that he won’t. Romans 8 specifically reminds us that nothing we do—or do not do—will ever make God stop loving us. We are held secure in God’s love because of Jesus and our faith in him. Whether you’ve secretly wondered about Christ’s love for you or a loved one, let this meditation reassure you that you are held secure in God’s loving grip. Find a quiet space, take a few deep breaths, and allow your fears to fade away. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Romans 8:35, 37-39 NLT 35 Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? 37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. 38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation on Psalm 27 declares that God is our light, salvation, and fortress. We will see God’s goodness in this life, so we do not need to be afraid. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. Psalm 27 invites us to shift our perspective from fear to trust as it reminds us that whatever we are afraid of cannot destroy us. God holds our lives and our eternity secure in his hands. And with our good God in control, we can be certain that we will see his goodness in this life—in the land of the living. So, keep waiting on God. He’s working behind the scenes. We have nothing to fear. Find a quiet space, take a few deep breaths, and allow Jesus’ words to lead you to his peace. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Psalm 27:1, 11-14. NLT 1 The Lord is my light and my salvation— so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? 11 Teach me how to live, O Lord. Lead me along the right path, for my enemies are waiting for me. 12 Do not let me fall into their hands. For they accuse me of things I’ve never done; with every breath they threaten me with violence. 13 Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living. 14 Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

NEW SERIES: Do Not Be Afraid This guided Christian meditation on John 14 reminds us that Jesus leaves us peace, so we do not need to be afraid. If your heart feels troubled, this meditation will help you find peace. Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here. Some say there are 365 verses of Scripture that tell us not to be afraid, one for each day. I'm not sure that's entirely accurate, but here's what I do know: Scripture speaks about fear A LOT. There is no shortage of things that make us feel fear. However, we actually have very little control over much of what causes us to feel fear, which means the feeling of fear isn't doing us any favors. Fear preoccupies our hearts and minds, causes us to lose sleep, and causes our bodies to experience an overload of stress. Unnecessary fear is simply a tool the enemy uses to render us ineffective. And that's why the Bible speaks to fear over and over again. God doesn't want us to fear because he wants us to thrive, live in trust and peace, and remember that he has good plans for us. Jesus knew this would be our struggle, so he stated: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. Find a quiet space, take a few deep breaths, and allow Jesus' words to lead you to his peace. You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, as well as the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: John 14:1, 25-27, NIV Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. "All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Isaiah leads you to reflect on how we can know and experience peace, no matter our circumstances. In this meditation, you will: Consider one area where you are wrestling to maintain peace in your life Reflect on how to find God’s unfailing peace Invite the Spirit to help us take a step toward knowing more peace in our lives Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here. This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset. Here are some additional helpful links: Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Isaiah 26:3-4, NLT 3 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! 4 Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Exodus encourages you to reflect on God's love for you and his desire to help you. In this meditation, you will: Reflect on the truth that God sees you, hears you, and is concerned about you Reflect on God as a rescuer Reflect on God’s graciousness toward us Invite the Spirit to guide you into how you need God to act on your behalf Invite God to help you rest in his character Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here. This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset. Here are some additional helpful links: Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Exodus 3:7–8, NIV 7 The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Acts leads you to reflect on how you can find abundant and lasting joy. In this meditation, you will be invited to: Reflect on the difference between joy and pleasure Reflect on the early church and how they experienced joy Invite the Spirit to guide you into how he is inviting you to know more joy in your life Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here. This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset. Here are some additional helpful links: Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Acts 2:44-47, NLT 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Galatians will help you reflect on and embrace the freedom Christ gives us. In this meditation, you will be invited to: Consider what freedom is and isn’t Ask God to help you identify any places where you aren’t experiencing freedom Allow the Spirit to guide you toward freedom in this area of your life Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here. This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset. Here are some additional helpful links: Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Galatians 5:1, 13-14 - NLT So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law. 13 For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 14 For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 100 will help you experience and praise God for his unending love for you. In this meditation, you will be invited to: Become aware of God’s presence with you Praise God for how he made you Praise God that you belong to him, and he cares for you tenderly and completely Praise God for his loyal and enduring love from the beginning of time and into the future Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here. This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset. Here are some additional helpful links: Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Psalm 100, NET Bible A thanksgiving psalm. 1Shout out praises to the Lord, all the earth! 2 Worship the Lord with joy! Enter his presence with joyful singing! 3 Acknowledge that the Lord is God! He made us and we belong to him; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give him thanks! Praise his name! 5 For the Lord is good. His loyal love endures, and he is faithful through all generations. Psalm 100, The Message On your feet now—applaud God! Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into his presence. 3 Know this: God is God, and God, God. He made us; we didn’t make him. We’re his people, his well-tended sheep. 4 Enter with the password: “Thank you!” Make yourselves at home, talking praise. Thank him. Worship him. 5 For God is sheer beauty, all-generous in love, loyal always and ever. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Solomon’s prayer from 1 Kings 8 will remind you: God hasn’t given up on you. God hasn’t walked out on you. God is a faithful promise keeper with a perfect track record. Our souls need this reminder. This meditation will help you remember God’s perfect faithfulness in the past as you seek his good and wise path for the future. Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here. This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset. Here are some additional helpful links: Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: 1 Kings 8:56-58. The Message Translation Blessed be God, who has given peace to his people Israel just as he said he’d do. Not one of all those good and wonderful words that he spoke through Moses has misfired. May God, our very own God, continue to be with us just as he was with our ancestors—may he never give up and walk out on us. May he keep us centered and devoted to him, following the life path he has cleared, watching the signposts, walking at the pace and rhythms he laid down for our ancestors. For reference, this is the NIV translation of 1 Kings 8:56-58 Praise be to the Lord, who has given rest to his people Israel just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave through his servant Moses. May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our ancestors; may he never leave us nor forsake us. May he turn our hearts to him, to walk in obedience to him and keep the commands, decrees and laws he gave our ancestors. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Psalm 19 reminds us that God is our Creator and worthy of praise. Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here. Summer is often a season of joy but also a season of distraction. This guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset. In this meditation, you will be guided toward awe and worship as you focus on our Creator and the world he designed for us. Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: First reading from Psalm 19:1-6, NLT The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in John 11 reminds us that Jesus is with us in our pain and grief. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Often life just doesn’t make sense. Pain, death, disease, evil. We believe God is bigger than all of these things, so why do they still happen. I identify with Mary when she runs out to meet Jesus after her brother, Lazarus, died. She said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Mary is asking why. This is normal—but getting stuck there is detrimental. Becoming fixated on why can breed fear and anxiety as they lead to wondering when something else bad will happen, or if this pain will ever end. We rarely receive answers to our why questions. What we do receive is exactly what Jesus offered Mary—his presence, his compassion, and his empathy. Jesus grieved with Mary’s family and community. Just as he grieves with us when we are in pain. If you’ve been wrestling with why Jesus allowed something in your life, I’m praying he will use this meditation to comfort you with the reminder that he is with you and he loves you. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Listen to last week's meditation here You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: John 11:32–37, NIV 32 When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34 “Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. 35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Luke 10 reminds us that we can turn away from distraction and worry to embrace Jesus’s better way. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. You are worried and upset about many things. Jesus said this to Martha over 2000 years ago. Yet these words are also for us today. Martha was distracted with preparing to host her loved ones. It caused her to be upset and worried—and perhaps a little disgruntled since she was the only one doing the work. Jesus helped her reframe her anxiety with these words, “few things are needed—or indeed only one.” He then reminded Martha that there was a better choice than the one she was making. If you’re feeling pulled apart by all that demands your attention, then this meditation is for you. There is a better way. Jesus invites us to walk and work with him at his pace. A pace that trusts God to help us accomplish what truly needs to be done and let the rest go. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Luke 10:38-42, NIV As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Isaiah 43 will bring you peace as you remember that God will see you through any difficult situation you face. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down. Isaiah 43:2 The Message I find a lot of comfort in these words. God will not let go of us. He will never leave us nor forsake us. But, I’ll be honest, I wish this verse said something more like—you won’t get in over your head, you won’t face rough waters, you won’t feel like you’re in the flames. We don’t get a free pass from suffering. But we do get the assurance that God will help us through whatever comes. This is why Jesus reminds us, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) In this meditation, you will be guided to name a situation that is currently causing you anxiety. Then, with the Spirit, you will be guided to notice how God is with you in the midst of whatever you are facing. As you are comforted with this truth, I pray you will exchange your current fear or anxiety for the peace God is offering. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Isaiah 43:1-3, Christian Standard Bible Now this is what the Lord says— … “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you and the rivers will not overwhelm you, When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched and the flame will not burn you. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, and your Savior. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Proverbs 3 will bring you peace as you remember God is with you even when life doesn’t make sense. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Why? It’s a question we ask God a lot. And a question for which we rarely get satisfactory answers. Spinning in the unanswerable question of why can bring fear and anxiety. This meditation will give you space to acknowledge your questions and release them to God. Then, turn to God in trust. Because as Proverbs 3 reminds us, that is where the path gets straight, and the next steps become clear. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Proverbs 3:5-6, Christian Standard Bible 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways know him, and he will make your paths straight. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in 1 Peter 5 will give you hope and peace in the midst of the fear and anxiety that difficult seasons bring. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. When hardship or suffering enters our lives, one reason we begin to feel anxiety is because we have no idea when the hard season will end. This unknown space becomes a breeding ground for the enemy’s lies. Lies that 1 Peter says are intended to devour us. Devour. Meaning that the enemy wants to consume us and render us ineffective. 1 Peter exhorts us to stand firm against his attack and to remember that God cares for us so we can give our worries and anxieties to him. If you’re struggling with anxiety and fear because you’re in a difficult season, I believe this meditation is for you. I’m praying God will use His Word to give perspective or reframing to whatever you’re enduring. And may you remember that you are not alone. God cares deeply for you. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: 1 Peter 5:6–9, New Living Translation 6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in 1 Samuel will give you space to remember how God sees you, regardless of how you view yourself. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Rejection not only stings, but it also lingers. Rejection threatens to identify us as unworthy or unwanted, which can create anxiety and fear. If we truly start to believe these lies, then we’ll shrink back, cease, and get small. We stop being who God created us to be. King David may have been one of the greatest kings who ever lived, but he had to overcome being overlooked. In this meditation, we will remember that God looks at our hearts. If you’re fearful or anxious because you feel rejected, this week’s mediation will encourage you to remember … God sees your heart. God sees the very best of you. God sees who he made you to be. God sees you covered in the righteousness of Christ. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: 1 Sam 16:6-12, NLT 6 When (Jesse and his sons) arrived, Samuel took one look at Eliab (the oldest son) and thought, “Surely this is the Lord’s anointed!” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 8 Then Jesse told his son Abinadab to step forward and walk in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “This is not the one the Lord has chosen.” 9 Next Jesse summoned Shimea, but Samuel said, “Neither is this the one the Lord has chosen.” 10 In the same way all seven of Jesse’s sons were presented to Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen any of these.” 11 Then Samuel asked, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse replied. “But he’s out in the fields watching the sheep and goats.” “Send for him at once,” Samuel said. “We will not sit down to eat until he arrives.” 12 So Jesse sent for him. He was dark and handsome, with beautiful eyes. And the Lord said, “This is the one; anoint him.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is it possible to find peace in God's presence amidst anxiety? Alan Fadling believes we can. In this conversation, Alan and I tackle the notion that anxiety doesn't have the final say in our lives, and we explore practical ways to shift our focus away from anxiety and toward peace. If you're wrestling with anxiety, know that you're not alone. There's hope and peace to be found in Jesus. Listen in for an empowering discussion full of practical advice. Alan is the president and co-founder of Unhurried Living, which inspires people to rest deeper, live fuller, and lead better. He speaks and consults internationally. He is the award-winning author of An Unhurried Leader, An Unhurried Life, A Year of Slowing Down, and his newest book, A Non-Anxious Life. He is also the co-author of What Does Your Soul Love? which he wrote with his wife, Gem. You can get Alan’s newest book for 20% off and free shipping with code IVPPOD20 at: https://www.ivpress.com/a-non-anxious-life You can connect with Alan at https://www.unhurriedliving.com/ On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alanfadling/ Or https://www.instagram.com/unhurriedliving/ On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/alanfadling Or https://www.facebook.com/unhurriedliving Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Luke 1 will give you space to talk to God about any fear and confusion you are experiencing due to the disruptions. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. There are moments in our lives that have a clear before and after. Moments that make us wish we could stay in the before. The way life was, with the life we knew. But usually, we don’t get a choice. Disruptions have a way of hoisting themselves upon us. In this guided meditation, we will consider Mary’s reaction to the angel Gabriel when he told her she would be the mother of Jesus. This will lead us to ask the Spirit to help us identify disruptions in our own lives and how they are challenging us. Finally, we will move to a time of prayer, asking the Lord to help us pray as Mary did, surrendering to God and his plan ahead of our own. Disruptions cause fear and anxiety because they bring uncertainty into our lives. But God will not let us falter. He is with us, and he will see us through. I pray this guided meditation brings you peace and helps you trust God and his plans. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Luke 1:26-33, 38, NLT 26 … God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 27 to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 28 Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!” 29 Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 30 “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God! 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!” 38 Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation on Psalm 136 will help you stop ruminating on lies and instead dwell on God's faithful and enduring love. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Unhelpful thoughts easily get stuck in our minds, like a broken record that plays over and over again. This kind of thinking wakes us up at night, distracts us during the day, and makes us physically sick. It does us no favors! And the worst part is, it’s not even real. They’re lies. Lies aimed to keep us bound and stuck. It’s not easy to break the pattern of ruminating in destructive thinking. It takes consistent and steady effort to identify the lies and replace them with the truth. Psalm 136 is a great place to start. Over and over again, the truth His faithful love endures forever is repeated. When you discover yourself stuck in a lie, try repeating this phrase instead. I pray this meditation will help you know more of God’s faithful and enduring love for you and that it will alleviate some of the fear and anxiety that’s been rolling around in your mind. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: Psalm 136:1-16, CSB 1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His faithful love endures forever. 2 Give thanks to the God of gods. His faithful love endures forever. 3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords. His faithful love endures forever. 4 He alone does great wonders. His faithful love endures forever. 5 He made the heavens skillfully. His faithful love endures forever. 6 He spread the land on the waters. His faithful love endures forever. 7 He made the great lights: His faithful love endures forever. 8 the sun to rule by day, His faithful love endures forever. 9 the moon and stars to rule by night. His faithful love endures forever. 10 He struck the firstborn of the Egyptians His faithful love endures forever. 11 and brought Israel out from among them His faithful love endures forever. 12 with a strong hand and outstretched arm. His faithful love endures forever. 13 He divided the Red Sea His faithful love endures forever. 14 and led Israel through, His faithful love endures forever. 15 but hurled Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea. His faithful love endures forever. 16 He led his people in the wilderness. His faithful love endures forever. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Matthew 6 will give you peace as you embrace the truth that you are valued and cared for as a friend of God. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Many of us have been tricked into believing we are valued for what we do, not who we are. And this creates deep anxiety. And in some of Jesus’s final words, Jesus made sure we knew that we are valued because we are God’s friends. And as friends of God, we have been chosen by Him. We are loved by Him. We matter to Him. That’s the foundation of our lives. As you listen to this meditation, I pray that you will be reminded that you are loved because you are a friend of God. And even when you fall short, because we all will, you will not let the enemy use that to create fear and anxiety in your life, but you will release this shortcoming and turn back to God in love. Because, as a true friend, you have nothing to worry about. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The whole meditation text is as follows: John 15:14–17 NLT You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. 16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Matthew 6 will remind you that you matter to God and he will take care of you. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. It’s easy to let worry consume our thoughts and energy. So easy. It can be difficult to trust that God will help us through what we’re facing. But today, for this moment, I want to invite you to take a lesson from the birds. Breath deep. See how God takes care of them. They’re going to be ok. So will you. As you listen to this meditation, I’m praying the Lord helps you lay aside whatever you’re carrying and rest in his capable care today. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The entire meditation text is as follows: Matthew 6:25–27, NIV 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation in Mark 4:35-42 will help you exchange fear and anxiety for the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding. Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here. Jesus fell asleep in the middle of a raging storm. The disciples saw the waves crashing in, and as the water filled the boat, they became fearful, even accusatory. They woke Jesus and demanded an answer. Jesus, don’t you care if we drown? Jesus calmed the storm with these power-packed words. Peace. Be Still. Words spoken over nature, but also spoken over our hearts. As you listen to this guided meditation, you will be given space to talk to God about what is bringing you fear and allow him space to calm your fears with his peace and stillness. Here are some helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage we meditated on in this episode is: Mark 4:35-42, NLT 35 As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” 36 So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). 37 But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. 38 Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” 39 When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. 40 Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

He has risen! He has risen, indeed. Prepare your heart for the glory of Easter as you meditate on the resurrection of Jesus. You can download your Lent Guide here. It has the meditation passage and reflection questions printed out for you. Here are a few additional helpful links: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here, where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided meditation for Holy Saturday to help you prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on this silent day of waiting and wondering. We are meditating on Luke 23:50-56. You can find the passage and reflection questions in the free lent guide. You can download your Lent Guide here. Here are a few additional helpful links: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here, where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Scripture meditation for Good Friday will help you prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on the somber and hard day of Jesus’s journey, his crucifixion. We are meditating on Matthew 27:27-56. You can find the entire passage in the Free Guided Lent Journal. You can download your Lent Guide here. Here are a few additional helpful links: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here, where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided Scripture meditation for Maundy Thursday. Prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on Jesus’s actions and words from the Thursday before his crucifixion. You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. This passage is printed in its entirety in the Lent Guide. Here are a few other helpful links: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here, where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided prayer for the seventh week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. Our meditation passage (released on 3.25.24) was from Luke 22:54-62. In this account, Peter denied his association with Jesus three times. And then he was slammed with realizing what he had done and leaves the scene weeping bitterly. In this guided prayer, we begin by recognizing that Jesus is currently interceding for us (Romans 8:34), and so we ask Jesus to pray for our faith to be strengthened as he prayed for Peter. We then take a moment to sit in sadness over our sin and confess the areas we are tempted to sin. We then ask God to grant us the strength to resist temptation. And finally, we end with a moment to receive God’s great love for us. Here are some helpful links: You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Get your free Lent guide here. Peter gets a bad rap for denying Jesus. And perhaps he should. But if we focus on the denial, we miss Peter’s bravery. When Jesus was arrested, Peter followed Jesus to his trial. He went straight into the enemy camp. He witnessed Jesus being mistreated as the trial unfolded. And then, when he was asked if he knew Jesus, he faltered. At that moment, it seemed easier to deny association than to get thrown into the fray with Jesus. Three times he made the choice to preserve his life instead of risk the association. And on that third time, something breathtaking happened: Jesus and Peter locked eyes. I can hardly imagine the moment. Jesus was not only Peter’s closest friend but also his Rabbi. His respected and beloved teacher. What was in Jesus’s look? As you listen to this meditation, you will be guided to consider this question. And I’ll help you reframe what you might think was in Jesus’s eyes to see his love for Peter and us. You’ll also have space to see where the Spirit leads you as we engage with the Scripture in an imaginative prayer experience. Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life: Get your free Lent guide here. If you missed last week’s meditation on Jesus and Peter praying in the garden, you can find it here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage meditated on in this episode is: Luke 22:54-62, NLT Peter Denies Jesus 54 So they arrested him and led him to the high priest’s home. And Peter followed at a distance. 55 The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. 56 A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!” 57 But Peter denied it. “Woman,” he said, “I don’t even know him!” 58 After a while someone else looked at him and said, “You must be one of them!” “No, man, I’m not!” Peter retorted. 59 About an hour later someone else insisted, “This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.” 60 But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. 61 At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 62 And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided prayer for the sixth week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. Our meditation passage (released on 3.18.24) was from Luke 22:40–46. In this account, Jesus prayed in the garden before his arrest. It was a dark moment full of anguish for Jesus. In it, we discover some of the reasons why we need to pray and learn the brave prayer of surrendering to God’s will ahead of our own. In this guided prayer we begin by confessing why prayer can be difficult for us. Then we boldly go before our Good Father with the requests on our hearts and take a moment to be surrendered to God’s will ahead of our own. Finally, we ask God to help us know his loving presence with us no matter the outcome of our request. Here are some helpful links: You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Get your free Lent guide here. When Jesus faced his deepest need, he turned to God in prayer. And in prayer, Jesus found strength. Jesus also invited the disciples to pray because temptation was barreling toward them. Jesus knew the disciples would also be strengthened through prayer. Unfortunately, they fell asleep. They didn’t understand the urgency of Jesus’s exhortation to pray. Prayer can be hard for all of us. And yet, we know it is an essential practice that connects us to God. As you listen to this meditation, you will be guided to reflect on how God is inviting you to pray and how it can help you stay strong in the face of your temptations. This is our sixth Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here. Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage meditated on in this episode is: Luke 22:40–46, CSV 40 When he reached the place, he told them, “Pray that you may not fall into temptation.” 41 Then he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and began to pray, 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me—nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel from heaven appeared to him, strengthening him. 44 Being in anguish, he prayed more fervently, and his sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground. 45 When he got up from prayer and came to the disciples, he found them sleeping, exhausted from their grief. 46 “Why are you sleeping?” he asked them. “Get up and pray, so that you won’t fall into temptation.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided prayer for the fourth week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. Our meditation passage (released on 3.11.24) was Matthew Mark 12:28-31. In this account, Jesus reminds us that love is the most important command. In this guided prayer, we begin by thanking God for his love and asking him to help us receive his love. Then we ask God to help us notice how he may be inviting us to love him differently. And finally, we ask God to help us know how he is inviting us to love someone practically today or this week. May God grant you the courage to love well today, this week, and moving forward. Here are some helpful links: You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Scripture meditation for Lent leads us to consider how we love God and love others. Download your free guided Lent journal here. The Old Testament Law was complex. There were 613 laws that Jews were required to follow. Religious leaders in Jesus’ day liked to debate which of these laws were more important than the others. When Jesus received this question, he summed up the entire law simply. In fact, he used just one word: love. Love God and love others. This guided meditation will give you space to consider how God may be inviting you to love him and others in new ways. This is our fifth Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here. Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage meditated on in this episode is: Mark 12:28–31, NIV 28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” 29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ n There is no commandment greater than these.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided prayer for the fourth week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. Our meditation passage (released on 3.4.24) was Matthew 20:20-28. In this account, Jesus flips greatness on its head and unpacks the kingdom principle that the way up is really down. In this guided prayer we will take a moment to identify some of the desires we have – and realize not all our desires are bad. We will then ask the Lord to help us notice where we are tempted to try to control the outcome and force things to happen in our way and according to our will. Finally, we will ask the Lord to help us reorder our desires according to his kingdom principles. Here are some helpful links: You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Scripture meditation for Lent leads us to consider where true greatness is found. So, what does makes someone great? Power. Influence. Authority. Wealth. Accomplishments. We know these things don’t really make us great, yet we still desire them. We still strive after them. And we even convince ourselves we will use all this greatness for the good of the Kingdom. And then, Jesus flips greatness upside down. The way up is really down. To be great is to serve. To lower ourselves. To open our hands. To be great is to be like Jesus, the King and the Creator. The One who really did have it all and was truly great. And he laid it all down to serve us, you and me. This is the measure of greatness. And it isn’t easy. As you listen to this week’s meditation, know that I’m praying for you to embrace God’s definition of greatness for your life. His way is not our way, but His way is always the better way. This is our fourth Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here. Here’s some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage meditated on in this episode is: Matthew 20:20-28, CSB 20 Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons approached JESUS with her sons. She knelt down to ask him for something. 21 “What do you want?” he asked her. “Promise,” she said to him, “that these two sons of mine may sit, one on your right and the other on your left, in your kingdom.” 22 Jesus answered, “You don’t know what you’re asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?”, “We are able,” they said to him. 23 He told them, “You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right and left is not mine to give; instead, it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” 24 When the ten disciples heard this, they became indignant with the two brothers. 25 Jesus called them over and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in high positions act as tyrants over them. 26 It must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided prayer for the first week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. Our meditation passage (released on 2.26.24) was Matthew 16:21-26. In this account, Peter thought he was protecting Jesus when he tried to stand in the way of his coming death. Peter had no idea that his good intentions would thwart the plans of eternity. In this guided prayer we will take a moment to identify situations we desire to control, remember how God has been faithful in the past, and finally seek to receive God’s love and perspective about the situations we’re facing. Here are some helpful links: You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Peter thought he was protecting Jesus, his friend and his Rabbi. He had no idea that his good intentions would play into the hands of the enemy and thwart the plans of eternity. We often have good intentions as we try to make something happen. It seems reasonable – even good from our perspective. Yet God sees and knows infinitely more than we do. And his ways are not our ways. If Peter’s plan had succeeded, he would have rescued Jesus from a moment of pain but created a lifetime of loss for everyone else. As you listen to this week’s meditation, I’m praying you find a little God perspective to help you endure whatever you are facing. This is our third Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here. Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage meditated on in this episode is: Matthew 16:21–26, NLT From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. 22 But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!” 23 Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.” 24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. 25 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. 26 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided prayer for the first week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. This week our meditation passage (released on 2.19.24) was Matthew 14:22-33. In this account, Peter walked on water. He was brave and bold when he stepped out of the boat. But the wind kicked up and distracted him from Jesus. When Peter took his eyes off Jesus, Peter let fear consume him and started to sink. In this guided prayer we will take a moment to identify what situations are making us fearful, confess our fears to God, and then receive God’s love and courage to help us choose to have faith over fear. Here’s some helpful links: You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my parter Life Audio at lifeaudio.com. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Scripture meditation is for Lent. You can get your FREE lent guide here In Matthew 14:22-33, Peter walked on water. He was brave and bold when he stepped out of the boat. But the wind kicked up and distracted him from Jesus. When Peter took his eyes off Jesus, fear consumed him and he started to sink. What changed? Peter changed. Jesus remained the same. He did not move. And he was present and ready to help Peter as soon as Peter cried out to him. As you move through this guided meditation you will be invited to let the Holy Spirit lead you to what he has for you and to reflect on areas where God is inviting you to trust him more. What is Lent? Lent is the roughly 40-day period before Easter in the Christian calendar. Traditionally, Lent is a season set aside for repentance and renewal. I like to think of it as a spring cleaning for my soul - a time to reflect on how much I need Jesus in my life and imagine what life would be like without him. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here. Here’s some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage meditated on in this episode is: Matthew 14:22-33, CSB 22 Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. 23 After dismissing the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. Well into the night, he was there alone. 24 Meanwhile, the boat was already some distance from land, battered by the waves, because the wind was against them. 25 Jesus came toward them walking on the sea very early in the morning. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost!” they said, and they cried out in fear. 27 Immediately Jesus spoke to them. “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter answered him, “command me to come to you on the water.” 29 He said, “Come.” And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” 31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 Then those in the boat worshiped him and said, “Truly you are the Son of God.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided prayer for the first week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. This week our meditation passage (released on 2.12.24) was Matthew 14:13-21. In this account, Jesus feeds the 5000 with food that was meant for one meal. In our meditation, we focused on the concept of scarcity versus abundance and trusting God to provide even when we can’t see how he will do it. This guided prayer will lead you into a few peaceful moments with God as you confess your need for him and ask him to help you trust him more. You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Scripture meditation is for the first week of Lent. Get your FREE lent guide here. In this account from Matthew 14, Jesus demonstrated that in His hands, what seems insufficient becomes more than enough. This serves as a beautiful reminder to trust in God's abundant provision in our own lives. As you move through this guided meditation, you will be invited to let the Spirit lead you to what he has for you and to reflect on areas where God is inviting you to trust him more. Lent is the roughly 40-day period before Easter in the Christian calendar. Traditionally, Lent is a season set aside for repentance and renewal. I like to think of it as a spring cleaning for my soul - a time to reflect on how much I need Jesus in my life and imagine what life would be like without him. The origin of Lent can be traced back to the 4th Century, and the forty days are an echo of Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness. There are several common practices Christians tend to adopt during Lent: fasting, prayer, generosity, and intentionally taking on a spiritual practice. You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here. Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life: You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. Join my Monday email here where I send out links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage meditated on in this episode is: Matthew 14:13-21, NIV 13 (Jesus) withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. 14 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick. 15 As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.” 16 Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” 17 “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. 18 “Bring them here to me,” he said. 19 And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. 20 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21 The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a guided meditation and reflection on all of Psalm 32. Psalm 32 starts with the reminder of the joy we should know because of the fresh start and a clean slate we’ve been given through Jesus. Have we forgotten how amazing and miraculous his work is in our lives? This Psalm also reminds us that hiding sin in secret places will eat us up from the inside out. The amazing news is – when we bring anything hiden into the light, God renews and receives us. Did you catch that? Every single time you turn back to God, he receives you. Every. Single. Time. He does not tire of our returns, he celebrates them. In this meditation, we will listen to Psalm 32 from the Message Translation and I will give you prompts to reflect on with the Lord. Each reflection space in 1 minute long. Feel free to pause or rewind if you need more time. May the Lord guide you to what he has for you through his Word today. Here are the reflection prompts: Consider, what would your life be like without Jesus? Thank God that through Jesus he has given you a clean slate. Recall a time when you were hiding from God and others and how it felt. When you returned to God and stopped hiding from others, how did that feel? Thank him for his mercy. Bring it forward to today… is there any place in your life that you feel you are hiding from God or others? If so, what’s holding you back from bringing it to the light? Ask God if there is any place in your life where you’re being ornery like a horse or a mule and resisting him. If he reveals anything, Ask him for his help. If nothing comes to mind, ask him to help you stay tender and responsive to his leading. Praise God for the truth that you are loved every time you turn around. If there’s a place that God has shown you where you need to turn around, ask God for his help. And remember you will be received with love. Here’s some links I discussed in the podcast: The guided retreat to help you move into this new year with intention is here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. And if you’re ready to make Scripture Meditation a part of your new year, I encourage you to join my Monday email newsletter here. I’ll send out link to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passages we meditated on is as follows: Psalm 32, The Message Count yourself lucky, how happy you must be— you get a fresh start, your slate’s wiped clean. 2 Count yourself lucky— God holds nothing against you and you’re holding nothing back from him. 3 When I kept it all inside, my bones turned to powder, my words became daylong groans. 4 The pressure never let up; all the juices of my life dried up. 5 Then I let it all out; I said, “I’ll make a clean breast of my failures to God.” Suddenly the pressure was gone— my guilt dissolved, my sin disappeared. 6 These things add up. Every one of us needs to pray; when all hell breaks loose and the dam bursts we’ll be on high ground, untouched. 7 God’s my island hideaway, keeps danger far from the shore, throws garlands of hosannas around my neck. 8 Let me give you some good advice; I’m looking you in the eye and giving it to you straight: 9 “Don’t be ornery like a horse or mule that needs bit and bridle to stay on track.” 10 God-defiers are always in trouble; God-affirmers find themselves loved every time they turn around. 11 Celebrate God. Sing together—everyone! All you honest hearts, raise the roof! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Scripture meditation in Isaiah 55 uses Lectio Divina. God is doing work that we can’t even begin to imagine. In Isaiah God declares, “my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways.” I have to confess… from my limited perspective it can be hard to understand what God is doing. This passage reminds me that God is doing things beyond our knowing. (see Job 36:26) As I refocus on the truth that God is God and I am not. And that God is good – always good. Then I start to rest in him and his work. Listen in to this guided meditation and allow the Holy Spirit to remind you that God is working. And that he uses his good Word to accomplish his good purposes. Here’s some helpful links I discussed in the podcast: The guided retreat to help you move into this new year with intention is here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. And if you’re ready to make Scripture Meditation a part of your new year, I encourage you to join my Monday email newsletter here. I’ll send out link to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passages we meditated on is as follows: Isaiah 55:8-11, CSB For my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways.” This is the Lord’s declaration. 9 “For as heaven is higher than earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return there without saturating the earth and making it germinate and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat, 11 so my word that comes from my mouth will not return to me empty, but it will accomplish what I please and will prosper in what I send it to do.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.