So Much More: Scripture Meditation (Lectio Divina)

God speaks this blessing over Jesus: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” And then leads him straight into the wilderness. Wait… what? Have you ever wondered why? And if Jesus was led into the wilderness, what does that say about our own wilderness seasons? Listen in and meditate on Mark 1. As you do, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with author Casey Tygrett (posted 4.26.23). We discuss how wilderness seasons are restless seasons. And how restlessness can actually be a gift in our life. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: Mark 1:9-13 9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” 12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, 13 and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Poetry doesn’t give answers. It helps us notice. When the pandemic hit, Drew Jackson found solace in an unexpected place: poetry. It became a spiritual practice that settled his soul, helping him notice the world around him and the presence of God. Drew writes at the intersection of justice, peace, and contemplation, with a passion to contribute toward a more just and whole world. Join Drew and I as we discuss all things poetry – and he recites some of his beautiful poems and tells us the stories behind them. **** Listener bonus: IVP is giving us 30% off and free shipping with code MUCHMORE until 5/3/2023 at https://www.ivpress.com/touch-the-earth Some highlights from our conversation: 00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:02:00 - Drew's Journey into Poetry, 00:05:08 - Poetry as Spiritual Practice, 00:11:12 - Personal Poem, 00:13:55 - Using Poetry in Ministry, 00:16:50 - The Relationship Between Peace and Justice, 00:19:22 - Reflection on Luke's Gospel, 00:23:59 - Meditation on Luke 11:1-4, 00:30:34 - Reflection on Legacy and Passing on the Faith, 00:31:45 - Conclusion You can connect with Drew at: https://drewejackson.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/d.jacksonpoetics On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d.jacksonpoetics/ On Twitter: https://twitter.com/djacksonpoetics Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

One day, Jesus was praying in a certain place. The disciples were obviously watching Jesus. They seem curious and inspired. So, they ask him, Lord, teach us to pray. Teach us to do what you were just doing. And he does. As you meditate on Luke 11, a version of what we often call “The Lord’s Prayer,” allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with pastor and poet Drew Jackson. We discuss all this poetry – including when and why Drew started writing poetry and how it helps him slow down and notice God. He also recites some of his poetry for us, including a poem that comes from this passage. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: Luke 11:1-4, NIV One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” 2 He said to them, “When you pray, say: “ ‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread. 4 Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.’ ” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if we viewed reading as not just a personal hobby or a personal indulgence but as a spiritual practice that deepens our faith? Jessica Hooten Wilson, award-winning author and professor, makes the case that this is exactly what reading should be. Listen in as we discuss all things readings – both Scripture and beyond. Here’s some highlights from our conversation: Why reading more than Scripture helps us understand God and Scripture better. How Jessica used to sneak out as a little girl to teach the Bible. Yes, really. Did you know there is a Christian way of reading? Jessica explains this. Why it’s important to really attend to what Scripture is saying instead of assuming we know what it says – or preemptively interpreting God’s word. We talk about Matthew 13 – and why Jesus tells parables or, as the Message says, stories. We discuss how our reading has been formed by our 20th-century values of individualism – and yet reading used to be, and should be, a fully embodied experience. We do this by reading aloud, seeing words on the page, and hearing the words read to us. All of these interactions help us enter the text in a more embodied way. Why remembering was a moral responsibility for the Jewish people and why it’s necessary for us too. Jessica shares how Mary exemplified the importance of remembering. When she was faced with something new and unthinkable (being the mother of Jesus), her memory of the Word poured out of her. Her remembrance of God and His truth ministered to her and comforted her. Jessica put together an amazing resource of all the books she thinks we should read. We talk about how she chose the list and why it matters. And we talk about how to start reading these works, especially if we are a little intimidated by them. You can connect with Jessica at: https://jessicahootenwilson.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaHootenWilson On Twitter: https://twitter.com/HootenWilson Subscribe to her thoughtful newsletter on Substack: https://jessicahootenwilson.substack.com/ Order Reading for the Love of God from Baker Books from Amazon Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The disciples wondered why Jesus taught in parables and stories. Some understood and some didn’t. Jesus had good reason. He told them that many people look, but they don’t really see. And others hear, but they don’t really listen or understand. And then he tells them their eyes are blessed because they see; and their ears, because they hear. As you meditate on Matthew 13, allow the Spirit to help you really hear and see. Perhaps he wants to show you something from this text that applies to your own life. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with professor and author Jessica Hooten Wilson. We discuss why reading is an important spiritual practice. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Download your free Lectio Divina Journal here. The full meditation text is: Matthew 13:10-13, 16, NLT 10 His disciples came and asked him, “Why do you use parables when you talk to the people?” 11 He replied, “You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not. 12 To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them. 13 That is why I use these parables, For they look, but they don’t really see. They hear, but they don’t really listen or understand. 16 “But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

He is risen! He is risen, indeed. Prepare your heart for the glory of Easter as you meditate on the resurrection of Jesus. Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed in the guided Lent Journal for your use: Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on this silent day of waiting and wondering. Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed in the guided Lent Journal for your use: Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on this somber and hard day in Jesus’s journey, his crucifixion. Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed in the guided Lent Journal for your use: Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on Jesus’s actions and words from the Thursday before his crucifixion. Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed in the guided Lent Journal for your use: Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The resurrection story is likely familiar. And yet, there may be a few details you’ve missed. That’s why I love talking with Russ Ramsey, author of The Passion of the King of Glory, he notices things differently than I do. In this conversation, Russ helps us see and understand just how amazing the events are that led up to the cross and the resurrection. And why it was so beautiful when he entrusted Mary to share his resurrection with the disciples. You do not want to miss this episode. You will likely see something new. And may never read the story the same again afterward. NOTE: You can receive 30% off Russ’s entire Retelling the Story Series including the book we discuss on the podcast, The Passion of The King of Glory, at the following link until April 19, 2023 with the code MUCHMORE. https://www.ivpress.com/the-passion-of-the-king-of-glory Some highlights from our conversation: Have you ever wondered why Jesus could be tried and punished with capital punishment? Yes, we understand his death needed to happen at a cosmic level – but what was happening in Jesus’s world that made his actions punishable by death? Russ helps us understand the political and religious environment Jesus was in – and why he was such a threat to the establishment. Russ encourages us to read Scripture with our imagination – and makes a compelling case for why it was always intended to be read this way. Russ shares some details he saw and wondered about as he researched and wrote his book – like what kind of wine did Jesus really make? Here’s another detail to consider: Jesus was anointed with an oil-based perfume a few days before his crucifixion, is it possible that he carried that scent with him to the cross? We also talk about Mary showing up at the tomb when no one else does. And how Jesus reveals himself to her and sends her out to proclaim his resurrection to the others. We discuss why Jesus chose her, why it’s important, and what it means for the rest of us. Finally, Russ gives us some pastoral encouragement as we enter Easter week. I’ll sum it up: The pain we endure in this life is not the end of the story… because of Jesus. (He says it better – so listen to the end for this!) You can connect with Russ at http://russ-ramsey.com/ On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/russramsey1/ On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/russ.ramsey Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mary stood outside of the tomb in distress. She didn’t know where Jesus was. It’s a beautiful and emotional scene. Jesus is there, just not how she expects. He has risen. When he reveals himself to her, she grabs ahold of him in what I can only imagine is deep rejoicing. He tells her not to hold on to him but sends her to tell the others. In this meditation, we contemplate this deeply personal and emotional moment between Mary and Jesus. There is something for you in this passage. Allow the Spirit to lead you into it and help you notice what he has for you. After you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode (which releases on April 5, 2023) and listen to the interview with pastor and author Russ Ramsey. He shares some observations he noticed about Mary that are very encouraging. Plus, a lot of other encouraging and inspiring details about the moments leading to the cross and Jesus’s resurrection. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: John 20:11-14, NIV 11 Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. 13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Comparison is sneaky. One minute we’re humming along, content with our life and calling – then suddenly, comparison sneaks in, making us distracted and discontent. We all deal with comparison, measuring ourselves against others. It’s a tactic of our enemy to throw us off course. But Jesus has better for us. Shannon Popkin is the author of Comparison Girl, and host of the Live Like It’s True podcast. In this conversation, Shannon challenges us with Jesus’s words and actions to help us lay aside destructive comparisons and embrace the freedom of living in our calling and gifts. Some highlights from our conversation: Shannon tells us the three ways comparison can throw us off track. It can distract us, deplete us, and destroy us. Shannon shares how she struggled with comparison and what the Lord started to show her in Scripture. We discuss how Jesus used comparison as a teaching tool. For example, He says Mary chose what was better than Martha, and she holds up the widow who gave her last two coins as an example of generosity. When we compare ourselves to these people, they positively challenge us to be more whom we are created to be. This means not all comparison is bad. So, how do we know the difference? Shannon says it simply: we evaluate if it’s pride or humility. We talk about the passage we meditated on from Philippians and how Jesus exemplified laying aside all his advantages in an act of ultimate humility. Shannon shared how she meditated on the passage in a different translation (the CSB), which says, “did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited” instead of “used for his own advantage.” We discussed the word “exploited” and what it triggered for both of us. Finally, Shannon gives us a few practical ways to lay aside comparisons during this Lenten season and beyond. You can connect with Shannon at: https://www.shannonpopkin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonpopkin/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shanpopkin/ Listen to the Live Like It’s True Podcast: https://www.shannonpopkin.com/bible-podcast/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jesus exemplified valuing others first. He was God but did not use it for his own advantage. Rather, he laid down his life for us. The ultimate act of humility. Through this act, he showed us how to put others ahead of ourselves. Yet - It’s easy to get caught in the vortex of comparison. And as soon as we get sucked in, we stop valuing others. In the comparison twister, we can only see ourselves and how we seem to measure up. In this meditation, we contemplate Jesus’ example of placing others ahead of himself and consider how it should impact our lives today. There are many places the Lord can take you in this familiar passage. In fact, it’s probably a good meditation to do more than once. After you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode (releases on March 29, 2023) and listen to the interview with Bible study author and teacher Shannon Popkin. We discuss comparison and how it can distract us from God’s good plans. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: Philippians 2:3-8, NIV Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. 5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Why do we fast? There are many reasons, but one main reason is to draw near to God. During the season of Lent, Christians traditionally practice fasting. In this conversation with Amy Seiffert, author of Starved, we discuss all things fasting, including some how-tos and how-not-tos. Amy is also the author of Grace Looks Amazing on You and on the teaching team at Brookside Church. She is an affiliate Cru staff member and a regular YouVersion Bible Teacher. Some highlights from our conversation: Amy tells us the story of her son’s diagnosis with Crone’s disease. He was eating but was malnourished. As Amy dug in to get intentional about his needed diet change, she realized he wasn’t the only one malnourished. God helped her see that she and many others also needed a spiritual diet change. We discuss fasting and some of Amy’s attempts to fast – what worked and what didn’t. What didn’t work was fasting without feasting on God. We talk about fasting from food reveals what really controls us. Amy points out that the passage we meditated on, Matthew 6:16-18, indicates fasting is a practice. Practice implies we will get some things wrong and some things right. Based on Matthew 6, Jesus desired that fasting would remove performance and invite presence. What are some of the wrong motives for fasting? Fasting as a way to try to get something from God. The goal of fasting is to connect and commune with God. And yet, there are times we fast and pray to ask God for things, but if we don’t receive our request, will we still worship and trust God? Amy shares some examples of fasting from Scripture and what they had in common. Fasting from food isn’t the only way to fast. Amy gives us some ideas for different ways we can fast. Finally, Amy gives us some encouragement for how we can fast well. You can connect with Amy at https://www.amyseiffert.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyseiffertblog/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyseiffert/ You can order Amy’s book here: https://www.tyndale.com/p/starved/9781496460295 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you fast. This is how Jesus started his instructions on fasting. Not if you fast, but when. He assumed we would be fasting. Why do we fast? There are many reasons. As you meditate on this invitation from God, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with Amy Seiffert. We discuss her new book Starved, where she talks about practices that can help us make a needed spiritual diet change. And you guessed it… one of the practices she discusses is fasting. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: Matthew 6:16-18 16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sometimes Scripture can feel confusing and disconnected from our lives. Yet it’s how God chose to communicate his heart with us. Which means it is how we come to know God and ourselves better. So, how do we read Scripture in a way that helps us connect with God? Andrew Abernethy, author and professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College, wrote the book Savoring Scripture: A Six-Step Guide to Studying the Bible. A super helpful and practical guide that helps us savor Scripture – and, more importantly, the God of Scripture. ***DISCOUNT on Savoring Scripture**** IVPress is graciously giving So Much More listeners 30% off and free shipping. Use the code MUCHMORE. Yay. Valid 3/15/23-3/29/23 at this link: https://www.ivpress.com/savoring-scripture Some highlights from our conversation: We talked about why Andrew felt he needed to write this book. We talk about how I was taught to study Scripture: observation, interpretation, and application. I confess that this method stressed me out – and actually put a barrier between God and me. Andrew starts with step one - our heart posture. And tells us why this is such a critical place to start. We then discuss the remaining steps: flow, historical context, book context, whole Bible, savoring God, and our faithful response. We discuss how Lectio Divina fits into this model and why it’s helpful. We discuss Psalm 121 and Andrew’s time meditating on this beautiful passage. And the hope and peace it brought him that very day. Lastly, Andrew encourages us to give this six-step method a try and tells us about his attempt to learn break dancing. Yes, it’s applicable. You can follow Andrew on Twitter: @AbernethyOTProf Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abernethybibleprof/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andy.abernethy.37 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Lord is keeping watch over you. He cares so much that he never takes his eyes off you. Even when storms come into your life, the Lord cares for you. He is keeping you from harm. If you need this reminder, meditate on this beautiful Psalm for a few minutes. And allow the Spirit to comfort you with these words. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with Andrew Abernethy, Old Testament professor at Wheaton College and author of Savoring Scripture: A Six-Step Guide to Studying the Bible. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: Psalm 121:5-8, NIV 5 The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; 8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s hard to love difficult people. We know we are called to it, but there are just some people who are really, really hard to love. So, what do we do? Try harder? Muster up love by sheer willpower? We can try. But we will quickly find our true nature of frustration, exasperation, and resentfulness rearing its ugly head. We need a different way. We need to start with the heart. Asherita Ciuciu, bestselling author, speaker, and podcast host, knows something about this journey. She felt the calling to sacrificially love two people who were hard for her to love. She shares what worked and what didn’t, what was wise and what wasn’t, and why sacrificial love is at the heart of Lent. If you want to follow Jesus' command to love others as he has loved us, this podcast is a great place to start. Some highlights from our conversation: Asheritah shares her first experience with Lent and why it wasn’t helpful. And how Advent helped her learn how to practice Lent as a season of preparation. She shares how Jesus modeled sacrificial love by giving the benefit of the doubt to others. We discuss how we can’t just try harder to love people who are difficult to love, that the heart needs to be transformed. Asheritah shares how we can start the process of opening ourselves up this transforming work of Jesus. Asheritah shares openly about two experiences she had when trying to love well. One person had hurt her deeply, and it wound up opening the old wounds. She walks us through this process and how we can discern if we are called to love someone who has hurt us. She also shares about loving someone who was difficult to love just because they are different types of people and how she practically acted in love toward this person – and how it impacted their relationship. Asheritah also gives some great tips on how we can practice this season of lent with intentionality for ourselves, and if you have children, she gives some great tips on practicing Lent as a family. You can connect with Asheritah at https://www.asheritah.com/ Or https://onethingalone.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asheritah/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asheritah/ You can order Asheritah’s book here: https://onethingalone.myshopify.com/products/autographed-copy-of-uncovering-the-love-of-jesus-a-lent-devotional Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Loving others can be hard. Especially those who are difficult to love. Yet, Jesus, in some of his last words to his disciples, invited us to love radically – as he loved us. Jesus calls this a new command. Which means this isn’t optional for followers of Jesus. How is God calling you to love during this Lenten season? As you meditate on this command given by Jesus, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with best-selling author and podcast host Asheritah Ciuciu. We discuss her Lent devotional, Uncovering the Love of Jesus, and her honest experience of loving others sacrificially. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: John 13:34-35, NIV 34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Richard Foster spent a year searching for and learning about the vanishing virtue of humility. Why? Because the Lord invited him to – and because he noticed that few were talking about humility and the world seemed to be pushing against it more and more. He captured his journey of discovery in his newest book, Learning Humility: A Year of Searching for a Vanishing Virtue. Richard didn’t write from the seat of one who has it all figured out but as a fellow traveler who wants us to notice all the beautiful sights along the way. Listen in to this conversation – and then grab his book. *** As listeners of So Much More, IV Press is graciously giving us 30% off and free shipping for 2 weeks (3/1/23-3/15/23) on both his print and digital book with the code MUCHMORE. You can use this link: https://www.ivpress.com/learning-humility Some highlights from our conversation: Richard tells us why writing on the topic of humility was difficult and how his family responded to the project when he told them about it. Brenda shares why she was drawn to walking with Richard as he developed this book and what it taught her about humility. We discuss what Jesus teaches us about humility as a way of life in Matthew 18 and beyond. We talk about why Richard chose the Lakota calendar and Lakota virtues to help him write the book and what he learned about the Lakota people. We discuss Lent and how humility is a part of Lent. Finally, Richard reads his parting words to the readers of his book to us – and Brenda prays a lovely prayer over us. You can learn more about Richard and Renovare at: https://renovare.org/ You can find Brenda at: https://renovare.org/people/brenda-quinn You can follow Richard in Twitter: @FosterEveryday You can order Richard’s book here: https://www.ivpress.com/richard-j-foster Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The disciples had a curious question for Jesus. They wanted to know who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus gave a surprising answer. He placed a child in front of them and said - become like little children, then you will be great. It’s one more example of the upside-down kingdom of God. He values the lowly, the small, and those without power. Create some space to reflect on this Scripture through the Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with Richard Foster and Brenda Quinn on their journey of discovering and learning about the virtue of humility (podcast release date March 1, 2023) You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: *Please note, if you are following along in the guided Lent Journal, this version is different than what is printed in your journal. I made the last-minute change based on my conversation with Richard Foster and Brenda Quin. Matthew 18:1-5, NRSV At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2 He called a child, whom he put among them, 3 and said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How is it that Easter sneaks up on us every year? Or maybe it doesn’t sneak up on you, but your heart never feels quite prepared to celebrate the most amazing of miracles. Somehow it just feels like another Sunday with nicer clothes and better music. This is what Lent is for. Forty days set aside to help us prepare our hearts for Easter. Aaron Damiani, pastor, and author of The Good of Giving Up: Discovering the Freedom of Lent, stumbled into practicing Lent years ago. He may have started with a half-hearted fast, but he quickly noticed his new church community was all in for Lent. He saw them not practicing Lent out of obligation but with hearts full of joy – especially on Easter. Join Aaron and me as we discuss all things Lent: where it came from, how to practice it, and why we should try it. Some highlights from our conversation: Where did Lent come from? While we don’t see Lent explicitly spelled out in Scripture, history tells us the very earliest followers of Jesus started with a communal overnight fast to mark the anniversary of Easter. This grew into what we now recognize as Lent. The three main practices in Lent are: fasting, prayer and almsgiving (generosity) Aaron tells us about his first Lent – and how it became a meaningful part of his journey with Jesus. We talked about what Aaron is giving up this year for Lent – and how you can discover what God might be inviting you to fast from for this season. Do you feel resistance to Lent? Aaron and I discuss this and he has some wise and pastoral words for us. Finally, Aaron prays over us. Here are the words he prayed written by Pastor Thomas Kramer: Heavenly Father, You have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you. So, look with compassion upon the heartfelt desires of your servants and purify our disordered affections that we may behold your eternal glory in the face of Christ Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God forever and ever. Amen. You can connect with Aaron at: https://immanuelanglican.org/lent/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damiani6/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damianipage/ You can order Aaron’s book here: https://www.moodypublishers.com/authors/d/aaron-damiani/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Download your free Lent Journal here. Jesus was led into the wilderness by the Spirit, where he fasted for 40 days. Then, in Jesus’ hunger and physical weakness, the enemy showed up to test him and tempt him. How did Jesus stay strong? And what can we learn from the encounter? Jesus turned to God in dependence, reminded himself (and his enemy) of what was true, and did the next right thing. He passed the enemy’s test with flying colors. Lent, 40 days that mimic these 40 days of fasting by Jesus, helps us turn away from the things that comfort us to depend more fully on God. As you meditate on Matthew 4, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with pastor and author Aaron Damiani. We discuss Lent, where it came from, and how we can practice it today. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use: Matthew 4:1-11, NIV Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted v by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” 5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6 “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” 7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” 11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Breathwork and mindfulness may be all the rage, but did you know God is the original author of breathwork? Obviously, our bodies need to breathe to survive. But God also designed our bodies to naturally calm themselves with intentional breathing. Bonnie Gray, this week's podcast guest, calls it “God's CPR.” I like that. Bonnie is the author of Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm and she hosts Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast. When Bonnie was suddenly plagued with panic attacks, she couldn't understand why. This sent her on a ten-year journey of healing. She shares that in addition to good counseling, God helped her discover that she could refocus her mind and calm her body with a few simple practices. If you're ready to stress less, listen in for some helpful resources. If you’re ready to learn how to calm your own anxiety and stress, this is a good place to start. Some highlights: Bonnie shares her story of the sudden onset of panic attacks and how she started her journey toward healing. Bonnie knew Jesus invited her to love him with her heart, mind, and soul. She understood how to love him with her heart and mind, but she had no idea what it meant to love him with her soul, so she started exploring the Scriptures to discover how to do this. Along the way, God led her to Psalm 46: “Be still and know that he is God.” She always resisted being still because she thought it meant stopping. But she discovered it really meant to relax. This led her to start wondering how she could relax. And what brought her relaxation. Bonnie shares some of the research she’s discovered about breathing and how it starts a rest and relaxation response in our bodies. The Lord helped Bonnie see that she needed to start savoring little bites of his Word in this season. She started using lectio divina to help her read Scripture slowly and notice a word the Lord had for her. She then used this word as a breath prayer. Breathing in one part of the verse and exhaling another part of the verse. Bonnie created a soul care quiz (link below) to help us discern which area of soul care we most need: emotional, spiritual, physical, or social wellness. Finally, Bonnie and I discuss Matthew 11:28-30 and why this verse is important to her. You can connect with Bonnie at: https://thebonniegray.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebonniegray/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheBonnieGray Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/thebonniegray/ Get a copy of her book: https://thebreathebook.com/ Take the Soul Care Quiz: Soulcarequiz.com If you’re interested in the podcast we discussed on toxic relationships, you can find it here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-e8-quieting-imposter-syndrome-toxic-people/id1498959893?i=1000542120177 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you worn out? Burned out? Feeling exhausted or bone-weary? If so, Jesus invites you to come to him, and he will help you find life again.He will help you find the rest you need. Not the rest that comes from a good night’s sleep or a delightful nap, although those are good and needed. No, Jesus is offering you the kind of rest that is found deep in the soul.The kind that no one can take away from you. That can help you face any situation. We are meditating on this promise of Jesus from Matthew 11 using the Lectio Divina Scripture meditation method. Settle in, breathe deep, and see where the Spirit guides you. Once you’ve meditated on the passage, then listen in to the conversation I have with Bonnie Gray, soul care coach and author, on her book “Breathe” and how the Lord helped Bonnie learn how to cope with her own anxiety and depression through breathing, breath prayer and lectio divina. (releases Wednesday 2/15)You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1 Are you looking for a new Bible Study? Check out Jodie’s Real People, Real Faith series and download free sample chapters here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies The exact passage we meditate on is:Matthew 11:28-30, NIV28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” And in the final reading, I use the Message translation:Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A significant life is more simple than you think. In a culture where bigger is seen as better, it’s easy to wonder if your quick prayer between meetings or the short note you text a friend means anything in God’s Kingdom. Rachael Adams, author and host of the Love Offering Podcast, found herself questioning her significance, when the Lord led her to take a deeper look at his Word to discover where true significance is found. In God’s Word, Rachael discovered that contrary to how she was feeling, every little thing could go a long way in God’s hands. This discovery led her to write her devotional, A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to A Significant Life. If you’re wondering how to live a significant life – this conversation is for you. Some highlights from our conversation: Rachael starts by telling us about her journey to discovering significance – and she shares honestly how she still wrestles with this today.Racheal shares some of the little things God helped her notice in Scripture. Like how he created us from dust (a very little thing), how he took Abraham in his very old age and brought a huge nation forth from him, and how Jesus’ whole life was small by our standards, yet he accomplished more than we could imagine.God often works in small ways and with small things. There are also times he does big miraculous things. Both are good as long as God is the one leading.We discuss Ephesians 2:8-10 and why Rachael loves this passage, and how God helped it come to life for her again when she meditated on it.We talk about some “little practices” to try that can help us move toward living a significant life: a little meal, a little invitation, and a little letter.Rachael encourages us to keep doing whatever God is calling us to do. And then sge closes with a beautiful prayer.You can connect with Rachael and get her devotional at: https://rachaelkadams.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachaeladamsauthor/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachaeladamsauthor/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you wonder what God has called you to do? These verses are for you.Years ago, when I wondered what God was calling me to, these verses helped me take a deep breath and stop fretting. God had already created good work for me before I was even born. I didn’t need to hunt around to find it or create it. I only needed to follow God. He would let me know the next step at the right time. He has been faithful in showing me the next steps. He will do the same for you. Whether he’s called you to something small or big, behind the scenes or public. It is significant work because God prepared it in advance for you to do. And God takes even the little things and makes them go a long way. We will meditate on this passage using the Lectio Divina Scripture meditation method. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by what he has for you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with author Rachael Adams. We discuss living a significant life by leaning into the little things, inspired by her devotional, A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1 The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Ephesians 2:8-10 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A spacious life sounds lovely, doesn’t it?But it can also feel unattainable.I mean, how are we supposed to live spacious lives and still get everything done? The truth is you will never get everything done. And another truth is - there is a different way to live.A way of life that honors the boundaries God has graciously set for us. Ashley Hales, author of Spacious Living: Trading Hustle and Hurry for the Goodness of Limits, helps us think through a different way to live. Ashley Hales is a writer, speaker, and host of the Finding Holy podcast. She is the author of Finding Holy in the Suburbs and A Spacious Life her writing has been featured in Christianity Today, Books & Culture, and The Gospel Coalition. If you’re longing to leave hustle and hurry behind, start here. GREAT NEWS! IVP is generously giving So Much More listeners 30% off and free shipping on Ashley’s new book, A Spacious Life, with the code MUCHMORE until February 15, 2023 at https://www.ivpress.com/a-spacious-life Some highlights from our conversation: Ashley reminds us that limits are good. They were established at creation – before Adam and Eve sinned. The truth is: God always intended for us to have limits. Discovering and honoring them brings freedom and peace.Ashley finds it fascinating that another word for sin is trespass,which means to go beyond. Sin is ultimately moving beyond our good limits.Ashley shares her personal story of discovering limits through the disorienting season of the pandemic, a job change, selling their home, and moving.One of the things she discovered in this disorienting season is that God is most concerned with our formation. Helping us become more the people he’s created us to be.A spacious life is not a perfectly curated life. And a spacious life isn’t something you will have some day after you’ve accomplished everything. The invitation to spacious living is for now, no matter what season you are in.Ashley shares why Psalm 18 is important to her and how this verse reminds her that spacious living start with God’s gracious rescue.Ashley gives a few practices that can help us start living in our limits. She suggests we start with a time of short silence in the presence of God. She also suggests community because our limits are exposed in community and healed in community. You can connect with Ashley at: https://aahales.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/aahalesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/aahales/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aahales Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Does your life feel hurried?Are you hustling from one thing to the next? Or worse, does it feel like you’re drowning in deep water.Struggling to take the next breath? If so, you aren’t alone.That’s exactly how David felt when he penned Psalm 18. The good news is, when David cried out to the Lord, the Lord rescued him.God pulled him out of the deep water and brought him to a spacious place. God may not immediately change your circumstances, but there is a promise for you in this passage. God is inviting you to live differently. To order your life in a way that leads to spaciousness and rest. As you meditate on this invitation from God, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your life. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with Ashley Hales, author of A Spacious Life. We discuss how to trade hustle and hurry for the goodness of limit. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1 The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Psalm 18:16-19, NIV16 He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. 17 He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 18 They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. 19 He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you tired of holding it all together? Does it feel like a storm is raging, ready to crash in on you?And what will happen when that storm becomes real?Will it level you? Or are you prepared to withstand it? Jesus has wise words for us on how to stay standing no matter the circumstances.He offers us three simple practices. Simple, but not easy. Join Alli Patterson and I as we discuss the three essential practices that can help us stand strong no matter the circumstances. Alli is graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, a teaching pastor, and the author of How to Stay Standing: 3 Essential Practices for Building a Faith That LastsSome highlights from our conversation: Ali had a true desire to live a good life. In fact, she believes most of us do. So she set out to build her life like the world told her – do well in school, get a good job, and get married. Unfortunately, she had cracks in her foundation that gave way to her life crumbling around her. She woke up one day wondering, how did I go from being a "good person" one day to allowing myself to do what I never thought I would? As her life sat in ruins, she had to make a choice if she would trust God and take a risk on Him or continue trusting in herself. She chose God. She started with telling the truth and this allowed her to find peace with God. As her life was slowly rebuilt from the rubble, God showed her how he really wanted her to build her life – by focusing on him. Luke 6 tells us there are wise and foolish builders. They both heard the words of Jesus. But the foolish builder didn’t put them into practice. Ali shares why putting Jesus’ words into practice matters and how he can help us start repairing cracks in our foundation. Ultimately, a life built on the solid foundation of God is a life of rest and peace. Storms will come, but with God as our foundation we will be ready to endure them. You can connect with Alli and get her book at https://theallipatterson.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theallipatterson/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theallipatterson/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What happens when the storms sweep through your life?God promises us that storms will come, but they don’t have to take us out.When we build our life on God, as the solid foundation, he promises that we will not be shaken. As you meditate on these words, allow the Spirit to help you notice what he wants you to notice. God has something specific for you in these words. We will enter this passage prayerfully and expectantly using the Lectio Divina Scripture meditation method. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Alli Patterson. Alli is a pastor and the author of, How to Stay Standing. She helps us understand the importance of building our lives on a solid foundation. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1 The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Luke 6:46-49 46 “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? 47 As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. 48 They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. 49 But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You are not an accident. You did not happen by chance.Sadly, many of us believe these heartbreaking lies.The truth is: God was involved in every aspect of your creation. He knew you - and loved you - before you were even born.We need to reframe our thinking about ourselves. When we understand whom God created us to be – and when we start to grasp his love and grace – then we can live the life God is inviting us to. One that is abundant, full, and even restful.In this podcast, James Bryan Smith and I discuss how understanding the good and beautiful you we’ve been created to be leads to flourishing. James Bryan Smith is the author of the Good and Beautiful Series, which includes: The Good and Beautiful God, The Good and Beautiful Life, The Good and Beautiful Community, and now his new book, The Good and Beautiful You: Discovering the Person Jesus Created You to Be. He is a theology professor at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, and is the director of the Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation.James is also an ordained minister with the United Methodist Church and has served in various capacities in local churches. And he hosts the Things Above Podcast. Great News! You can get 30% off and free shipping on the entire Good and Beautiful series – including The Good and Beautiful You - at the link below with the code MUCHMORE until February 2, 20023https://www.ivpress.com/the-good-and-beautiful-you Some highlights from our conversation:James Bryan Smith previously thought “The Good and Beautiful” series was complete until a friend suggested he needed one more book. Hear how this happened and why James agreed with his friend.James ends each chapter with a soul-training practice. The first one is called Holy Leisure. James and I discuss why he placed this practice first and why it’s a foundational practice for the concepts he unpacks in the book.We discuss the false narrative that we are an accident. James tells us what the true and biblical narrative is and why this matters so much when we are seeking to live restful lives.James says, “It’s unavoidable and not a sin to want to be wanted, to love to be loved, and to desire to be desired.” We talk about this truth, why it’s not narcissistic, and how these deep longings are met through our Triune God.We talk about one of my favorite subjects – the finality of the cross. James unpacks this wonderful truth for us and helps us let go of the false thinking that we must confess each and every one of our sins to be forgiven. If this is a new concept to you – listen to it multiple times. This will give you deep and lasting freedom – and that freedom will release you from much of the anxiety you might feel in your relationship with the Lord.Here’s how you can connect with James Bryan Smith and listen to his podcast:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Official.JamesBryanSmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/jamesbryansmithPodcast: https://apprenticeinstitute.org/things-above-podcast/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God designed every detail about you – from the color of your hair to the texture of your toenails.He knows if cilantro tastes like soap or not.And if you recharge best when you’re alone or at a party. Sometimes we wonder if God made a mistake when he wove together our DNA. Psalm 139 assures us he didn’t. God not only created you and knows you, but he also deeply loves you.Perhaps you need to be reminded of this truth. Take a few minutes to meditate on Psalm 139:1-6 and contemplate how God created you and watches over you. As you let the Spirit guide you, you may be surprised what he has for you in this passage. We are meditating on Psalm 139 using the Lectio Divina method – a simple way to prayerfully hear God’s Word. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with James Bryan Smith, professor, minister, and author of “The Good and Beautiful You.” You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1 The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use.Psalm 139:1-61 You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.4 Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.5 You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you living a full AND yet still restful life? Most of us aren’t.We view rest as something out there. Something we get to enjoy once everything else is done. Of course, everything never gets done and so we never really rest. This leads to burnout.Which is exactly what Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a busy physician and mother, experienced. She counseled her patients to rest and take good care of themselves, but realized she wasn’t taking her own advice. This started her journey of discovering and researching about rest.She quickly realized rest was more than just a good night of sleep. In fact, she came to understand that there are seven different types of rest: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, sensory and creative.Are you feeling a little weary as you enter into the new year? Perhaps you need to rest a little differently?Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a Board-Certified internal medicine physician, speaker, and award-winning author. She is the author of numerous books including her bestseller Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity, including insight on the seven types of rest needed to optimize your productivity, increase your overall happiness, overcome burnout, and live your best life.Some highlights from our conversation:Dr. Saundra discovered that rest happens through restorative activities. We need to discover where we are depleted and then pour back into our lives accordingly.What do we do if we are truly burned out? Focus on one area where we are truly depleted. Find a manageable and repeatable activity that is restorative and start incorporating that into your daily life.Dr. Saundra and I talk about her belief that science and Scripture are not mutually exclusive from one another – they work together to give a better picture of health and wellness.Dr. Saundra shares that practicing Sabbath is what helped come back from burnout.We also talk about the medical system and how rest isn’t taught, practiced or encouraged for medical professionals. The impact is more doctors leaving the field and less entering into it.We discuss meditation and what some of the positive impacts are for those who meditate – better sleep, better focus, and the ability to be more attentive to the present versus lost in the past of fretting over the future.Dr. Saundra shares why she loves Isaiah 30:15, the Scripture we meditated on this week, and how it had become a life verse for her.Finally, she encourages us that rest results in gifts. Her book outlines 7 kinds of rest – that yield 12 different gifts. You can access the rest quiz at: https://www.restquiz.com/quiz/rest-quiz-test/You can connect with Dr. Dalton Smith at https://ichoosemybestlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdaltonsmith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrSaundraDaltonSmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/DrDaltonSmith Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you wake up feeling rested? Many of us don’t.Perhaps rest is more than just a good night of sleep? In this passage, God issued an invitation to the Old Testament nation of Israel to return and rest in Him. The nation was wayward. They were choosing their own way and ignoring God. But God had more for them and so he extended this invitation to them. While this passage was written for the ancient people of Israel, there is timeless truth in it for us too. How is God inviting you to return (or repent) and find rest in Him?And, just like the Israelites chose to “flee on horses” … what might we be choosing instead of God? As you meditate on this invitation from God, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life. We will meditate prayerfully and expectantly using the Lectio Divina Scripture meditation method. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by what he has for you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith. We discuss her research on the seven different kinds of rest and she helps us discover what we can do to replenish our exhausted selves. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1 The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Isaiah 30:15-16, NIVThis is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation,in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it. You said, ‘No, we will flee on horses.’ Therefore you will flee! You said, ‘We will ride off on swift horses.’Therefore your pursuers will be swift! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hurry is not a virtue – but we treat it like one. Is it even possible to live differently?In this conversation with Alan Fadling, we talk about practical ways you can live unhurried. Jesus had busy days, but he was never hurried. Unhurrying doesn’t mean abandoning your to do list, it just means you’re allowing God to speak into it and help you choose the best yeses. 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. And he is the award-winning author of An Unhurried Leader and An Unhurried Life and his newest book A Year of Slowing Down. He is the coauthor of What Does Your Soul Love? Written with his wife Gem (Who has also been on the podcast – see the links below to listen.) This podcast goes with our meditation on Psalm 62 which released January 2, 2023 in this feed.Some highlights from our conversation:-Alan starts by dispelling the myth that hurry is a virtue. And states hurry costs us more than we think. -We talk about Jesus as the unhurried Savior. What does it look like for us to follow an unhurried Savior? Jesus invites us to move at the pace of grace.-Alan unpacks why he believes God invites us to live at the pace of grace and the pace of love.-Alan dispels another myth – that rest will come when the problem is solved, or the list gets accomplished, or the conflict is resolved. The truth is rest is not out there somewhere – it’s found in God. He is the place of security and provision. (This truth comes directly from the Psalm we meditated on in the previous podcast.)-Alan challenges us to observe what Jesus says yes to and no to. His values, priorities and decisions may surprise us when we really notice them.-And lest you think unhurried living means sitting in a recliner binging Netflix, Alan helps us see that unhurried is different than busy. Jesus had busy season and busy days. But he was never hurried. -Alan gives us a few ways we can start practicing unhurrying – starting our day with 5 minutes of silence and embracing the art of noticing people. 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/alanfadlingOr https://www.facebook.com/unhurriedlivingYou can find my conversation with Gem Fadling here:https://www.spreaker.com/episode/51980161 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you long for rest? Deep and true rest?This Psalm of David says we can find this soul level rest in our God. If you are feeling anxious, start with a deep breath and remember God is in control – he sees you and he loves you. Then as you meditate on these rest promising words from long ago, allow the Spirit to bring them life in your soul. We should expect this to happen – we are engaging the living and active Word. We will enter this passage prayerfully and expectantly using the Lectio Divina Scripture meditation method. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by what he has for you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Alan Fadling, Founder of Unhurried Living and author of A Year of Slowing Down, on how God invites us to live at the unhurried pace of grace. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Psalm 62:5-8, NIV5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. 6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. 7 My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. 8 Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s that time of year. The time we naturally think through and process the year we just lived and start to wonder about the new one. Grab your journal, your favorite cozy drink and a quiet spot – then pop in your earbuds and let’s get to prayerful work processing with the Lord. It will be time well spent. If you haven’t listened to the conversation with Cheri Hudspith, Spiritual Director, and Julie Pierce, Leadership Coach to help you prepare for this reflection you can find it here:http://www.jodieniznik.com/somuchmorepodcastHere’s the flow of conversation, questions and Scriptures for your reference:Part 1: Looking backPrompt 1: Name at least three things you can rejoice over and praise God for from the last year.Prompt 2: What comes to mind from the last year that left you feeling weary and burdened? Prompt 3: What comes to mind from the last year that felt like it was soul filling – gave you energy and peace?Prompt 4: As you review these lists, ask the Lord: Is there any place where I feel overwhelmed, afraid or disappointed? Prompt 5: Is there anything you, Lord, want me to let go of or think differently about?Part 2: Looking forwardPrompt 1: Name some of the seasons you think your year will hold.Prompt 2: Consider the next season that’s coming - what good work do you sense the Lord may be inviting you into for that season in your relationship with him, Your relationship with others, and in relationship with the world around you?Prompt 3: Are there any barriers to moving forward or anything you sense the Lord is inviting you to do differently in 2023?The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Philippians 4:4-6Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Matthew 11:28-3028 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”Ephesians 2:10For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.Isaiah 40:31but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s the end of year! What are you celebrating? What’s left you worn out? Where do you feel stuck? What do you anticipate for next year?All good questions. Some of us are energized by these types of questions. And some of us know they are important, but they feel daunting.No matter which camp you fall into – this conversation is for you. Cheri Hudspith is a trained Spiritual Director who has been helping people cultivate a deeper walk with the Lord for many years. And Julie Pierce is a seasoned leadership coach who has also been walking with leaders for years. We have an insightful conversation how to process the last year, move through stuck places, and appropriately dream with God. This conversation is like pulling up a chair with your besties to get wise counsel on life. (Spoiler – Cheri and Julie are my besties and I can’t wait to share them with you. They are so wise. I choose great friends and thankfully they stick it out with me!)Some highlights from our conversation:•Cheri shares daily prayer keeps the reflection cycles short – and while good to do this it can get us deep in the weeds of life. Year end reflection allows us to pull back and see the bigger picture of what God is doing. •Julie shared how metabolizing our year – a term borrowed from the book Necessary Endings – allows us to slow down and metabolize what’s happened in our year so we can take away the fuel for our growth and release anything that is going to be toxic for us moving forward. •Julie shared three reasons we can get stuck: Because we are overwhelmed, afraid, or disappointed/hurt. oIf overwhelmed she recommends to first step dump out our brain (like the junk drawer)oIf dealing with fear, she recommends you ask what you are really afraid of? And then, what’s one small thing I can do to remove that obstacle or move through it?oIf you are facing disappointment or hurt, she recommends naming what is disappointing or hurtful. Then do the work of metabolizing this with a trusted mentor or counselor to start the healing process. •Cheri then shares that even the process of becoming aware of being stuck, even if we can’t name it is a gift from God. She recommends paying attention to the types of things you’re saying to yourself and other people on repeat. These may indicate that you’re cycling and staying in the same place rather than move through to a new place.•Finally, we talk about dreaming about the new year and healthy ways to do this. Cheri starts with the importance of our dreams being in alignment with God. And Julie recommends seasons instead of full years for dreaming and goal setting. Resources mentioned in the podcast:Necessary Endings by Dr. Henry CloudThe Next Right Thing Journal by Emily P. FreemanListen to My Life Maps which you can find here: https://www.onelifemaps.com/You can connect with Julie at: https://www.juliepierceleadership.com/On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliepierceleadership/On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliehardinpierceYou can connect with Cheri at: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheri.hudspithOn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clhudspith/If you’d like to learn more about Spiritual Direction go here:http://beloved-daughter.blogspot.com/2017/01/spiritual-direction.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You’ve heard the story of Jesus’ birth many times. Perhaps it’s time for some fresh insight into this beautiful and hope-filled story. This is exactly what Russ Ramsey gives us in this conversation. Russ is the pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Where’s he’s also a writer and a speaker aiming to communicate the truths of Scripture in accessible ways to people in process.He’s written several books including the Retelling the Story Series, featuring The Advent of the Lamb of God. NOTE: You can receive 30% off Russ’s book, The Advent of the Lamb of God, at the following link until January 4, 2023 with the code MUCHMORE.https://www.ivpress.com/the-advent-of-the-lamb-of-godSome highlights from our conversation:-Russ starts with a pastoral encouragement to let Christmas, which falls on Sunday, disrupt our traditions. -Russ retells the Gospel story as narrative while still holding a high view of Scripture. His deep hope is to help increase biblical literacy. -Russ says we need to read Scripture with an engaged imagination. This is because Scripture was written in thrift as the resources for writing were scarce and hard to come by. -One area where Russ’s imagination is captured with Jesus’s birth is the story of Joseph. He wonders with us about how Joseph might have felt as he witnessed the birth of Jesus. -We also talk about the story of Elizabeth and Zachariah. Lord takes away Zachariah’s voice – but not his role. He’s became a silent priest. -We talk about shepherds. And Russ helps us understand why a shepherd’s life was ironic – caring for the sheep that would become sacrifices which disqualified them from making sacrifices. -We also talk about why it was that the angel appeared first to the shepherds and what that says about Jesus and his ministry.-Finally, Russ encourages us to look at Christmas through the lens of Easter. We’re not just celebrating the birth of a baby. We’re celebrating the birth of a baby who came to do something – and what it would mean for us. You can connect with Russ at http://russ-ramsey.com/On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/russramsey1/On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/russ.ramsey Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You know the story. Today I’m inviting you to hear it again with fresh ears. As you meditate on the Christmas Story, words from long ago that tell of Jesus’ birth, allow the Spirit to bring the story to life in your soul. We will enter this passage prayerfully and expectantly using the Lectio Divina Scripture meditation method. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by what he has for you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with pastor and author Russ Ramsey. He helps us discover why shepherd were the chosen people the angel announced Jesus’ birth to and how the manger points to the cross.You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Luke 2:7-11, NIVAnd (Mary) gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Elizabeth and Zechariah received an unexpected answer to a prayer they most likely lost hope on. And in God’s timing and God’s way, Elizabeth conceives a long dreamed for son. God’s timing is almost never our own. In this conversation with Pastor Jenni Wong Clayville, we explore God’s timing and what it teaches us. We also talk about how we can stand in God’s way or surrender to his plans. And what God can do through a surrendered life. In this case, God flips eternity on its head. Jenni Wong Clayville has been in full-time ministry since 2001. She has a wide variety of ministry experience in positions such as Worship Pastor to First Impressions to Executive Pastor. She is currently serving as the Weekend Experience Pastor at National Church in VA. Some highlights from our conversation:-Jenni questions what the outpouring of her heart would be if she had to be silent for as long as Zechariah was. -We discuss why this passage is a good reminder to slow down and take a moment to be still and silent before the Lord. -How the timing of Zechariah and Elizabeth’s pregnancy puts our life into perspective. God calls us to do things on his timeline. And our willingness to be used by him is critical. In this case, God flipped eternity on its head. -Jenni discussed how we can stand in the way of God’s plans or put barriers up to what the Lord wants to do in and through us. -We discussed how God’s timing is different than our timing. Jenni says, “nothing is on our timeline.” Sometimes promises don’t get fulfilled on this side of eternity. -Jenni helps us understand the term salvation. Often, we read salvation as only past tense – but when translated correctly it is also present and future tense. It’s a continual cycle. -We talk about Jenni’s calling to pastoral ministry as a woman. The hurdles she had to overcome and how she hopes things are changing for women that are coming behind her.You can connect with Jenni at https://national.cc/about/staff/bio/jenni-clayvilleOn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jclayville/On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jclayville Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Zachariah had been silenced for over nine months. When he finally spoke, these words flowed forth. A song of praise and prophecy. As you meditate on these words from long ago, allow the Spirit to bring them life in your soul. We should expect this to happen with the living and active Word. We will enter this passage prayerfully and expectantly using the Lectio Divina Scripture meditation method. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by what he has for you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with pastor Jenni Wong Clayville on where the Lord led her and why it matters in her life right now. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:Luke 1:68-75, NIV“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them. 69 He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David 70 (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), 71 salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us— 72 to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant, 73the oath he swore to our father Abraham: 74 to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear 75in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Parker Smith is a Dallas-based entrepreneur, author, and work-from-home Dad of two under two. He's the founder of Beginner's Apprenticeship, a project aiming to make daily prayer rhythms of the Christian faith accessible for families with young children through story and song, beginning with "The King is Coming" a board book / music pairing for the Advent season.Some highlights from our conversation:-Parker shares where the Lord led him as he meditated on Luke 1 – Mary’s song.-He also shares how this passage is deeply meaningful to him and was one of the passages that inspired his first book in the Beginner’s Apprenticeship series: The King is Coming.-We talk about why he decided to add songs to the books to help his son stay engaged with the content. And how it was evident that the Spirit was in the process of writing and producing the music. -The songs are modeled after a style of worship that is meditative and focuses on a phrase of two sung over and over. Perfect for children – and for us adults that struggle to memorize.-We talk about Parker’s deepest hope is with the Beginner’s Apprenticeship-Finally, we end with Mary Song – and you don’t want to miss this special ending so listen to the end.You can connect with Parker on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beginnersapprenticeship/You can find The King is Coming book here: https://www.beginnersapprenticeship.com/And the companion album here: https://www.beginnersapprenticeship.com/the-king-is-coming-music Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Lectio Divina is a method to prayerfully hear God’s Word. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with Scripture. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Parker Smith, founder of the Beginner’s Apprenticeship and author of “The King is Coming.”You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikThe exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use.Luke 1:46-53, NIV46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed,49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. 51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Bette Dickinson is a prophetic artist, writer, and speaker who invites audiences to connect with God through visual parables of the spiritual journey in her ministry Awakening the Soul. Bette earned her MDiv through Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and has worked with ministries like InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, World Vision, Infinitum, and Kensington Church to awaken the soul through beauty and wonder. Bette and her husband live in Traverse City Michigan with their two boys.Bette’s newest book is: Making Room in Advent: 25 Devotions for a Season of WonderYou can get 30% off and free shipping at https://www.ivpress.com/making-room-in-adventwith code MUCHMORE until December 14, 2022Some highlights from our conversation:-When Bette meditated on Luke 1 –the two statements made by Mary stood out to her. One was a statement of human limitations – I am a virgin. The other was a statement of surrender – I am the Lord’s servant. These statements led Bette to reflect on her own human limitations and posture of surrender.-We discussed how Bette’s book was developed amidst a cohort of women who prayerfully discussed and developed their unique contribution to the Kingdom. They played an Elizabeth-like role for each other - similar to how Elizabeth encouraged Mary. -We talked about how Luke, a researched and thoughtful physician, used story over facts to tell the story of Jesus birth and how this points to our need to connect both our right and left brain to the story of Scripture.-Bette also noted that Luke centered his entire birth narrative around Mary and Elizabeth… and yet we often don’t hear this story in a way that highlights these two women and the critical role they played.-Bette introduced us to the concept of Visio Divina – where it came from and why it can be a meaningful practice. She highlights art as a way to help us slow down and connect to the story of Scripture in a different way.You can connect with Bette at: www.bettedickinson.com.And follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bette_dickinson/If you want to be guided in free a Visio Divina experience, text WONDER to 55444 and follow the prompts. The other resources Bette mentioned in our conversations were:Blue Letter Bible: https://www.blueletterbible.org/The Other Half of Church by Jim Wilder and Michel Hendricks Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Lectio Divina is a method to prayerfully enter into God’s Word. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with Scripture. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you – even in familiar passages like this one.Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to my conversation with Bette Dickinson, artist and author. We talk about her process meditating on Luke 1 and her beautiful new book, Making Room in Advent.You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1The exact verses read in this podcast are:Luke 1:34-38, NIV34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.” 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Take a few minutes to meditate on Psalm 1 and then listen in to hear Aaron and I discuss the spiritual discipline of Scripture Memory.Some highlights from our conversation:-How Aaron found healing from a childhood diagnosis of multiple neurological disorders through memorizing God’s Word.-While healing was the initial driving factor that spurred Aaron to start memorizing God’s Word, he quickly discovered that the desire was to get to know God more through his Word.-We talk about if Aaron’s brain is better adapted to memory that the rest of us… he assured me it isn’t. We can memorize just like he does.-We talked about the nuts and bolts of how to memorize, why we should memorize and where to start.-Aaron gives us the pro tip of see it, say it, do it. Meaning we need to use all our learning styles to help us memorize. That means, memorizing through silent reading won’t give you success.You can find Aaron at: https://piercingword.org/ Where you can sign up for his newsletter and find links to resources.You can follow him on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/piercing_word/And on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/piercingword/The resources we discussed in the podcast are:Warriors of the Word book which you can get from Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/Warriors-Word-Memorization-Spiritual-Victories/dp/0578733838/ref=sr_1_1?crid=H003JCSB52TR&keywords=warriors+of+the+word&qid=1652206013&s=books&sprefix=warriors+of+the+word%2Cstripbooks%2C79&sr=1-1&pldnSite=1Verse Locker: https://scripturememory.com/verselocker/app/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Note: Meditation starts at 1:43 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then listen to the interview with Aaron House, the Founder and Executive Director of Piercing Word ministry and co-author of the Warriors of the Word book and video course.You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznikDownload your free Lectio Divina Guided journal at http://www.jodieniznik.com/connect-1The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use. Psalm 1:1-3, NIV 1 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Laura Murray is a spiritual director, coach, speaker and author. She served for years on the pastoral staff at a large church until the Lord called her to a new ministry of helping ministry leaders find healthy and restorative rhythms for their relationship with the Lord. One of the ways she does this is through her online silent retreats.Take a few minutes to meditate on 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 and then listen in on our conversation where we explore the practice of Silence and Solitude – and how it can be deeply impactful in your relationship with the Lord.Some highlights from our conversation:1. Silence and Solitude is a spiritual practice of receiving. We have the action of showing up. But beyond that we simply receive from the Lord. When practicing Silence and Solitude, expect resistance. Everything in our world cuts against this practice. It’s hard to be still in what can seem like an unproductive way. Yet God does much with our time of silence and solitude.2. Practical tips for entering into a time of silence and solitude: let people know you’re unavailable, take off your watch, and turn off your phone. When practicing silence and solitude, you don’t have to be still. You can go outside and go for a walk. Just don’t use it as a time to achieve something like exercise. Noises will come. Someone will start a lawnmower – a dog will bark – try to let those pass. And when internal noise rises up, don’t let it tempt you to abandon what you are doing. It is not a sign of failure.When practicing silence and solitude, expect it to get noisier before it gets quieter. Allow that noise to pass. You can find Laura and her silent retreats at: https://laurabmurray.com/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurabmurray/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurabmurray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.