Podcasts about Bezalel

The Holy Spirit was surely present and at work many times in God's Story throughout the Old Testament. So, what made the giving of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost different than previous times? Join Pastor Chris as he looks at three Old Testament characters, radically empowered by the Holy Sprit, as a lens through which to look at the breathtaking events of that first Pentecost Sunday. The image posted with this sermon/podcast is a mosaic depicting the Day of Pentecost. The artist and location are unknown.

A la Une de la presse, ce mardi 19 mai, l'information exclusive de Middle East Eye, qui affirme que le procureur de la Cour pénale internationale a demandé un mandat d'arrêt contre un ministre israélien d'extrême droite. Israël et ses stratégies d'influence, notamment en France, objets d'une enquête du journal français Libération et du quotidien israélien Haaretz. Le retour du débat sur le Brexit au Royaume-Uni. Et une querelle autour de paons italiens qui tourne à l'affaire politique.

LEITURA BÍBLICA DO DIA:  ÊXODO 31:1-11 PLANO DE LEITURA ANUAL:  1 CRÔNICAS 4–6; JOÃO 6:1-21  Já fez seu devocional hoje? Aproveite e marque um amigo para fazer junto com você! Confira:  “Seu trabalho para a exposição internacional de livros é organizar uma transmissão de rádio ao vivo”, meu chefe falou. Senti medo, pois era um território novo para mim e orei: Deus, nunca fiz nada assim, por favor me ajude. Deus providenciou recursos e pessoas para guiar-me: pessoas experientes na área lembrando-me dos detalhes que eu me esquecera durante o evento. Em retrospecto, sei que deu certo porque Deus sabia o que era necessário, incentivando-me a usar as habilidades que me concedera. Deus nos capacita quando nos chama para realizar uma tarefa. Quando Ele designou Bezalel para trabalhar no tabernáculo, sabia que ele já era artesão habilidoso. E Deus o equipou ainda mais, enchendo-o com Seu Espírito, sabedoria, entendi mento, conhecimento e diversas habilidades (ÊXODO 31:3). Deus também lhe proveu um ajudante, Aoliabe, e mão de obra qualificada (v.6). Com Sua capacitação, projetaram a tenda, os móveis e as vestes dos sacerdotes. Isso foi essencial para a adoração dos israelitas a Deus (vv.7-11). Bezalel significa sob a sombra ou proteção de Deus. O artesão trabalhou no projeto durante a vida inteira sob a proteção, poder e provisão de Deus. Que obedeçamos com coragem o Seu comando ao realizarmos uma tarefa, até concluí-la. Ele sabe o que é preciso e como ou quando conceder recursos.  Por: KAREN HUANG

Exodus 35-40 In this section of Exodus, the tabernacle is built and the priestly garments are made. Since the covenant has been renewed, it's time to build the tabernacle, fashion the priestly garments, and get everything ready for God to move in.  God gives his Spirit to two men, Bezalel and Oholiab, so that they can lead the project and the people respond with great generosity and dedication. They complete the tabernacle, all its furnishings, and the priestly garments exactly as the Lord had instructed Moses.  And at the end of the book, God moves from Mount Sinai into the tabernacle.  In this recording, we consider why so much space is devoted to the plans and construction of the tabernacle and what the theological message is in the context of the whole story of the Bible.    BIBLE READING GUIDE - FREE EBOOK - Get the free eBook, Bible in Life, to help you learn how to read and apply the Bible well: https://www.listenerscommentary.com     GIVE -  The Listener's Commentary is a listener supported Bible teaching ministry made possible by the generosity of people like you. Thank you! Give here:  https://www.listenerscommentary.com/give     STUDY HUB - Want more than the audio? Join the study hub to access articles, maps, charts, pictures, and links to other resources to help you study the Bible for yourself. https://www.listenerscommentary.com/members-sign-up   MORE TEACHING - For more resources and Bible teaching from John visit https://www.johnwhittaker.net

If you like Sex Ed with DB, you're going to love Dating Intentionally! Talia Koren chats with Danielle to explore common misconceptions about sex and why it's time to rethink what counts as sex. We also dive into using sex toys on your own, plus how to bring them up in a relationship. And at the end, Danielle answers all the questions you might be too embarrassed to ask anywhere else about things like body odor, performance anxiety, being on top, and so much more. I hope you enjoy this educational and judgment-free convo! Subscribe to Dating Intentionally wherever you get your podcasts!: https://pod.link/1645453880 TAKE OUR SMUT QUIZFind your page-turning turn-on with our new SMUT QUIZ! In just 5 questions, you'll get right to the good stuff with curated pages, poems, and audios. No slow burn. No fluff. Just pleasure. Take the quiz here: https://sexedwithdb.fillout.com/smutquiz ABOUT SEASON 13 Season 13 of Sex Ed with DB is ALL ABOUT PLEASURE! Solo pleasure. Partnered pleasure. Orgasms. Porn. Queer joy. Kinks, sex toys, fantasies -- you name it. We're here to help you feel more informed, more empowered, and a whole lot more turned on to help YOU have the best sex. CONNECT WITH USInstagram: @sexedwithdbpodcast TikTok: @sexedwithdbThreads: @sexedwithdbpodcast X: @sexedwithdbYouTube: Sex Ed with DB SEX ED WITH DB SEASON 13 SPONSORS Uberlube, Magic Wand, LELO, and Happy V. Get discounts on all of DB's favorite things here! GET IN TOUCH Email: sexedwithdb@gmail.comSubscribe to our newsletter for hot goss, expert advice, and *the* most salacious stories! FOR SEXUAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS Check out DB's workshop: "Building A Profitable Online Sexual Health Brand" ABOUT THE SHOW Sex Ed with DB is your go-to podcast for smart, science-backed sex education — delivering trusted insights from top experts on sex, sexuality, and pleasure. Empowering, inclusive, and grounded in real science, it's the sex ed you've always wanted. ASK AN ANONYMOUS SEX ED QUESTION Fill out our anonymous form to ask your sex ed question. SEASON 13 TEAM Creator, Host & Executive Producer: Danielle Bezalel (DB) (she/her) Producer and Growth Marketing Manager: Wil Williams (they/them) Social Media Content Creator: Iva Markicevic Daley (she/her) MUSIC Intro theme music: Hook Sounds Background music: Bright State by Ketsa Ad music: Soul Sync by Ketsa, Always Faithful by Ketsa, and Soul Epic by Ketsa. Thank you Ketsa!  

In this lecture, Sam explores the theme of creativity as it relates to a biblical theology of the Holy Spirit, specifically focusing on the empowerment of individuals to create artistic works. The session begins with a brief introduction to the overarching topic of the series on the Holy Spirit's nature and work, providing context for the teachings of the day, which center around Exodus 31 and the story of Bezalel, a craftsman chosen by God. The lecture emphasizes the importance of creativity in worship and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.The narrative unfolds with an explanation of the historical setting of Exodus, where the Israelites find themselves in hesitation after escaping Egypt. This backdrop sets the stage for God's directive to Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle, a physical space designed for divine interaction and worship. Sam highlights how God fills Bezalel with His Spirit, imparting wisdom and creativity, enabling him to execute intricate designs in various materials. The emphasis here is on God's collaborative relationship with humanity, where He provides the framework while granting artisans the freedom to innovate and contribute according to their own skills.Sam elaborates on the significance of the tabernacle as more than a mere structure; it represents a sacred space for community worship and reflects the broader idea that faith is not confined to individual spirituality but flourishes within community settings. This notion is reinforced through Sam's personal anecdotes as a pastor's kid, illustrating a common struggle with the necessity of communal worship amidst the perceived messiness of church life. He articulates that a genuine faith experience often involves tangible, physical expressions of worship.As the discussion progresses, the lecture transitions into the role of art as a divine response to the human experience. Sam articulates how creativity serves multiple purposes: for pleasure, devotion, order, and even to convey social or existential themes. He introduces the audience to the aesthetics of art, briefly touching upon art history and its inherent complexities. Sam poses an invitation to consider how the Holy Spirit's influence permeates daily life, influencing decisions as simple as what to wear, culminating in the profound artistry of creations like pottery.The process of making pottery is described in detail, illustrating the complexity and effort required to craft even simple objects, thus linking creativity back to community and collective effort. Sam draws attention to the implications of brokenness in art, introducing the traditional Japanese practice of Kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with lacquer and gold, emphasizing the beauty of imperfections. This serves as a metaphor for human existence and the redemptive work of the Holy Spirit, reinforcing the idea that, like the repaired pottery, individuals can find beauty and purpose through their struggles and imperfections.In concluding the lecture, Sam reflects on the divine creation and redemption of humanity through the Holy Spirit. He draws connections between art and the gospel message, suggesting that just as artists create works filled with intention and meaning, God too intricately shapes lives, imparting both creativity and redemption. The session wraps up with an invitation to prayer, encouraging attendees to receive blessings for their creative endeavors and to acknowledge the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, concluding with a call to recognize both the beauty of creation and the potential for restoration in the face of challenges.

Did you know that your unique talents are actually a divine blueprint for bringing restoration to the world around you? In this "Go" chapter of our Pillar series, Dan shares how bringing a heavenly perspective into your home or workplace reveals God's multifaceted wisdom and shifts the local culture. By looking at the craftsmanship of Bezalel and the ingenuity of Solomon, we see how the Holy Spirit empowers us to work with a level of excellence that inspires wonder in others. We are called to stop comparing ourselves and instead lead by reproducing the culture of Heaven through the specific victories God has given us.

Grant Clark opens in Book of Exodus 31:1–11, using Bezalel and the tabernacle to show what God is building among His people. The message centers on building the base and becoming who we already are, a call to be a Spirit-filled community where God's presence is real, people are shaped by grace, and the church is strengthened for mission.Key Themes 1. Building the Base 2. Becoming Who We Already AreThe Tabernacle “The tabernacle was God's earthly dwelling during the period from Moses to David. As his dwelling, the tabernacle emphasizes God's presence with his people, continuing a theme that has run throughout the book of Exodus.” - Longman and Dillard Bezalel's Calling Bezalel built a place where: - God would dwell by His Spirit - People would worship - People would experience the reality of the forgiveness of sins - People would be defined by their God - People would live as God's peopleVision To start a movement of reproducing churches empowered by the radical grace of Jesus Christ to love San Diego and glorify God Mission To make disciple-making disciples who are being transformed by the radical grace of Jesus ChristCore Values - Gospel - Family - Dependence - Mission - Multiplication - RenewalVerses:- Exodus 31:1–11- Exodus 35:4–10- Proverbs 4:23- 1 Thessalonians 1:5–7

Friday Bible Study (4/10/26) // Ezra 10: 18-44 (ESV) // Those Guilty of Intermarriage // 18 Now there were found some of the sons of the priests who had married foreign women: Maaseiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah, some of the sons of Jeshua the son of Jozadak and his brothers. 19 They pledged themselves to put away their wives, and their guilt offering was a ram of the flock for their guilt.[a] 20 Of the sons of Immer: Hanani and Zebadiah. 21 Of the sons of Harim: Maaseiah, Elijah, Shemaiah, Jehiel, and Uzziah. 22 Of the sons of Pashhur: Elioenai, Maaseiah, Ishmael, Nethanel, Jozabad, and Elasah.23 Of the Levites: Jozabad, Shimei, Kelaiah (that is, Kelita), Pethahiah, Judah, and Eliezer. 24 Of the singers: Eliashib. Of the gatekeepers: Shallum, Telem, and Uri.25 And of Israel: of the sons of Parosh: Ramiah, Izziah, Malchijah, Mijamin, Eleazar, Hashabiah,[b] and Benaiah. 26 Of the sons of Elam: Mattaniah, Zechariah, Jehiel, Abdi, Jeremoth, and Elijah. 27 Of the sons of Zattu: Elioenai, Eliashib, Mattaniah, Jeremoth, Zabad, and Aziza. 28 Of the sons of Bebai were Jehohanan, Hananiah, Zabbai, and Athlai. 29 Of the sons of Bani were Meshullam, Malluch, Adaiah, Jashub, Sheal, and Jeremoth. 30 Of the sons of Pahath-moab: Adna, Chelal, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattaniah, Bezalel, Binnui, and Manasseh. 31 Of the sons of Harim: Eliezer, Isshijah, Malchijah, Shemaiah, Shimeon, 32 Benjamin, Malluch, and Shemariah. 33 Of the sons of Hashum: Mattenai, Mattattah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, and Shimei. 34 Of the sons of Bani: Maadai, Amram, Uel, 35 Benaiah, Bedeiah, Cheluhi, 36 Vaniah, Meremoth, Eliashib, 37 Mattaniah, Mattenai, Jaasu. 38 Of the sons of Binnui:[c] Shimei, 39 Shelemiah, Nathan, Adaiah, 40 Machnadebai, Shashai, Sharai, 41 Azarel, Shelemiah, Shemariah, 42 Shallum, Amariah, and Joseph. 43 Of the sons of Nebo: Jeiel, Mattithiah, Zabad, Zebina, Jaddai, Joel, and Benaiah. 44 All these had married foreign women, and some of the women had even borne children.[d]Footnotesa. Ezra 10:19 Or as their reparationb. Ezra 10:25 Septuagint; Hebrew Malchijahc. Ezra 10:38 Septuagint; Hebrew Bani, Binnuid. Ezra 10:44 Or and they put them away with their childrenWebsite: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mbchicago.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW USFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / mbc.chicago  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / mbc.chicago  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / mbc.chicago  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TO SUPPORT US Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mbchicago.org/give⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Venmo: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://venmo.com/mbchurch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ DAF Donations: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://every.org/mbc.chicago⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ PayPal: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but...⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #Ezra #BookOfEzra #BibleStudy #BibleExplained #Bible #BiblicalStudies #BibleTeacher #WordOfGod #BiblicalLessons

April 15, 2026 Daily Devotional:  “Called to Create”Exodus 31:3-5  ​"and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts." ​ When we think of being "filled with the Spirit," our minds often drift toward preaching, prophecy, or miraculous healing. While those are certainly moves of the Spirit, In the Bible, when God had a massive project—like building the Tabernacle—He didn't just pick anyone. He specifically called people like Bezalel and filled them with technical intelligence. Exodus31 introduces us to Bezalel, a man whose spiritual calling was found in the sawdust, the forge, and the jeweler's bench. ​This passage shatters the divide between the "sacred" and the "secular." God didn't just give Bezalel a set of blueprints; He gave Bezalel Himself. The text notes that God provided four specific attributes: wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and skill. These aren't just natural personality traits; they are divine impartations. Whether you are busy with your hustle, raising a child, managing a spreadsheet, or painting a canvas, your ability to do it well is a gift from the Creator. He is the original Architect in His divine craftsmanship, and we are never more like Him than when we are creating something of beauty and order. Bezalel wasn't just"getting the job done." He was working with gold, silver, and precious stones to build a dwelling place for God. Our work, no matter how mundane it feels, is an act of worship when done with excellence. When we engage in all kinds of crafts with integrity and skill, it becomes a purpose of our excellence, as we are building a tabernacle in our everyday lives where God's glory can reside. Next time you successfully solve a problem or finish a project, take a moment tothank the Holy Spirit for the "wisdom and understanding" He provided. Look at your To-Do list for today. Instead of seeing chores or tasks, redefine your craft and see them as "artistic designs" you are creating for the King. God is interested in the details. He cares about the "artistic designs" and the "cutting of stones." He is a God of aesthetics as much as He is a God of ethics. This means your hobbies, your career, and your unique "knack" for fixing things are seen and valued by Him.​ Now, before you start your day today, pray: "Lord, fill me with Your Spirit as I go along with my daily tasks. Grant me the skill and knowledge to do this for Your glory."

BEZALEL 04.08.26 | VISLA FM by VISLA

What does it look like inside the dwelling place of God? In Exodus 37, we follow Bezalel as he hammers out the pure gold furniture for the Tabernacle. Join us as we explore the spiritual anatomy of the Ark, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense. Bro. Emerson Devaraj explains why God insisted on pure gold and what these sacred objects reveal about the character and presence of Jesus Christ in our lives today.#Exodus37 #ArkOfTheCovenant #GoldenLampstand #BibleStudyTamil #BroEmersonDevaraj #WayToLife #TheTabernacle #PureGold #ChristInTheOldTestament #ExodusSeries

Stop waiting for a "sacred" calling and start seeing your Monday-to-Friday as an act of high worship. Drawing from the story of the artisan Bezalel, this message explores how God uniquely wires, equips, and positions you to serve His purposes through excellence in your everyday work.

Theologian Dorothy Sayers once wrote, “Work is not primarily a thing one does to live, but the thing one lives to do.” That statement may feel surprising in a culture where work is often viewed as a burden to escape rather than a calling to embrace. Yet Scripture offers a very different vision. From the beginning of the Bible to the end, work is not treated as a necessary evil but as a sacred calling woven into what it means to bear God's image. When we understand this truth, it transforms how we see our daily responsibilities—whether they happen in an office, a home, a classroom, or a retirement community. Work Was God's Design From the Beginning Many people assume work began as part of the curse after sin entered the world. But Scripture tells a different story. In Genesis 2:15, before the fall, God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden “to work it and keep it.” Work was not punishment—it was purpose. God commissioned humanity to cultivate creation, steward its resources, and reflect His creativity and order. Work was a gift before it became difficult. And according to Scripture, it will be a gift again in the new creation. Revelation 22:5 describes God's people reigning with Christ—not in idleness, but in joyful responsibility and stewardship. Work Reflects the Image of God Our faith is not limited to explicitly spiritual activities. It also includes the everyday tasks we carry out with excellence, integrity, and love. A remarkable example appears in Exodus 31. When God instructed Israel to build the tabernacle, He filled a man named Bezalel with the Spirit of God—granting him skill, intelligence, knowledge, and craftsmanship to design and construct the dwelling place of God's presence. Think about that. The first person in Scripture explicitly described as being filled with the Spirit was not a prophet or a king. It was a craftsman. Bezalel's calling reminds us that work done for God's glory—whether building, designing, teaching, or managing—is an act of worship. There Are No Ordinary Jobs in God's Kingdom This truth reshapes how we think about our own work. Whether you're grading papers late into the night, running spreadsheets in an office, raising young children at home, or serving at a food pantry during retirement, your work reflects God's character and care for the world. The apostle Paul writes in Colossians 3:23–24: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men… You are serving the Lord Christ.” In God's Kingdom, there are no ordinary jobs—only ordinary moments given extraordinary meaning when offered to Christ. Why Work Often Feels Frustrating Of course, work doesn't always feel joyful. After sin entered the world, work itself was not removed; it simply became more difficult. In Genesis 3, God describes how thorns and thistles would frustrate human labor, symbolizing inefficiency, fatigue, and resistance. We still work, but now we work with friction. Yet the gospel does not erase work. It redeems it. Through Christ, our labor becomes part of God's restoration project—blessing others, advancing good, and bringing glory to Him. Work Shapes Who We Become One of the most countercultural truths in Scripture is that work is not primarily about income. It's about formation. Work shapes us into people who reflect Christ. It teaches diligence, humility, perseverance, love for our neighbor, and dependence on the Spirit. That's why work matters before retirement—and after it. While the nature of our work may change over time, the calling to steward our lives for God's purposes never disappears. The Kingdom of God has no unemployment line. It has stewards, servants, and image-bearers. Your Everyday Work Is Kingdom Work Here's the encouraging truth: when we offer our work to God, He delights in it. The spreadsheets. The dishes. The carpentry. The caregiving. The counseling. The volunteering. None of it is wasted when it is done unto the Lord. Your everyday work is Kingdom work. So perhaps the invitation today is simple: don't just go to work—worship at work. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you serve not for applause or promotion, but for the pleasure of the King. Because ultimately, what matters most is not the job you have, but the God you serve through it. Go Deeper: Our Ultimate Treasure This vision of work as worship is something we explore more deeply in my devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship. The devotional helps readers see every part of life—including work, money, and daily responsibilities—through the lens of Scripture and God's greater purposes. You can order an individual copy or place a bulk order for your church or small group at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I've been struggling with credit card payments for a couple of years. After hearing you mention Christian Credit Counselors, I called them, and they reduced my interest rates from about 35% to around 9%. My monthly payments are much lower now, and I even had room in the budget to buy a car. I just wanted to say thank you and share how grateful I am that I can now pay off my debts in full. I just turned 70, and my 25-year, $250,000 life insurance policy is expiring this year. My wife and I live on about $42,000–$45,000 a year from Social Security and small pensions, and we have roughly $100,000 in savings and investments. Should I buy a new 10-year term policy for about $70 a month, purchase a smaller whole life policy for $15,000–$20,000 in coverage, or skip insurance and invest the money instead? My main goal is to make sure my wife is cared for. I'm 68, and my husband is 61 and still working. My Social Security benefit is small because I was mostly a stay-at-home mom. Someone told me I might be able to collect benefits based on my husband's record. Is that true, and how would that work? I'm in my 70s with a modest retirement portfolio, and I keep hearing warnings that the U.S. dollar could lose its status as the world's reserve currency. If that happened, how might it affect someone like me—and how seriously should I take those concerns? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One of my favorite Bible trivia questions is, “Who was the first person mentioned in scripture who was filled with the Holy Spirit?” Most people assume that it's Abraham or Moses. Instead, in Exodus 35:30, we learn, “See, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, ... The post An Important Workplace Calling appeared first on Unconventional Business Network.

Joyce talks about Bezalel Yoel Smotrich's comment that Israel only signed the 2024 ceasefire deal under the Biden Administration due to threats of a weapons embargo and a hostile United Nations security resolution. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are three ways to achieve transcendental greatness: There is the path of intense practice and training in your desired field of excellence; there is the path of Bezalel who was endowed with supernatural abilities and preordained to greatness; and there is a third path — the path of the ascension of heart. In our […]

There are three ways to achieve transcendental greatness: There is the path of intense practice and training in your desired field of excellence; there is the path of Bezalel who was endowed with supernatural abilities and preordained to greatness; and there is a third path -- the path of the ascension of heart. In our Parsha we learn about people who accomplished otherworldly things: Bezalel and his army of lieutenants built the Mishkan and its many vessels and accouterments. A deep study of the subject reveals that Bezalel and his volunteer helpers took different paths. In this Parsha Podcast we study the Third Path.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

After the Torah delineates the instructions to assemble the materials for the construction of the Tabernacle in Parshas Terumah and the creation of the vestments of the high priest in Parshas Tetzaveh, Parshas Vayakhel outlines the implementation those plans: The massive fundraising efforts, and the actual building of the Tabernacle and its vessels under the auspices of Bezalel, and Parshas Pekudei wraps up the account of the construction of the Tabernacle, and its vessels and vestments. Again and again we read the refrain that everything was done precisely how God commanded Moses.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

Today's Scripture passages are Exodus 35:4 - 36:7 | Psalm 116 | Psalm 130 | 2 Corinthians 4 - 6:2.Read by Christina Edmondson.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPWORD40 for 40% off and free shipping on any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeTo reach the IVP podcast team, please use this form.Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

In this episode, we sit down with Ebunoluwa Oluwarinu, actor and trained lawyer to talk about discovering your true calling and trusting God through the process. She shares her journey from pursuing law to embracing acting, and how small beginnings can lead to bigger purpose.We also explore the spiritual side of acting what it means to step into heavy roles while carrying your own personal struggles, and why creatives need the Holy Spirit as their source.If you're navigating purpose, transition, or obedience, this conversation is for you.“The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts.”‭‭Exodus‬ ‭35‬:‭31‬ ‭NLT‬‬Connect with Ebunoluwa✉️:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebunoluwaoluwarinu?igsh=MXZkcG1qd2ZqdmpjZg==Ebunoluwa's other platforms: https://linktr.ee/ebunoluwaoluwarinu?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

The final instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle are conveyed at the beginning of this week's parsha. After Moshe is told to appoint Bezalel as the head overseer of this enormous project, the Torah cautions us against constructing the tabernacle on Shabbos. Although we are required to build the Tabernacle, and we are inclined […]

The final instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle are conveyed at the beginning of this week's parsha. After Moshe is told to appoint Bezalel as the head overseer of this enormous project, the Torah cautions us against constructing the tabernacle on Shabbos. Although we are required to build the Tabernacle, and we are inclined to be expeditious in the performance of this great mitzvah, nevertheless, we may not do it on Shabbos. When the Torah conveys this to us, the verse seems to have a bit of a superfluous phrasing. These seemingly extra words are explained by the commentaries who open up our eyes to the fascinating and powerful world of augmenting Shabbos. We have the ability to increase the Sabbath. We can take a day that is not the Sabbath and transform it and elevate it and render it Shabbos. The consequences of this radical idea are vast and powerful.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

Study Passage: Exodus 24:12,15-18, Exodus 25:1-9, & Exodus 31:1-1112 The LORD said to Moses, “Come up to me on the mountain and wait there, that I may give you the tablets of stone, with the law and the commandment, which I have written for their instruction.” 15 Then Moses went up on the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. 16 The glory of the LORD dwelt on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days. And on the seventh day he called to Moses out of the midst of the cloud. 17 Now the appearance of the glory of the LORD was like a devouring fire on the top of the mountain in the sight of the people of Israel. 18 Moses entered the cloud and went up on the mountain. And Moses was on the mountain forty days and forty nights.Exodus 25:1-91 The LORD said to Moses, 2 “Speak to the people of Israel, that they take for me a contribution. From every man whose heart moves him you shall receive the contribution for me. 3 And this is the contribution that you shall receive from them: gold, silver, and bronze, 4 blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen, goats' hair, 5 tanned rams' skins, goatskins, acacia wood, 6 oil for the lamps, spices for the anointing oil andfor the fragrant incense, 7 onyx stones, and stones for setting, for the ephod and for the breastpiece. 8 And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. 9 Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.Exodus 31:1-11The LORD said to Moses, 2 “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 3 and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, 4 to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, 5 in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft. 6 And behold, I have appointed with him Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. And I have given to all able men ability, that they may make all that I have commanded you: 7 the tent of meeting, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy seat that is on it, and all the furnishings of the tent, 8 the table and its utensils, and the pure lampstand with all its utensils, and the altar of incense, 9 and the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils, and the basin and its stand, 10 and the finely worked garments, the holy garments for Aaron the priest and the garments of his sons, for their service as priests, 11 and the anointing oil and the fragrant incense for the Holy Place. According to all that I have commanded you, they shall do.”

Brian From reflects on the joy of a classic snow day, celebrates Team USA’s Winter Olympic success, and wrestles with a cultural shift toward radical self-focus and independence. He shares a moving meditation on Christian funerals after attending the service of a young mother, exploring how believers hold grief and resurrection hope in tension. Brian also challenges listeners to break out of the “Christian bubble,” embrace their God-given calling like Bezalel, and live on mission with clarity, courage, and kingdom purpose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From “In the Beginning” to Amen // Gifted by the Spirit of God for WorkBezalel and Oholiab Exodus 31:2-3 (NLT)“Look, I have specifically chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (NIV)“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.” Romans 11:29 (AMP)“For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable [for He does not withdraw what He has given, nor does He change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to whom He sends His call].” James 1:17 (NIV)“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow.” Ephesians 2:8-10 (NIV)“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  Do What's in Your Heart to Do and Do It to the Best of Your Ability

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 1 of Conversations with Valerie. Our very first guest is Somebi Leo, Founder of Beauty by Somii. In this episode, we talk about small thinking and how it quietly limits growth, how comparison can cause you to shrink in rooms you are actually ready for, and what it really means to build capacity in the beauty industry with faith, intention, and obedience. This conversation is for anyone who has ever doubted their readiness and their capacity.“The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts.”‭‭Exodus‬ ‭35‬:‭31‬ ‭NLT‬‬Connect with Somebi✉️:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somebileo?igsh=MTF1ZWE4c3kwYmlvZQ==Business Page: https://www.instagram.com/beautybysomii?igsh=MXJhcGh1d2Jjd3Y1eA==This episode is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Thank you for watching and being part of this new season.

“Ministry” is not something that just pastors or church musicians do.Ministry is for all Christians.The first person in the Bible said to be filled with the Spirit of God is not Abraham or Moses—it's a man named Bezalel.And in Exodus 31 we read that Bezalel is a craftsman! That is, the Holy Spirit gives him the ability to make things. It's the spiritual gift of carpentry, you might say.Now, because of the work of Jesus, the Holy Spirit has been poured out on the church. Which means every Christian has been gifted for ministry by the Holy Spirit.This means that ministry is not something specialized or “over there.” Your life is your ministry.How you live your life *is* the way you serve God.

“Ministry” is not something that just pastors or church musicians do.Ministry is for all Christians.The first person in the Bible said to be filled with the Spirit of God is not Abraham or Moses—it's a man named Bezalel.And in Exodus 31 we read that Bezalel is a craftsman! That is, the Holy Spirit gives him the ability to make things. It's the spiritual gift of carpentry, you might say.Now, because of the work of Jesus, the Holy Spirit has been poured out on the church. Which means every Christian has been gifted for ministry by the Holy Spirit.This means that ministry is not something specialized or “over there.” Your life is your ministry.How you live your life *is* the way you serve God.

Title: "What Will We Do in Heaven?" - Revelation 22:3-5 Series: Heaven on Earth - Living in Light of Eternity (Week 2) Date: February 15, 2026 Most people's mental image of heaven is passive at best and boring at worst—clouds, harps, endless floating. If that's what we believe eternity looks like, it's no wonder we don't long for it. But Revelation 22:3-5 paints a radically different picture. Heaven isn't passive. It's purposeful, active, and gloriously meaningful. This week's message picks up where we left off, building on last week's foundation that God is making all things new, and answering the follow-up question every honest Christian has asked: What will we actually do there? The passage reads: "No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever." Three things Scripture reveals we will do in eternity: First, we will worship Him. The word translated "worship" in verse 3 is the Greek latreuo—it means to serve, to minister, to render sacred service. It isn't primarily about singing songs. It's giving yourself fully to someone worthy of your complete devotion. When you hear "worship forever," don't picture endless Sunday morning services. Worship in eternity will be far richer and fuller than that. Think of a concert violinist so absorbed in the music that everything else fades away—no self-consciousness, no distraction, just pure absorption in something beautiful. Athletes call it "being in the zone," artists call it "flow." That moment when what you're doing feels effortless and utterly right is a tiny glimpse of what worship in eternity will be like. Not forced, not tedious, but pure joy—doing what you were created to do, giving yourself fully to the One who is infinitely worthy. C.S. Lewis called worship the "serious business of heaven"—not grim or somber, but serious in the sense of being the most important, most satisfying thing we could ever do. What will that worship include? Verse 4 says we will see His face—not from a distance, not through a veil, but face to face, fully and clearly. In Exodus 33:20, God told Moses no one can see His face and live. But in the new creation, we will, because sin will be gone, the curse will be lifted, and we will be made perfect to stand in His presence. We will also bear His name—"his name will be on their foreheads." This isn't literal but speaks to identity and belonging: we will belong to God completely, marked as His forever. And we will serve without weariness. In this world, even our best worship gets tired. We get distracted. We lose focus. In eternity, worship will be pure joy—no distraction, no fatigue, no wandering minds, just perfect, focused devotion. The application: worship now is practice. Every act of praise, every moment of service, every time you give yourself to something eternal, you're rehearsing for heaven. Second, we will reign with Him. Verse 5 says "they will reign forever and ever." This isn't about lording power over others. It connects directly to the mandate God gave humanity in Genesis 1:28—to steward creation, to bring order from chaos, to cultivate and care for what God has made. That was the original calling. Sin corrupted it. Humans have ruled selfishly and destructively. But in the new creation, we will rule the way God intended—with wisdom, justice, love, and care. This means heaven isn't retirement. It isn't endless vacation. You will have real responsibilities. You'll govern, create, steward, and build. And the faithful servant principle from Jesus' Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) applies directly: those who were faithful with what they were given heard "Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much." Faithfulness here prepares you for responsibility there. The way you steward your time, talents, relationships, and resources now—that's training for eternity. We will also rule with Christ Himself. Revelation 5:10 says believers will "reign on the earth." 2 Timothy 2:12 says, "If we endure, we will also reign with him." You're not just a servant in God's kingdom—you're a co-heir with Christ. We don't know all the details of what that reign will look like, but we know it will be meaningful, purposeful, and glorious. And nothing done in faithfulness is wasted. As 1 Corinthians 15:58 promises: "Your labor in the Lord is not in vain." Every act of service, every sacrifice, every moment of faithfulness counts. Third, we will work and create. Work was not part of the curse—it was part of the original design. God gave Adam and Eve meaningful work before sin entered the world. Genesis 2:15 says God put Adam in the garden "to work it and keep it." Work is good. God works. We're made in His image, and we're designed to work. What the curse did was make work frustrating, exhausting, and futile (Genesis 3:17-19). But in the new creation, the curse is gone, and work will be what it was always meant to be: creative, fulfilling, purposeful, and joyful. The story of Bezalel in Exodus 31 shows us the beauty of Spirit-filled creative work. When God commanded Moses to build the tabernacle—a physical dwelling for His presence—He chose Bezalel and filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him "ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft" (Exodus 31:3-5). God filled a craftsman with His Spirit to create beautiful things. Creative work honors God and glorifies Him. And in the new creation, you'll do work like that—creating, building, designing, cultivating—but without frustration, exhaustion, or futility. Isaiah 65:21-22 gives us a glimpse: "They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit...my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands." Building, planting, creating, enjoying. In eternity you'll use your gifts, your talents, your skills—whatever you love to do that honors God and serves others—but better, without limits, for God's glory forever. Work in eternity won't drain you; it will fulfill you. You'll be doing what you were made to do, in a body that doesn't tire, in a world where everything works the way it should. The message concluded with three practical applications for today: Worship now—every act of praise is rehearsal for eternity, so practice worship and let it become natural. Be faithful now—God is watching how you steward what He's given you, and small faithfulness prepares you for great responsibility. Work with excellence now—Colossians 3:23-24 calls us to "work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward." Heaven is not passive. It is purposeful, meaningful, and glorious. It is everything you were created to be and do—only perfected. Live in light of that today. Key Scriptures: Revelation 22:3-5, Exodus 33:20, Genesis 1:28, Matthew 25:21, Revelation 5:10, 2 Timothy 2:12, 1 Corinthians 15:58, Genesis 2:15, Genesis 3:17-19, Exodus 31:3-5, Isaiah 65:21-22, Colossians 3:23-24

Paul Bulkeley's story is that of an underachieving, average student architect being transformed through an encounter with the Living God into an award-winning, high-achieving, distinguished leader in his field. And his passion as founder of BizMin is to equip entrepreneurs, creatives and businessfolk worldwide through his BizMin course to shine bright and thrive in the workplace. What a story!▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5-u-ZKzRpiwContact Paul through connect[@]bizmin.org Check out www.bizmin.org and www.snugarchitects.co.uk---

Welcome to a very special—and deeply personal—episode. Today's conversation is not about theory. It's not about abstract belief. It's about belonging, courage, and the quiet, stubborn pull of a soul toward truth. Today, we're sitting with three people who each chose Judaism—not because it was easy, fashionable, or convenient, but because it felt unavoidable. Because something inside them recognized home. Conversion is not simply a change of religion. It is a change of identity. A re-rooting of the soul. It means choosing a people, a history, a destiny—and in today's world, it often means choosing a path marked by misunderstanding, loss, and real social cost. And yet—here they are. Chris Wood's journey began not in a synagogue, but in a hair salon in Toronto. Raised without Jewish community, he encountered Judaism first through people—through Shabbat tables, family warmth, humor, ritual, and a deep sense of togetherness he had been missing his entire life. What began as cultural connection slowly became something far deeper: a spiritual awakening. A realization that Judaism was not simply something he admired—it was something his soul had been waiting for. For Chris, October 7th and the surge of antisemitism that followed did not push him away. It clarified everything. When someone he loved turned on the Jewish people—and on him—he saw, in real time, how ancient hatred still operates. Instead of retreating, he stepped forward. He chose to wear his Magen David. He chose public solidarity. Bezalel Schraeder's path emerged through trauma, caregiving, and the spiritual exhaustion that comes from witnessing suffering and death. As a nurse, Bezalel watched bodies break and souls unravel—and in that pain, meaning itself began to collapse. Christianity no longer held the answers. Torah did not come to Bezalel as an escape. It came as a rebuilding. Through deep study, honest conversations with rabbis, and unfiltered spiritual struggle, Judaism restored something essential—not only faith in God, but faith in humanity, and in himself. Judaism became a way to stand inside suffering without surrendering to it. And Shifra's journey carries the weight of history, memory, and a soul that always seemed to know where it belonged—long before her mind did. Raised in evangelical Christianity, she reached a breaking point when she could no longer accept a theology that condemned good people for belief alone. When hell stopped making sense, Jesus stopped being the center—but God did not disappear. What followed was not a rejection of faith, but a return to something older, deeper, and more honest. From a lifelong pull toward Holocaust history to a visceral moment at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum—where she felt, without explanation, “my people”—Judaism had been calling long before she had words for it. Three different lives. Three different paths. One shared truth: Judaism was not something they found. Judaism is something that found them. In a time when it is easier than ever to walk away from the Jewish people, these three chose to walk toward us. In a moment of rising antisemitism, they chose visibility. This is not a conversation about conversion. This is a conversation about what it means to choose a people—and to be chosen in return. Let's begin. ——

Welcome to a very special—and deeply personal—episode. Today's conversation is not about theory. It's not about abstract belief. It's about belonging, courage, and the quiet, stubborn pull of a soul toward truth. Today, we're sitting with three people who each chose Judaism—not because it was easy, fashionable, or convenient, but because it felt unavoidable. Because something inside them recognized home. Conversion is not simply a change of religion. It is a change of identity. A re-rooting of the soul. It means choosing a people, a history, a destiny—and in today's world, it often means choosing a path marked by misunderstanding, loss, and real social cost. And yet—here they are. Chris Wood's journey began not in a synagogue, but in a hair salon in Toronto. Raised without Jewish community, he encountered Judaism first through people—through Shabbat tables, family warmth, humor, ritual, and a deep sense of togetherness he had been missing his entire life. What began as cultural connection slowly became something far deeper: a spiritual awakening. A realization that Judaism was not simply something he admired—it was something his soul had been waiting for. For Chris, October 7th and the surge of antisemitism that followed did not push him away. It clarified everything. When someone he loved turned on the Jewish people—and on him—he saw, in real time, how ancient hatred still operates. Instead of retreating, he stepped forward. He chose to wear his Magen David. He chose public solidarity. Bezalel Schraeder's path emerged through trauma, caregiving, and the spiritual exhaustion that comes from witnessing suffering and death. As a nurse, Bezalel watched bodies break and souls unravel—and in that pain, meaning itself began to collapse. Christianity no longer held the answers. Torah did not come to Bezalel as an escape. It came as a rebuilding. Through deep study, honest conversations with rabbis, and unfiltered spiritual struggle, Judaism restored something essential—not only faith in God, but faith in humanity, and in himself. Judaism became a way to stand inside suffering without surrendering to it. And Shifra's journey carries the weight of history, memory, and a soul that always seemed to know where it belonged—long before her mind did. Raised in evangelical Christianity, she reached a breaking point when she could no longer accept a theology that condemned good people for belief alone. When hell stopped making sense, Jesus stopped being the center—but God did not disappear. What followed was not a rejection of faith, but a return to something older, deeper, and more honest. From a lifelong pull toward Holocaust history to a visceral moment at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum—where she felt, without explanation, “my people”—Judaism had been calling long before she had words for it. Three different lives. Three different paths. One shared truth: Judaism was not something they found. Judaism is something that found them. In a time when it is easier than ever to walk away from the Jewish people, these three chose to walk toward us. In a moment of rising antisemitism, they chose visibility. This is not a conversation about conversion. This is a conversation about what it means to choose a people—and to be chosen in return. Let's begin. ——

For years, success has been measured by degrees earned, income achieved, titles held, and recognition gained. But what happens when those markers keep shifting, leaving people exhausted and unsatisfied? In this episode of Facing the Dark, Wayne Stender and Dr. Kathy Koch wrestle with a growing cultural question: If we don't define success for our kids, who will, and will they like where it leads them? Drawing from a recent EdSurge reflection, the conversation explores how achievement based definitions of success often move the goalposts endlessly, leaving even high achievers feeling behind. Dr. Kathy challenges parents to recognize that children are always watching, not just what we say success is, but what we live as if it is. Our calendars, conversations, sacrifices, and celebrations quietly teach our kids what matters most. Rather than anchoring success to prestige or productivity, Dr. Kathy reframes it through a Christ centered lens: identity in Christ, lives marked by abundance rather than accumulation, and purpose expressed through service and sacrifice. Success, she argues, is not about becoming impressive, but about becoming who God created you to be and stewarding that calling with competence and faithfulness. Rooted in the biblical story of Bezalel, the craftsman called and equipped by God, this episode reminds parents that Scripture celebrates faithful skill and obedience far more than status or acclaim. When children are taught that success means living with integrity and purpose before God, they gain clarity in a world eager to define them by outcomes alone. This conversation invites parents to reclaim the definition of success, not as something to chase endlessly, but as a life of abundance and faithful stewardship.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:Exodus 37 - 38; Psalm 19; Acts 11https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2037%20-%2038%3B%20Psalm%2019%3B%20Acts%2011&version=NLT Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast! In today's episode for February 4th, Hunter invites us to gather around the warmth of God's presence as we continue our journey through the Scriptures on day 35. This episode features readings from Exodus chapters 37 and 38, Psalm 19, and Acts chapter 11, where we explore the skilled craftsmanship of Bezalel, the beauty of God's creation, and the expanding reach of the gospel. As Hunter reflects on the story of Bezalel—the temple builder living "in the shadow of God"—we're reminded that God is creating something even more precious today: a temple made of living stones, crafted from the lives of His people. The episode weaves these ancient texts into modern encouragement, calling us to find our place and purpose in the masterpiece God is building. Amid the deep winter of February, Hunter shares personal reflections and prayers for renewal, hope, and faithful steps through the season, reminding us that—even now—God is able to do amazing things. Whether joining in scripture, prayer, or simple encouragement, this episode is all about living in the reality of Christ's love and presence. TODAY'S DEVOTION: He is the master builder—and we are his masterpiece. When I was a kid, I was fascinated by shadows. There was a mystery in how they followed me, mimicking every movement, always with me but never the real thing. Today in Exodus, we hear about Bezalel, the master craftsman who built the tabernacle: a structure made of gold, silver, and precious materials, carefully crafted, beautiful and spectacular. Yet, as remarkable as it is, it's just a shadow—a copy of something far greater, of the true temple in heaven. Bezalel's very name means "in the shadow of God." He worked under the shadow of a master craftsman even greater than himself—Jesus. Jesus is building a temple too, but not with gold and silver. He's using something more precious: people. You and I are living stones, carefully fit together, placed into God's house by his gentle and powerful hand. Christ is the master builder, building something beautiful out of our lives. As First Peter says, we are living stones, a spiritual temple, and holy priests offering spiritual sacrifices that please God. The craftsmanship of Bezalel is delightful; it's amazing and intricate. But the true reality, the masterpiece, is what Jesus is doing. He is making a home—a dwelling and meeting place for God and us—a place of forgiveness, renewal, and communion. It's not confined to shadows, but is alive and real in the life of Christ. So today, let's rejoice in the master creator who has made us a part of his very life. Let's not live merely in the shadow, but step fully into the reality of Christ. Jesus is building something wonderful, and you are included. Let's make our home in him; it's where we belong, it's where we're meant to be. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, and my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Ever feel overwhelmed seeking the right relationships? Discover on Charis Daily how God intends for you to run the race of life alongside others whose hearts are stirred like yours.

Change produces glory, but you can't see the glory unless you're willing to change. In this powerful message, Sarah Jakes Roberts explores the profound truth that transformation begins in our minds. Drawing from Exodus 31:1-6 and the building of the tabernacle, she challenges us to develop cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to see things differently than we did before. Just as God gave Moses detailed instructions and called specific people like Bezalel to fulfill the assignment, God has a strategy for everything in our lives, including our residue. The pain, scars, and wounds we carry aren't just reminders of bondage, they're material God wants to use to build His dwelling place within us. Sarah reminds us that we must bring every thought into captivity, running a strict program over our minds because our thoughts wage war on who God says we're meant to be. Message: “Glory in the Changing” Scripture: Exodus 31:1-6 (NKJV) Speaker: Sarah Jakes Roberts Date: Jan. 18, 2026 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.

Change produces glory, but you can't see the glory unless you're willing to change. In this powerful message, Sarah Jakes Roberts explores the profound truth that transformation begins in our minds. Drawing from Exodus 31:1-6 and the building of the tabernacle, she challenges us to develop cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to see things differently than we did before. Just as God gave Moses detailed instructions and called specific people like Bezalel to fulfill the assignment, God has a strategy for everything in our lives, including our residue. The pain, scars, and wounds we carry aren't just reminders of bondage, they're material God wants to use to build His dwelling place within us. Sarah reminds us that we must bring every thought into captivity, running a strict program over our minds because our thoughts wage war on who God says we're meant to be. Message: “Glory in the Changing” Scripture: Exodus 31:1-6 (NKJV) Speaker: Sarah Jakes Roberts Date: Jan. 18, 2026 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.

We have the privilege of being joined by Rabbi Bezalel Naor, author of The Project of Hasidism (Kodesh Press), in order to take a more careful look at the Chassidic approach to zmanim. We take a look at Sha'agas Aryeh (no. 15) among several other responsa that help us get to the bottom of how the prescribed times for prayer and time-bound commandments, for many, became negotiable. 

Exodus 31:1-11 1 Then the Lord said to Moses, 2 "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 3 and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— 4 to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, 5 to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts. 6 Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you: 7 the tent of meeting, the ark of the covenant law with the atonement cover on it, and all the other furnishings of the tent— 8 the table and its articles, the pure gold lampstand and all its accessories, the altar of incense, 9 the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, the basin with its stand— 10 and also the woven garments, both the sacred garments for Aaron the priest and the garments for his sons when they serve as priests, 11 and the anointing oil and fragrant incense for the Holy Place. They are to make them just as I commanded you." You have been filled with a purpose   You're not meant to do it alone!   Let's follow God's direction

Ludwig van Beethoven is one of the most celebrated musicians in history. Nearly two centuries after his death in 1827, his compositions are still among the most performed pieces. His talent has been widely heralded, and he’s often described as a virtuoso. A study of Beethoven’s DNA, however, indicates he may not have been born with some of his abilities—as we might assume. When his genes were compared to those of 14,500 other people who’d shown an ability to keep rhythm (merely one aspect of musical talent), Beethoven ranked surprisingly low. Beethoven also had ample opportunity and exposure to music (which developed the genetic aptitude he did have). Yet neither talent nor opportunity fully account for God’s role in endowing us with the abilities we have. Our Creator equipped two men, Bezalel and Oholiab, with specific skills to be used in building the tabernacle. God filled Bezalel “with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs” and appointed Oholiab “to help him” (Exodus 31:3-6). God gave “ability to all the skilled workers to make everything [He] commanded]” (v. 6). Few of us will work on projects as significant as God’s tabernacle. And our abilities may never be recorded in history’s annals. Yet God has equipped us with the skills, aptitudes, and experiences He wants us to share with the world. May we serve Him faithfully, in His strength and for His glory.

Key Takeaways: "The Promised Land" cleverly balances humor and deep theological themes to explore humanity's relationship with the divine. Leadership and forgiveness are central themes as Moses navigates his own pride and responsibilities. The series finale emphasizes the importance of community and collective worship in experiencing God's presence. Human imperfection, explored through characters like Bezalel and Aaron, underscores the message that God seeks obedience, not perfection. The show's ability to intertwine Old Testament stories with modern television genres opens new avenues for understanding biblical narratives. Notable Quotes: "The big finale to the big finale is worshipping God. And I'm kind of down with that." — Laura Bennett "When you experience God's presence, there is a response. There can be nothing other than some kind of response." — Ben McEachen "God doesn't want perfection. He wants obedience. And it's more that. It's more the heart attitude than the actual thing you're presenting." — Laura Bennett "I liked how God came to the fore in the final couple of minutes." — Laura Bennett "You can understand as a human who knows they're unworthy in front of God." — Ben McEachen Laura Bennett hosts Hope Afternoons in Sydney, Australia, and UNDISTRACTED podcast. Laura has reviewed TV and movies for Hope 1032 for more than a decade. Ben McEachen hosts Hope Mornings in Sydney, Australia, and co-hosts Money: Faith and Finance. Ben has reviewed TV and movies for Empire, News Ltd and Hope 1032. Have you heard of The Watchlist? Catch this amazing podcast here! Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series, Elizabeth While Walking with Purpose founder Lisa takes time to write our next women's Bible study, Laura is keeping the Hope for Right Now podcast going strong with a four-week series: Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series. Advent is meant to be a time of interior reflection—the weeks we prepare our hearts and homes to receive the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But with the secular world's demands and distractions, keeping our eyes on what matters can be challenging, and the season of quiet we dream about feels impossible. What if this Advent, we said no to the overwhelm of the secular world and yes to the overshadowing of the Spirit? Each week, Laura introduces a Biblical figure from the gospel of Luke, whose story reveals the secret to a simple, peace-filled Advent—one where we yield to God's will, respond in faith, and trust in the impossible.   Today's Biblical figure: Elizabeth. If you are in a season of painful waiting, allow Elizabeth to help you see your situation as an opportunity to grow in faith and glorify God. Open your Heart to our key Scripture. Luke 1:39–45 Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode. John 9:2–3: And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in Him.” John 11:32: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” John 11:35: Jesus wept. John 11:36–37 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?” John 11:40: Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” Luke 1:15: And he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb. Exodus 31:1–3: The Lord said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God.” Numbers 11:25: Then the Lord came down in a cloud and spoke to him, and took some of the spirit that was upon him and put it upon the seventy elders; and when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied. But they did so no more. 1 Samuel 10:10: When they came to Gib'e-ah, behold, a band of prophets met him; and the spirit of God came mightily upon him, and he prophesied among them. Matthew 5:3–12: The Beatitudes Invite Him in with this episode's questions for reflection. Hide yourself in the quiet. Ask for the Holy Spirit to flood you and strengthen you in humility and faith. Ask for the help to see your waiting as an opportunity to grow in faith and glorify God. Show mentions. Transform hearts with us! Your year-end gift to Walking with Purpose fuels our mission to bring life-changing transformation to Catholic women and girls. You still have time to support our nonprofit apostolate. Donate before Wednesday, December 31. Father John Riccardo, Christmas homily Saint Francis de Sales Let's stay connected. Don't miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.  Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community. Stay in the know. Connect with us today.  We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ. Learn more about WWP on our website. Our shop. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

This month's podcast, is a leadership conversation every pastor needs. I share why God promotes through precision, not position, and how biblical leaders like Noah, Bezalel, Daniel, and Jesus Himself modeled excellence in the little things that no one else noticed.  These small details are what elevate a ministry, sharpen a staff, and take a church from good to exceptional.  I also give a quick update on our January 18 transition as Pastor Josh steps into the Lead Pastor role here at Rock and I move into the Founding Pastor position, to allow more time to coach and support pastors like you. Ministry can be lonely, and I want you to know I'm in your corner. 

In his book, “Why Your Work Matters,” Tom Nelson recounts the Exodus story of God's anointing on two men – Bezalel and Oholiab – for special service. “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘See, I have chosen Bezalel… and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and ... The post Giftedness appeared first on Unconventional Business Network.

Have you ever stopped to consider that your drive to prepare might not have originated with you at all? For Christian preppers, there's a profound truth hidden in Scripture that most preparedness discussions completely overlook—the reality that God Himself may be the preparedness force behind your calling to get ready. This episode takes you deep into Exodus 35 to examine the first recorded instance of someone being filled with the Spirit, and what that ancient account reveals about your own journey as a prepper. Todd explores the biblical pattern of God equipping specific individuals with skills, wisdom, and understanding to accomplish tasks He's set before them—from Bezalel crafting the tabernacle to Noah building the ark to Joseph preparing Egypt for famine. The connection to modern preparedness is unmistakable, and understanding it changes everything about how you view your role as someone who prepares. If you've ever sensed that your ability to plan, store, and prepare comes more naturally to you than to others around you, this episode offers a perspective that goes far beyond practical skills. For those who have been filled with the spirit to prepare, recognizing the source of that calling brings both purpose and responsibility. This isn't about the zombie apocalypse or dystopian scenarios—it's about faithfully stewarding the abilities God has given you to protect your household and potentially serve others when difficult times arrive. Resources Get Prepper Tips in Your Email! Listen to the RYF Podcast

Key Takeaways: The Promised Land cleverly balances humor and deep theological themes, making Old Testament stories engaging for modern viewers. The dynamic between Moses and Bezalel offers profound insights into themes of redemption, worthiness, and divine calling. There's an underlying commentary on the simplicity of faith—emphasizing love for God and others as central to biblical messages. The interactions among characters like Joshua, Caleb, and Aaron add lightness and relatable dynamics reminiscent of workplace scenarios. The show effectively transforms nuanced biblical stories into poignant, teaching moments for contemporary audiences. Notable Quotes: "It's not about being worthy… but about being faithful." — Ben McEachen on the conversation between Moses and Bezalel. "The Promised Land gives context for scripture, helping us understand why details matter and bringing the Old Testament to life." — Laura Bennett "Caleb asks, 'Is this for the Lord?' That's so key—it reminds us why we're doing what we're doing." — Ben McEachen "The humor of the Promised Land is in the detail of these big instructions." — Laura Bennett "The life of following God is really simple, but we've overcomplicated it." — Laura Bennett See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If we say: Making whoopee. Polishing the broomstick. The pickle tickle. Shagging. Enjoying Taco Tuesday. Parking the beef bus in Tuna Town. Waxing the carrot. Boinking. Glazing donuts. Going downtown. … I think you get what we mean (right?)This week, special guest Danielle probes the terrible scenario where ‘Doing Taxes' was more like actually filing financial paperwork than going for a roll in the hay. Meanwhile, Trace gets stuck in some kind of time loop (no groundhogs were harmed in the answering of this question).In case the above wasn't clear: This episode definitely acknowledges the existence of sex.QUESTIONSTrace: "What's the maximum number of times you could have déjà vu in a row before you'd get stuck in some kind of time loop?" from Danielle BezalelDanielle: "What if “doing taxes" wasn't fun (didn't feel good)?” from Constant ListenerDo you have an absurd question? Maybe it's a silly idea that popped into your head, a shower thought about the nature of reality, or a ridiculous musing about your favorite food? Whatever your question, we want to answer it—tell us!HOW TO ASK A QUESTION

Join our Patreon to unlock 25+ full-length bonus episodes (next up is My Old Ass), ad-free weekly episodes, mp3 downloads of our original songs, exclusive Discord access, and more! Supporting us on Patreon is the absolute best way to help our little indie team keep the mics on.  Welcome back to Lez Hang Out, the podcast that is gonna party like it's 1999!  This week, Leigh (@lshfoster) hosts solo and hangs out with Danielle Bezalel, host of the Sex Ed with DB podcast (@sexedwithdbpodcast), your go-to podcast for smart, science-backed sex education. Together they take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to the late 90s to talk about why the 1999 romcom Never Been Kissed Should've Been Gay. If you're a younger gay, you may not have seen this 90s classic; but we bet you'll recognize the major names in the cast. We're talking Drew Barrymore, David Arquette, Molly Shannon, Octavia Spencer, and freaking Jessica Alba all in the same movie. If that doesn't convince you to watch it at least one dozen times, we don't know what will. The plot follows Josie, a journalist going undercover at a high school for a story, as she experiences being retraumatized by the popular girls, falling in love with her teacher, and competing for prom queen.  As much as we genuinely adore this movie, it is impossible not to talk about the ocean of reasons why Never Been Kissed is not the wholesome, family-friendly movie it was marketed as and is instead highly problematic. We get that Josie is 25 and only pretending to be a high schooler for the sake of her journalism career; but her teacher does not know that and has no reason to think she isn't a 17 year old student. Yet, they are the main romance that the audience is very much supposed to be rooting for. Thankfully, we have our gay glasses on and with a few little changes to the script we can see our path to a much less problematic, and much, much queerer movie. After all, there's something pretty queer already about a 25 year old woman who has never had a romantic kiss or felt sparks from any guy. The school-sized closet Josie is hiding out in is truly made of glass.  We know one thing for sure, Never Been Kissed Should've Been Gay. Give us your own answers to our Q & Gay on Instagram and follow along on Facebook, TikTok, and BlueSky @lezhangoutpod. Email us @lezhangoutpod@gmail.com. Connect with us individually: Ellie Brigida (@elliebrigida). Leigh Holmes Foster (@lshfoster). You can also support the show by getting an early start on holigay shopping at bit.ly/lezmerch & picking up Lez-ssentials songs on Bandcamp. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

274. Holy Spirit Stories and Fruit and Ways to Identify His Guidance in Our Lives with Margaret Feinberg   Exodus 31:3 NIV "and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—"   *Transcription Below*   Questions and Topics We Cover: Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, so will you share some insight into what you've been learning about the Holy Spirit from your most recent research for your latest book, entitled The God You Need to Know? If someone listening has trouble identifying the Spirit's role and God's direction or Jesus' voice in their life, how would you encourage them to grow in attention and recognition of His voice and leading? Do you have any stories to give as illustrations for the Spirit still mightily being at work in the world and in people's lives today?   Margaret Feinberg, one of America's most beloved Bible teachers, speaks at churches and conferences and hosts the popular podcast The Joycast. Her books and Bible studies, including Taste and See, Fight Back with Joy, More Power to You, and The God You Need to Know have sold more than one million copies and received critical acclaim and national media coverage from the Associated Press, USA Today, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, and more. She was named by Christianity Today as one of fifty women most shaping culture and the church today. Margaret savors life with her husband, Leif, and their superpup, Zoom.   Margaret's Most Recent Work: The God You Need To Know Book and Bible Study   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Dream Seller Travel, Megan Rokey   Other Related Episodes on The Savvy Sauce: 150 Brain Science and Spiritual Abundance with Ken Baugh Special Patreon Re-Release Theology and Discipleship with Ken Baugh 259 God Speaks to His Kids . . . Here's How with Chris Allen Fruitful with Laura Dugger   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:09)   Laura Dugger: (0:09 - 2:18) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Do you love to travel?   If so, then let me introduce you to today's sponsor, DreamCellar Travel, a Christian-owned and operated travel agency. Check them out on Facebook or online at DreamCellarTravel.com. Today we get to learn from one of the most joyful human beings I've ever encountered.   My guest for today is Margaret Feinberg, and she's an author and researcher and podcaster and speaker. Most recently, her research project turned into a book where she was researching all about the Holy Spirit and His work in the Old Testament and the New Testament, and still His work that's present and active in our lives and around our world today. So, her stories of His specific presence at work in our lives are so moving, and she also pairs that with practical ways that we can more clearly hear from the Holy Spirit and identify His voice in our lives.   We also chat about the true definition of the word weird, which I actually want to elaborate on now because in the moment I couldn't find the definition that was so powerful. So, weird is defined as unearthly or uncanny, extraordinary, involving or suggesting the supernatural, and completely fantastic. Sometimes we think the Holy Spirit may be inviting us into something that seems weird, but He's redefined weird for us, and I just pray that all of us after this conversation will accept the invitation with gladness from Holy Spirit in our lives to join in whatever adventure He has planned for each one of us today.   Here's our chat. Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Margaret.   Margaret Feinberg: (2:18 - 2:24) What a delight to be with you today. It's absolute joy, and you look fantastic, by the way.   Laura Dugger: (2:24 - 2:45) You're so kind. I can tell that joy is one of your markers already, and that makes me think you just have such a rich spiritual heritage in general. So, we don't typically start here, but can you go back and share your parents' story of coming to faith in Jesus Christ?   Margaret Feinberg: (2:46 - 5:22) Absolutely. I share this in the book, The God You Need to Know, in Bible study, but it's pretty beautiful. They actually came to know Jesus back in the 1970s during the Jesus movement, and my father was raised Jewish, and my mom was not really raised much in the church, and so, they got married, and separately on the same weekend, they came to know Christ. My father, back in the 1960s, he was actually a surfboard manufacturer.   He helped build longboards the very first time that longboards were cool, and these customers kept coming into his little store and telling him about Jesus, and eventually he grew so frustrated that one weekend he went out turkey hunting, and he was sitting in turkey blind, had tons of time around him, and decided to sit down and read the entire New Testament over the course of that weekend, and he read it, and he thought, “Wow, Jesus came to earth.”   He lived, he died, and he was resurrected that we can have eternal life for free, and he thought, in his Jewish brain, that is a good deal, and so, he just believed in Christ, and meanwhile, my mom is at home and has her own encounter. She's finishing reading a book by the name of The Great Late Planet Earth by Hal Lindsey, which was actually the best-selling book of the decade back in the 1970s, and at the end of that book, it had an invitation to come to know Christ, and so, both of them come to know Christ separately on the same weekend. They come home on that Sunday, and they're a little awkward about it because it sounds weird. They don't really want to tell each other, and then finally start to spell out, and there's such joy that they both came to know Christ because the Holy Spirit was at work in their lives. What's amazing is that they had been trying to have kids for the first eight years of their marriage and hadn't been able to conceive, and within a month of them coming to know Jesus, I was conceived. So, you just see the work of the Holy Spirit all over that, and that He is leading people to Christ. He is on the move, and sometimes it doesn't involve any of us doing anything, and that's a freedom marker for us. It's not our job to run around and try to save everybody. Holy Spirit is already at work, and when we have the opportunities to be part of that, it is a privilege and a joy. Trust in a God who is so good and so loving and so kind that He will find people through reading books and hiding out in a turkey blind hunting turkeys all weekend.   Laura Dugger: (5:23 - 5:45) That gives me goosebumps even to hear the timing of that and you being conceived. Then you also had a unique childhood. At that time, not as many people were homeschooled, and your story was fascinating. So, what was homeschooling and spiritual discipleship like for you in the growing up years?   Margaret Feinberg: (5:46 - 8:18) Yeah, so, in those early years, my mom and dad had that mom-and-pop kind of surf shop down in Cocoa Beach, Florida. For all you surfing nerds, Ron Jon loaned my dad the money to marry my mom. I mean, so, we're talking deep surfing roots, still friends to this day, and so, they would work, and a lot of you are entrepreneurs and are listening, and you get this, but they would often work seven days a week, 14 hours a day, just trying to keep this little store open with their employee. It just was. It's just a rough business, retail, and so, the only way that they could get away was they would leave the store in the hands of a manager. They decided to buy a really small, inexpensive boat, and we would go sail from the coast of Florida into the Caribbean. So, as we did that, what do we do for school. I remember for third grade, we actually went for an entire year, and so, it was homeschooling. Now, this is like early 80s, and you have to think like it's not exactly fact-checked, reputable, like you send your work in like once or twice a year. So, I'm living on this boat, super remote, not even around a ton of kids, pretty isolated, and I figured out that if I did all my schoolwork in one day that I could play the other six, and so, that was my year of third grade. Fortunately, things turned out okay, but I learned so much more just meeting people from all over the world, surfing or swimming.   I learned how to, at eight years old, shoot my first lobster because we had to survive off the ocean. So, it was an incredible experience. Then after that, ended up going into public school in the later years once we got to like probably fifth, sixth, a lot more steady than those early years. But you know, the thing that I always saw in my mom was I would wake up, and she would usually be on the couch or on the deck of the boat, and she would be reading her Bible, and there was something about that. It wasn't spoken.   It wasn't like you must do this, but I watched it, and I saw it, and now all these years later, that's what I do. So, for all those mamas and papas who are listening and watching, I just want to encourage you - like how you live, those little things, the kids and the grandkids and the great-grandkids, they watch, they see, and it matters, and so, thank you. Those of you who are engaging in those things. It pays dividends for decades and generations to come.   Laura Dugger: (8:20 - 8:28) That's incredible, and then can you share about your own faith journey? You saw that modeled. When did it become personal to you?   Margaret Feinberg: (8:29 - 11:44) Yeah, you know, even as a young kid, I was aware of God and Jesus and Holy Spirit, and just the Lord was very tender to make Himself real to me when I was young. When I went away to college, and this is just normal behavior, you know, there is that kind of making faith your own, figuring it out, and so, my freshman year of college, I partied like a rock star. I got the bees, the beer, the boys, and the Ben and Jerry, like I, you know, I just all the things, and I remember at the end of that year, I had this sense that God was saying to me like, you are my child. I have called you by name.   You are mine. Come back to me, and I read about this in The God You Need to Know, but one of those was a turning point I went to. It was actually a Methodist conference on Holy Spirit, and while I was there, I had an unusual experience, but in it, you know, I'm watching, I'm listening to all these lectures.   I'm in the conference. I'm attending all these things, and at one point, I had a thought pop into my mind that was not my own, and the thought was go to the prayer room and look underneath the tablecloth. I was like, okay, that's weird, but it was like go to the prayer room and look underneath the tablecloth. So, I'm like, you know what? At the end of the day, like what do I have to lose?   I mean the worst thing that happens is I wander into our prayer room. Okay, we'll take the risk, and I remember going in there, and I'm kind of like there's some people praying (a couple). I'm trying to like I don't want to be weird like I know it's a conference on the Holy Spirit, but still I'm like I am not going to be weird about it. So, I'm like trying to peek underneath a tablecloth, and there's nothing there, and there's all these tables around the room. So, I'm kind of like making my way across, and I'm seeing like one lady like eyeing me like what is happening. So, I peek under another one. Anyway, I go table after table, nothing after nothing until I reach the very last table. I pick up the tablecloth, and there is a Bible, and I look, and it's full of like notes and photographs. So, I pull it out, and there's a name on the front, and so, I just kind of said, “You know, excuse me in the prayer room like does anybody know this person, and most people were like no, and one lady says you know what I do know her, and she had to leave the conference early, and I actually have her phone number.” So, all of a sudden I'm on the phone calling this lady and saying “Hey, I just found your Bible on the phone.”    She says, “You have no idea. That Bible is full of decades of prayers and notes and photos that can't be replaced. I have been sitting here praying that someone would find my Bible.” So, I'm just in awe like Holy Spirit, I didn't even know - like wow like this is not just a mental learning.   This is a real experience, and so, I told a couple people at the conference about it. One said' “You know what, actually, if you're driving up that direction, I've been praying to get a ride up that direction.” So, I was able to drop off this ministry worker, return this Bible to this precious woman, and that really became one of the markers in my life. Oh my goodness Holy Spirit is real. He is on the move. He is leading and guiding us, and this is such an exciting thrilling adventure to be on.   Laura Dugger: (11:45 - 12:12) Wow, and it absolutely is. You are an incredible storyteller. It's so powerful the way that you wrote some stories in your books, the way that you're sharing it now. God has really gifted you with that, and that's part of your purpose in life being that storyteller. So, how did you begin to uncover the purpose that God had for you in life?   Margaret Feinberg: (12:12 - 15:09) That's such a great question, so, I'm going to answer that a couple different folds. Can I do that? So, the first answer is all of our purpose is the same. It is to love God, love others, and delight in Him forever.   That is the purpose of all of our lives, and so, that is the answer. At the same time, a lot of what I think you're saying is purpose is a little bit about vocation. Is that right?   And so, we need to recognize that as believers that this idea that somehow our vocation or what we do is our purpose and is supposed to give us meaning and value to God has really only been around for the last 50 to 75 years and largely established in the American culture. But for thousands of years, that has never been the case. And so, what that does is that for a lot of us, when we don't kind of understand that it puts a heavier weight on the job. The vocation that we do to carry all of this burden of purpose, fulfillment, meaning, ordained by God.   I mean, that becomes like a heavy burden for a single job or vocation to carry that it was never meant to. Right? And so, again, back to what is our purpose? It is loving God, loving others, and delighting. And that never changes no matter whether you are raising littles, whether you are whatever the title on your business card, if you still have those, or identification on social, whatever it is. But that never changes.   And so, I think that we have to step back and recognize that. Now, I do understand that I am in a role in which my job provides spiritual meaning. And that is delightful.   And I am super grateful for that. But in that, my spiritual meaning is still not about what books I write or podcasts or any of that nonsense. It's all about how I'm living in my community and real one-to-one relationships that are done privately and never published on social media.   That is the real life. And so, I just want to encourage everyone out there to think that that job is the thing. The job is never the thing.   Now, don't let that distract you because what do you do when you're retired? What do you do if you can't do that job? But if you are in a vocation, if you are in a role, that to understand, yes, God can use that, and to invite Holy Spirit into that space, but to make sure that we don't find our identity in that.   Because that's a short runway. That's going to end at one point. And to really ground ourselves into the eternal and what does not have an end and what will sustain us from our first breath until our last.   Laura Dugger: (15:10 - 16:38) Wow, I love how you put all of that. And so, I'm going to share a story, so, bear with me because you may not be aware, but back in 2013, our lives first crossed paths. So, back then, we were pregnant with our first child.   And my husband, Mark, and I went with my parents to the American Association of Christian Counselors conference in Nashville. And you were one of those keynote speakers at the Opera Land Hotel. And I was just mesmerized by every word you shared.   And so, I see why people write about you, and they say you're one of America's most beloved Bible teachers, because you were so endearing from the first word spoken. But at the time, you were battling cancer. And yet you were still willing to generously and joyfully share about the goodness of the Lord and the ways that we encounter Him in nature through olives and bees and so on.   But the one other thing that has stuck with me for over a decade is when you encourage the audience of probably thousands of people in attendance, that if we don't know what to be thankful for today, be thankful for nose hairs. So, do you remember that?   Margaret Feinberg: (16:39 - 19:24) I do. Yeah, that defined gratitude in the little things and in the heart. I do.   And the reason I said that, because without context, that sounds really, really strange. But whenever anybody who's out there and is walking through any medical, whether that's mental health or physical challenges, one of the difficulties is in the medical world, they don't tell you everything that's coming. And so, there are all these hidden surprises, and you can read about it, and you can WebMD it, and you can read online, and all of them are just going to say you're going to die tomorrow.   We already know that. We know we shouldn't Google these things, right? But no matter what you're walking through, there are things that people just don't tell you.   And so, I knew that going through chemotherapy, I would lose my hair. And sure enough, in 10 days, it was all falling out. Nobody told me that that included all my hair, including my nose hairs.   And so, what I had to learn the hard way is when you don't have nose hairs, like kind of what holds anything that's liquid in your nose, it just falls out. And so, my encouragement was to everybody, you don't have anything to give thanks to God for today. Give thanks for your nose hairs.   And just a light way of saying, you know, even when you're walking through the darkness, and I know some of your listeners and your viewers are, you are in dark seasons. And if that is you, I just want to say, I get you. I get it.   I have battled cancer. I have battled autoimmune. I have battled being sick for years.   I have battled being embezzled. I have battled surviving a destructive pastor. I know suffering and pain.   But even when we're in the darkness, we are a people who poke holes in the darkness until it bleeds light. And that's who we are. And gratitude is just one of those tools that helps us do that.   So, I just want to encourage you today, like whatever it takes for you. And there is something in this concept of joy. And I don't quite understand.   I can't quite wrap my head around it. But joy is something that you can give away even when you don't have it. And in the process of giving away joy when you don't have it, somehow our capacity for joy expands.   It's a strange equation in God's economy. It does not add up. It does not make sense.   But whether it's, you know, climbing in an MRI machine and saying, man, has anybody praised God from this square inch today? Whether it's showing up and giving just a simple gift to someone else, whether it's writing the note, whether it's encouraging someone else, even in our own pain. When we do that, our capacity for joy just grows bigger and bigger.   Laura Dugger: (19:25 - 21:58) And now a brief message from our sponsor. Do you have a bucket list of travel destinations? Or maybe you have a special event coming up like a big anniversary, a honeymoon, or even just that first trip to Europe?   If so, you need to call DreamCellar Travel. DreamCellar Travel is located in central Illinois, but works with clients all across the USA. Whether you're wanting to plan a large family get together someplace tropical or take a cruise with your family, or maybe you want to explore the history and culture of a European town.   Regardless of the trip, DreamCellar Travel is there to assist you with your planning needs. From the customized trip design and the ideas through the small details and the preparations before the trip, and even while traveling. DreamCellar Travel is there with you every step along the way, making it seamless and stress free.   DreamCellar Travel can work with your travel plans as you have laid them out, or they will customize a trip for your request. In most cases, there's absolutely no service fee for this work. That's worth saying again, in most cases, there is absolutely no service fee for this work.   Instead of booking online and being the one to deal with your airline schedule changes or the sudden change in country entry requirements, or the hotel that looks beautiful but is really under construction, call a professional. Let them deal with the problems that arise while traveling so you can just enjoy the trip. DreamCellar Travel has been planning dream trips since 2005 to amazing destinations such as Alaska, Italy, Hawaii, Canada, the Caribbean, United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, France, South Africa, Iceland, and more.   Where do you dream of going? You can reach out to the DreamCellar Travel at 309-696-5890 or check them out online at DreamCellarTravel.com. Thanks for your sponsorship.   You just lived this so well, and I know joy is a fruit of the spirit. Will you share some insight into what you've been learning about the Holy Spirit, especially from all your research from your latest book? As you mentioned, it's entitled The God You Need to Know.   Margaret Feinberg: (21:59 - 25:44) Yeah, I'm super excited about this book and Bible study. I've had a lot of questions about the Holy Spirit since I was a little girl. I remember reading the Bible and thinking, Jesus, He's so real.   He's so human. That I can recognize, and I get the picture of God on the throne, all powerful and sovereign. But when I think about the Holy Spirit, I'd be like, I'm struggling here a little bit.   And growing up in Southern Baptist and Methodist and Episcopal and non-denominational and charismatic, I got little pieces of Holy Spirit, but I just kind of struggled. And I think one of the reasons I struggled is that often, maybe like you, when I ask questions about Holy Spirit, I was like, “Well, you need to go read the book of Acts and read Acts 2.” And that's that beautiful moment of Pentecost where the spirit comes in and it's like a violent wind and tongues of fire.   They descend and people start speaking in other languages and other people hear they're declaring the glories of God. And then all of a sudden 3,000 people get saved. I think that is awesome.   But that doesn't look like my every day. So, I'm not quite sure. And so, for the last few years, I've been struggling to write this book.   And when I really came alive was with a scholar by the name of Jack Levison, and he focused in on the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament. And all of a sudden that changed everything for me. Because what happens is if we jump to Acts, and particularly Acts 2 to understand Holy Spirit, it would be like showing up on your wedding day and being like, this is who you're marrying.   And you're like, “Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, I don't know this person. Like we haven't courted. We haven't dated.”   I don't, what, what, what? And yet that's often what we do as believers when we're directing people. And so, I took a deep dive into Holy Spirit throughout the Old Testament, looking at Genesis where Holy Spirit hovers over the waters, the chaos, the darkness, looking at how Holy Spirit hovers over our lives and how that's consistent with God, as in the book of Deuteronomy, as well as Jesus in the New Testament, that hovering like a, like a hen, I wanted to gather the children.   And you start to see this through it. You start to look in the lives of Bezalel, who was the first person who was filled with Holy Spirit, to do what to make and to make those, you know, the tabernacle and to lead an entire guild of artisans. We see the life of the Spirit in Daniel, where all of a sudden Nebuchadnezzar on multiple occasions is saying the Spirit of God is in him.   We have somebody who is literally running around like a wild animal at certain points in his life, who is still recognizing the power of Holy Spirit. I think it's the word in Hebrew is Ketria. We start seeing it in the life of Ezekiel, where the Holy Spirit is lifting him up, giving him new perspectives.   And what's cool is that once you start to recognize the rule of Holy Spirit in the Old Testament, you arrive at Acts 2 and you go, of course, it would happen this way. And suddenly for those of us who for maybe we've been hesitant about Holy Spirit, or maybe we've had maybe a lack of teaching or maybe some teaching that was a little bit abusive and was used to manipulate. Like all of a sudden we can back up from that and be like, oh, Holy Spirit, this is you from the beginning of time.   This is so normal. This isn't weird. This is just part of just being a follower of Jesus.   And so, one of the things that I love about this book is it takes the weird out, takes the scary out. It's so just biblically based, especially in the Old Testament. And I think some of your listeners and viewers will be surprised like, whoa, I didn't know that was, what?   That's where? And that's really fun and exciting.   Laura Dugger: (25:45 - 26:14) Absolutely. I think it did bring to light so many things from the Old Testament, like I said, especially. And I think you were even able to share some of your own stories, and that's why we're so often called to remember.   I think when we preserve and document those and share those stories, we can reflect back and remember God nudging us like he did with you, putting a thought in your mind that was not your own. That increases our faith in others, I think, as well.   Margaret Feinberg: (26:14 - 28:25) I think it really, really does. I think that one of the things we have to remember when Holy Spirit, so, in Psalm 139, we know that God knows he made us in the womb. And so, to recognize that all of us are made differently, and my hunches are some listeners right now who are thinking, man, yeah, I know people who talk a lot about Holy Spirit, but that's just not me.   I don't really see or enact or feel Holy Spirit. And so, first of all to you, I want to say I don't feel Holy Spirit either. I've been to a ton of churches and conferences, and the person on the stage will say, man, do you feel the Holy Spirit here?   And I'll be like, nope, nope, not at all. So, I'm not a feeler. But what I can do in those moments is I can acknowledge with my head, Holy Spirit is here, because we know that as part of the Trinity, Father, Son, Spirit, Holy Spirit is here.   And then secondly, to recognize that like Psalm, you know, that describes that He knew us in the womb, that we are all different. We know today that there's a neurodiversity, right? So, some people learn audio, some people visual, some people like myself, ADD, ADHD.   And God knows that, like the Creator did not make a mistake. And so, wouldn't it make sense that the Holy Spirit, who knows us as the spirit of a living God, would interact with us in different ways? I have an e-newsletter, and I've surveyed, you know, thousands of people, how they recognize the spirit, and it's just so diverse.   Some are like me, a thought pops back in my head that is not my own, that causes me to love God, love others, serve others, take risks in godly good ways. For other people, they do feel it. Some people have like a warmth in their body.   Some people kind of just feel like this, this just comfort or peace, like liquid love that envelops them. Some people recognize God and the Holy Spirit through nature. And so, I listen to this, and I think, doesn't that make sense that God and Holy Spirit would know us so well that He would know how to communicate with us?   And so, that when we start gathering with other believers and say, “Hey, how is Holy Spirit working in your life?” It starts to get this excitement of recognizing it and celebrating it and making it normal and not weird.   Laura Dugger: (28:28 - 28:48) And I think let's even take that one step further. So, if somebody is listening and they currently have trouble identifying the spirit's role or God's direction or Jesus's voice in their life, how would you encourage them with even first steps to grow in attention and recognition of His voice and leading?   Margaret Feinberg: (28:49 - 34:09) Goodness, that's such a great question. Something that's really changed my life in the last few months is my friend, Drake. He's a Young Life leader here.   And he said, Margaret, when I'm training people how to recognize Holy Spirit, he says, “I and the kids get a journal and write one question down for Holy Spirit each day. The question could be about purpose, identity, Holy Spirit, what's on your heart, Holy Spirit, who do I serve today? And write that one question down.”   That's it. That's all we're doing. And then throughout the day, return to that one question in prayer again and again.   And then pay attention to conversations that suddenly you have, Bible passages that flutter through your mind, the sermon that's given, conversations with other believers. Like just pay attention. And it's amazing.   And then the next day or that night, jot down whatever happens. The next day, change the question or keep the same question. And just start changing the posture of your life to pay attention to that one question.   And I think you're going to start to see and encounter some things. It may not happen quickly. It may take a few weeks or even months, but it will happen.   I think I was thinking about this just this morning. I haven't shared this with anybody. But in some ways, like people are like, I don't recognize Holy Spirit.   It's kind of like my friends who are birders. Okay. Some people super into birding.   And I know there are birds. I mean, occasionally I'll see a bird out the window, but birders have a whole different mentality. They slow down.   They pay attention. And they have some tools like binoculars to be able to look and to see. And it's the same thing about paying attention to Holy Spirit.   We've got to slow down, pay attention. And maybe the tool is just asking Holy Spirit one question a day. But suddenly you'll start to see and recognize.   Can I give you a fun story? Please. Okay.   So, just at Easter came around and I was probably a couple weeks before and they're having this crazy good sale at Target on some new releases. So, I'm at the Target website early in the morning before they sell out. And I saw a purse and I bought myself a few things.   But I saw a purse and I immediately thought of my friend Janella. And so, I was just like, I'm just going to buy this for her. Now, let me be clear.   I've never bought a purse for her before. I don't really carry around a ton of purses. I'm a Apple pay, like keep it light.   Like it's just not my thing. But put it in the cart, send it to her. So, I get a text from her about a week or two later.   And she goes, how did you know? Did I tell you about my Easter meltdown? And I said, no, I didn't know.   And she tells me, and I had known this, that her mother had passed away last year. What I didn't know is every single year, since she was a little girl for Easter, her mom would buy her a dress and a purse. And this was the first Easter without her mom.   And she could justify financially buying the dress, but not the purse. And all of a sudden this purse, which wasn't a normal purse. She's like, this is an Easter purse.   I was like, I don't know that, but okay. Arrived. And she said, I just, I just cried because I knew that the Lord saw me.   He heard me. You know, he was with me, part of his kingdom. And so, she says, but here's the thing.   The purse matched my dress perfectly. And you start to see that happen. And I didn't hear a voice from God say, go buy your friend a purse.   I was just like, “Hey, I've been praying every day, a single thing from Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, will you order my steps?” And then you see something that you couldn't orchestrate on your own in 500 years happen.   And you go, that is the work of Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit in the New Testament, it's parakletos. It means advocate.   It can be translated comforter, advisor, barrister. For those of you watch too many British shows like I do, you know, the legal counsel. But if I were to kind of break that down from just biblical words, here's how we know it's the Holy Spirit.   Number one, Holy Spirit will remind you: God loves you. God sees you. God hears you.   And you're part of His kingdom. And what happened in that story was both of us experienced that. God loves, He sees, He hears, and we're part of His kingdom.   And so, that is the thrilling part about life in the Spirit. It's not so I feel good or I have little things that happen. It's about being part of God's kingdom on this earth, living out the life that Christ describes and designed for us.   And so, we cannot do that apart from Holy Spirit. And also, you may notice I haven't been using the term the Holy Spirit because we wouldn't say I talked to the God today. I talked to Jesus.   And Holy Spirit is a person; a person you can have a relationship with. And just as you can have a relationship with Christ and talk to Christ, you can do the same with Holy Spirit who is, again, paracletes, your advisor, your comforter, your helper. Why would you not tap into that?   Why would you want to spend a life missing out on the fullness of that?   Laura Dugger: (34:10 - 36:48) Oh, that's good, and I'll have to try and apply that and refer to Holy Spirit rather than I even did it there, the Holy Spirit. I'm thinking in the book of John, I love the amplified version where it says, “one of the things to describe Holy Spirit is standby.” And I've thought of that so many times because I love looking up definitions and seeing exactly what that means.   And it's just the immediacy of the help available. And that's been a way that I've experienced Him in my life especially the short prayers of help, please help now. Or if I need direction, a lot of times it comes in parenting for me, like, I'm not sure which way to go.   Can you give me discernment right now? And He's immediately available. So, I would say my own personal experience, it's a lot of what you've mentioned, definitely through reading the Bible that I feel like He speaks so much.   You're like, well, bring the words off the page. Journaling is such a practical way. And I'll link to our friend Chris Allen's episode just about hearing from God and training our kids on how they can do the same.   Just those thoughts that they're not always from us, but we're processing thoughts that are given to us. But one other thing, so, this is inspired from your book. You mentioned about dreams and just asking Holy Spirit to speak to you through dreams.   So, in our life currently, one of our daughters is going through some health issues and we were launched into having to do this FODMAP diet. And it's not that big of a deal, but I had never heard of it before. And it limits and restricts quite a few things.   So, the immediate need of that seemed a little bit overwhelming. We're kind of in a busy season and completely revamping everything our family eats all day. I've been preoccupied and kind of consumed with that.   So, twice this week, because in my quiet time I felt like God just kept saying, bring it to me, come to me with this, ask me the questions. And so, I've been journaling and I feel like He's been responding with Scripture. But the last two nights in a row, I've woken up with a recipe in mind for our family.   And that has never happened before. But you are the one who challenged us just to say, just ask. And that was probably, probably started asking over a month ago.   So, thank you.   Margaret Feinberg: (36:49 - 40:32) Wow. I love it. And you know what?   That makes me want to ask. Does that make sense? Like there's this excitement and there's this joy.   When you share about how Holy Spirit is working in your life, I'm like, I want that too. And that's just, yeah, I think that so often we forget who is with us.   The person, the person of Holy Spirit is with us. We don't have to keep all this striving and straining. And man, I got a life hack this on my own.   You know, there is this availability of the power and the presence of the person of Holy Spirit, the spirit of the living God. One thing I want to note on the Trinity, just so that I don't, I don't want anybody to think, oh, she's just cutting out one part of the Trinity. No.   Trinity is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. A couple of things on that. Number one, often, and part of the emphasis on the Holy Spirit, a little bit more in looking at this in the Old Testament, is when we see things in groupings of three, we tend to think that the third one listed tends to be lesser than or third place.   Right. And yet Father, Son and Spirit are equal. And what we see throughout the Bible is we have to remember that where there is one, all are present.   And so, like in creation, we see God take the lead. But, you know, Holy Spirit is mentioned in Genesis 1 to Jesus using the reference of we is there. And so, we start to see that the word, I think it's the word perichoresis is this term that describes the Trinity in a dance.   And so, at different parts of Scripture, we'll see one member of the Trinity take the lead, but the others are always present, whether it's, you know, Jesus taking the lead in the Gospels. But we see the Holy Spirit descending like a dove. We see God saying, this is my son and whom I am pleased.   Well, please listen to Him. And so, to recognize that, but also to recognize, again, like this, this reality that Holy Spirit is in us and with us. Like, wow, that starts to change everything.   So, all of a sudden, and you say, “It's no big deal changing the way your family eats. Can I just say that is an enormous deal. The time that it takes to prepare the food, the thinking, the thought space, the bad recipes, it is so big.”   So, you can try to minimize that. But I'm just going to say, “First of all, I'm glad there's a way forward, but I'm sorry, because that is massive. And it's a lot.”   And Holy Spirit wants to meet us there. Remember Genesis 1:2, “In the beginning, God created the heavenly earth and the earth was formless and void.” Tohu wavohu in the Hebrew.   “And the spirit was hovering over.” That word is merechefet. And it means to hover, to brood like a mama eagle.   One rabbi translated it as to flutter. And what is the spirit fluttering? Remember in the Bible, sorry to go to teaching mode, but whenever someone is introduced in scripture, the introduction is the most important.   We see that in the life of Saul. He literally is hiding in baggage and can't find his own donkeys. And it plays out that way, right?   So, how is Holy Spirit introduced? Could have entered any place and comes on the scene hovering over the chaos, the uncertainty, and the unknown. And so, here you are in that place of uncertainty and unknown, a little chaotic.   And what is Holy Spirit? Here's a recipe.    Doing what? Reminding you, you are loved by God. You are seen by God.   You are heard by God. And you are part of this kingdom. Man, when we start to share these stories, it just, oh, it creates this hunger to experience and know the spirit more.   Laura Dugger: (40:32 - 42:02) It does, and it's so humbling, just his loving kindness.    I want to make sure that you're up to date with our latest news. We have a new website.   You can visit thesavvysauce.com and see all of the latest updates. You may remember Francie Heinrichson from episode 132, where we talked about pursuing our God-given dreams. She is the amazing businesswoman who has carefully designed a brand-new website for Savvy Sauce Charities.   And we are thrilled with the final product. So, I hope you check it out. There you're going to find all of our podcasts, now with show notes and transcriptions listed, a scrapbook of various previous guests, and an easy place to join our email list to receive monthly encouragement and questions to ask your loved ones, so that you can have your own practical chats for intentional living.   You will also be able to access our donation button or our mailing address for sending checks that are tax deductible, so that you can support the work of Savvy Sauce Charities and help us continue to reach the nations with the good news of Jesus Christ. So, make sure you visit thesavvysauce.com.    Are there any other stories that come to mind to think of Holy Spirit being alive and moving and working in people's lives today?   Margaret Feinberg: (42:03 - 46:15) Oh, I'll give you one that I just found. You know what's so funny? Again, when you start to use the prayer prompts, when you start to do these just like a burger, all of a sudden you're like, oh my goodness, I didn't know how many birds there were.   So, went over to our friend's house. It was somebody at church. We actually, they weren't our friends at that point.   We noticed that when they came to our church, the son is on the spectrum. And so, in Sunday school class would often just stare at the wall in the corner by himself, not interact a whole lot, and their daughter. And so, my husband said, hey, let's bring a meal over to them.   And they invited us to stay for dinner. And so, the son comes in and he's probably maybe nine years old, wrapped up in a blanket, like a little burrito. And he won't make any eye contact with us.   You know, the mom's like, say, “Hello to Margaret.” Won't interact. Kind of woombas around, disappears, comes through a few times.   Finish eating. We go out in the living room. And the mom starts telling the story that she was exhausted as a mom.   She was completely burnt out. And she just said, “You know what? I'm going to the reservoir and I'm going to go paddle boarding.”   Just take a few minutes for myself. So, she goes out. She's paddle boarding.   All of a sudden she sees like a piece of paper on the surface of the water. She looks down and she goes, what is that? So, she picks it up.   Turns out to be a QR code to the zoo. Now, she doesn't know if it's used trash or what, but she's like, I'm going to keep this. She paddles some more, sees another piece of paper.   It's another QR code to the zoo. She's like, maybe they blew away from the, I don't, so, she grabs it. And she prays and she says, Lord, now you know that we're a family of four.   So, if we're really supposed to go to the zoo, we need four of these. Keeps paddle boarding. Finds two more.   And so, she comes home and says, “Guys, we're going to try to go to the zoo. I don't even know if these work.” But next day goes to the zoo, scans them.   Boop, boop, boop, boop. They all work. So, they go to the zoo.   So, they're walking through. And all of a sudden, the son comes upon a display of red pandas. And he just stops in his tracks.   And he stares and he watches. And the rest of the family, you know, the sister and the dad want to go on and they do. But he just says, “Mom, can we stay here?”   And so, he stays there for several hours just staring in this strange connection. He's never had, Mom had never seen anything like this with the red pandas. And so, she's telling me this story.   And suddenly I look around their living room and I realize there is panda paraphernalia everywhere. She looks at her son and says, “Honey, why don't you go put on your panda outfit?” Disappears, comes back in the panda outfit.   And all of a sudden, he's looking at us. He's talking to us. He's engaging us.   He goes over to his parents and paws them like a panda. And all of a sudden is snuggling with them. And she says that one encounter at the zoo changed their relationship with their son.   She says there are days that my son will get completely overwhelmed and start having a meltdown. And she'll use panda language and go up to him and say, “Well, you know that pandas eat 13 hours a day. Maybe you need a snack.”   And it is provided this connection and this new language for them as a family that they never had before. All because she went paddle boarding at the reservoir and pieces of paper started floating on the surface of the water. Friends, this is the work and power and presence of Holy Spirit.   Reminding us we are loved by God. We are seen by God. We are heard by God.   And we are part of this kingdom. And for your listeners, that may be strange stories of paper. And that may seem really odd.   But, man, I read a book that talks about Jesus saying, “Hey, go check out the fish.” And all of a sudden a coin to pay taxes comes out of his mouth. I read a book that declares that, you know, he is the alpha and the omega.   He is the beginning and the end. He knows where we are. He knows what we need.   And He wants to intercept. And sometimes that shows up like recipes in your brain in the morning.   Laura Dugger: (46:16 - 47:27) Amen, sister. And you can keep sharing as many stories as you want. But one more.   As I was reading your book, it was actually over Easter weekend. And at that time we had some tornadoes that were passing through the Midwest where we live. And in the middle of the night, we're all up.   We're in the basement. And once the sirens ceased, we got our girls back to bed. And we came and I just wondered, we came back to bed and I thought, is this just going to be for a few moments?   Is it going to happen again? Are we going to be up all night and need to take cover? So, with those concerns on my mind, I crawled back into bed.   And, you know, cortisol is kind of rushing through. So, I picked up your book to read. And my eyes fell to the words you quoted from part of Isaiah 31:5.   So, I specifically fell to this where it says, “He will shield it and deliver it. He will pass over it and will rescue it.” And I fell asleep well knowing that I could receive comfort from Holy Spirit, that the storm had passed for the night and God was shielding our family from it.   And indeed He did. They ceased.   Margaret Feinberg: (47:28 - 47:42) Isn't that incredible? I mean, we talk about I mean, just that's the word of God and the power of Holy Spirit, like speaking right in that moment in that exact situation. That is awesome.   Absolutely awesome. I love it.   Laura Dugger: (47:43 - 48:17) So, I love just Holy Spirit is even working through the words on your pages. I want you to be encouraged. I know you've prayed over this resource, but it's so incredible.   Somebody once said that books are little missionaries. And it's so true throughout the world. You have no idea who's cuddled up in bed reading these words and getting to encounter him.   So, thank you for all of your work for this. But Margaret, do you have any other practical tips that you want to impart to us so that each of us can cultivate the fruit of spirit in our lives?   Margaret Feinberg: (48:18 - 50:39) Yeah, I would say, you know, if you're if you're new to this and this idea, you know, pick up a copy of The Gods You Need to Know. There's also a Bible study. I am passionate about doing this in community.   The Holy Spirit, we often in the Americana church, think of our little personal private relationship with Jesus. And that's not church history. That's not the work of God.   Since the beginning of time, it has always been through relationships and community and recognizing that each of us has something to bring to the table in relationship with God and each other and gifts and talents and insights. I am in my questions. I think I referred to this later or earlier about, you know, I surveyed a bunch of people in my newsletter just about, hey, so, how do you recognize Holy Spirit?   One lady responded and she said, “Well, I recognize Holy Spirit because whenever I'm lost, I ask Holy Spirit for directions, and I just know where to go.” And she goes and it happens over and over in, you know, neighborhoods when I'm driving, when I'm going places. And I thought, okay, so, first I'll just be honest. My first thought was that's weird. I haven't heard that before.   And we assign anything weird that we aren't familiar with. And then I thought a little longer. I thought, man, I want her on my team.   I want her on my team because I get lost all the time. And I think that at times, sometimes we encounter people who encounter the Spirit differently than us. Remember that neurodiversity, but to recognize living in relationship, hearing how Holy Spirit works in different, sharing those stories.   There's something contagious and powerful in it. So, I would say definitely pursue Holy Spirit in relationship with others. Get together with others.   Start talking about this. Start praying together. Holy Spirit, we want to know you.   You know, it's okay to say, Holy Spirit, in the past, I've seen really unhealthy things. Or nobody's really taught me about you. But I trust that as the Spirit of the living God that you want to reveal yourself.   Just start praying, Holy Spirit, I want all of you. See what happens over the course of a week or two of praying that.   And what you become aware of. What Bible passages flutter through your mind. What conversations you suddenly stumble upon.   What answers to things you've been plagued with suddenly come. I trust God that if you ask and you honestly pursue, God will show up and show off.   Laura Dugger: (50:41 - 51:45) I completely agree. And now I'm curious to look up. I feel like the Lord has kind of put on my mind the word weird this year a few times.   Because truly, when you think of what he did, even in the Old Testament, think of Noah, just like, okay, I'm obeying. I'm putting nails in this wood for never seeing rain. It's weird what we're called to sometimes.   And I think that's what can make me hesitate for obedience sometimes. Like, that feels weird. Or I don't want people to think I'm weird.   So, I'm going to look up the definition of weird. I'd love to read it to you. Okay, so, I just looked up the definition of weird.   And it says, suggesting something supernatural or uncanny. And I think we should reframe the word weird. And when we're invited into something weird by supernatural God of the universe, that's an incredible invitation, like you say, to adventure.   So, I hope we can embrace the weird.   Margaret Feinberg: (51:47 - 54:41) And to recognize that feeling of, I don't want to do this. This feels strange. That is universal.   That is not you. That is not unique. And for all of our listeners and viewers, I have it.   Everybody has it. When we're trying to discern, you know, if something is prompted by the Holy Spirit, number one, is this, does this align with scripture? And does it align with the character of God?   Does it increase my dependence on God? Which means it's probably going to go against my natural instinct, which unfortunately is pretty self-word rather than outward. Does it cause me to love God and love others more?   And so, of course, Holy Spirit is going to be working in this expansive ground to pull us away from our self-word direction outward. And that is always going to be stretching and feel strange. And sometimes we're not going to see the outcome.   And we've got to become comfortable with that. We are not responsible for the outcome. We are responsible for obedience.   Some time ago, I swim a lot. And I just felt just in my gut, like, talk to the person in the lane next to you. And so, I go out swimming, and he's next to me, and I'm like, okay.   And so, I started this conversation with this elderly gentleman. And I'll just be honest. It was more like a non-versation.   I mean, we talked about sports ball teams and the weather and nothing. I really cared. Nothing deep.   Nothing meaningful. And on one hand, maybe I misheard. Okay.   But no harm, no foul. I mean, I showed kindness to a stranger. Loved others.   Like, there's no, like, okay. You know, on the other hand, I will never know what might have happened. Maybe he felt left alone.   Maybe he felt seen. But the outcome doesn't matter. And so, there are going to be times that we step out, and we see it, and we encounter it, and it's so exciting.   And there's going to be other times that we go to that thing, and we go, Lord, I didn't even know what that was. But maybe that was about quick obedience. You know, almost like building a muscle, getting stronger to say, you did it then.   I'm going to keep challenging. I'm going to give you opportunities to do this again and again. Because I want you on the front lines of, you know, eyes are searching to and fro for people who are, you know, obedient, quick to respond, that Holy Spirit wants to use.   And so, know that not seeing a result, totally normal. Keep going. Keep going.   Because you will see responses sometimes. And it is awesome. And in part of that, it's almost like building a muscle that I think God is so gracious and so loving kind that he will show you, like, quick outcomes sometimes when you respond to that little impulse to keep you going.   But there are going to be times you're not going to see them, but he's still at work. Because, again, you may be one of 17 people in a long chain where the fruit or the outcome as part of God's kingdom is still coming. And after a while, it's fine to be number 4, 7, 9.   You don't always have to be number 17.   Laura Dugger: (54:42 - 55:06) That's so good. That is such the biblical principle of being faithful with little. And then sometimes He allows us to be faithful with much.   And, Margaret, this is not your only resource that you've written for all of us to enjoy. Can you share some of your other resources and what's available or what you've learned that we may learn if we pick up a copy?   Margaret Feinberg: (55:06 - 56:31) Yeah. You know, I've definitely the most passive. I just gave four years of my life to this book and Bible study.   I do a ridiculous amount of research, so, I'm very, very slow. So, top would be The God You Need to Know book and Bible study. But I think another one, and you referenced it earlier, is a book called Fight Back with Joy, and it's also a Bible study.   And it just takes a look. You know, it tells a little bit about my cancer story, but it's really about anybody who's battling anything. You know, sometimes in life we pick the battles, and sometimes the battles pick us.   And sometimes that's in your marriage, maybe a custody battle. It may be a health issue. It may be a financial calamity.   It may be the loss of a business. There's just so much in a strange relationship with a kid that you love so much. And in that darkness, you know, it's so easy to sink.   And this book and study is just, it shows that more than whimsy, joy is the weapon we use to fight life's battles. And gives just tons of practical tactics on how to enact that and what that looks like, and how, most importantly, how to rally around others in a healthy, beautiful way when they are in the midst of that. I think one of the failures of the church today is to really equip and train believers of every size and form of how to love others well in the midst of their pain.   What to say, what not to say, how to give, how to support. And this book and resource really does that well.   Laura Dugger: (56:32 - 56:43) Oh, so grateful for all of those. We'll make sure and add a link in the show notes. And if we want to connect or follow you after today's conversation, where would you like to direct us online?   Margaret Feinberg: (56:44 - 57:09) You can find me at my website at Margaret Feinberg. I do my most loving of my people, I'll just be honest, through my e-newsletter. I mean, I sit down, I pray over, I pour my heart and my life into that.   It's quiet. Nobody ever sees it. I am also on socials, on Instagram, at Facebook, at MA Feinberg, at Margaret Feinberg.   But I would love to connect with you. And if anybody wants to email, my email is hello@margaretfeinberg.com.   Laura Dugger: (57:09 - 57:26) Love it. Thank you for sharing all of that. And you may be aware that we're called The Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge or discernment.   And so, as my final question for you today, Margaret, what is your savvy sauce?   Margaret Feinberg: (57:27 - 58:05) My savvy sauce is waking up every day and asking the Holy Spirit one question. When I don't know what to pray, I just say, “Holy Spirit, order my steps.” And if you will do this, you will do this for just 15 days.   I have a belief. It may just change the course of your life. The great part, it takes less than 30 seconds.   This is not doing heavy lifting. This is not time consuming, man. If you're raising those littles and you are overwhelmed, if you're running a business and you are overwhelmed, something very simple like this can change everything.   Laura Dugger: (58:06 - 58:10) So good. And you are so obviously connected to the vine, to the Lord. And I just want you to receive this, the fruit of the spirit.   I have experienced every single one in this conversation from engaging with you today. You are loving, joy, peace, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. And all wrapped into one.   So, praise the Lord for the way He made you. You are an absolute delight. I have enjoyed this so much.   Thank you for being my guest.   Margaret Feinberg: (58:10 - 58:11) What a privilege and joy. Grateful for you.   Laura Dugger: (58:11 - 1:02:30) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.    Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.    We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.    That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.    This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.    Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.    And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.    First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.    You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.    We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.    And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.    And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.