Podcasts about biblical wisdom

Have you ever lived in a mindset where you're basically waiting for the other shoe to drop, hope feels impossible or too dangerous? It can feel safer to fly low, embrace pessimism and cynicism and think, “if life turns out half as bad as I imagine, then at least I'll be ready for it.” That's the kind of mindset Stephanie had when she was younger. Stephanie welcomes Nicole Zasowski, author and therapist, who shares wisdom on reclaiming joy and celebration in a world often dominated by worry and pessimism. Nicole's journey and research reveal that joy isn't just an emotional response, but a courageous, spiritual discipline rooted in God's faithfulness. Despite her deep faith, she had concluded that joy and celebration were risky. She was sure that celebration would come with a catch, so she became practiced in praying for the miracle while preparing to mourn and dreaming while rehearsing disaster. And yet she discovered that our methods of self-protection came at a cost. A lot of the loss we experience in our lives is not only the grief and the disappointment itself, but also the joy that we overlook because we are too afraid to embrace it, she tells us. That's the conversation on Gospel Spice today. Understanding the Struggle with Joy Nicole begins by dispelling the myth that celebration and joy come naturally to her—in fact, her books were born from seasons marked by change, loss, and disappointment. Through experiences like moving across the country and enduring infertility and miscarriages, Nicole discovered a heartbreaking truth: much of her loss was not just in what she lacked, but in her refusal to embrace the goodness that God placed in her path out of fear that it would be taken away. This led her into research, both biblical and scientific, to understand why joy can feel so vulnerable and difficult, especially when we've experienced pain. Redefining Celebration: A Spiritual Discipline American and Western cultures, Nicole notes, often see celebration as a reward for good news or accomplishments. However, the Bible—especially the Old Testament—demonstrates celebration as a spiritual rhythm and discipline, not just a reaction. The Israelites practiced regular, scheduled celebrations and feasts, regardless of their current circumstances. These rhythms were not designed to reward themselves for their goodness, but to remember and honor God's consistent faithfulness. Celebration, then, is about choosing remembrance: looking back at God's goodness and letting that fuel hope, courage, and anticipation about the future—even when circumstances are hard. The Vulnerability of Joy Joy is inherently vulnerable because it opens our hearts to the possibility of loss. For those who have experienced pain, pessimism and cynicism can become self-protective mechanisms. However, Nicole's research and experience as a therapist show that numbing ourselves to joy doesn't actually protect us. Rather, it diminishes our ability to savor God's goodness and leaves us empty-handed in difficult times. Practical Tools for Practicing Joy Nicole emphasizes that joy, like any virtue, can and must be intentionally practiced. Two key habits can help rewire our hearts toward joy: 1.      Savoring: Take mental “snapshots” of small moments, deliberately noticing what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. This helps your brain store joyful experiences that might otherwise go unnoticed. 2.      Thanksgiving (vs. gratitude): Beyond silently feeling grateful, speak and express thanks out loud—to God or others. Research shows that this actually heightens and solidifies joy inside us. Key Takeaways from our conversation ·         Joy and celebration are not merely emotions; they are spiritual practices and choices that shape us. ·         God invites us into rhythms of celebration even when our feelings or circumstances do not match, because it roots us deeper in remembrance of His faithfulness. ·         Practicing joy often feels counterintuitive—especially in pain—but it is the way God designed us to process life and hope. ·         Tools like savoring and thanksgiving can help transform our hearts and brains to default toward joy instead of worry or cynicism. Nicole encourages us that it's never too late to begin practicing joy, regardless of our life's season. The discipline of joy prepares us for eternity, deepening our delight in God and training our hearts for hope and celebration—no matter what comes our way. MORE ABOUT NICOLE ZASOWSKI Nicole Zasowski is a licensed marriage and family therapist and author of What If It's Wonderful, From Lost to Found and her new Bible Study Daring Joy. She is also the coauthor of Advances and Techniques in Restoration Therapy and Families and Forgiveness. As a writer who wears her heart proudly on her sleeve, Nicole's work is a weave of biblical wisdom, psychological expertise, and vulnerable storytelling. Often praised for her wisdom and approachable style, Nicole is a sough-after speaker, frequently teaching at conferences, retreats, and women's events around the country on topics that integrate faith and psychology. In addition to her private practice, Nicole's therapeutic work has included teaching as an adjunct professor at Alliance Theological Seminary in New York and leading marriage intensives at the Hideaway Experience. Nicole and her husband, Jimmy, are the grateful parents of three young children. Her favorite place to be is looking for sea glass on the Connecticut shoreline, exploring a New England town or New York City neighborhood, or sitting in her front yard around a fire with her family, friends, and neighbors. Meet Nicole at https://www.nicolezasowski.com/  MORE ABOUT “DARING JOY” Joy can feel risky. When you've experienced pain of any kind, it can feel easier not to dream than to be disappointed, or not to hope than to be left heartbroken. If you ever feel like it's safer not to embrace joy at all than to hold something that might break, you're not alone. Thankfully, the Bible paints a different picture—one that gives you the courage to hold on to joy regardless of your circumstances. https://www.nicolezasowski.com/daring-joy  MORE ABOUT “WHAT IF IT'S WONDERFUL” What If It's Wonderful? Author and marriage and family therapist Nicole Zasowski knows that it's difficult to trust joy and find the courage to celebrate when you have endured seasons of disappointment and despair. When God has been your faithful anchor in the storm, does joy then leave you unmoored? Nicole reminds us that we can stay tethered to the hope of Christ in seasons of celebration, because even joyful days hold the learning, growth, and intimate encounters with Jesus that our hearts crave. What If It's Wonderful? offers a new perspective. With a compelling psychological and spiritual case for the importance of embracing joy and celebration, even when it feels scary. https://www.nicolezasowski.com/wonderful  We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

What is wisdom? What is righteousness? Who are the primary role-models in wisdom and righteousness in the Old Testament, and how do they point us to Christ? As we conclude our last episode in our Gospel Spice Proverbs series, Stephanie invites us to take a final look at what righteousness and wisdom truly are, and then we will gaze at the Face of Him who is our righteousness. We ponder perseverance and endurance in the faith in our struggle against lust--in whatever form. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom On righteousness: Proverbs talks a lot about the righteous and the wicked, the lazy, the fool. It teaches by example—what is righteous by showing what is wicked.  The moment you accept Christ, life does not become a stroll in the park. Perseverance in your faith is the hallmark of your faithfulness. Your authenticity is proven by your walk. The walk of faith is a slow transformation with lots of roadblocks and dead-ends and detours, many coming from the past – past idols trying to trip you up in guilt and shame. But you are a new creation in Christ. You are the Bride of Christ, pure and blameless and spotless and righteous—not on your own strength but HIDDEN IN HIM. If you think that conversion is a fast-pass to transformation, you are in for a deception. Faith is slow-cooked more often than it is pressure-cooked, though both happen. Righteousness is valuing God above all else. It means that ethics and morality find their source in respecting God as the ultimate worth. Righteousness is more than doing the “right” thing: righteousness is valuing God as ultimate in all things. Valuing God as ultimate in all things is the ultimate right thing, and that is what makes you righteous in His eyes. Our righteousness is exhibited when we too value and respect the worth of God without wavering and upholding it in all that we do, to the nest of our strength in Christ. In other words, We as humans are to practice righteousness towards the goal of obtaining it, knowing it is already ours in Christ. On wisdom: Solomon was the wisest king who ever lived, yet we have seen that he didn't end so well. The consequences cannot be overstated. Proverbs extols wisdom associated with a man who, by everyone's judgment, was considered wise and is so to the present day. Yet he failed to live by wisdom. The result is further affirmation of the testimony of the Law, that our hope is in One. Even so great a force as wisdom, when it is nurtured and embraced, cannot rescue us from the evil that resides in our hearts. Solomon's details and bad ending, moral of the story: even the wisest man, apart from Christ, is not wise enough. “The universal Voice of God was by the ancient Hebrews often called wisdom.” (A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God) “This habit of explaining the Voice by appeals to natural law is at the very root of modern science. In the living, breathing cosmos there is a mysterious Something, too wonderful for any mind to understand. The believing man does not claim to understand. He falls to his knees and whispers, “God.” The man of the earth kneels, too, but not to worship. He kneels to examine, to search, to find the cause and the how of things.” A.W. Tozer Folly is looking for an explanation in the dirt of the earth, under the sun. Wisdom is knowing that God will be found above the sun. And so, wisdom, the voice of God, calls and searches the one who wants to cultivate their spiritual heart. If you have ever experienced inexplicable loneliness, or otherworldly longing, or a feeling of awe and wonder, a moment of light and lightness – that is the Voice of God guiding your spiritual heart to find your rest in Him. On wisdom from above, in the Face of Christ Jesus: Jesus describes the wisdom that is from above in His Sermon on the Mount. Take the Beatitudes and write them in reverse – you will get the wisdom from the world: accumulate riches. Be selfish. Be on the lookout for Number One. Live for this world alone. Jesus is not offering an opinion here. Jesus never gives opinions. He gives truth. HE KNOWS. His wisdom is not from under the sun like Solomon's. His wisdom is not the result of his study of human nature or nature itself. Jesus gives truth because He is fully God. He is speaking from within the intimacy of the Trinity.  His words are not opinions. They are truth. The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus' definition of wisdom that is from above. So, worship God, who is from above the sun. Worship Christ, the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature. This is taken from Hebrews 1:1-5, which tells us that God spoke wisdom through the Old Testament, in Proverbs for example, but that He went all out in Christ: "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs." ---------------Note to PARENTS--------------- We CARE about your family!! As usual, Stephanie brings in a fictitious character to illustrate our theme. This week's trait is lust. Therefore, the initial illustration, while not explicit, might not be for the youngest ears--unless you are ready to answer spicy questions about intimate relations. Stephanie's mention is brief, but an inquisitive little heart may pick up on questions worth asking! Decide for yourself when to best listen to the first 5 minutes of this episode! Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom MORE ABOUT OUR FICTIONAL GUESTS Over the last few weeks, we have sought to cultivate God-centered hope, faith and joy by pondering wisdom from the Book of Proverbs. We have followed fictitious characters who have role-modeled various options open to us as believers. Today, we will conclude our series by highlighting key takeaways from each one. Samantha has shown us what foolishness is, so that we could know what wisdom from above means. We have seen that embracing Wisdom will bring us knowledge and discernment. We have learned how wisdom undergirds our God-breathed process towards deeper hope, faith and joy. Brian has exemplified the danger of refusing to let God be God. We called this “spiritual adultery,” and discovered guilt that leads to repentance and restoration. We have chosen to embrace integrity and truth in order to enjoy a clear conscience. Brian has shown us that our quest is rooted in our identity. Jessica lived a life rooted in fear and anxiety. She is learning to replace them with faith and trust. With her, we have chosen to embrace faith, as it will lead to peace and serenity. She would tell us that God's love for us is where our heart finds its rest. Lauren's life moved from self-pride to genuine humility. With her, we have embraced a Christ-centered humility that leads to God-honoring gratitude. With Lauren and Jessica, we have pondered this truth: fear stems from a delated view of God; pride stems from an inflated view of self. Eve chose to move away from her self-centered lifestyle, and towards selfless love. She has discovered that true God-grounded love leads to compassion. With her, we have identified the God-given challenge of the Christian life: to nurture our craving for the One who will never disappoint. John's life was deeply rooted in self-destructive greed. Idolatry happens when we love something—anything—more than God. We are all guilty. We all rob ourselves of joy when we choose greed. Because greed robs us of joy, we choose generosity and a purpose rooted in hope, faith and joy. Finally, Lizzie indulged in a lifestyle of selfish numbing and comfortable little pleasures. She created for herself a bubble that isolated her from the real world God had been inviting her to take her place in. We pondered the importance of self-control as the means to the life of freedom that God has for us. Hope, faith and joy are the expression of this God-given, God-glorifying freedom. Through all of them, we have seen that, when we become serious about our intimacy with God, distractions, dangers and hindrances will come knocking. Our life is a spiritual battleground. Our hearts will either side with God, or with the enemy of our soul. Hope, faith and joy lie in the balance. They are the means to the great Reward of life itself: intimacy with God. Worship is the secret of a vibrant relationship with God. Worship is valuing Him as ultimate in all things. First, it means that hope, faith and joy will not grow in the soil of your life without cultivating a heart of gratitude. Also, it means that there cannot be true worship without complete surrender to God's sovereignty. That is spiritual wisdom. Surrender is not adopting a martyr's pose in submission; it is the glad agreement that God is right. Such faith is cheerful, joyful, and approving. Worship is embracing the truth that God is wise, and that we grow in hope, faith and joy under the shadow of His wings, His wisdom, His guidance. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

This sermon is part of a series on Colossians, focusing on verses 1:24-2:3. The central message emphasizes that 'Christ is enough' - a theme that runs throughout the entire book. Pastor Devin discusses Paul's perspective on suffering for the church, the mystery of Christ being revealed to the Gentiles, and the importance of warning and teaching in spiritual growth. The sermon highlights how the church historically grows through persecution and affliction, and emphasizes that true fulfillment can only be found in Jesus Christ.How does the concept of 'Christ is enough' challenge our modern tendency to seek fulfillment in other things?What role does suffering play in our spiritual growth according to this passage?How has persecution historically affected the growth of the church? Why do you think this is?What does it mean to have 'Christ in you, the hope of glory'?How can we balance both warning and teaching in our relationships with fellow believers?Why is it important to align our opinions with God's Word rather than trying to make God's Word align with our opinions?What does it mean to be weak so that Christ's power can be perfected in us?How can we practically demonstrate that Christ is enough in our daily lives?Support the show

You prayed for the business. God gave it to you.But here's the question nobody's asking: What if the fruit you're producing looks impressive… but still breaks His heart?In this explosive kickoff to Season 11 of The Estherpreneur Podcast, we're going where most won't: ✔️ The invisible misalignments that sabotage supernatural results ✔️ The subtle compromises that blend in as strategy ✔️ The one thing even “kingdom entrepreneurs” forget to checkIf you've felt a tug lately to reexamine what you've built—this episode is confirmation.Warning: it's not polished. It's not pretty.But it just might be the realignment your business (and soul) has been craving. This isn't your average Christian business podcast.No fluff. No formulas. Just filet mignon truth, hot off the altar.

A Hope That Won't Let Go – Hebrews 6 Part 2n this heartfelt episode, Jamie and Jane reflect on Hebrews 6:9–12 and share what the Lord is personally stirring in their hearts. This passage brings encouragement that God sees your work and your love, and calls us to keep moving forward with faith, patience, and perseverance. Whether you're feeling weary or wondering if it matters—this conversation is a reminder that your faithfulness is not forgotten and your hope is anchored in something greater.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

In this empowering episode of The Finding Hope Podcast, Kayla sits down with Victoria—entrepreneur, natural skincare expert, and seasoned solo traveler—to talk all about raising your standards and how that one decision can shift everything in your life.Whether it's in your relationships, faith walk, business, self-care, or personal confidence, God calls us to a higher standard—not perfection, but alignment. Victoria shares her bold journey of traveling the world, building a purpose-driven skincare brand, and learning how high standards are a form of worship and self-respect.Expect real talk, biblical wisdom, and practical tips for:✨ Holding a higher standard without pride✨ Letting go of what no longer fits the next level✨ Why up-leveling starts with internal agreement✨ How God responds when you choose alignment✨ Confidence, clarity, and conviction in decision-makingThis episode will inspire you to stop settling and start stewarding your life with Kingdom excellence.Follow Victoria -Instagram - TikTokGet her Natural Skincare EbookSupport the showPlease feel free to join the facebook group and interact with this amazing community!Find me on Instagram @thefindinghopepodcast or @kaylabundyofficialFind me on Youtube @kayla_bundyFind me on TikTok @kayla_bundy Disclaimer: The Finding Hope Podcast and content posted by Kayla Bundy is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user's own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

If you're like me, you probably know what it feels like to chase after a never-ending to-do list, trying to squeeze every bit of productivity out of your days, only to end up exhausted and wondering if you're missing something vital. Today's conversation might be exactly what you need. My guest is theologian and author Kelly Kapic. Kelly is a professor at Covenant College and the author of the deeply encouraging books You're Only Human and the brand-new 40-day devotional, You Were Never Meant to Do It All. Kelly reminds us today that our limitations aren't problems to overcome, they're actually a part of God's good design for us. He gently challenges our obsession with productivity, individualism, and endless hustle, calling us instead into rhythms of rest, dependence, and real community. In this episode, Kelly and I explore what it means to truly embrace our human limits as a gift rather than a burden. We talk about sleep and Sabbath as practices that help us reconnect to God's gracious pace, how genuine community keeps us honest about our needs, and how gratitude and lament can help us live fully human lives, rich with meaning. If you're tired of feeling like you're never quite enough, this conversation is for you. So slow down, take a deep breath, and join us as Kelly Kapic guides us into the beauty of being joyfully and authentically human.Kelly M. Kapic (PhD, King's College, University of London) is professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, where he has taught since 2001. He is a popular speaker and the award-winning author or editor of more than fifteen books, including the devotional You Were Never Meant to Do It All, The God Who Gives, and the Christianity Today Book Award winners You're Only Human and Embodied Hope: A Theological Meditation on Pain and Suffering. Kapic has been featured in Christianity Today and The Gospel Coalition and has worked on research teams funded by the John Templeton Foundation. He also contributes to the Journal of Spiritual Formation and Soul Care and various other journals.Kelly's Books:You Were Never Meant to Do It AllYou're Only HumanKelly's Recommendation:WorshipSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Support the show

In this episode of the For The Gospel Podcast, Costi Hinn kicks off a new series on marriage by walking through nine biblical keys to strengthen your marriage. Whether you're currently married, engaged, dating, single, or even widowed or divorced, this episode offers timeless wisdom grounded in God's Word. Learn how prayer, forgiveness, communication, intimacy, and more can fortify and transform your marriage.

This episode isn't polished. It's poured out.As we close Season 10 of the Estherpreneur Podcast, I'm sharing something raw, real, and Spirit-led—my personal testimony.I've walked through things most people wouldn't believe... but today, I'm not just telling a story—I'm inviting you into an encounter.You'll hear:What trauma does to the soul—and how God reshapes it for His gloryThe mindset shift that moved me from surviving to surrenderingA prophetic word for those standing at their own “Red Sea”And a Spirit-led prayer that breaks chains, heals hearts, and calls you forwardIf you're weary, wounded, or just wondering why the battle has been so long… you need this word.I didn't plan this episode. The Holy Spirit did.Press play—and let Him speak to you.Want more kingdom business wisdom? Follow me on LinkedIn @EdnaHarding where I share practical insights, biblical strategy, and wins from the frontlines of bible based business strategies.Say hi on social: LI:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ednaharding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/EdnaSHardingIG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/theestherpreneur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YT:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/EdnaHarding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode blesses you, don't keep it to yourself—share it, subscribe, and leave a review!

Anchored in Hope: Growing Deeper in Faith – Hebrews 6 Part 1In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane walk through Hebrews 6, unpacking its deep encouragements and strong warnings. What does it mean to move beyond spiritual infancy? How do we respond to the sobering call to maturity while holding fast to the unshakable hope we have in Christ? This conversation leans into the tension of warning and promise, reminding us that our faith isn't meant to stay stagnant—but to grow, bear fruit, and remain anchored in God's unchanging promises.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

Send us a textThrough personal stories and theological insights, New Testament Scholar and author Sandra Glahn challenges traditional views of motherhood and explores how maternal presence can be expressed beyond biological childbearing. Her journey through multiple pregnancy losses led to profound questions about women's purpose that ultimately expanded her understanding of female calling in both family and faith communities. In this three-part series, Sandra and I talk about:• Sandra's story of growing up expecting motherhood to be her highest calling.• The identity crisis caused by experiencing eight failed pregnancies.• How the cultural ideal of stay-at-home mothering shaped women's understanding of purpose.• The theological journey that led Sandra to seminary against conventional expectations.• Jesus' words about Mary "choosing what is better" as validation for women's theological pursuits.• Examination of 1 Timothy 2:15 about women being "saved through childbearing."• The connection between the Artemis cult in Ephesus and Paul's teaching about women.• Recognition that both men and women are given spiritual gifts to benefit the entire body of Christ.• Expanding our understanding of "mothering" beyond biological definitions.Join us to explore how reframing maternal influence can unleash women's power in homes, churches, and the world.Order Sandra's new book: Nobody's MotherVisit Sandra's website: Dr. Sandra GlahnSupport the showBegin Your Heartlifter's Journey: Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online coaching center and meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide. Download the "Overcoming Hurtful Words" Study Guide PDF: BECOMING EMOTIONALLY HEALTHY Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW Learn more about my books and work: Janell Rardon Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International

Will we dare to diagnose our distractions? This heavy topic is on our mind today as we ponder the lessons from the Book of Proverbs about priorities, and distractions. Stephanie introduces us this week to a new fictitious character, who constantly seeks to maintain herself in a state of numbing and escape from the real world. And so, we look at the ever-increasing numbing that comes from seeking pleasure or relief in the wrong places, so predominant in our culture today. We talk about misplaced loves: we are wired for joy and pleasure and delight, but we need to beware of seeking these in the wrong places, even the “innocent” ones. God is the only safe place for us—in everything, including our delight and joy and pleasure. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom The author of the Book of Proverbs suffered from an acute case of escapism. King Solomon was addicted to women, and to wine (see Proverbs 31:1-9). He learned the lesson, but too late-- from 1Kings 11 to the entire book of Ecclesiastes, Scripture attests to the failure of the world's wisest man to choose delight in God at the twilight of his royal life. Solomon stopped delighting in God's glory and started delighting in his own. Does this mean that our own desire to delight in God, and to escape escapism, is a doomed quest? Not so! Because we have access to the wisdom that is from above the sun--the very wisdom of God through the Holy Spirit who lives in us, in the name of Christ. We have what Solomon never had.  Disclaimer – pleasure itself is not a bad thing. We are wired for pleasure and joy and delight. But beware where you seek it! Jesus loved pleasure and joy and delight, and role-models how to place these desires rightly: squarely in the lap of our heavenly Father, on our knees. The questions we are challenged to answer this week: Would we rather garner praise from humans for our own works, or praise from God for our dependence on Him? Would we rather build our own little kingdom, bound in time and space under our own wisdom, and be its ruler for a season -- or be part of the larger, infinite, eternal Kingdom of God with the place of honor of a child? Jesus opened the way of wisdom on the cross by surrendering to the Father, and invites us into the same. His passion was the climax of a life of resisting the temptation to delight in Self-glory. For example, the wilderness temptations were all attempts at distractions from His mission. And, so was Gethsemane: it was the final battle for resolve, the culmination of a lifetime of battles against sin and temptation. Jesus did what we could not do: a life of perfect surrender to God (which is perfect freedom) so that He could give us that freedom through the Cross. Freedom from sin; Freedom from Self; Freedom to surrender to the Son. Why would we want to be our own master, when Christ offers to be the master we could never be for ourselves?  What the world needs most right now is our personal intimacy with God. Only then will we be truly equipped to reach the world in His Name. So, Stephanie ends this highly personal episode with several of her own personal tips and experiences of trusting God. They include: - Early morning routine; - Prayer; - Bible study, intake, memorization (raking for leaves and digging for diamonds both); - Discipline; - Worship. Are we PERFECT? NO. But the general direction is a growth in our moment-by-moment dependence on God by His Spirit through Jesus Christ our Lord. That's the spirit of the Book of Proverbs. Don't give up. Trust God, not yourself.  Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/proverbs MEET OUR FICTIONAL GUEST TODAY | LIZ Lizzie loves a good shopping spree. She finds peace in the endless rhythm of browsing the racks, and trying things on, and spending hours in search of the one perfect item she is looking for. She usually does not know what she needs until she finds it, but then, she knows. She jokes that Target has a memory erasing device at the entrance of their stores—she comes in for milk, and leaves with 3 trendy pillows, a pretty dress, and a new kitchen gadget. And then she has to send her husband to the store after work because she forgot the milk. Oh, her husband. He's a good man. Lizzie loves to spend hours on social media. She's been known to let dinner to burn, or forget to get it started, because she was down a rabbit hole on Twitter. Good thing she can order takeout at the click of a button. Her husband is very supportive. Her favorite evenings are spent with a glass of wine—or two—watching her favorite shows. Yes, she has been known to binge watch. She just can't resist the pull of a good story. She loves to bury herself in the comforting world of make-believe characters and their fascinating stories, especially easy romance. Her own life is dull and humdrum—nothing like those exciting adventures. Married, kids out of the house, not much to report. Well, on the surface at least. She doesn't really want to think about the long evenings her husband has to work to provide for them. All this stress is exhausting. Lizzie loves the little cocoon she has woven for herself—all those well-deserved, innocent comforts to escape reality. She remembers a time in life when it seemed like she could handle a lot more—more stress, more activities, more relationships. Maybe it's just part of aging. That's why Lizzie loves to take naps: there is nothing like the feel of drifting away from reality to embrace the sweet comfort of sleep. She just decided to quit her job as a part-time administrative clerk; it is just too much pressure. Yes, it is going to put financial stress on her hard-working husband, but her wellbeing is important, right? He keeps telling her that God will give her purpose and passion. That sounds like too much work. She's not interested. She'd rather stay home and get some rest. Distractions build a smoke and mirror kingdom that will take us away from God's calling on our lives. Because we are wired for joy and hope and faith, we need to see the danger of distractions, even “innocent” ones. Accumulated distractions will build for us a small world of delusion and fantasy. Lizzie is seeking refuge in her little make-believe bubble of comforts. This small escape world only exists in her mind. It is the sum of her misplaced loves. The Book of Proverbs teaches us that wisdom is placing our love in God Himself. No less, no more. God invites us to live out the fullness of our identity in Him. Lizzie is too distracted to care about identity, calling and purpose. She has numbed herself into the comfortable oblivion of manifold distractions. So, unlike Lizzie, let's dare to diagnose our distractions. Let's dare to refuse self-deception and self-numbing. Let's seek to cultivate the root of our hope, our faith, our joy in God Himself. Let's be ruthlessly honest and see distractions as they really are in our own heart, even when comfort beckons. Especially when comfort beckons. And let's dare to ask ourselves: what if God was using our uncomfortable circumstances to personally mentor us into deeper intimacy with Him? Would it make difficult seasons worth it? We have a choice. Our circumstances can distract us away from genuine faith, hope and joy, or they can draw us closer to God. We cannot grow closer to God while building our own little kingdom through self-numbing and worldly comforts. Instead, God invites us to join His bold and ambitious work to build His larger, infinite, eternal Kingdom. To accomplish our purpose in this life, we need to be laser-focused on God's calling over us, and shun the worldly distractions. What the world needs most right now is our personal intimacy with God. Only then will we be truly equipped to reach the world in His Name. Take a listen to Gospel Spice Podcast Episode 390 to find out many more ways that our world aims to distract us from God today. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Episode 2.1In this episode, we begin a biblical theology of money and possessions, focusing on the book of Proverbs. Using Kevin DeYoung's material as a foundation, we explore ten key principles about money that range from the dangers of extremes to the value of generosity and wisdom. Proverbs presents a balanced, God-centered view of wealth—affirming hard work and wise planning while warning against pride, injustice, and false security. Whether you've leaned toward prosperity thinking or austerity thinking, this episode offers a refreshing look at how Scripture speaks with clarity and nuance. Ultimately, we're reminded that true wealth is found not in money, but in Christ, who is our wisdom, righteousness, and redemption.Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/KN3-HzU_tawMerch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8Find more Take 2 Theology content at https://take2pod.wordpress.com/

My whole life I felt that I had to become "more" to attract my dream man, that the current version of me wasn't enough and wouldn't be able to attract a “high value man”. Well God taught me better and took me on a journey that I want to share with you in this podcast episode.

You don't need another trend—you need the truth.In this raw and timely episode of The Estherpreneur, I open up about a personal rebuke I received from the Holy Spirit—and why it's time we stop building empires on emotional momentum and temporary hype.We're talking real disruption. Not the kind the world glorifies with AI buzzwords and big stages—but the kind that heaven recognizes.Here's a taste of what we'll unpack (without giving it all away):Why chasing downloads, trends, and algorithms is draining your purpose.The holy warning that shook me—and may just shake you too.How to know if your solution is from the Spirit or just strategy.The difference between building on what is true vs. what is Truth.Why your framework must be teachable, testable, and transferable to honor God.This isn't about noise. It's about knowing. This isn't about being first. It's about being faithful.If you've been wrestling with whether your business truly honors God…If you've ever felt the weight of your calling and questioned your capacity…If you're ready to build something that lasts...This is your invitation to stop performing—and start partnering with the Holy Spirit.

A @Christadelphians Video: In a world full of uncertainty, how can we remain **steadfast and immovable** in our faith? This powerful Bible talk explores what it means to stand firm in God's promises, no matter what storms come our way. Discover key Scriptures, practical wisdom, and inspiring truths to help you live an **unshakable life** in Christ!

Whether you're a business owner, CFO, accountant, church treasurer, or just an everyday person trying to use your money wisely — this is for you. In this episode, Costi Hinn walks through 10 essential character qualities that every Christian must have in order to faithfully handle finances.

You are in front of a life changing decision OR you already took it but it feels hard to go all in and trust the Lord? I got you! After this Podcast episode you will have a complete new perspective on trusting Gods bigger plan!

Have you ever felt the tension between staying true to your values and chasing visible success? I have—and I know I'm not alone. In today's The Estherpreneur's episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to lead a business that honors God—not just in branding, but in the deep places where decisions are made.I'm sharing a parable that will challenge how you view success, revealing the subtle compromises we justify, and exposing how easily the world's standards creep into Kingdom work. We'll look at how Jesus defines righteousness (hint: it's not what the world applauds) and how Ecclesiastes and Proverbs offer practical, timeless wisdom for today's Christian entrepreneur.If you've been trying to build, grow, or rebuild and you're tired of feeling like you're striving without peace—this is your reminder: you don't have to choose between impact and integrity.

Mature Faith: Moving Beyond the Basics – Hebrews 5 Part 2Jamie and Jane continue their study of Hebrews 5 by unpacking verses 7–14, where we're called to grow in spiritual maturity. What does it look like to move from milk to meat in your walk with God? This episode challenges us to embrace spiritual growth, recognize immaturity, and press deeper into obedience—even when it's hard. It's a powerful encouragement for anyone feeling stuck or ready for more.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

In this podcast episode I talk about why you feel empty or unfulfilled even when you have it all. I went down the rabbit hole for you and explain in simple steps why you feel this way and what you can do about it.

What do you do when the strategies stop working… and silence is the only feedback you get? When the doors you were sure God told you to walk through suddenly close—hard?And what if… it's not failure? What if it's formation?This wasn't a planned episode for The Estherpreneur Podcast, but it was undeniable—God pressed this one on my heart. As I sat in the tension between breakthrough and burden, He brought me back to the Cross. And not just for what it means to our faith—but for what it reveals about calling, business, and the price of purpose. In this Good Friday reflection, I'm not offering formulas. I'm sharing my process. The moments when everything looked barren—until something beneath the surface began to bloom. Because sometimes, what feels like an end is really a setup for resurrection.If you're in a season of pressure, pruning, or the kind of stillness that tests your trust—this conversation might be your confirmation.We talk about divine strategy, business seasons, and the uncomfortable grace of surrendering what you worked so hard to build. The cross wasn't chaos. It was calculated. And in your business, that wilderness might be working something wiser than you realize.Press play, and let's reframe the pain. Resurrection might be closer than it looks.

Called & Covered: The Role of a High Priest – Hebrews 5 Part 1In this episode, Jamie and Jane dive into Hebrews 5:1–8 and explore what it truly means that Jesus is our High Priest. What was the role of a high priest, and how does Christ fulfill it perfectly for us? From the call of God to the covering of grace, this conversation unpacks the beauty of God's design for intimacy, access, and representation through Jesus. If you've ever wondered how God draws near in your weakness, this one's for you.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

On this weekend's edition of Words of Grace, we share a message from the pulpit of River Primitive Baptist Church entitled Biblical Wisdom on Extremes. In this sermon, we explore how Scripture teaches us to avoid the natural human tendency toward extremes — whether in our thinking, our reactions, or our daily living. As depicted … Continue reading "Letting Your Moderation Be Known"

Josh Belt

Heath McWilliams

In this episode of The Estherpreneur, I'm speaking to those who know what it's like to lead with smoke still rising from the battles they've barely escaped.This isn't for the ones chasing applause or positioning for likes. This is for the ones who've led through firestorms—who've had to make impossible decisions with eternal consequences. The ones who've built, not just companies, but resilience in silence.But what if the fire wasn't sent to consume you… but to commission you?This episode won't give you a blueprint—but it might just expose the one already etched into your soul.  Because this isn't about surviving storms. It's about stewarding what was forged in them.  We dive into: Why promotion in the Kingdom feels like pressure in the natural—and what to do about itHow to cultivate fire-tested culture that fuels loyalty, innovation, and legacyThe leadership practice that unlocks divine strategy in the boardroomThis isn't surface-level inspiration. It's soul-level equipping for those God is positioning in this hour.If you've ever wondered how to lead when you're the one bleeding… or how to carry vision when the weight gets heavier—this one's for you.Let's talk about what the fire was really for—and why your next season requires everything it branded in you.Some fires destroy. Others define. Let's talk about the difference.Want more kingdom business wisdom? Follow me on LinkedIn @EdnaHarding where I share practical insights, biblical strategy, and wins from the frontlines of faith-based leadership. Say hi on social: LI:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ednaharding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/EdnaSHardingIG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/theestherpreneur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YT:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/EdnaHarding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode blesses you, don't keep it to yourself—share it, subscribe, and leave a review!

Seen & Still Invited: Completing Hebrews 4 and Confronting the Shadow SideJamie and Jane close out Hebrews 4 with an honest and reflective conversation about God's all-seeing rest. What happens when we stop running from the parts of ourselves we're not proud of and bring them into the light of God's presence? This episode explores the power of God's Word to reveal, the invitation to rest, and the freedom found in believing what God says about you—more than what you believe about yourself.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

Living as a saint means actively participating in God's kingdom work through sincere love and humble service. This involves loving without conditions, taking emotional risks, and being willing to have difficult conversations when necessary. True Christian love holds others accountable while considering them more important than ourselves, demonstrating genuine care without expecting anything in return.This lifestyle requires avoiding spiritual laziness while maintaining fervor in serving God. Christians are called to share with those in need, pursue hospitality, and live in harmony through humility. When faced with persecution, the response should be blessing rather than revenge, maintaining peace whenever possible, and focusing on eternal matters. This includes practical actions like helping enemies and viewing the world through Scripture's perspective rather than conforming to worldly patterns.Support the show

Josh Belt

Inside of this podcast episode I talk about how you as a believer or even non believer can move in world that is highly influenced by modern witch craft (also called new age). This episode is here to spread awareness and share God's love and truth with you guys. So come with an open heart and let God guide you through whatever is right for you! ✅ FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM:https://www.instagram.com/maribel.franchescaa

Sometimes obedience doesn't feel like progress. It feels like rowing all night in the dark with no sign of breakthrough.In this episode on The Estherpreneur, I open up about two storms that changed everything—one from my own journey in business, and one from the pages of Scripture. I talk about what it's like to do everything right, only to be blindsided… not once, but twice. And I share what God revealed to me when I felt abandoned in the middle of my obedience.We'll explore the two kinds of storms every believer and leader faces—and why one reveals your authority and the other reshapes your trust. I also share a practical yet prophetic framework you can apply today if you're in a season that doesn't make sense. I break down why resistance doesn't always mean you're off course—and how God sometimes lets us sit in the storm so He can show up in ways that rewrite the timeline.This isn't just a message about surviving hard seasons. It's about standing when nothing makes sense—when God is silent, when progress stalls, and when breakthrough feels out of reach.If you're exhausted from rowing and questioning if God still sees you… I recorded this one with you in mind.Want more kingdom business wisdom? Follow me on LinkedIn @EdnaHarding for daily inspiration and strategies on doing business and life God's way. I share practical tips, biblical insights, and real-world victories that will help you thrive in both business and faith.Say hi on social: LI:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ednaharding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/EdnaSHardingIG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/theestherpreneur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YT:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/EdnaHarding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If this episode blesses you, don't keep it to yourself—share it, subscribe, and leave a review!

Entering God's Rest: Trust, Surrender, and Peace with Megan MarshmanIn this powerful episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane sit down with special guest Megan Marshman to explore the deep and transformative meaning of God's rest. Megan, a dynamic speaker, author, and Bible teacher, shares her insights on what it truly means to trust in God's rest, release control, and walk in the peace He promises. Through personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical application, this conversation will encourage you to stop striving and start abiding in the rest only God can provide.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

Is it wrong to want to lose weight? Instead of wrestling with whether the desire is “bad” or “good,” what if we brought it honestly before the Lord? In this episode, we dive into the story of Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52)—a man who didn't hold back his request from Jesus. Just like him, we can bring our deepest desires to God and trust Him to sift through them, pruning what is worldly and affirming what is good and true. Weight loss is a secondary goal, much like anger is a secondary emotion—it points to something deeper. When we walk with God in our health journey, He leads us to the real desires of our hearts. And whether or not weight loss happens, we will find true satisfaction in Him alone.

In this episode, Jennifer Barrett continues introducing biblical wisdom by discussing the distinct yet interconnected perspectives of Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes, which together offer a rich and nuanced view of wisdom, guiding believers toward a deeper faith.

Send us a textWelcome to another episode of Bible Time at The Barn! Today, Dawn unpacks James 3:13-18, a powerful passage that contrasts earthly wisdom with wisdom from above. How can we recognize true wisdom, and how does it shape our lives?In this study, we'll explore: 

Are you tired of running at breakneck speed, trying to make things happen, only to feel like you're moving further from true success? What if the problem isn't that you aren't working hard enough, but that you're building on the wrong foundation?In this episode of The Estherpreneur, we're disrupting the hustle mindset and diving into what it truly means to build at the Pace of Grace—where God's blueprint becomes your guiding force, not the world's endless pressure to strive and perform.Consider this: What if your systems are the very thing keeping you from experiencing God's divine flow? What if the chaos in your business is a reflection of a deeper misalignment in your spirit? What if the growth you desire isn't just about implementing more strategies but about surrendering to the right ones?We're breaking down the myths and revealing the overlooked foundations that make a business truly sustainable and Kingdom-aligned. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about success.It's time to get real. It's time to get honest. It's time to get aligned.It's time to challenge everything you thought you knew about success. Stop chasing results and start attracting them. If you're ready to break free from striving and build a business God's way—where clarity, peace, and excellence become your norm—then join me in the Business Unlimited Group Mentoring Program.Together, we'll build the systems you need to double your clarity, closings, and confidence. Ready to finally operate from true rest? Visit favorandwealth.com/businessunlimited to secure your spot and take your business to the next level.Want more kingdom business wisdom? Follow me on LinkedIn @EdnaHarding for daily inspiration and strategies on doing business and life God's way. I share practical tips, biblical insights, and real-world victories that will help you thrive in both business and faith.Say hi on social: LI:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ednaharding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/EdnaSHardingIG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/theestherpreneur⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YT:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/EdnaHarding⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If this episode blesses you, don't keep it to yourself—share it, subscribe, and leave a review!

Hebrews 4:3-10 – True Rest: Trusting God's Promises Over Our StrivingIn this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane dive into Hebrews 4:3-10 for a deep conversation on Sabbath and the true rest God offers. Are we striving in our own strength, or are we stepping into the rest He has promised? We also wrestle with the question: Am I going to believe what I think about myself, or what God says I am? Join us as we explore how faith, surrender, and trust in God's Word bring us into His perfect rest.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

Will I dare ask myself if greed is an issue in my life? Will I dare ask myself if greed is an issue in my life? What is keeping me away from God today? Could greed be a problem? There's a French saying: some people are so poor, all they have is money. Today we are talking about replacing greed, and all forms of idolatry, with joy. Greed. What does the Bible say about it?  Proverbs 1:19 - Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors. Proverbs 11:28  -Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf. Greed doesn't give. Greed robs. Greed robs YOU of joy. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom To start us off, Stephanie challenges us--and herself--with seven questions to self-diagnose if we have unknowingly fallen victim to greed, in one form or another: 1.     Is it MY money or God's? 2.    What would I do differently if I knew I would be dead in a year? 3.     WHY do I want more money? 4.     How do I spend my time? thinking of ways to earn more, or of ways to advance God's Kingdom? 5.     How would I behave if I lost everything? 6.     Am I truly generous? 7.     Do I compromise character to make more money? Then we ponder the link between joy and righteousness and the only true cure against greed. Idolatry is misplaced worship.  Proverbs describes where joy cannot be found. The summary of the entire book of Proverbs can be found in Mark 8:36: "For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?" That's the definition of unrighteousness. Joy "must be sharply distinguished both from happiness and from pleasure" - CS Lewis Joy is “unsatisfied desire, which is itself more desirable than any other satisfaction.” – CS Lewis again. God promises to give us a joy that surpasses anything this world has to offer. Here's the question: how much of your life to do you spend experiencing this joy, vs looking for joy elsewhere? Psalm 35:27 - Let those who delight in my righteousness shout for joy and be glad and say evermore, “Great is the Lord, who delights in the welfare of his servant!” Haydn, the great musician, was once asked why his church music was so cheerful, and he replied: "When I think upon God, my heart is so full of joy that the notes dance and leap, as it were, from my pen ; and since God has given me a cheerful heart, it will be pardoned me that I serve Him with a cheerful spirit." Joy is the juice of gladness that comes from the fruit of peace, itself springing up from the ground of righteousness – our righteousness in Christ. Matthew Henry defines joy as "a constant delight in God." Who does the work of transforming our hearts to find satisfaction in God? God Himself is the One who transforms our heart to increasingly see Christ as our supreme treasure, even as we seek to find our satisfaction in Him. Cyprian was a third-century North African. As he was anticipating death, he penned these last words to his friend Donatus in 258AD: “It's a bad world, an incredibly bad world. But I have discovered in the midst of it a quiet and holy people who have learned a great secret. They have found a joy which is a thousand times better than any pleasure of our sinful life. They are despised and persecuted, but they care not. They are masters of their souls. They have overcome the world. These people are the Christians—and I am one of them.” This is an episode you do not want to miss. We look forward to serving you through it this week! MEET OUR CHARACTER OF THE WEEK  It had been a good year for John. He had managed to obtain a bonus packet worth a small fortune. It would go towards the purchase of his new beach house. Despite this formidable win, it bothered him that others in his industry made more. After all, he deserved every Benjamin, and then some. Sure, his recent promotion had come by a lot of backstabbing. Good for him. The corporate pie was only big enough to share among the most ruthless sharks, and he wants the biggest slice he could get his teeth on. John was determined to keep his focus on multiplying his assets this year, and fast. Today is all that matters. Faster, stronger, better. Last week, in the middle of a heated discussion about a takeover bid that was going to earn him that next nice bundle, John had a stroke. He is now on his hospital bed, slowly recovering. For the first time since he can remember, he has time to think. He is wondering if big money really is all that it is cracked up to be. He loves life with money, but what would money be without life? Hum. Would you say that John has reaped joy from the money he is accumulating? There's a French saying: “some people are so poor, all they have is money.” John is plagued with a self-imposed case of greed. Greed is idolatry: it is valuing something—anything—more than God. It's the “just-a-bit-more” mentality: “if only I had this, then…” The problem is, it is a moving target that never satisfies. Greed is the agony of “never enough.” It makes us ignore or forget God in our pursuit of “more.” Eventually, it slowly brainwashes us to believe that God, like everything else we've tried, is “never enough.” Greed makes us forget about eternity; it replaces our God-given perspective of Heaven with a world-centered focus on today. The change can be so subtle, though, that it is almost never self-diagnosed. Let's be the exception! Whether the Holy Spirit whispers it to us through our time in prayer, or in the study of His word, or through a true friend, let's identify any seed of idolatry in our heart. Greed, like any form of idolatry, never gives. Greed robs. It robs us of joy. The alternative to greed is joy—joy in God Himself. It is joy in our relationship with Him, not for what He can give us, but for the sheet delight of relationship. As C.S. Lewis puts it, joy in God is “unsatisfied desire, which is itself more desirable than any other satisfaction.” This is what I would wish to tell John: God promises to give us a joy that surpasses anything this world has to offer. Scripture challenges us to embrace the universe through the lens of faith. This perspective from Heaven promises us hope and joy. And yet, how often do we look for joy elsewhere? As Christians, we easily acknowledge that God is the almighty, living, ruling Lord of all. He is one God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who dwells in heaven, a place of eternal joy. The psalmist says, "You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” (Psalm 16:1, NIV). But do we really experience this? Joy has been God's ambition since Day One—literally. God created the universe for His own pleasure and enjoyed doing it. He created planet earth as our breathtaking dwelling place. He fashioned man and woman in His image to glorify Him, to live and rule in peace and joy. The totality of His creation made Him smile and He called it "very good." Then something went very wrong. Iniquity appeared, and earth became a place of sorrow, a troubled segment of the universe where idolatry and greed now reign in humans' hearts. God knew it would unfold so. The plan was already in place: at the appointed time, His Son Jesus came on a pre-planned mission to free the earth from its curse and return its people to an abundant life of hope, joy, and faith. Nothing could be further from puny greed. "For the joy set before Him," Jesus endured the cross. It means that He took our sin from us, accomplished our salvation, died, and rose again to everlasting life in the kingdom of heaven. To those who receive Him as Lord and acknowledge Him as Savior, Jesus Christ promises forgiveness, redemption from sin, a new birth, answers to prayer, the outpouring of His Holy Spirit of love, victory over death, and the everlasting joy of heaven. Jesus lives today at the Father's right hand in resurrected glory and fullness of joy; He has promised to come back for His church and to take us where He is. That is the essence of joy in God, and it is ours to cling to. We invite you to listen to this week's episode of the Gospel Spice Podcast to find out what happened to John, and to unpack the deeper truth of abiding in God's joy today. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

In this episode, Jennifer Barrett continues introducing biblical wisdom by discussing what wisdom is and the sources of wisdom.

Jesus has freed us, but are we walking in that freedom? Join us as we uncover the difference between being freed and truly living free in Christ.

In this episode of The Estherpreneur Podcast, I sit down with Sam Vadakekut—a visionary entrepreneur, Kingdom steward, and author of About My Father's Business: Enslaved vs. Entrusted. Sam's message isn't just another faith-and-business pep talk. It's a spiritual wake-up call that will challenge everything you thought you knew about success, authority, and wealth.Because here's the truth: Most entrepreneurs are unknowingly building their businesses the world's way while praying for Kingdom results. They're applying marketplace tactics to a Kingdom assignment and wondering why it's not working.Sam knows this struggle well. His journey has been a wild collision of trials, triumphs, and radical obedience—all guided by God's hand.He's built successful ventures in real estate, healthcare, and more, but his greatest accomplishment isn't in profit margins—it's in the eternal impact of transforming mindsets and financial legacies through biblical principles.But Sam's path to success was far from glamorous. He's faced devastating failures that would've made most people quit. He's battled through seasons of loss, betrayal, and frustration. But every setback became a stepping stone—teaching him true stewardship, resilience, and a level of trust in God's provision that most believers never tap into.And here's what makes Sam different: He doesn't just teach business. He teaches Kingdom alignment.Because making money without God's blueprint is just glorified poverty—no matter how big the numbers are.And the blueprint he shares? It's straight from God's Word.It's the same Kingdom principles that empowered Joseph to run Egypt's economy, David to lead a nation, and the Proverbs 31 woman to build generational wealth.We dive into radically misunderstood truths like: Why most entrepreneurs remain trapped in religious systems instead of stepping boldly into their Kingdom mandate. The secret to unlocking true authority and wealth—and why most believers will never access it. How rest and celebration aren't luxuries—they're weapons for acceleration. Why partnering with the Holy Spirit is the missing link to transforming your business and impacting the marketplace.What if everything you've been taught about faith, business, and wealth is only scratching the surface?What if your pursuit of success is actually the very thing keeping you from it God's way?

Is punishment necessary when disciplining our children, or are natural consequences enough? In this episode of the Foundation Worldview Podcast, Elizabeth Urbanowicz dives into a listener's question about biblical discipline. How does God discipline us, and how should that shape the way we train our children? Join us as we explore Scripture's wisdom on loving, corrective discipline that prepares our children for a lifetime of walking in truth.

Entering God's Rest: Letting Go and Trusting Fully - Hebrews 4 Part 1In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane dive into Hebrews 4:1-2, unpacking the life-changing promise of God's rest. Are you striving when God is calling you to surrender? Discover how faith unlocks true peace and why trusting in His Word is the key to stepping into the rest He has prepared for you. This is a powerful conversation about letting go, believing fully, and walking in the rest only God can provide.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

In the episode, Jennifer Barrett introduces biblical wisdom by reflecting on a tragedy on Mt. Hood, where crucial decisions determined life and death. This real-world event sets the stage for exploring the meaning of biblical wisdom.

Overcoming Unbelief with Joy Lee – Trusting God's PromisesJamie and Jane welcome Joy Lee to Divine Table Talk for a powerful conversation on unbelief and the journey of trusting God's promises. Joy, a pastoral counselor, author of Still Falling North, and cofounder of Barn45 ministry, shares her heart for studying and teaching God's Word (Ezra 7:10). Together, they explore how unbelief can creep into our hearts, the impact it has on our faith, and how to combat it with truth and community. Tune in for an honest, hope-filled discussion that encourages you to hold fast to God's faithfulness, no matter the circumstances.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliamsConnect with Joyelle:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/joyellechristineleehttps://www.instagram.com/barn45highland____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

Are you ready for a fresh, spicy approach to the love of God today? We've all heard that God loves us. Do we really believe it? How can we live in deeper awareness of God's love for me? The Book of Proverbs might not be overtly explicit about God's love, but it is the underlying foundation for the entire book. So, today, we are pondering God's love: what does it mean that "God is love"? Why is He love? What does His love look like? We're not staying in shallow waters. We are peeking under the hood of Proverbs to look at how the engine of this book truly functions. And we discover that Love is the fuel behind every motion in Proverbs. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom Stephanie starts us off this week with a powerful quote by her countryman, Blaise Pascal, on his famous "God-shaped hole" in the human heart: “What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace? This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him, seeking in things that are not there the help he cannot find in those that are, though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words by God himself” -- Blaise Pascal, 1670. We see that, IN God, our primary life calling: to REST in LOVE and DELIGHT in HIM in return. To make God our rest and my delight. We are created to LOVE and BE LOVED. We are attracted by LOVE like an irresistible magnet. And, we can only love well when we are loved well. Love is an experience of the heart AND mind. It is a decision of the will that transforms your heart and turns living into loving. Stephanie challenges us to embrace the challenge of the Christian life: to nurture the One Craving of craving the One--Christ, that is. And we discuss practical ways to do just that. They may sound overworn and cliche, but there's a reason some paths are well-trodden by countless generations of Christ-worshipping believers across time and space: these well-worn paths actualyl work, and actually lead us deeper into God. They are called prayer and the study of Scripture. Stephanie gives us a fresh perspective to rejuvenate our desire to walk these paths daily. We are challenged to learn to experience the consequences of growing in our craving of God alone. Then, we look at the practical outcome: True love is binding yourself to the One you love. It is a surrender of freewill to embrace freedom to love another. God displays His supernatural glory through human impossibilities. He chooses us to make us a willing partner of His acting through us. Love the Lord your God, and then love your neighbor as yourself. - Jesus. Join us today for a fresh, in-depth dive into the love of God! Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/proverbs MEET OUR CHARACTER OF THE WEEK Eve has always wanted to get married but does not feel very comfortable with the idea of long-term commitment. Now in her early 40's, she would describe herself as pleasing, accommodating and bubbly. And she has an amazing body that she works hard to fine-tune. In social situations, Eve shines. It makes her job as an events coordinator all the more enthralling. She craves the thrill of success. If it takes a perfectly fitting shirt or some batting of the eye lashes — in the end it gets the job done. God helps those who help themselves, right? Eve recently began attending a church in town. The music is so unique compared to the boring hymns she grew up with! She felt exposed, however, when the pastor's wife invited her to attend a women's event. You see, Eve just doesn't get along with women that well, and naturally shies away from female friendships. In this case however, given that it was church, she agreed to attend ONE event. After all, she's always looking for opportunities to coordinate an event and land some new clients, so she decided to go ahead with it. Fast forward a few months. The women's event was so enjoyable that Eve started attending a Bible study. Surprisingly, she finds herself learning to like some of the women. One woman invited her for coffee and started asking more personal questions. This left Eve feeling anxious and uncomfortable. No one had ever probed like this. Yet it also felt so caring and loving. Weird. Eve is starting to feel nervous that she might not know how to connect. She wonders if there is more to life than the fancy events, the fine-tuned body, the bubbly interactions. She thinks she wants something more but has no idea for what that would look like. Eve is looking for God's love, and she does not know it. She is feeling what my compatriot, Blaise Pascal described in the 1650's in his Pensées as “this infinite abyss [that] can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words, by God himself.” You may have heard this referenced to as a “God-shaped hole” in every human heart. Blaise Pascal never said it was a merely a hole or a vacuum. It's an infinite abyss. Only God can fill the abyss of our heart. And that is, because only God is pure love. We often settle for substitutes, even good ones. And yet, nothing short of God's infinite love will truly satisfy. Even the “perfect” family, the dream job, the best ministry—they may satisfy for a season, but the “infinite abyss” of our heart intuitively discovers that they do not fill. Only the love of our infinite God can fill the infinite abyss of our heart. So, what does God's love look like, and how do we experience it so that it fills our heart? I would venture to say, in the same way that we experience anyone else's love! God has given us human interactions so that we would learn from them how to spot true love, and then infinitely extrapolate the experience to embrace God's love. In other words, how do you know anyone loves you? I think it is the sum of what they say and what they do. And so it is with God. Ponder what Scripture tells you about what God says about you, what He promises you, and what He has done for you both in the past and in the present. For example, Zephaniah 3:17 describes you as the recipient of the overflow of the love of God: “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke y but will rejoice over you with singing.” To need and to want; to love and be loved. This is the experience God invites us to enjoy in Him. Love is an experience of the heart AND mind. It is a decision of the will that transforms your heart and turns living into loving. So, how do we do this? First, be inspired by others who DO delight in Him. Who do you know, who loves the Lord with all of their heart and mind and strength and soul? Seek them out, and then surround yourself with them; learn from them. And second, YOU be inspiring to others who seek to delight in Him! Never place yourself intentionally on display, but intentionally invite Him to use you as His earthen vessel in a jar of clay. In other words, love God, and love others like yourself. What does it look like? I would sum it up in one word: Crave. Crave Him. The more you spend time with others who crave Him, the more you will crave Him. It will happen through prayer and study of His Word. It will happen through a deeper living-out of the set-apartness of knowing you are His, and He is yours. It will happen as you practically set out to love others in His Name. And it will not happen in your own strength—that's the secret. God displays His supernatural glory through human impossibilities. Crave God. He will satisfy. Love God. He will teach you to love Him through the Spirit. Love others. He will act through you. Join us this week on the Gospel Spice Podcast to find out how Eve is discovering the mysterious miracle of intimacy with God. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Holding Firm in Faith: Trusting God's Promise, the conclusion of Hebrews 3In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane dive into the second part of Hebrews 3, exploring the call to hold firmly to our faith and trust in God's promises. They discuss the importance of guarding our hearts against unbelief, encouraging one another daily, and walking in faithful obedience. Join the conversation as they reflect on what it means to truly rest in God's presence and remain steadfast in His truth.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved