Moms are the busiest people we know! We're equipping Christian moms to dwell with Jesus and then to parent based on the wisdom of The Bible. If you're looking for a way to be consistent in looking to the Word of God this year, join us to make your home all about HIM! This podcast is sponsored by Entrusted Ministries and aligns with the "Entrusted with a Child's Heart" study for moms. Entrusted offers Scripture-saturated resources for churches, home groups, and individuals.
If you're looking for in-depth conversations about how to apply The Bible, look for our Again podcast on biblical motherhood!
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#221. Trying Harder or Drawing Closer? Abiding in Christ: The Secret to a Fruitful, Peaceful, and Joyous Life--Despite What Comes | John 14–17
Épisode 224
mercredi 11 novembre 2026 • Durée 12:51
Abide in Christ: The Secret to a Fruitful Life, Peace, and Joy | John 14–17
Are you trying to become a more patient mom, love your family better, or grow in spiritual maturity by simply trying harder? Jesus offers us a different way: abide in Him.
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we explore John chapters 14–17, Jesus' final words to His disciples before His crucifixion. Known as the Farewell Discourse, these chapters are filled with extraordinary promises, practical instruction, and a glimpse into the heart of Jesus as He prepares His followers for life after His departure.
Jesus promises that He is preparing a dwelling place for His people, declares that He is the way, the truth, and the life, and assures His disciples that they will not be left alone. The Holy Spirit will come as their Helper, Counselor, and Advocate.
In John 15, Jesus gives us one of Scripture's most important pictures of the Christian life: He is the vine, and we are the branches. We cannot produce spiritual fruit apart from Him. True Christian growth comes from remaining connected to Christ, abiding in His Word, and allowing His life to transform ours.
As Christian moms, this truth changes how we approach biblical motherhood and parenting. Our goal isn't simply to raise well-behaved children or create a peaceful home through our own efforts. We want our children to know Jesus, love Him, and bear the fruit of genuine faith. And we need to remember that our own ability to love, serve, and persevere comes from Him.
Finally, we look at John 17 and Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, where He prays for His disciples—and for those who would believe through their message. Even hours before His death, Jesus is praying for the protection, sanctification, and unity of His people.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
Jesus is preparing a place for you: Find comfort in His promise that He will bring His people home to dwell with Him.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life: Why there is no other path to the Father except through Christ.
The promise of the Holy Spirit: How the Helper equips believers with wisdom, encouragement, conviction, and strength to obey God's Word.
The difference between religion and abiding: Why avoiding sin and participating in religious activities aren't the same as experiencing a transformed life in Christ.
What it means to abide in Jesus: Discover why we cannot bear spiritual fruit apart from the vine and why regular meditation on God's Word is essential to a thriving Christian life.
The evidence of genuine faith: Consider the fruit that marks a true believer, including love for God, repentance, humility, prayer, obedience, spiritual growth, and a hunger for God's Word.
When God prunes His branches: How suffering and hardship can be part of God's sanctifying work in the lives of those who belong to Him.
A mother's greatest spiritual priority: Why we must patiently teach our children that Jesus is the only way to salvation and look for the fruit of genuine faith rather than simply outward religious activity.
Peace in a troubled world: Remember Jesus' promise: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Jesus' prayer for His people: Explore His desire for believers to be protected, sanctified in the truth, and unified in a way that brings glory to God.
What Does It Mean to Abide in Christ as a Mom?
Motherhood can easily become a long list of responsibilities: meals, laundry, schoolwork, discipline, appointments, and the countless needs of a family. It's tempting to measure our spiritual lives by how well we manage all those responsibilities or how successfully we avoid failure.
But Jesus doesn't describe us as independent trees expected to produce fruit on our own. He calls us branches that must remain connected to Him.
Our love, patience, humility, obedience, and spiritual growth are the fruit of a life abiding in Christ. We don't manufacture these qualities through sheer determination. We cultivate our relationship with the One who gives us life.
This also shapes how we approach Christian parenting. We want more than children who know Bible stories, participate in church, or follow family rules. We want them to develop a genuine love for God, repentance from sin, humility, devotion to His glory, and a hunger for His Word.
That kind of spiritual fruit takes time to recognize. As parents, we need patience as we teach our children, point them to Jesus, and pray that their faith will become their own.
The Christian life isn't simply about avoiding sin. It's about dwelling with Christ, knowing Him, and bearing fruit through Him.
Scripture Reading
Today's chronological Bible reading:
John 14
John 15
John 16
John 17
Key passages to revisit:
John 14:1–6 — Jesus prepares a place for His people and declares that He is the way, the truth, and the life.
John 14:16–27 — The promise of the Holy Spirit and the peace Jesus gives.
John 15:1–17 — Jesus is the vine; we are the branches.
John 15:18–16:15 — The world's opposition and the work of the Holy Spirit.
John 16:33 — Jesus has overcome the world.
John 17 — Jesus' High Priestly Prayer for Himself, His disciples, and future believers.
Additional Scripture referenced:
Matthew 6:9–13 — Jesus' model prayer.
1 John 2:1 — Jesus Christ as our Advocate.
Philippians 2:3–8 — The humility of Christ.
Questions for Reflection
Are you relying on your own effort to produce the qualities of a godly mother, or are you intentionally abiding in Christ?
What does your daily relationship with God's Word look like? Are you making space to meditate on Scripture and seek His presence?
When you look at your children's spiritual lives, are you primarily measuring outward behavior, or are you patiently teaching them to love God and recognize the fruit of genuine faith?
Is there a difficult season in your life that God may be using to prune and grow you?
How can you contribute to greater unity among believers in your church, even when you have different personal preferences?
A Prayer for Our Families
Heavenly Father, thank You for the promises Jesus gave His disciples on His final night with them. Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit and for the peace and joy that come from abiding in Christ. Empower us to love as You love and to live in a way that points others to Jesus. We pray for unity in our churches and among believers around the world. Help us remain steadfast in Your Word, quick to listen and slow to speak, and faithful in our homes and in the world. May our lives bear fruit that brings glory to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries helps Christian moms grow in God's Word through a chronological Bible reading plan, Scripture-centered encouragement, and practical wisdom for biblical motherhood and Christian parenting.
Whether you're looking for a Bible podcast for moms, a New Testament Bible reading plan, encouragement for your faith and family, or a deeper understanding of what Scripture teaches about raising children who love the Lord, join us as we learn to make God's Word our dwelling place.
Discover more Bible study and biblical parenting resources at Entrusted Ministries.
#220. What Jesus Washing Judas’ Feet Teaches Us About Biblical Love and The Savior that Prays for You to Stand Firm | Mark 14, Luke 22 & John 13
Épisode 223
mardi 10 novembre 2026 • Durée 13:00
How to Love Difficult People: What Jesus Washing Judas’ Feet Teaches Us About Biblical Love | Mark 14, Luke 22 & John 13
What does it look like to love someone who is difficult to love? And how do we keep following Jesus when our own flesh is weak?
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we step into some of Jesus’ final hours with His disciples. As He prepares to lay down His life, Jesus gives them—and us—an unforgettable picture of humble, sacrificial love. He takes the position of a servant, washes the feet of His disciples, and even washes the feet of Judas, the very man who will betray Him.
Jesus then gives His followers a new commandment: to love one another as He has loved them. This is more than a call to be nice or get along. It is a radical, Christ-centered standard of humility and sacrificial service.
But these chapters also reveal something deeply comforting about our Savior: Jesus understands our human weakness. In the Garden of Gethsemane, we see His anguish as He anticipates the suffering ahead. We hear Him pray, “Not what I will, but what You will.” We also see Peter's devastating failure as he denies Jesus three times—and we are reminded that even our greatest failures cannot thwart God's sovereign purposes.
For Christian moms seeking to grow in biblical motherhood, this passage challenges us to consider how the love of Christ should shape our homes, our relationships, and our responses when others disappoint us. It also reminds us that when we fall short, we serve a Savior who understands our weakness and is able to restore us.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
The radical humility of Jesus: Why the King of the universe willingly took the position of a servant and washed His disciples' feet.
A surprising example of sacrificial love: Jesus washed the feet of Judas, knowing that Judas would betray Him. What does this teach us about loving difficult people?
The new commandment: What does it mean to love one another as Jesus has loved us—and why should our love be recognizable to the watching world?
What Does Jesus' Love Look Like in Our Homes?Scripture ReadingQuestions for ReflectionA Prayer for Our Families
#219. Does Your Motherhood Matter to Jesus? ABSOLUTELY! The Parable of the Talents and the Reward of Faithfulness | Matthew 24-26
Épisode 222
lundi 9 novembre 2026 • Durée 13:16
Does Your Motherhood Matter to Jesus? The Parable of the Talents and the Reward of Faithfulness | Matthew 25
Do the everyday sacrifices of motherhood really matter to God? When you're changing diapers, preparing meals, caring for sick children, and serving people who may never say thank you, it's easy to wonder whether your work is making an eternal difference. But in Matthew 25, Jesus gives us an extraordinary perspective: When we serve others, we are serving Him.
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox explores Matthew 25 and Jesus' teaching about spiritual readiness, faithful stewardship, and the final judgment. Through the parables of the ten virgins and the talents, we are reminded to live ready for Christ's return and faithfully invest in the responsibilities He has entrusted to us.
Then Jesus offers a beautiful picture of what faithful service looks like: feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, clothing the naked, and caring for the sick. As moms, we may recognize these responsibilities in the ordinary rhythms of family life. Could it be that the seemingly small, repetitive tasks of motherhood are opportunities to serve Jesus Himself?
If you've ever wondered whether your work at home matters, this passage offers profound encouragement. God sees your faithfulness. Your service is not wasted, and your eternal investments matter far more than public recognition or earthly productivity.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
The parable of the ten virgins: Why Jesus emphasizes spiritual readiness and the importance of being prepared for His return.
The parable of the talents: What it means to be a faithful steward of the responsibilities God has entrusted to you.
Faithfulness over recognition: Why the servants who received five talents and two talents both heard the same words of commendation: "Well done, good and faithful servant."
A biblical perspective on motherhood: How Jesus' description of serving the hungry, thirsty, sick, and vulnerable can encourage moms in the daily work of caring for their families.
The Beautiful Connection Between Matthew 25 and MotherhoodFaithful Stewardship: What Has God Entrusted to You?The Most Important Responsibility of MotherhoodScripture Reading: Chronological Bible Reading PlanReflection Questions for Christian MomsA Prayer for Faithful Motherhood
#218. Lift Up Your Eyes: Why Fixing Our Gaze On Christ Is the Only Cure for Anxiety as Culture Gets More Chaotic | Matthew 23, Luke 21 & Mark 13
Épisode 221
samedi 7 novembre 2026 • Durée 12:28
What should Christian mothers do when the world feels increasingly uncertain and the future seems frightening? As moms, we love our children deeply, and the thought of persecution, suffering, or difficult days ahead can stir up real anxiety. But in His teaching about the last days, Jesus gives His followers an important instruction: “Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox walks through Jesus’ warnings about the destruction of Jerusalem, coming persecution, and the signs of His return. Rather than becoming consumed by speculation or fear, we are reminded to fix our eyes on Christ, stay awake, pray, and faithfully use the time God has given us.
What does it look like to prepare our children for a world that may not share their faith? How can we remain vigilant without becoming fearful? And how can we trust the Lord to give us strength when we face circumstances we cannot imagine?
Through Jesus’ words and the testimonies of faithful Christians throughout history, we are encouraged that the Lord equips His people to honor Him—even in the most difficult circumstances.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
What Jesus teaches about the last days: Explore Matthew 23, Luke 21, and Mark 13 as Jesus warns His disciples about persecution, turmoil, and His coming return.
Why Jesus tells us to lift up our heads: Discover how the promise of Christ's return gives believers hope even when the world around them feels frightening.
How to prepare without living in fear: Learn the difference between wise preparation and allowing anxiety about the future to consume your heart.
The danger of becoming distracted by the cares of this life: Consider Jesus’ warning in Luke 21:34 about squandering our lives and becoming weighed down by worldly distractions.
Why prayer and vigilance matter: Jesus tells His followers to stay awake and pray. How can we protect our time with the Lord in a world overflowing with information and distractions?
Encouragement for Moms: Preparing Our Children Without FearChristian Martyrs Who Remained Faithful to the EndScripture Reading: Chronological Bible Reading PlanReflection Questions for Christian MomsRecommended ResourceA Prayer for Faithfulness in Difficult Times
#217. Is Anything Too Extravagant to Offer Jesus? Mary of Bethany’s Example of Wholehearted Devotion | John 12, Matthew 22, Mark 12, Luke 20
Épisode 220
vendredi 6 novembre 2026 • Durée 13:43
What does wholehearted devotion to Jesus look like in the middle of an ordinary, demanding life? In John 12, we meet Mary of Bethany, a woman whose extravagant act of worship reveals just how deeply she treasured Christ. While others questioned the value of her offering, Jesus defended her sacrifice and honored her devotion.
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox explores John 12 alongside the chronological Bible reading plan passages from Matthew 22, Mark 12, and Luke 20. We’ll look at Mary’s costly offering, the contrast between her worship and Judas’s love of money, and the significance of Jesus declaring that His hour had finally come.
Mary had been sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening to His words. Now, as His death approached, she poured out an extraordinarily valuable gift to honor Him. Her example challenges us to consider: Are we holding anything back from the One who gave everything for us?
For Christian moms seeking to grow in their faith, study the Bible consistently, and cultivate a home centered on Christ, this passage offers a powerful reminder: The aroma of a life devoted to Jesus is worth far more than the approval of the watching world.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Mary of Bethany’s extravagant worship: Why her costly offering of pure nard was such a remarkable expression of love and devotion to Jesus.
The significance of sitting at Jesus’ feet: How Mary’s attentiveness to Christ’s teaching shaped the way she responded to His approaching death.
The contrast between Mary and Judas: How two very different responses to Jesus reveal the competing desires of a heart devoted to God or to money.
Why Jesus declared, “The hour has come”: What the arrival of the Greeks signaled about the worldwide reach of Christ’s mission and the timing of His death.
The triumphal entry and the return of God's glory: How Jesus’ arrival from the Mount of Olives points back to Ezekiel’s vision of the glory of the Lord departing from Jerusalem.
What it means to surrender our lives, our security, and our desires to the One who is worthy of our worship.
A Word of Encouragement for Christian MomsScripture ReadingReflection QuestionsA Prayer for Wholehearted Devotion
#216. Beyond Behavior: Raising Children with Repentant Hearts Instead of Clean Slates | Matthew 21, Mark 11 & Luke 19
Épisode 219
jeudi 5 novembre 2026 • Durée 13:08
Beyond Behavior: Raising Children with Hearts That Honor the Lord | Matthew 21, Mark 11 & Luke 19
Are you more concerned with whether your children obey you or whether their hearts are learning to honor the Lord? As Christian moms, it's easy to focus on outward behavior. We want our children to listen, follow instructions, and make good choices. And obedience matters! But biblical parenting must reach deeper than behavior. We want our children to understand why they obey: because they love God, recognize His authority, and desire to honor Him from the heart.
In Matthew 21, Mark 11, and Luke 19, Jesus repeatedly exposes the difference between outward religious behavior and a heart that has truly been transformed. From Zacchaeus the tax collector to the religious leaders who reject Jesus, these passages show us that God sees beyond appearances. He cares about the heart.
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries, Stephanie Hickox explores several significant events as Jesus enters Jerusalem and begins His final days before the cross. We'll consider Zacchaeus's remarkable transformation, the triumphal entry, Jesus cleansing the temple, the withered fig tree, and His parable of the two sons.
If you're a Christian mom following a chronological Bible reading plan or looking for a Bible podcast that connects Scripture to everyday motherhood, this episode will challenge and encourage you to pursue something deeper than outward compliance in your home: children whose hearts are being transformed by the Lord.
In This Episode, You'll Discover
The difference between honor and obedience: Why outward obedience is important, but biblical parenting must also address what is happening in a child's heart.
Zacchaeus and the transforming power of Jesus: How a man who was desperate to see Jesus experienced a transformation that changed his relationship with money and others.
The heart behind our hospitality and relationships: Why following Jesus may mean being willing to enter places and relationships that challenge our comfort or reputation, while still acting honorably.
Biblical Parenting: The Difference Between Honor and ObedienceZacchaeus: When Jesus Transforms the HeartThe Triumphal Entry: Are We Worshiping Jesus for Who He Is?A Checklist Without Compassion: Jesus Cleanses the TempleThe Two Sons: God Cares About a Changed HeartScripture Reading
#215. Let the Children Come to Me: Jesus' Teaching on Marriage, Motherhood & Servant-Hearted Living | Matthew 19–20 & Mark 10
Épisode 218
mercredi 4 novembre 2026 • Durée 14:39
Let the Children Come to Me: Jesus' Teaching on Marriage, Motherhood & Servant-Hearted Living | Matthew 19–20 & Mark 10
What does Jesus teach us about marriage, children, and what it means to follow Him? In Matthew 19–20 and Mark 10, Jesus challenges the expectations of the religious leaders and even His own disciples. He points them back to God's original design for marriage, welcomes little children whom others considered unimportant, exposes the heart's attachment to earthly possessions, and teaches that true greatness is found in serving rather than being served.
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries, Stephanie Hickox walks through Mark 10, which brings together many of the teachings found in Matthew 19 and 20. As we follow Jesus on His journey toward Jerusalem, we'll consider what His words reveal about biblical marriage, the value of children, salvation, humility, and the kind of servant-hearted leadership Christian parents are called to model.
If you're a Christian mom following a chronological Bible reading plan or looking for a Bible podcast that connects Scripture to everyday motherhood, this episode will encourage you to look beyond cultural expectations and keep your heart centered on Christ.
In This Episode, You'll Discover
God's original design for marriage: Why Jesus takes the Pharisees back to creation and reminds them that marriage is a covenant in which a husband and wife become one flesh.
Jesus' teaching on divorce: What Scripture says about God's design for marriage, the hardness of the human heart, and the difference between God's ideal and the painful realities many families experience.
When marriage involves abuse or danger: Why seeking godly counsel and prioritizing the safety of a mother and her children are essential when facing difficult family circumstances.
Why Jesus welcomed little children: How Jesus turned the disciples' assumptions upside down by declaring that the kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it like a child.
The value of children in God's kingdom: Why children are never an interruption to Jesus and how this passage encourages us to consider their eternal souls.
God's Design for Marriage: What Jesus Teaches About DivorceLet the Children Come to Jesus: A Mother's Eternal PriorityWhat Is Holding Your Heart? The Rich Young RulerTrue Greatness in God's Kingdom: Leading Through ServiceBartimaeus: A Faith That Would Not Be SilencedScripture ReadingQuestions to Consider
#214. Jesus Is the Resurrection and the Life: Finding Hope When Fear Grips a Mother's Heart | John 11 + Luke 17-18
Épisode 217
mardi 3 novembre 2026 • Durée 16:33
What is your deepest fear as a mother? For many of us, it's the thought of losing a child, losing our husbands, or leaving our families too soon. The reality of death and the brokenness of this world can make it difficult to live without fear. But what if the answer isn't found in gaining more control over our circumstances, but in knowing the One who has power over death itself?
In John 11, Jesus makes one of the most extraordinary declarations in all of Scripture: “I am the resurrection and the life.” Then He demonstrates that truth by raising Lazarus from the dead. This is more than an incredible miracle. It is a sign revealing the identity of Jesus Christ—the Son of God, the author of life, and the victor over death.
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries, Stephanie Hickox walks through John 11 and explores the raising of Lazarus, one of Jesus' greatest signs. We see both the deity and humanity of Christ: His undeniable authority over death and His willingness to enter into the grief of those He loves.
What does it mean when God seems to delay His answer to our prayers? Why did Jesus weep when He knew He was about to raise Lazarus? And how does the promise of eternal life change the way we approach motherhood, fear, grief, and the future of our families?
If you're a Christian mom looking for a Bible podcast that helps you understand Scripture and apply God's truth to everyday motherhood, this episode will encourage you to place your confidence in Jesus—even when life doesn't unfold as you hoped.
In This Episode, You'll Discover
Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life: What Jesus' declaration in John 11 reveals about His identity, His deity, and His power over death.
The seven signs in John's Gospel: How Jesus' miracles reveal more than His ability to perform the extraordinary—they point to who He is.
When God's timing feels like a delay: Why Jesus waited before going to Lazarus and how His delay flowed from His love and had a greater purpose.
Jesus understands our grief: Why the shortest verse in the Bible, “Jesus wept,” reveals something profound about the heart of our Savior.
Jesus Wept: A Savior Who Enters into Our GriefWhen God's Timing Doesn't Match Our PrayersFinding Hope When Fear Grips Your Heart as a MomKeep Asking, Seeking, and KnockingScripture Reading
#213. The Prodigal Son: Modeling the Father's Heart When Our Children Sin | Luke 14–16
Épisode 216
lundi 2 novembre 2026 • Durée 10:58
How do we respond when our children sin? Do we respond with disappointment, shame, and frustration—or do we reflect the heart of a Father who rejoices when the lost are found and sinners repent?
In Luke 15, Jesus tells three powerful parables: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. Each story reveals the incredible joy of heaven when a sinner repents. But these familiar passages also challenge our own hearts, especially as parents. Are we more concerned with our children's outward behavior than the condition of their hearts? Can we extend the grace of the gospel when our children acknowledge their sin and come to us in humility?
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox explores Luke chapters 14–16 and considers what these parables teach us about repentance, forgiveness, restoration, and biblical parenting. We'll look closely at the father's response to his wayward son, the older brother's self-righteousness, and the extraordinary love of God for those who recognize their need for a Savior.
If you're a Christian mom following a chronological Bible reading plan, seeking biblical parenting wisdom, or walking through the heartbreak of a prodigal child, this Bible study offers a powerful reminder: the gospel gives us a better way to respond to sin—with truth, humility, mercy, and a longing for restoration.
In This Episode, You'll Discover
The three parables of the lost: What the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son reveal about God's heart for sinners.
The joy of repentance: Why Jesus says there is rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents.
The danger of self-righteousness: How the Pharisees' criticism of Jesus exposes the heart of the older brother in the prodigal son parable.
The shocking rebellion of the younger son: Why asking for his inheritance was such an extraordinary insult to his father and what his journey into reckless living reveals about sin.
The Father's response to repentance: Why the father's compassion, embrace, and celebration give us such a beautiful picture of God's mercy.
Biblical parenting when children sin: How can we respond when our children come to us genuinely broken over their wrongdoing?
Biblical Parenting: How Should We Respond When Our Children Confess Sin?Parenting a Prodigal: Finding Hope in the Father's LoveThe Older Brother: When Outward Obedience Hides a Self-Righteous HeartScripture ReadingQuestions for Christian Moms to ConsiderA Prayer for Moms and Their ChildrenResources MentionedKeep Growing in God's Word
#212. Mary or Martha? Putting Jesus First in the Busyness of Motherhood | Luke 10, 12 & 13
How can you put Jesus first when motherhood seems to demand everything from you? Between preparing meals, caring for children, managing a home, and meeting the needs of everyone around you, finding time to sit at the feet of Jesus can feel nearly impossible.
In Luke 10, Jesus encounters two sisters, Mary and Martha. Mary sits at His feet and listens to His teaching, while Martha is distracted by all the preparations required to serve Him. When Jesus gently corrects Martha, He reminds her that one thing is necessary—and Mary has chosen what will last.
But does putting Jesus first mean doing less? Is serving our families somehow less spiritual than spending time in God's Word? And how can Christian moms faithfully embrace the responsibilities of motherhood without allowing them to crowd out their relationship with Christ?
In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox explores Luke chapters 10, 12, and 13, considering what it means to honor Jesus in the middle of everyday responsibilities. Through the stories of the Good Samaritan and Mary and Martha, we'll discover that biblical hospitality, Christian service, and motherhood must all flow from a heart that is first devoted to Christ.
If you're a busy mom following a chronological Bible reading plan or looking for a Bible podcast that helps you connect Scripture to everyday motherhood, this episode will encourage you to seek the Lord first and serve your family from the overflow of His love.
In This Episode, You'll Discover
The radical message of the Good Samaritan: Why Jesus' choice of a Samaritan as the hero would have challenged His Jewish listeners and exposed the difference between outward religion and a heart transformed by God's love.
What it really means to love your neighbor: Why compassion and mercy matter more than religious appearances or a checklist of spiritual activities.
Mary or Martha? What Does It Look Like to Put Jesus First as a Mom?Biblical Parenting Begins with a Heart Devoted to ChristServing for the Lord, Not for RecognitionScripture ReadingQuestions to ConsiderA Prayer for Busy MomsKeep Dwelling in God's Word
The danger of small compromises: How Judas' repeated choices led to his betrayal of Jesus, reminding us that spiritual compromise often happens little by little.
The weakness of our flesh: Why even Peter, who sincerely wanted to follow Jesus, failed when the moment of testing came.
Jesus understands our suffering: What we learn from Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane about sorrow, surrender, and trusting the Father's will.
Grace after failure: How Peter's tears remind us that our Savior is not surprised by our weakness and remains faithful to His people.
Faithfulness in motherhood: How the example of Jesus can help us respond with humility and serve those who are difficult to love.
As moms, we often encounter opportunities to serve people who don't recognize our efforts, don't return our kindness, or make loving them especially difficult. It can be tempting to respond with frustration, resentment, or self-preservation.
But Jesus gives us a different example.
When Stephanie struggles to love someone well, she returns to the image of Jesus washing Judas' feet. If Jesus could humble Himself to serve the very man who would betray Him, then we can ask Him for the grace to serve others with humility, even when it isn't easy.
This doesn't mean difficult relationships suddenly become easy, or that we ignore wrongdoing. It means we allow Christ's example to shape our hearts and our responses.
And when we fail—as Peter did—we don't have to remain defined by our failure. We can turn again to the Savior who understands our weakness, faithfully intercedes for His people, and is able to restore us.
The world should recognize that we belong to Jesus not by the Christian label we wear, but by the sacrificial love we show one another.
Today's chronological Bible reading:
Mark 14
Luke 22
John 13
Additional Scripture referenced:
Philippians 2:3–8 — The humility and servant-heartedness of Christ
John 13:1–17 — Jesus washes His disciples' feet
John 13:34–35 — Jesus' new commandment to love one another
Mark 14:32–42 — Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane
Is there someone in your life whom you find especially difficult to love? How might Jesus' example of washing Judas' feet change the way you approach that relationship?
Are there small compromises in your life that could be leading your heart away from faithfulness to Christ?
When you experience weakness or failure, do you turn toward Jesus for restoration, or do you become discouraged and try to defend yourself?
Can the people in your home recognize your love for Christ by the way you love and serve them?
Heavenly Father, thank You for the humble, sacrificial love of Jesus. Thank You that we are not simply commanded to love well, but have been given a perfect example in Christ. Please transform us into His likeness and equip us through the Holy Spirit to love our families and one another well. When we fall short, help us become a picture of Your mercy and grace. May our homes reflect Your goodness, and may Jesus be exalted as King of kings and Lord of lords. Amen.
The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms is a Bible podcast from Entrusted Ministries, helping Christian moms grow in God's Word through Scripture reading, biblical encouragement, and practical wisdom for faith and family. Whether you're following a chronological Bible reading plan, looking for a New Testament Bible study, or seeking biblical parenting encouragement, join us as we learn to make God's Word our dwelling place.
Explore more Bible study and biblical parenting resources at Entrusted Ministries.
When motherhood feels like a sacrifice of your gifts: Why serving your family is not wasted potential, and why God sees the work that others may overlook.
The goodness of our Master: How our understanding of God's character shapes our willingness to serve Him faithfully rather than allowing fear to keep us from obedience.
Recognizing opportunities to serve Christ: Why we should keep our eyes open to the people and needs God places in our paths.
The seriousness of eternity: What Jesus teaches about eternal life and eternal punishment, and why the gospel is the most important message we can share with our children.
One of the most encouraging moments in this passage comes when Jesus describes the people who will inherit His kingdom. He tells them that when they fed the hungry, welcomed strangers, clothed the naked, and cared for the sick, they were doing those things for Him.
Think about how much of motherhood resembles this description!
We feed people who are hungry, care for those who are sick, provide clothing, welcome others, and serve day after day. Sometimes the people receiving our care are ungrateful. Sometimes they are too young to recognize the sacrifice. Sometimes the work feels invisible.
But Jesus sees.
This isn't a reason to limit our service to our families. Rather, it gives us a new perspective on all the opportunities God places before us. Our children and families are among the people He has entrusted to our care, and our eyes should remain open to the needs of others as well.
When we serve faithfully in the responsibilities God has given us, our work matters to Him—even when no one else notices.
The parable of the talents challenges us to consider how we are using the responsibilities God has given us. The servants who faithfully invested what their master entrusted to them were commended, regardless of whether they started with five talents or two.
For moms who have temporarily set aside personal ambitions, professional opportunities, or other gifts to serve their families, this is an important reminder: earthly productivity is not the measure of eternal faithfulness.
The Lord is not asking you to compare your responsibilities with someone else's. He is calling you to be faithful with what He has placed in your hands.
Small deposits of Scripture, prayer, encouragement, and faithful service can have an eternal impact. Even something as simple as playing chapters of the Bible while driving with your children can help place God's Word before their hearts.
Don't underestimate the opportunities you have today.
Matthew 25 ends with a sobering reminder that eternity is real. Jesus describes the separation between those who inherit eternal life and those who face eternal punishment.
As Christian parents, we cannot assume our children understand the gospel simply because they grow up in a Christian home. One of our most important responsibilities is to teach them who Jesus is, why we need Him, and what He accomplished through His death and resurrection.
Our greatest desire should be that our children know and love Christ—not simply that they behave well or achieve earthly success.
This episode closes with a prayer acknowledging our sin, the sacrifice of Jesus, and our need for His grace. We ask the Lord to help us understand the goodness of our Master, faithfully serve Him, and recognize opportunities to share the gospel with our families and the world.
Today's reading:
Matthew 25
Also read Matthew 26 to prepare for the next episode.
Key Scriptures:
Matthew 25:1–13 – The parable of the ten virgins and the importance of being ready.
Matthew 25:14–30 – The parable of the talents and faithful stewardship.
Matthew 25:31–46 – The sheep and the goats: serving Christ by serving others.
Matthew 25:21 – "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Matthew 25:40 – "As you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me."
Have you ever felt that serving your family meant putting your own gifts or abilities on hold? How does Matthew 25 change the way you view those responsibilities?
Are you being faithful with the opportunities God has placed in your hands today, even if they seem small?
What are some simple ways you can invest in your children's spiritual growth this week?
Who might God be placing in your path who needs encouragement, practical help, or the hope of the gospel?
Are your children growing in their understanding of the gospel and the eternal significance of following Jesus?
Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that we are sinners and that we fall short every day. Thank You for sending Jesus to live a perfect life and pay the penalty for our sin so that justice and mercy could meet at the cross. Thank You that You don't simply rescue us, but invite us to walk through life with You. Help us to understand what a good and loving Master You are. Make us faithful with the responsibilities You've entrusted to us, and open doors for us to share the wonderful news of Jesus with our families and the world. May Christ be glorified in us today. Amen.
Keep Growing in God's Word
Are you a Christian mom looking for a Bible podcast, a chronological Bible reading plan, or biblical encouragement for your motherhood journey? Join us at The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms as we study Scripture together and discover how God's Word transforms the way we live, love, and raise our children.
Entrusted Ministries exists to encourage and equip parents with biblical wisdom for raising children who know and love the Lord.
Commentaries most referenced: Moody, MacArthur
Learn more about our ministry and biblical parenting resources:
How the Holy Spirit equips us to stand firm: Jesus promises that He will give His followers the words and wisdom they need when they face opposition.
How to prepare our children to stand strong in their faith: Consider how we can raise children who, like Daniel, remain faithful to God even when the culture around them demands compromise.
What Christian martyrs teach us about faithful endurance: Hear the testimonies and final words of Stephen, Polycarp, Perpetua, Hugh Latimer, Nicholas Ridley, William Tyndale, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
One of the hardest things about motherhood is recognizing that we cannot protect our children from every difficulty they may encounter. We want to shelter them from suffering, persecution, and the consequences of living in a fallen world.
But our confidence cannot rest in our ability to control the future. It must rest in the character and promises of God.
Jesus never promised His followers an easy life. He told them the truth about the suffering they would face, but He also promised His presence, His wisdom, and His strength. Even when believers lose their earthly lives for His name, their eternal hope cannot be taken away.
As Christian parents, we have the privilege and responsibility of preparing our children to love Christ more than the approval of the world. We want to raise children who know God's Word, recognize truth, and have the courage to stand firm while remaining loving and gracious witnesses.
And as we do that, we can remember: the God who provided manna for His people in the wilderness and miraculously fed thousands is still faithful to provide for His children today.
We prepare wisely, but we do not live in fear. We keep our eyes on Jesus.
In this episode, Stephanie shares the testimonies of believers throughout church history whose lives and deaths demonstrate the sustaining strength of God:
Stephen: The first Christian martyr prayed for the Lord to receive his spirit and not hold the sin of his executioners against them.
Polycarp: A disciple of the Apostle John, he refused to deny Christ after decades of following Him.
Perpetua: A young Christian mother who encouraged fellow believers to stand firm in the faith and love one another.
Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley: English reformers who faced execution rather than renounce their convictions about Scripture.
William Tyndale: The Bible translator whose final recorded prayer was for the King of England's eyes to be opened.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer: The pastor who opposed Hitler and faced execution during World War II, declaring that his death was the beginning of life.
Their testimonies remind us that our faithfulness does not depend on our own strength. God is able to sustain His people and enable them to honor Him even when the cost is great.
Today's reading:
Matthew 23
Luke 21
Mark 13
Key Scriptures to Meditate On:
Luke 21:13–15 – Persecution becomes an opportunity to bear witness, and Jesus promises wisdom.
Luke 21:28 – “Straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Luke 21:34–36 – Watch yourselves, stay awake, and pray.
Philippians 1:20–21 – To live is Christ, and to die is gain.
2 Timothy 4:7–8 – Fighting the good fight, finishing the race, and keeping the faith.
Daniel 3 and Daniel 6 – Faithfulness to God in the face of cultural pressure and persecution.
When you think about the future your children may face, are you responding with fear or with confidence in God's promises?
What distractions or cares of this life are making it difficult for you to stay awake spiritually and prioritize prayer?
How are you preparing your children to stand firm in God's Word, even when following Christ is unpopular?
What would it look like to prepare wisely for the future while refusing to live in fear?
If your children watched the way you respond to troubling news, what would they learn about trusting God?
For a helpful explanation of the different biblical interpretations of Jesus' teaching about the tribulation and the last days, Stephanie recommends an article and video from Got Questions. The video is brief and grounded in Scripture, and it offers a helpful overview of why believers differ in their understanding of these passages.
Heavenly Father, thank You that every word You speak is true. Thank You for preparing us to face difficulty and promising that You will go with us. Help us to be resolute and steadfast, honoring You wherever we are. We pray that our children would be like Daniel, refusing to bow to any ruler but You. Give us wisdom and strength as we prepare them to stand firm in their faith. And while news and information constantly compete for our attention, help us lift up our heads and watch with hope and expectation for the return of Jesus. Amen.
Keep Growing in God's Word
Are you a Christian mom looking for a Bible podcast, a chronological Bible reading plan, or biblical encouragement for your motherhood journey? Join us at The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms as we read through Scripture and discover how God's Word equips us to follow Jesus faithfully in every season of life.
Learn more about Entrusted Ministries and our biblical parenting resources:
Encouragement for moms who are sacrificing: Why the Lord sees the seemingly hidden offerings of faithful motherhood and delights in devotion given to Him.
Motherhood often involves sacrifices that no one else sees. The work can feel repetitive, exhausting, and even unnoticed. But this episode reminds us that Jesus sees the sacrifices we lay at His feet.
Just as Jesus recognized and honored Mary’s offering, He sees the faithfulness of mothers who serve Him in the circumstances He has entrusted to them. Our goal is not to earn recognition from others, but to live with such wholehearted love for Christ that even our ordinary acts of service become offerings of worship.
May our devotion to Jesus be evident in our homes, contagious to our families, and beautiful to the watching world.
Chronological Bible Reading Plan:
Matthew 22
Mark 12
Luke 20
John 12
Additional Scripture References:
Ezekiel 10–11 – The glory of the Lord departs from Jerusalem
Zechariah 9:9 – The coming King riding on a donkey
John 11 – Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead
Matthew 26:6–13 – Jesus honors Mary’s act of devotion
John 12:23–26 – The hour has come; a grain of wheat must die
John 12:35–36 – Walking in the light
Matthew 6:24 – You cannot serve God and money
What might it look like for you to offer Jesus something extravagant—not necessarily financially, but in the surrender of your time, plans, comfort, or desires?
Are you more concerned with the approval of people or the approval of God?
What sacrifices in your motherhood might feel unseen by others but are precious to the Lord?
How can you cultivate a heart that treasures Jesus above everything else?
Heavenly Father, thank You for the riches of Your grace and the immeasurable abundance of Your glory. We long for the day when our eyes will behold You face to face. Until then, help us have confidence that every sacrifice we lay at Your feet is precious to You. Take our faithfulness and multiply it for Your glory. May our worship be contagious to the watching world and to our families. And especially strengthen the moms You have called to sacrifices that seem beyond their ability. Help them feel Your nearness and know that You delight in their devotion. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.
Keep Growing in God's Word
If you're a Christian mom looking for a Bible podcast, a chronological Bible reading plan, or biblical encouragement for your motherhood journey, join us at The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms. Let's keep opening God's Word together and learning to live faithfully for Christ.
Discover more about Entrusted Ministries and our biblical parenting resources:
The triumphal entry and misguided worship: Why the crowds welcomed Jesus as King but misunderstood the kind of freedom He came to bring.
Are we worshiping Jesus for who He is or what He can do for us? How our expectations of God can reveal the condition of our hearts.
Jesus cleanses the temple: Why Jesus was zealous for the purity of God's house and indignant that religious leaders were exploiting people rather than showing compassion.
The barren fig tree: How the Old Testament imagery of Israel as a fig tree helps us understand Jesus' warning about religious appearances without spiritual fruit.
Faith and prayer in the context of surrender: Why Jesus' promise about receiving what we ask in prayer must be understood in light of our submission to God's will.
The parable of the two sons: Why repentance and a changed heart matter more than promising to do the right thing without following through.
Jesus weeps over Jerusalem: What His grief reveals about the spiritual condition of the people and the consequences of rejecting Him.
Hope for transformed lives: Why our past sin does not disqualify us from future worship and how we can look at others with the same hope for redemption that Jesus offers us.
One of the most important connections in this reading is the distinction between a child's outward behavior and the condition of their heart.
As moms, we naturally want our children to obey. Their obedience makes family life easier, helps keep them safe, and teaches them to respect authority. But if our parenting focuses only on changing behavior, we can miss something much more important.
We want our children to honor the Lord from their hearts.
In this episode, Stephanie references lesson nine of Entrusted Ministries' Entrusted With a Child's Heart study, where Betsy explains that children are to honor and obey. Honor is what happens on the inside, and obedience is the outward fruit of that.
This distinction matters. A child may obey because they fear consequences, want to please a parent, or simply want to avoid conflict. But our desire is for obedience to grow out of a heart that recognizes and honors God.
That means biblical parenting isn't simply about getting children to do the right things. It's about continually pointing them toward the Lord, teaching them His Word, and trusting the Holy Spirit to bring genuine heart transformation.
We don't want children who merely know how to look righteous. We want children who are learning to love and honor the Lord.
Luke 19 introduces us to Zacchaeus, a wealthy chief tax collector who climbs a tree because he desperately wants to see Jesus.
The crowd is shocked when Jesus invites Himself to Zacchaeus's home. They cannot understand why He would associate with a sinner.
But Jesus came to seek and save the lost.
Zacchaeus's response is remarkable. He immediately declares that he will give half of his possessions to the poor and repay anyone he has defrauded fourfold. His encounter with Jesus has changed his heart, and that transformation is visible in his actions.
Consider the contrast with the rich young ruler in the previous reading. Jesus called that man to give up his wealth, but he walked away sorrowful. Zacchaeus, by contrast, recognizes that what Jesus offers is worth far more than his possessions.
This account reminds us that Jesus sees people differently than the world does. He looks beyond reputation and outward appearance. He sees the lost sheep He came to rescue.
As Christian moms, this challenges us to consider how we view people around us. Are we so concerned with preserving our reputations that we avoid relationships where God might use us to point someone toward Christ? We should act honorably and maintain wise boundaries, but we should also remember the worth of a soul.
As Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey, the crowds welcome Him with cries of “Hosanna to the Son of David!”
This moment fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah and publicly identifies Jesus as the promised King.
Yet the people's expectations were not entirely aligned with His mission. Many hoped Jesus would overthrow Roman rule and restore their political freedom. They welcomed Him as King, but they did not fully understand the kind of salvation He had come to bring.
It's a heart check for us, too.
Do we worship Jesus because of who He is, or is our worship dependent on what we want Him to do for us? Do we follow Him because He is worthy, or because we expect Him to make our lives easier?
Jesus deserves our worship regardless of whether our circumstances unfold as we hope.
When Jesus enters the temple, He overturns the tables of the money changers and drives out those who have turned His Father's house into a den of robbers.
The religious leaders appear devoted to their religious responsibilities, but their hearts are far from God's purposes. They have allowed people to be exploited in the very place that should have been devoted to prayer and worship.
Meanwhile, the blind and the lame come to Jesus, and He heals them. Children are praising Him, but the religious leaders are indignant.
What a contrast!
God's heart for the poor, the children, the blind, and the lame should have been their mission. Instead, they had chosen a checklist over compassion.
This is a warning for us as Christian parents. We can become so focused on outward expectations and religious routines that we neglect the heart of what God desires. Our goal should never be to raise children who simply know how to check the right boxes. We want them to know and love the Lord.
In the parable of the two sons, a father asks each son to work in his vineyard.
The first son refuses but later changes his mind and goes. The second son promises to go but never follows through.
Jesus asks which son did the father's will. The answer is obvious: the first.
Through this parable, Jesus confronts the religious leaders who have outwardly presented themselves as righteous but refuse to believe and repent. Meanwhile, those who were known for their sin have responded to the message of righteousness.
This is not an excuse for sin. It is a reminder that God cares about genuine repentance and humility before Him.
Our standing before God isn't based on a perfect scorecard. We all need His redemption. And when He transforms us, our lives begin to reflect that change.
Matthew 21, Mark 11, and Luke 19
Key passages and themes discussed:
Luke 19:1–10 — Zacchaeus and Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost.
Matthew 21:1–11 — The triumphal entry and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Matthew 21:12–17 — Jesus cleanses the temple and welcomes the praise of children.
Matthew 21:18–22 — The withered fig tree and Jesus' teaching about faith and prayer.
Matthew 21:28–32 — The parable of the two sons.
Luke 19:41–44 — Jesus weeps over Jerusalem.
Zechariah 9:9 — The prophecy of the humble King riding...
Comfort for mothers who have lost a child: How Jesus' welcome of little children offers encouragement to those grieving miscarriage or the death of a child.
The rich young ruler and the condition of the heart: Why outward obedience and material success cannot earn salvation, and how even good things can become idols.
Salvation is impossible apart from God: What Jesus means when He says that with man salvation is impossible, but with God all things are possible.
What true greatness looks like: Why Jesus challenges the disciples' desire for positions of honor and teaches that greatness in His kingdom is found in serving others.
Jesus came to serve and give His life: How the Son of Man's example of sacrificial service should shape the way we live and parent.
Bartimaeus' persistent faith: What we can learn from the blind man who refused to be silenced when he cried out to Jesus for mercy.
Living for God's glory rather than our own: Why following Jesus means surrendering our expectations and remembering that we were created for His glory.
When the Pharisees question Jesus about divorce, He doesn't begin with the cultural debates of the day. He takes them back to the beginning—to God's design in creation.
Jesus reminds them that God made male and female and that a husband and wife become one flesh. The word used for being joined together carries the idea of being joined or glued together. Marriage is not merely a human arrangement; it is a covenant relationship established by God.
Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of people's hearts, but that was not God's original design.
At Entrusted Ministries, we want to uphold God's ideal for marriage while recognizing that many families have experienced painful circumstances because of sin, betrayal, or situations beyond their control. If you are facing a difficult decision, especially where abuse or danger is involved, please seek godly counsel and prioritize the safety of yourself and your children.
God's Word gives us a beautiful picture of marriage, but it also reminds us that we live in a broken world where we need the wisdom, compassion, and help of the Lord.
Immediately following His teaching about marriage, Jesus welcomes the little children.
The disciples try to keep them away, but Jesus is indignant. He tells them not to hinder the children from coming to Him and explains that the kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it like a child.
What a beautiful reminder for Christian parents!
Our children are not interruptions to the work of Jesus. They matter deeply to Him. As moms, we have the privilege of introducing our children to the Savior, teaching them His Word, and helping them understand what it means to trust and follow Him.
Stephanie also reflects on the comfort this passage offers to mothers who have experienced miscarriage or the loss of a child. The parallel account in Luke uses the word infants, and the episode considers a commentary's understanding that God's grace extends to those too young or mentally unable to exercise faith. This is a tender and important topic for families who have experienced profound grief.
The rich young ruler appears sincere. He approaches Jesus asking what he must do to inherit eternal life and believes he has kept the commandments from his youth.
But Jesus sees what is happening beneath the surface. Mark tells us that Jesus loved him, yet He exposes the young man's attachment to his possessions. When Jesus tells him to sell what he has, give to the poor, and follow Him, the man walks away sorrowful.
This encounter reminds us that salvation cannot be earned through good behavior, religious activity, or material generosity. It is impossible for us to save ourselves. Only God can make a way.
For Christian moms, this passage also invites us to examine our own hearts. Are we holding tightly to possessions, comfort, financial security, or the things we believe will make our lives better? Even when we have little, we can be tempted to covet what we don't have.
Following Jesus means recognizing that He is worth more than anything this world can offer.
As Jesus approaches Jerusalem, He tells His disciples for the third time that He will suffer, die, and rise again. Yet James and John respond by asking for places of honor in His kingdom.
Jesus uses their request to teach an essential lesson about greatness.
The world values authority, position, and power over others. But Jesus tells His followers that it must not be that way among them. Whoever wants to be great must become a servant.
Then He points to His own example:
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45 (ESV)
This is an important reminder for mothers. Our goal is not to use our authority to control others or to seek recognition for what we do. We are called to follow the example of Jesus, serving faithfully and pointing our families toward Him.
We were created for His glory—not the other way around.
As Jesus leaves Jericho, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus hears that He is passing by. He begins crying out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
The crowd tells him to be quiet, but he cries out even louder.
Jesus stops and calls him. When Jesus asks what he wants, Bartimaeus asks to recover his sight. Jesus heals him, and Bartimaeus follows Him on the way.
What a contrast to James and John, who had just asked Jesus for positions of honor! Bartimaeus recognizes his need and asks for mercy. His response to Jesus is to follow Him.
This account reminds us to approach Jesus with humility, recognizing our need for His mercy and grace.
Matthew 19–20 and Mark 10
Stephanie reads through Mark 10, which includes much of the same material found in Matthew 19 and 20.
Key passages and themes discussed:
Genesis 1–2 — God's original design for marriage.
Malachi 2 — God's desire for godly offspring and faithfulness in marriage.
Mark 10:1–12 — Jesus' teaching about marriage and divorce.
Mark 10:13–16 — Jesus welcomes and blesses the little children.
Mark 10:17–31 — The rich young ruler and the impossibility of earning salvation.
Mark 10:32–45 — Jesus foretells His death and teaches about servant leadership.
Mark 10:46–52 — Jesus heals Bartimaeus.
Luke's parallel account of Jesus welcoming infants — An additional perspective on the value of little children.
Does my understanding of marriage reflect God's design, or have I allowed cultural expectations to shape my thinking?
Am I helping my children recognize how much Jesus values them and how important it is to come to Him?
Are there possessions, comforts, or earthly desires that compete with my devotion to Christ?
Do I sometimes measure greatness...
The reality of death and the brokenness of this world: Why our grief is not something to dismiss or minimize, and how Jesus meets us in our deepest pain.
When fear takes hold of motherhood: How the fear of losing someone we love can influence our decisions, our parenting, and our desire to control the future.
Faith when God doesn't answer as we hoped: How we can trust God's goodness even when He does not intervene in the way or timing we desperately want.
The hope of eternal life: Why the resurrection of Lazarus points us toward the greater victory Jesus would accomplish through His own resurrection.
Praying persistently: How the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18 encourages us to keep asking, seeking, and knocking as we bring our fears and requests to God.
Praying for the eternal souls of our children and loved ones: Why we must not become so distracted by today's responsibilities that we neglect what matters for eternity.
When Mary comes to Jesus, she falls at His feet and expresses the pain of losing her brother. Jesus sees her weeping, along with the people who have come to grieve with her. He is deeply moved and troubled. Then we read those two remarkable words: Jesus wept.
Jesus knew He was about to raise Lazarus. He knew death would not have the final word in this moment. And yet He did not stand at a distance from the sorrow of those He loved.
As moms, we can sometimes picture God primarily as the One who fixes our problems and provides solutions. But John 11 reminds us that Jesus does more than offer a way out of our pain. He enters into it with us.
Death was never part of the good world God created us to enjoy. It is an enemy, and Jesus came to defeat it. Our Savior understands the devastation of grief, and He is not indifferent to our tears.
One of the most surprising details in John 11 is that Jesus intentionally waited two more days after hearing that Lazarus was ill.
John tells us:
“Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.” — John 11:5–6 (ESV)
What a challenging truth for anyone who has pleaded with God to intervene. Sometimes we feel as though the situation could not be more desperate. We expect God to move at the last possible moment, and sometimes He doesn't move in the way we asked Him to.
But the delay in this story did not mean Jesus loved Lazarus and his sisters any less. His timing had a purpose that they could not yet see.
Sometimes what seems like a delay to us flows from His love.
This doesn't mean we will always understand God's purposes or receive the earthly outcome we desire. It means we can trust the character of the One who holds our future.
For many mothers, the thought of losing a child or a spouse is almost unbearable. And when we experience the death of someone we love, the reality of our own mortality can suddenly feel much closer.
Stephanie shares personally about the unexpected loss of her father, the grief she experienced as a new mother, and the fear that followed. She describes learning to battle fear with faith and choosing to worship the God who had saved her father, trusting in the hope of seeing him again.
Christian faith does not promise a life free from tragedy. Jesus promised that we would have trouble in this world. But He also offers something no earthly circumstance can take away: the hope of eternal life with Him.
As we raise our children, we cannot protect them from every hardship or control every outcome. We can, however, continually point them to the One who has conquered death.
The episode also turns to Luke 18 and Jesus' parable of the persistent widow. If even an unrighteous judge eventually responds to a woman who continues to ask, how much more can we trust our loving heavenly Father?
When fear begins to grip your heart, bring those fears to the Lord. Keep asking Him for peace. Keep seeking Him in His Word. Keep praying for your children, your spouse, and the people you love who have not yet surrendered their lives to Christ.
And as you go about the daily work of motherhood, remember that the eternal condition of the souls entrusted to your care matters more than the distractions and demands of today.
John 11 and Luke 17–18
Key passages and themes discussed:
John 11:1–44 — Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead.
John 11:25–26 — Jesus declares, “I am the resurrection and the life.”
John 11:35 — Jesus weeps with those who are grieving.
John 11:45–53 — The response of the religious leaders and the events that lead toward Jesus' death.
John 20:30–31
Entrusted With a Child's Heart — Learn more about this biblical parenting study, including practical guidance for helping children walk in repentance and pursue reconciliation.
Find the related episode and Entrusted Ministries resources through the links provided in the episode's show notes.Learn more about Entrusted Ministries and the Dwelling Place Bible reading plan at Entrusted Ministries.
The difference between repentance and outward behavior: Why we must be careful not to value children who simply appear obedient over children whose hearts are surrendered to God.
Parenting a prodigal: Encouragement for mothers praying for children who have wandered from the Lord, including the importance of persistent prayer and hope.
The older brother's warning: Why even those who have remained close to home can become distant from the Father's heart.
The blessing of dwelling with God: How the Father's words to the older son remind us that the greatest treasure is already ours when we belong to Him.
One of the most important parenting applications in Luke 15 comes from the father's response when his younger son finally returns home.
The son recognizes his sin, acknowledges that he is unworthy, and comes back to his father in humility. But before he can even finish his confession, his father runs to him, embraces him, and welcomes him home.
What a picture of the Father's heart!
As Christian parents, we have an opportunity to reflect that same mercy when our children acknowledge their sin. This does not mean ignoring wrongdoing, minimizing the seriousness of sin, or abandoning the responsibility to train our children in righteousness. It means remembering the gospel as we respond.
When a child is genuinely repentant, our desire should be restoration—not humiliation. We can lovingly address the sin, provide appropriate correction, and help our children walk in righteousness while also celebrating the humility that brought them to confession.
Stephanie shares a personal experience of asking the Lord to help her respond with the grace of Jesus Christ when one of her own children was deeply broken over sin. It was a reminder that the gospel is not simply something we teach our children to believe; it is the truth we must believe and live out in our parenting.
Do we really believe in the forgiveness Jesus purchased for us? And are we willing to extend that same gospel-shaped grace to our children?
For mothers with a prodigal child, the story of the younger son offers a deeply meaningful picture of hope.
The father does not appear indifferent to his son's rebellion. Yet when the son returns, the father's response is marked by compassion and joy. He celebrates that his son, who was lost, has been found.
Stephanie also shares the testimony of Christopher Yuan and his mother's persistent prayers during a season when her son was far from the Lord. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of prayer and the hope we can have in God's ability to redeem lives.
She also reflects on the experience of Betsy, Entrusted Ministries' founder, who has written about walking through the pain of having a prodigal child. Her testimony reminds us that even faithful parents cannot guarantee the choices their children will make. Adam and Eve sinned despite having a perfect Father.
If you're carrying the heartbreak, uncertainty, or shame that can accompany a child's wayward choices, remember that you are not alone. We can pray faithfully, trust the Lord with our children, and hold fast to the hope that He is able to bring the lost home.
It's easy to focus on the younger son and his reckless rebellion. But Jesus doesn't end the parable there.
The older brother is angry that his father has welcomed his brother home and celebrated his return. He points to his own years of service and obedience, seemingly unable to rejoice over his brother's restoration.
His response exposes another kind of lostness: the self-righteousness of someone who is physically near the father but does not share the father's heart.
This is an important warning for Christian moms. We can become so focused on raising children who follow the rules that we forget the goal is wholehearted devotion to Christ.
Outward compliance is not the same as a heart transformed by the gospel. We want our children to understand their sin, recognize their need for Jesus, and learn to love what He loves.
And we must examine our own hearts, too. Are we rejoicing in the grace we have received, or have we begun to believe that our faithfulness makes us more deserving of God's favor?
The Father's words remind us of the blessing of belonging to Him: "Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours."
What a privilege it is to dwell with our Father!
Luke 14–16
The primary focus of this episode is Luke 15.
Additional Scripture themes include:
Repentance and forgiveness.
God's compassion for sinners.
The difference between outward righteousness and inward transformation.
The joy of restoration.
The Father's love for His children.
When my child confesses sin, do I respond in a way that reflects the Father's heart?
Am I more concerned about outward obedience or genuine repentance and heart transformation?
Do I make it safe for my children to acknowledge their sin and seek forgiveness?
Have I become more like the older brother, taking pride in my own faithfulness while struggling to rejoice over someone else's restoration?
If I have a prodigal child, am I continuing to pray and trust the Lord with their story?
Am I living in the joy of knowing that I have been welcomed into the Father's presence through Jesus?
Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible mercy You have shown us. Keep us from self-righteousness and help us rejoice in the grace we have received. Give us hearts that reflect Your compassion when our children acknowledge their sin. Help us to pursue their restoration, lovingly guide them toward righteousness, and never value outward behavior over genuine devotion to You. For the mothers who are praying for prodigal children, we ask that You would work mightily in their families. Draw those who have wandered back to Yourself, and give these moms faith to trust You while they wait. May our homes reflect the joy of Your mercy and the hope of the gospel. In Jesus' name, amen.
Entrusted Ministries — Learn more about Entrusted Ministries' biblical parenting resources and Betsy's testimony about parenting a prodigal child at EntrustedMinistries.com.
The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries helps Christian moms understand Scripture and apply biblical truth to everyday motherhood.
Whether you're looking for a Bible podcast for Christian moms, following a...
Mary and Martha's different approaches to serving Jesus: What Jesus' words reveal about anxiety, distraction, hospitality, and the importance of being with Him.
Putting Jesus first in motherhood: How can moms prioritize their relationship with Christ when the needs of their families seem never-ending?
Serving without resentment: Why our heart attitude matters more than whether others notice or appreciate our efforts.
The difference between serving in our own strength and serving from God's overflow: How spending time with Jesus transforms the way we approach the work of motherhood.
Making practical changes to prioritize God's Word: Simple adjustments to routines, meal preparation, and children's schedules that can help make room for Scripture.
Remembering the eternal: Why we must be careful not to invest more attention in temporary physical concerns than in the eternal condition of our souls.
Embracing the season of motherhood: How to recognize the blessings woven into the daily work of raising children, even when the responsibilities feel exhausting.
The story of Mary and Martha is often presented as a choice between two personalities: the task-oriented Martha and the relational Mary. But what if Jesus is addressing something much deeper than personality?
Martha wanted to honor Jesus through hospitality. She recognized the importance of welcoming Him into her home and serving Him well. Yet in the midst of all her preparations, she became anxious and distracted.
Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and listen.
For Christian moms, this passage raises an important question: Are we so occupied with the necessary work of caring for our families that we neglect the One who gives that work its meaning?
Motherhood involves real responsibilities. We are called to serve, sacrifice, work diligently, and care for the people God has entrusted to us. But our service should never replace our relationship with Christ.
The goal isn't to become less diligent or to abandon our responsibilities. It's to learn to serve from a heart that has first been with Jesus.
As Christian moms, we spend countless hours caring for our children's physical needs. We prepare meals, research solutions, organize schedules, and work to provide what they need to grow.
But are we giving equal attention to their souls—and to our own?
Biblical parenting requires us to keep eternal priorities in view. Our children need more than healthy bodies, successful schedules, and well-managed homes. They need to see parents who treasure Christ and understand that knowing Him is the most important thing in life.
That doesn't mean every mom will have the same routine or the same opportunities for uninterrupted Bible study. It may mean simplifying breakfast, establishing a quiet time for older children, or making a practical adjustment to create space for God's Word.
The important thing is to recognize that we cannot consistently serve our families with joy if we are neglecting our own dependence on the Lord.
We don't serve because we are less than. We serve because we know how great He is.
Jesus' teaching about the Good Samaritan and His conversation with Martha offer two important perspectives on Christian service.
The Good Samaritan demonstrates sacrificial love through practical action. Martha demonstrates how even good service can become a source of anxiety and distraction when our hearts lose their focus.
Colossians 3:23 reminds us to work heartily as for the Lord and not for men. This changes the motivation behind the ordinary work of motherhood.
We don't prepare meals, care for our children, serve our husbands, or extend hospitality because we need someone to notice. We do these things as an expression of devotion to Christ.
And when we're weary, we can ask Him for help. We serve in dependence on His strength, trusting that He sees us and is sufficient for what He has called us to do.
Luke 10, 12, and 13
Additional Scripture passages discussed:
Colossians 3:23 — Working heartily as for the Lord.
Proverbs 31 — The diligence and service of a godly woman.
John 12:2 — Martha serving at another meal for Jesus.
The account of Jesus feeding the five thousand — Remembering His ability to provide beyond what we can accomplish ourselves.
Am I so busy serving my family that I am neglecting time with Jesus?
Do I serve out of gratitude and love for Christ, or am I hoping others will notice my efforts?
What practical changes could I make to create more consistent time in God's Word?
Am I investing as much attention in my children's souls as I am in their physical needs?
How can I help my children see that serving others is a privilege and an expression of love for God?
Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing us in the ordinary responsibilities of motherhood. Help us to follow Jesus' example by first seeking Your presence and then serving from the overflow of Your love. Give us wisdom to recognize what matters most, courage to make the adjustments we need, and grateful hearts for the privilege of caring for the families You have entrusted to us. May our homes reflect our devotion to You, and may our children see the joy of walking with Christ. In Jesus' name, amen.
The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries helps Christian moms grow in their understanding of Scripture through a chronological Bible reading plan and practical encouragement for faith and family life.
Whether you're looking for a Bible podcast for women, a New Testament Bible reading plan, biblical parenting wisdom, or encouragement to grow in your own walk with Jesus, join Stephanie Hickox as she explores God's Word and considers how its truth transforms everyday motherhood.
Subscribe to The Dwelling Place and continue growing in God's Word, one day at a time.
Entrusted With a Child's Heart — Learn more about this biblical parenting study, including practical guidance for helping children walk in repentance and pursue reconciliation.
Find the related episode and Entrusted Ministries resources through the links provided in the episode's show notes.Learn more about Entrusted Ministries and the Dwelling Place Bible reading plan at Entrusted Ministries.
