In this guided Scripture meditation, we reflect on and rest in God’s mercy and compassion as revealed in Psalm 103:8-12.

In this new series, God Is, we take time to remember who God is and dwell on His incredible attributes.

Today, we reflect on the truth that God is merciful.

Psalm 103 reminds us that God is “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.”

As you meditate on this passage, may you experience the depth of His mercy—a mercy that removes our sins as far as the east is from the west.

Let this meditation be a time to quiet your heart, reflect on God’s love, and embrace the richness of His mercy.

Here are some additional helpful links:

You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning.

Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 103:8-12, NIV

8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
9 He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

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This guided Scripture meditation will help you reflect on God’s mercies, both past and present.

Lamentations is a beautiful reminder that God's love never ends, and His mercies are new every morning.

“The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.” (Lamentations 3:22-23, NLT)

In this end-of-year meditation, we’ll:

• Reflect on God's faithfulness and mercy over the past year.
• Acknowledge our hopes and prayers as we step into the new year.
• Rest in the promise that God’s mercies will meet us afresh in every new moment and day.

I pray this meditation helps you start the new year with a heart full of trust, gratitude, and anticipation for all that God will do.

Here are some additional helpful links:

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Scripture Meditation and Lectio Divina Journal here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning.

Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

• You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

• Follow me on Instagram: @jodieniznik
• Follow me on Facebook: @JodieGNiznik
• Join my Monday email newsletter and receive links to new meditations every week. Join here
• Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Guided Meditation Journal here.

• Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.
• Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:
Lamentations 3:22-26, NLT

22 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.

23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.

24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!”

25 The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him.

26 So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord.

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This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 141 creates space to pray and seek God’s help, especially regarding our words.

 

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

 

Ever wish you could hit rewind and take back something you said? Maybe it was a harsh tone, biting sarcasm, or a juicy piece of gossip. It’s easy to let words slip out—and once they do, it’s just as easy to wish we could take them back.

 

The truth is, those words that slip out might feel satisfying in the moment, but they often leave a bitter taste behind. As this Psalmist puts it, they’re like delicacies—tempting but not truly good or nourishing.

 

And in today’s divisive world, our words are more important than ever. How can we, as followers of Jesus, be people who use our words to extend God’s love and peace, even when we don’t agree with something?

 

That’s why I’ve prayed this Psalm for years. I want to be someone who uses her words well—someone whose words are trustworthy, kind, and full of love.

 

So I pray, “Lord, set a guard over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

 

And God is faithful. He gives those gentle nudges to stop talking or to tread more carefully.

 

Heeding his nudge is still up to me, though, as it always is.

 

This meditation offers space to ask God for His help and protection as we seek to be people who speak words filled with love.

 

You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Praying with the Psalms series here.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning.

 

Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 141:1-4, NIV

1 I call to you, Lord, come quickly to me;

hear me when I call to you.

2 May my prayer be set before you like incense;

may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.

3 Set a guard over my mouth, Lord;

keep watch over the door of my lips.

4 Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil

so that I take part in wicked deeds

along with those who are evildoers;

do not let me eat their delicacies.

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Let’s go back to the beginning, where it was good - very good.

Genesis says, "God created them; male and female he created them."

And God gave them the job of ruling and reigning together.

 

This passage may be familiar to you. But as you hear the words, ask the Spirit to help them become new. He will guide you to notice what he has for you. His Word is living and active, so God may help you see something you haven’t noticed before.

 

Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head to the next episode and listen to the interview with Old Testament scholar, professor, and author Carmen Joy Imes. (Releases June 7, 2023) We discuss what it means to be created in the image of God and why it matters.

 

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:

Genesis 1:26-28, NIV

Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

At the end of your day, are you frustrated by your lack of progress? Do you feel overwhelmed by constant distractions? Listen in and discover how you can make real and lasting change through the simple act of paying attention.

Meet my guest Paul Angone:

Paul Angone is a trusted voice for young professionals, individuals navigating change and transitions, and those seeking to live a more intentional life. Paul, a best-selling author, has written "101 Secrets for Your Twenties," "101 Questions You Need to Ask in Your Twenties," "25 Lies 20-Somethings Need to Stop Believing," and his latest work, "Listen to Your Day: The Life-Changing Practice of Paying Attention." In addition, he is the creator of Allgroanup.com and the All Groan Up Podcast. Paul's passion for helping others find focus and intentionality in their lives stems from his own challenges and personal growth, making him an engaging and relatable guide.

Some highlights from our conversation:

- The Problem with Smartphones,
Paul Angone discusses how smartphones have become an increasing distraction in our lives. He highlights some practical tips on how to reduce screen time.

-  Philippians 4:8,
Jodie and Paul discuss the meditation verse from Philippians 4:8 and how paying attention to what is good and right in our lives can change our entire outlook on things.

- Embracing Awkwardness and Boredom,
Paul discusses why it’s important to embrace awkward, boring, and quiet spaces instead of constantly seeking to escape them.

- Not-So-Chance Encounters,
Paul discusses the "providential moments" of life. And how sometimes these moments can lead to huge changes - if we’re paying attention.

- The Productivity of Silence,
Paul shares why he schedules a 45-minute walk into his workday and how this time away from distraction has become one of the most fruitful and productive times of his day.

- The Entrepreneurial Mindset,
Paul and Jodie discuss the mindset model of entrepreneurs and how they view problems as opportunities to be solved instead of roadblocks.

- The Monk Mindset,
Jodie and Paul discuss the importance of silence, reflection, and contemplation in our lives.

- The Importance of Community,
As a last word of encouragement, Paul reminds us that we are not meant to go on this journey alone and invites us to consider processing new ways of paying attention to our days in a community.

You can connect with Paul at: https://allgroanup.com/

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulangone

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulangone/

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/PaulAngone

Order Listen to Your Day here: https://allgroanup.com/books-2/

 

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.

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What’s rolling around in your mind?

Are you dwelling on an uncertain future?

Relitigating the past?

Or are you thinking about the true and right things of God?

It’s easy to let our minds slip into worry and anxiety. That’s why the Apostle Paul invites us to be intentional with our thoughts.

As you meditate on Philippians 4:8, 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 Paul Angone as we discuss the life-changing practice of paying attention. (Releases May 31, 2023)

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 exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:

Philippians 4:8, NIV

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It all started when Terry found a Hopi translation of the Bible that no one could read.

 

Sadly, the Hopi people were never taught to read their language, so it sat in a shed gathering dust. This made Terry realize that the Native American people didn’t have a translation that spoke to them in their heart language.

 

Terry started small. He wrote and recorded, The Great Story from the Sacred Book. And it won the award for Best Spoken World from the Native American Music Awards. This began the journey that resulted in him and a team of translators translating the New Testament into what we now call the First Nations Version. A beautiful translation that will speak to your heart, Native American or not.

 

Some highlights from our conversation:

• Terry shares the backstory of the FNV. It all started when he was serving as a pastor to the Hopi people, and he found a Hopi translation of the Bible that no one could read. This helped him realize that most First Nations people could not read in their own language and there was no translation that really spoke to them in their heart language. Terry started slowly with audio recording. This recording won the Best Spoken Word award for the Native American Music Awards. Terry realized then that this was a needed project.
• We talk about some of the decisions he and the translation team made with names. And why that matters so much in the Native American culture.
• We discuss the oral culture – and how this translation leans into the patterns of oral storytelling.
• The FNV is a dynamic equivalence translation. Dynamic equivalence allows the translator to make edits as needed, so the translated text is comprehensible within the receiving culture. Oftentimes the target audience is not familiar with the source language or culture and needs idioms and references explained or localized to make sense.
• Terry shares the Lord’s prayer with us and how he thought through the phrase, “give us our daily bread.” And how daily bread for native American people would have been different than bread. So he used words like buffalo, corn, squash, and wild rice to communicate this truth.
• Another important change they made was in how they translated the word “sin.” Many Native American people were told long hair was a sin, speaking in their native language was a sin – even being a Native American person felt sinful to them. Since this word had been abused, Terry sought a new way to communicate this truth. He came up with “bad hearts and broken ways.”
• Terry also shares his vision for how all people groups can learn from each other. It’s beautiful.
• We end with a discussion on Ephesians 4 and Terry closes us by reading the Lord’s Prayer and praying over us. Don’t miss this!

 

You can find Terry and the FNV at: https://firstnationsversion.com/

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FirstNationsVersion/

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fnv.nt/

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/TerryMWildman

 

 

Great News! You can order the FNV for 30% off and free shipping from IVP until June 7, 2023 at:

https://www.ivpress.com/first-nations-version-paperback

 

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.

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We have been made new. And God invites us to live in a way that represents who you are – standing in a good way and walking a true and sacred path.

As you meditate on Ephesians 4, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life.

 

We’re meditating on this passage from the First Nations Version. In the companion podcast, I have a Conversation with Terry Wildman, the lead translator for the FNV (releases on Wednesday, 5/24). We discuss why he felt led to make this translation and why it’s needed.

 

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 exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use:

Ephesians 4:22-24, FNV

Take off that worn-out and stained outfit of your past life with its selfish desires and worthless ways of thinking. It no longer represents who you are. You are now true human beings, with a new way of seeing and thinking. Put on the regalia of your new life. For you have been made new, created again to look like the one who made you, standing in a good way, and walking a true and sacred path.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What’s the cost of living a distracted life?

 

Katie Westenberg, author of But Then She Remembered, believes it's dangerously high. She argues that our minds dwell on what our hearts and minds focus on. And if God isn’t our focus, then we will not only get distracted but derailed.

 

The solution is to remember. Remember who your God is and what he has called you to do.

 

Here’s a few highlights from our conversation:

• Katie and I discuss how she started to see distraction as a detriment in her life.
• The main source of distraction is, of course, technology. Katie has some great tips for us on how to use technology wisely.
• We then turn to why remembering is important and Katie reminds us that God commanded the Israelites to remember. And when they forgot – they wandered off course. The same is true for us.
• We talk about Psalm 77 and Katie shares how the Lord led her as she meditated on the passage.
• Katie shares some ways God has invited her to remember. And she reminds us that we don’t need to feel shame in our weakened memories but to ask the Spirit to help us remember. One of the beautiful gifts the Spirit gives us is to help us remember.
• One way Katie has intentionally focused on remembering God’s truth is through Scripture memory.
• When distractions creep into Katie’s life, she said her favorite trick is to speak to the distraction. So instead of mindlessly picking up her phone, she will say to herself – or anyone around her – I’m going to look this up on my phone. I loved this trick because I’ve been known to pick up my phone for one reason, get distracted, and then 15 minutes later, wonder why I grabbed my phone in the first place! I know I’m not the only one!
• Katie closes with sharing her take on what it means to take every thought captive (from 2 Corinthians 10:5)

 

Here’s how you can connect with Katie:

https://katiewestenberg.com/

Follow him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/katie_westenberg/

Follow him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatieWestenbergauthor

 

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.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do you find comfort when you’re distressed?

The author of Psalm 77 found comfort through remembering. Remembering who God is and what he has done.

 

As you meditate on this Psalm, may it help you remember and recall God’s faithfulness in the past and present. Allow the Lord to help you notice what he has for you in these words. Perhaps you have some remembering to do.

 

Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, don’t miss the next episode with Katie Westenberg (Releases 5/17/23). Katie is the author of But Then She Remembered. We talk about why remembering is critical – and she shares her thoughts on the real cost of distracted living.

 

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:

Psalm 77:11-15

 

11 I will remember the Lord’s works;

yes, I will remember your ancient wonders.

12 I will reflect on all you have done

and meditate on your actions.

13 God, your way is holy.

What god is great like God?

14 You are the God who works wonders;

you revealed your strength among the peoples.

15 With power you redeemed your people,

the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.

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Whoa! What if we’ve been overlooking some critical information in Scripture? Especially about women and their roles in the New Testament church.

 

This is what Dr. Nijay Gupta contends in his new book Tell Her Story.

 

If you’ve ever wondered about the role of women in the early church and the church today, you need to listen to this encouraging and insightful conversation.

Nijay introduces us to women you may not know about and their critical roles in advancing the Gospel.

 

This conversation deeply blessed me. I hope it will do the same for you.

 

Dr. Nijay Gupta is a professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary. Previously, he was a professor of New Testament at Portland Seminary, where he also oversaw the Master's thesis program, and advises doctoral students. He is the author of the book Worship That Makes Sense to Paul and Prepare, Succeed, Advance: A Guidebook for Getting a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies and Beyond, Bible commentaries, and over a dozen academic articles in theological journals. And his newest book: Tell her Story: How Women Led, Taught, and Ministered in the Early Church.

 

**** GREAT NEWS! IVP is giving so much more listeners 30% and free shipping with the code MUCHMORE until May 24, 2023. You can find his book here:  https://www.ivpress.com/tell-her-story

 

Here are a few highlights from our conversation:

• We start with Deborah from the Old Testament, and while Nijay’s work is really to help us see women in the New Testament church, Deborah sets a helpful foundation.
• We then focus on women Paul wrote about with high praise. These women, tucked away in Romans 16, have often been overlooked. But what Nijay shares with us is revolutionary.
• We also discuss the structure of the Roman household, how it’s very different from today, and how some women held surprising roles in the home – and, as a result, the church.
• Finally, we talk about Jesus and his relationship with women. All four Gospels tell us that women were the first to see Jesus resurrected. What does this mean? And what have you been overlooking in the familiar passage of Mary coming to the tomb?

 

Here’s how you can connect with Nijay:

On Twitter: @Nijaykgupta.
Read his blog at cruxsolablog.com.

Watch him speak about Christ working through our weakness

Follow him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nijay.gupta/

Follow him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nijay.gupta

 

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.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mary and the other Mary went to the tomb to see Jesus. He wasn’t there. At first, they were confused. But then they encountered an angel who helped them understand what happened and told them what to do next.

 

They hurried off. On the way, they encountered the resurrected Jesus.

Can you imagine?

 

They fell at his feet, clinging to him. They loved him dearly. He told them, “Don’t be afraid. Go tell the others.”

 

You’ve probably read this account before. But there is something in it for you today. As you meditate ask the Lord to help you notice what he wants you to notice.

 

Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, don’t miss the next episode with professor and author Nijay Gupta (Releases 5/10/23)

 

We discuss the surprising roles women played in the early church. As we do, Nijay points out something from this passage that I had never seen before. Make sure you listen in – it will bless you.

 

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 28:5-10

5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”

8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Everyone's faith journey evolves. Many of us have been deconstructing and reconstructing, tearing down practices and beliefs that don’t work as we seek to rebuild something that does.  

 

Matt Tebbe and Ben Sternke, authors of Having the Mind of Christ: Eight Axioms to Cultivate a Robust Faith, discovered, through their own personal journeys and as they guided others, that many were becoming disillusioned and needed help reconstructing their faith.

 

They turned to Jesus as the model and started to see that Jesus operated under some basic assumptions about God and his Kingdom. As they dug and learned, they identified eight foundational principles that Jesus assumed and operated under – starting with love. They say the first foundational principle this way: God is love, so it’s all about love.

 

It seems logical on the surface but dig deeper, and you’ll quickly see that we may believe this is true, but we don’t really live it.

 

Matt and Ben are cofounders of Gravity Leadership and co-pastors at The Table in Indianapolis. Listen in as we talk about their story, why they wrote this book, why love matters, and hear their insights on Mark 3.

 

GREAT NEWS: IVP is giving So Much More Listeners 30% off and free shipping until 5.17.23 with the code MUCHMORE

You can get a copy here: https://www.ivpress.com/having-the-mind-of-christ

 

Some highlights from our conversation:

• Matt tells us about his journey of deconstruction and how it created dissonance in his life that he could no longer ignore. He says: It’s not working anymore, but I can’t quit Jesus
• Ben also shares his story and how he saw leaders failing. This made him question: “Is there a way to do ministry that’s rooted in love?”
• We talk about how they decided on the eight axioms and what they are.
• We dive into the first one: God is love, so it’s all about love. And if we believe this, how many parts of our life do we live as if it’s really all about love?
• We talk about some of the practices they offer in the book as opportunities for us to live like these axioms are true.
• We end processing through Mark 3 and what it meant to both Matt and Ben.
• A golden nugget toward the end of our conversation is when we discuss our real pain. Sometimes what God is up to is different than we would think because the goal is eternity. Hopefully, we can say on the other side of the experience: I wouldn’t wish this on a friend, But I can’t imagine having not gone through it.
• We wrap up with a discussion on our meditation passage from Mark 3. Why was Jesus angry? And what was the man’s role in this whole scenario?

 

You can connect with Ben at: https://bensternke.com/

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ben.sternke.56/

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bensternk3/

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/bensternke

 

You can connect with Matt at: https://gravityleadership.com/matt-tebbe/

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matttebbe/

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/matttebbe

 

You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from Jodie's Bible studies here.

Download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 139 reminds us that God created us—and everyone around us—with beautiful intention and purpose.

 

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

 

Ever wish God had made you differently? Or what about that person who seems to get under your skin... Do you ever think, If only they were a little different, life would be easier, right?

But Psalm 139:13-16 reminds us that God was incredibly deliberate when he created you and everyone around you. He thought through detail—from the texture of your toenails to the timber of your laugh.

And God calls his creation remarkable and wondrous.

Even the details you aren’t particularly fond of.

When we shift our focus from critiquing ourselves and others to thanking God for His handiwork, it transforms our perspective.

This meditation will give you space to reflect on and recognize God’s beautiful design in your life, in the people you love, and even those you find hard to love.

 

You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Praying with the Psalms series here.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning.

Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 139:13-16, CSB

13 For it was you who created my inward parts;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

14 I will praise you

because I have been remarkably and wondrously made.,

Your works are wondrous,

and I know this very well.

15 My bones were not hidden from you

when I was made in secret,

when I was formed in the depths of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw me when I was formless;

all my days were written in your book and planned

before a single one of them began.

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It was the Sabbath. Jesus was in the synagogue and a man needed healing. What would he do?

 

The religious leaders were looking for a reason to accuse and discredit Jesus. If he healed the man, Jesus would break the letter of the law.

 

But what about the intent of the law? And what about the heart of God, who created the law?

 

So Jesus asks, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?”

The religious leaders were silent.

They had no answer.

They became trapped by their pride and misunderstanding.

 

But Jesus acts in love. He heals.

 

As you meditate on Mark 3, 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 pastors and authors Matt Tebbe and Ben Sternke. We discuss what love means and how love helps us have the mind of Christ.

 

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 3:1-5

Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. 2 Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. 3 Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.”

4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent.

5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

No one asks for restless moments.

No one wants to feel irritated, unsettled, or stuck.

But what if restlessness is normal, healthy, and even holy?

And what if we need to pay attention to our restlessness as an invitation from God?

 

In the episode, Casey Tygrett, author of The Gift of Restlessness: A Spirituality for Unsettled Seasons, helps us unpack a new way to view restlessness.

 

Casey holds a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual formation. He is a Spiritual Director and the director of spiritual direction practice for Soul Care, which helps church and nonprofit leaders restore health to their souls. He is also the author of Becoming Curious: A Spiritual Practice of Asking Questions, and As I Recall: Discovering the Place of Memories in Our Spiritual Life. And he is the host of the podcast Restlessness Is A Gift.

 

Some highlights from our conversation:

• Casey defines restlessness as that unsettled feeling when we feel stuck in the present, know we can’t go back to the way things used to be, and we are uncertain about the future.
• Casey shares that restlessness is a gift because it leads to formation. It helps us ask deeper questions about ourselves and God.
• We discuss the meditation passage from Mark 1:9-13 and how even Jesus, the beloved Son of God, was led into the wilderness and a season of restlessness. We talk about how this should encourage us. And Casey shares how the phrase “and the wild beasts and angels attended him” gave him a deeper understanding of what restlessness is like.
• Casey asks deep questions throughout his book, and we discuss one of them: What is my purpose? Casey shares how purpose can get distorted to be one specific thing, and while it can sometimes be that, the bigger question is about love. Don’t miss this section to hear Casey’s insight on love as the big purpose of our life.
• We discuss how to know if restlessness is an invitation from God to make a change – or just something we need to push through. Casey highly recommends Spiritual Direction as one way to discern. Spiritual Direction can create a safe space to sort through the questions and listen for God’s next steps.
• I asked Casey to walk us through a season where he processed through restlessness. Casey shared two questions he asks when he’s walking through restlessness: Do you trust God? And Does God trust you?
• We end by talking through the Lord’s prayer and how Casey felt each line was in response to our big questions. This is ultimately how Casey structured his book.

 

You can connect with Casey at: https://www.caseytygrett.com/

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cktygrettauthor

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cktygrett/

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/cktygrett

 

Ready to explore Spiritual Direction? You can connect with Casey or another Spiritual Director here: https://www.soulcare.com/spiritual-direction

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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

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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.’ ”

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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

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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.

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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.

This Christian meditation and prayer on Psalm 71 reminds us of God’s power to restore and renew.

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

Will God redeem the mess?

Will He restore what’s been broken?

Scripture gives a resounding “yes”—but restoration doesn’t always mean returning to how things were.

God’s work is often about transformation, making something new from the broken pieces.

If you’re feeling unsure about what God can do with your challenges, take heart. Your God is a God of restoration.

This meditation reassures us that He is good, He is at work, and we can trust Him.

You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Praying with the Psalms series here.

Here are some additional helpful links:

You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning.

Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 71:19-21, NLT

19 Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the highest heavens.

You have done such wonderful things.

Who can compare with you, O God?

20 You have allowed me to suffer much hardship,

but you will restore me to life again

and lift me up from the depths of the earth.

21 You will restore me to even greater honor

and comfort me once again.

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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.

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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.

This Christian meditation and prayer from Psalm 25 invites us to ask God to direct our steps.

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

Is there an area in your life where you fear God could let you down? You aren’t alone.

David, the author of Psalm 25, expressed this same fear to God when he said: “Do not let me be disgraced; do not let my enemies gloat over me.”

And then David reminded his soul that God is trustworthy; therefore, he would not be disgraced if he waited on God.

This led David to pray the prayer we all need: Show me the way, Lord.

If you’re facing something that concerns you and wonder how to move forward, take some time to meditate on and pray through this Psalm. God will show you the way. He will help you know how to move forward. You can trust him.

You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation and the entire Praying with the Psalms series here.

Here are some additional helpful links:

You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning.

Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 25:1-5, CSB

1 Lord, I appeal to you.

2 My God, I trust in you.

Do not let me be disgraced;

do not let my enemies gloat over me.

3 No one who waits for you

will be disgraced;

those who act treacherously without cause

will be disgraced.

4 Make your ways known to me, Lord;

teach me your paths.

5 Guide me in your truth and teach me,

for you are the God of my salvation;

I wait for you all day long.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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/JodieGNiznik
Download 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, NIV
28 “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/JodieGNiznik
Download 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/aahales
Instagram: 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.

This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 37 will strengthen you to change your fretting into faith as you remember that God will bring justice in his time and way.

Get your FREE Do Not Be Afraid Guided Meditation Journal here.

Let’s talk about justice.

Or, really, the lack of justice.

 

Evil seems to be winning.

The underhanded always seem to get ahead.

Injustices seem to go unanswered.

 

We fear God may never set things right.

 

But our faith says he will. Revelation 21 reminds us that a day is coming when all that is wrong will be made right.

But until that day, we live in a world where the broken way seems to be advancing.

Yet it is here, in this broken world, that Scripture exhorts us to lay aside our fears and trust God and his good plans.

Psalm 37 is about laying aside our fretting and learning to wait well.

I pray that as you meditate on this Psalm, your heart will be encouraged to turn your fears into trust.

God has it under control.

You do not need to be afraid.

 

You can follow along with a FREE printed guide for this meditation, and the entire Do Not Be Afraid series here.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning.

Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com.

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 37:1-8, NET

1 Do not fret when wicked men seem to succeed!

Do not envy evildoers!

2 For they will quickly dry up like grass,

and wither away like plants.

3 Trust in the Lord and do what is right!

Settle in the land and maintain your integrity!

4 Then you will take delight in the Lord,

and he will answer your prayers.

5 Commit your future to the Lord!

Trust in him, and he will act on your behalf.

6 He will vindicate you in broad daylight,

and publicly defend your just cause.

7 Wait patiently for the Lord!

Wait confidently for him!

Do not fret over the apparent success of a sinner,

a man who carries out wicked schemes!

8 Do not be angry and frustrated!

Do not fret! That only leads to trouble!

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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/JodieGNiznik
Download 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, NIV

16 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.

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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 Lasts

Some 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/

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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/JodieGNiznik
Download 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.