So Much More: Scripture Meditation (Lectio Divina) (Jodie Niznik - Lectio Divina and Scripture Meditation Instructor)

Note: Meditation starts at 1:30   Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Reverend Jonna Fantz, pastor and spiritual director, to hear where the Lord led her.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 8 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use.   Deuteronomy 6:4-9, NIV 4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. y 5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

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Join Jodie as she guides you through the process of Lectio Divina with John 12:1-8, where Mary anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume.

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This guided Christian meditation in Matthew 6 will give you peace as you embrace the truth that you are valued and cared for as a friend of God.

Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here.

Many of us have been tricked into believing we are valued for what we do, not who we are. And this creates deep anxiety.

And in some of Jesus’s final words, Jesus made sure we knew that we are valued because we are God’s friends.

And as friends of God, we have been chosen by Him.

We are loved by Him.

We matter to Him.

That’s the foundation of our lives.

As you listen to this meditation, I pray that you will be reminded that you are loved because you are a friend of God.

And even when you fall short, because we all will, you will not let the enemy use that to create fear and anxiety in your life, but you will release this shortcoming and turn back to God in love.

Because, as a true friend, you have nothing to worry about.  

Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here.

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The whole meditation text is as follows:

John 15:14–17 NLT

You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. 16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other.

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Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Mark Cravensto hear where the Lord led him.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Peter, this series coincides with my Bible study: Journey: A Study of Peter for Stumbling Toward Jesus’s Extravagant Grace.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 16:21-25, NIV   21 From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. 22 Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!” 23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” 24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.

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Join Jodie and Amy Hayes, a speaker, business owner and Bible study leader, as they discuss Amy's experience doing Imaginative Prayer on Luke 1:26-38 and where the Lord led her.

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*** Download your free Sacred Summer Journal here. ****

 

You cannot bear fruit unless you remain in me - Jesus

 

Jesus invites us to be intimately connected to him so we can be fruitful.

And then reminds us that pruning isn’t bad – it’s loving.

It leads to stronger branches and more fruit. 

 

A lot of slow work happens behind the scenes.

 

But in that slow work, we can trust that the gardener knows what he is doing. 

 

Listen in to this week’s meditation to see how the Spirit leads you toward fruitfulness.

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Sacred Summer Journal here.

 

 

 

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Take a few minutes to meditate on Psalm 111 and then listen in to hear Summer and I discuss the spiritual discipline of journaling.   Some highlights from our conversation: We start with Summer’s love for journaling and how her 4th grade teacher gave her space to practice writing her thoughts. We talk about some of the fears of journaling – and Summer gives us some tips for how to journal if we don’t think we’re much of a writer. We discuss the Psalms and how David models the kinds of prayers we can pray and journal about. Summer walks us through the practice of Immanuel Journaling and shares how it has brought substantial healing to her life.     You can find Summer at: https://www.athirstforgod.com/ You can follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/revsummerjoy/ And on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/summer.gross.3   The resources we discussed in the podcast are: Listening Prayer by Leanne Payne Life Model Works and their guide of Immanuel Journaling

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Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create a few minutes to enjoy some sacred space with God by engaging with Psalm 23. As you allow the Spirit to lead through this beloved Psalm, you may be surprised by what he has for you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Kat Armstrong to hear where the Lord led her. Kat is an author, Bible teacher and the co-founder of The Polished Network. She has a master’s degree from Dallas Theological Seminary.   The exact verses read in this podcast are all of Psalm 23 in the NIV.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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Meditation setup starts at 1:40. Imaginative prayer invites us to use our God-given sanctified imagination to slow down and enter a story of Scripture. This form of Scripture meditation helps us notice details we may have missed before. It also gives us an opportunity to talk to Jesus about what we noticed and why it matters to us – and most importantly, why it matters to him.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Scott McClellan to hear where the Lord led him.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Peter, this series coincides with lesson 5 of Jodie’s Bible study: Journey: A Study of Peter for Stumbling Toward Jesus’s Extravagant Grace.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use. John 13:3-17, NIV   Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” 7 Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” 8 “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” 9 “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” 10 Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. 12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

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Note: Meditation starts at 1:37 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Seminary professor, Dr. Joye Baker, to hear where the Lord led her. If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 3 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here. The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Exodus 4:10-17 10 Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.” 11 The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” 13 But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.” 14 Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and he will be glad to see you. 15 You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. 16 He will speak to the people for you, and it will be as if he were your mouth and as if you were God to him. 17 But take this staff in your hand so you can perform the signs with it.

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This guided Christian meditation in Isaiah 41 reminds us that we are called, chosen, and upheld by God. He is with us, and therefore we have nothing to fear.

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

Ancient Israel wandered away from God—but God never gave up on them.

They were his called, chosen, and upheld people.

 

Isaiah’s words were a balm to their wayward souls.

And they are strong words to comfort and encourage us today.

 

God is with you.

You are his called and chosen son or daughter.

 

And because of this:

God longs to help you.

God longs to strengthen you.

He is holding you up with his righteous right hand.

 

And his righteous right hand is stronger than anyone or anything else.

 

No matter where you find yourself today, let these truths guide you.

You do not need to be afraid because God is on your side.

 

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

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Isaiah 41:9-10, NIV

9 I took you from the ends of the earth,

from its farthest corners I called you.

I said, ‘You are my servant’;

I have chosen you and have not rejected you.

10 So do not fear, for I am with you;

do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

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Mary is a literary agent, author of over 40 books, podcast host and artist. And to top it all off, she's incredibly insightful.  Take a few quiet moments to listen to the Scripture Experience podcast on Genesis 39 and then listen in to this conversation to hear where the Lord led Mary and some of the things he helped her notice in this passage.  The exact verses covered are Genesis 39:1-4, 11-12, 16-23 in the NIV. You can find Mary at: marydemuth.com Her Pray Every Day podcast is at: prayeveryday.show And her website that supports abuse survivors is at: wetoo.org

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Imaginative Prayer is a practice that helps you slow down to engage with Scripture using your God-given imagination. Create some space for God and spend a few quiet moments listening to this podcast. Then make sure to listen to the interview podcast where I have a conversation with Rebecca George, a podcast host and author, on her experience doing Imaginative Prayer. The exact verses read in this podcast are Genesis 42:1-11 in the NIV. If you want to supplement these podcasts and go deeper into Joseph’s life, you can find the Bible study Trust here. You can find out more about Jodie at jodieniznik.com or follow her on Instagram @jodieniznik or @creatingspaceforgod

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This is a guided meditation for Holy Saturday to help you prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on this silent day of waiting and wondering.

We are meditating on Luke 23:50-56. You can find the passage and reflection questions in the free lent guide.

You can download your Lent Guide here.

Here are a few additional helpful links:

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

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

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

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

Liz and her husband Chris serve as the founding Senior Pastors of Relevant Church in Daytona Beach, Fl. Liz also serves as the ministry administrator, overseeing operations for Relevant Church and she serves on the Equip team at Leading and Loving It – where she writes resources and devotions. Liz is also a speaker, worship leader and author who enjoys encouraging others to fulfill their destiny and reach their full potential in God. Take a few minutes to meditate on Matthew 15 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Liz.   Some highlights from our conversation: We talk about how we can forget what God has done in the past and how he has provided for us. And that when we offer him what we have, he will make It enough. Liz shares her prayer asking Jesus to help her trust him more - and how she imagines Jesus would respond. We also talk about getting to the place of feeling like we are “over it” and how Jesus wants to help us become overcomers.   You can find Liz at: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Instagram: @liz_sarno Facebook: @lizsarno   Here’s the passage for your convenience:   Matthew 15:29-38, NIV 29 Jesus left there and went along the Sea of Galilee. Then he went up on a mountainside and sat down. 30 Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them. 31 The people were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled made well, the lame walking and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel. 32 Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.” 33 His disciples answered, “Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?” 34 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied, “and a few small fish.” 35 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. 36 Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. 37 They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 38 The number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children.

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One aspect of the Fruit of the Spirit is love. But what is love?

Download your free Fruit of the Spirit Journal here.

In this new series, we’re focusing on the Fruit of the Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness and self-control.

Each week, we'll settle into one specific aspect of the fruit. This week, it's all about LOVE. Dive into 1 Corinthians 13, the iconic love passage, and let its truths sink deep into your heart. Love is patient, kind, bears no envy, and keeps no record of wrongs. How can we embody these qualities? 🤔

In the guided Scripture meditation, you’ll be invited to create space to let the Spirit guide you into what he wants you to notice about love. And then you will have space to talk to him about whatever he’s revealing to you.

Slow down, take a few deep breaths, and let God remind you of his love as he invites you to be more loving.

Helpful links:

Download your free Fruit of the Spirit Journal here

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The meditation text is:

1 Corinthians 13:1–7, NIV

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

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Meditation starts at 1:37  Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then listen to the next episode with Pastor Bill White to hear where the Lord led him. If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 10 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Hebrews 11:24-27, NIV 24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. 27 By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible.

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Experience Genesis 39 through a practice called imaginative prayer. In this practice you will listen to God's word read over you as you allow the Spirit to draw you into the details he wants you to see and notice. The exact verses read are: Genesis 39: 1-4, 11-12, 16-23 in the NIV. This is the second podcast on the life of Jospeh and while this podcast can stand alone, it also coincides with Trust: A Study of Joseph for Persevering Through Life's Challenges lesson 2.  You can get a copy of the study here: https://www.amazon.com/Trust-Joseph-Persevering-Through-Challenges/dp/0825446724  Find out more about Jodie at jodieniznik.com or follow her @jodieniznik or @creatingspaceforgod

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Listen alone or grab the family and savor a few moments to reflect and refocus on the true story of Christmas. Earl Davidson reads Luke 2:1-21 (Message translation) and Jodie guides you in a short time of reflection and prayer. All this is set to music that will calm your heart and lead you to experience the joy of the season. You can find Jodie at: http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik

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This is a guided prayer for the seventh week of Lent.

Get your FREE lent guide here.

 

Our meditation passage (released on 3.25.24) was from Luke 22:54-62. In this account, Peter denied his association with Jesus three times. And then he was slammed with realizing what he had done and leaves the scene weeping bitterly.

In this guided prayer, we begin by recognizing that Jesus is currently interceding for us (Romans 8:34), and so we ask Jesus to pray for our faith to be strengthened as he prayed for Peter. We then take a moment to sit in sadness over our sin and confess the areas we are tempted to sin. We then ask God to grant us the strength to resist temptation. And finally, we end with a moment to receive God’s great love for us.  

Here are some helpful links:

You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here.

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

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

 

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

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

Note: Meditation starts at 1:37 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Biblical Archaeologist and Author Amanda Hope Haley to hear where the Lord led her.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 6 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use. Exodus 14:10-15, 21-22 10 As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. 11 They said to Moses, “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Didn’t we say to you in Egypt, ‘Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians’? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!” 13 Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 15 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. 21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, 22 and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.

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Dr. Sandra Glahn is a professor at Dallas theological seminary. She has authored and co-authored over 20 books, both fiction and non-fiction. She is also a journalist and speaker who loves to use her voice to advocate for thinking that transforms – especially on topics related to art, gender, sexual intimacy in marriage, and the first century backgrounds as they relate to gender. Take a few minutes to meditate on Matthew 26 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Dr. Glahn.   In this conversation we talk about The different kisses given to the Son – the kiss of betrayal and the kiss of worship. How our zeal to defend the Lord can sometime have the exact opposite effect of what we intend. Peter’s good intentions – to stay awake, to defend Jesus and even to die with him. Dr. Glahn’s coming book on the goddess Artemis of the Ephesians – and why it matters that we understand who she was when Paul was writing his letters.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 26:47-56 in the NIV. You can find Dr. Glahn and her thoughtful writing about at http://aspire2.com/

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Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Pastor Reece Woodruff to hear where the Lord led him.   Reece is a pastor at Christ Freedom Church – a three-year-old church in Lewisville Texas. He is also a graduate of DTS and an insightful teacher of God’s word.    If you would like to go deeper into the life of Peter, this series coincides with lesson 8 of Jodie’s Bible study: Journey: A Study of Peter for Stumbling Toward Jesus’s Extravagant Grace.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Acts 4:8-13, printed below, in the NIV.   Acts 4:8-13   8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, 10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11 Jesus is “ ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ 12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” 13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

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God’s faithfulness isn’t dependent on our actions; it’s rooted in God’s unchanging character. This meditation on Deuteronomy 7:6-9 reminds us that God is faithful even when we falter.

In this passage, we’re reminded that God chose and rescued Israel—not because they were deserving, but because He loved them. In the same way, God chooses and rescues us, not because we deserve it, but simply because of His great love for us.

Whatever you’re facing right now, this passage will remind you that God will always be faithful to you. You can trust in His unfailing love, no matter your circumstances.

This meditation invites you to reflect on how God has been faithful to you in the past and will create space for you to rest in His faithfulness today.

God is faithful.

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Deuteronomy 7:6-9, NLT

6 For you are a holy people, who belong to the Lord your God. Of all the people on earth, the Lord your God has chosen you to be his own special treasure.

7 “The Lord did not set his heart on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other nations, for you were the smallest of all nations! 8 Rather, it was simply that the Lord loves you, and he was keeping the oath he had sworn to your ancestors. That is why the Lord rescued you with such a strong hand from your slavery and from the oppressive hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. 9 Understand, therefore, that the Lord your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand generations and lavishes his unfailing love on those who love him and obey his commands

 

 

 

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Lectio Divina is the sacred reading of Scripture and is a way to meditate on God’s word. Create some space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to guide you into his living and active Word, you may be surprised by what he wants you to notice.     Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Barbie Armenta to hear where the Lord led her. Barbie is an author, speaker and coach.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 10:26-31 in the NIV. It’s also printed below for your convenience.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download the free Lectio Divina Guided Journal here   Matthew 10:26-31, NIV 26 “So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27 What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

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

Note: Meditation starts at 1:41  Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Bible Teacher and author, Erica Wiggenhorn to hear where the Lord led her.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 1 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Acts 7:20-25, NIV 20 “At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for by his family. 21 When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. 22 Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action. 23 “When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. 24 He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. 25 Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not.

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This guided Christian meditation from Acts leads you to reflect on how you can find abundant and lasting joy.

In this meditation, you will be invited to:

Reflect on the difference between joy and pleasure

Reflect on the early church and how they experienced joy

Invite the Spirit to guide you into how he is inviting you to know more joy in your life

 

Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here.

 

This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

 

Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here.

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

 

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The whole meditation text is as follows:

Acts 2:44-47, NLT

44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.

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This guided Christian meditation from Exodus encourages you to reflect on God's love for you and his desire to help you.

 

In this meditation, you will:

Reflect on the truth that God sees you, hears you, and is concerned about you

Reflect on God as a rescuer

Reflect on God’s graciousness toward us

Invite the Spirit to guide you into how you need God to act on your behalf

Invite God to help you rest in his character

 

Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here.

 

This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

 

Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here.

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

 

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The whole meditation text is as follows:

Exodus 3:7–8, NIV

7 The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey

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

Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Sharifa Stevens to hear where the Lord led her.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Peter, this series coincides with my Bible study: Journey: A Study of Peter for Stumbling Toward Jesus’s Extravagant Grace.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Luke 5:4-11 in the NIV.   4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” 6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.

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

Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by what he has for you. You will certainly be encouraged.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Rebecca Carrell, former KCBI radio host and current Bible teacher, seminary student and podcast host, on where the Lord led her and what he is teaching her. The exact verses read in this podcast are Genesis 45:25-46-5 in the NIV. If you want to supplement these podcasts and go deeper into Joseph’s life, you can find the Bible study Trust here.

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

Some highlights from our conversation:

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

 

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

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

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

 

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

NEW SERIES: Do Not Be Afraid

This guided Christian meditation on John 14 reminds us that Jesus leaves us peace, so we do not need to be afraid. If your heart feels troubled, this meditation will help you find peace.

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

Some say there are 365 verses of Scripture that tell us not to be afraid, one for each day. I'm not sure that's entirely accurate, but here's what I do know: Scripture speaks about fear A LOT.

There is no shortage of things that make us feel fear. 

However, we actually have very little control over much of what causes us to feel fear, which means the feeling of fear isn't doing us any favors. 

Fear preoccupies our hearts and minds, causes us to lose sleep, and causes our bodies to experience an overload of stress. Unnecessary fear is simply a tool the enemy uses to render us ineffective. 

And that's why the Bible speaks to fear over and over again.

God doesn't want us to fear because he wants us to thrive, live in trust and peace, and remember that he has good plans for us.

Jesus knew this would be our struggle, so he stated: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Find a quiet space, take a few deep breaths, and allow Jesus' words to lead you to his peace.

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

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

John 14:1, 25-27, NIV

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.

"All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

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

Sibyl Towner is a Spiritual Director and the co-author of Listen to My Life and co-founder of oneLifeMaps. She and her husband, Dick, also oversee and direct The Springs retreat center In Illinois which invites Christian leaders to retreat, rest, and find refreshment to continue serving him. Sibyl is known for her discerning, accepting, and wise presence, cultivated over a lifetime of experience in Spiritual Direction.    Take a few minutes to meditate on Matthew 19 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Sibyl.   In this conversation we talk about The real invitation to the rich young man - and the invitation for us. How Sibyl does and doesn’t identify with the rich young man. The call to detach from our “program for happiness” so we can allow God to work out his vision for our lives. Sibyl’s experience detaching from her plans and the deep inner work God did in her life. The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 19:16-26 in the NIV. You can find out more about Sibyl and oneLife Maps here

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

This guided Christian meditation from Solomon’s prayer from 1 Kings 8 will remind you:

God hasn’t given up on you.

God hasn’t walked out on you.

God is a faithful promise keeper with a perfect track record.

Our souls need this reminder.

This meditation will help you remember God’s perfect faithfulness in the past as you seek his good and wise path for the future.

Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here.

This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here.

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The whole meditation text is as follows:

1 Kings 8:56-58. The Message Translation

Blessed be God, who has given peace to his people Israel just as he said he’d do. Not one of all those good and wonderful words that he spoke through Moses has misfired. May God, our very own God, continue to be with us just as he was with our ancestors—may he never give up and walk out on us. May he keep us centered and devoted to him, following the life path he has cleared, watching the signposts, walking at the pace and rhythms he laid down for our ancestors.

 

For reference, this is the NIV translation of 1 Kings 8:56-58

Praise be to the Lord, who has given rest to his people Israel just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave through his servant Moses. May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our ancestors; may he never leave us nor forsake us. May he turn our hearts to him, to walk in obedience to him and keep the commands, decrees and laws he gave our ancestors.

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

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

 

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

 

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 141:1-4, NIV

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

hear me when I call to you.

2 May my prayer be set before you like incense;

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

3 Set a guard over my mouth, Lord;

keep watch over the door of my lips.

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

so that I take part in wicked deeds

along with those who are evildoers;

do not let me eat their delicacies.

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

Meet my guest Paul Angone:

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

Some highlights from our conversation:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

 

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

Join Jodie as she guides you in this Lectio Divina experience on Genesis 37:1-11. This passage explores the beginning of Joseph's story - a story full of unexpected twists and turns.  This podcast can be listened to and enjoyed without any prep work. However, if you want to go deeper it coincides with the first lesson in the Bible study Trust: A Study of Joseph for Persevering Through Life's Challenges. You can grab a copy of the study here: https://www.amazon.com/Trust-Joseph-Persevering-Through-Challenges/dp/0825446724

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

Dieula Previlon is an ordained minister through the Evangelical Covenant Church. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice and the founder of ElevateHer International ministries where she travels the world to teach women about trauma and how to find healing from trauma. She was born in Haiti and grew up in New Jersey. She lived in north Dallas with her husband and three young adult sons for 16 years and has recently returned to New Jersey. On any given day, you might find her reading, speaking and preaching about the intersections of faith and trauma, racial justice and how the gospel liberates women and all God’s children to live a life of purpose on purpose. Take a few minutes to listen to the experience podcast doing Lectio Divina on Psalm 37 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Dieula. We discuss choosing trust and rest in God as we believe him for coming justice. We also talk about lament and why this process is so important for our spiritual and physical healing. The exact verses read in this podcast are Psalm 37:1-4, 7 in the NIV. Resources we discussed: Prophetic Lament: A Call for Justice in Troubled Times by Soong-Chan Rah The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. You can find Dieula at: https://www.dieulaprevilon.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dieulap/

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

Nika Spaulding has a Master of Theology and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Ministry. She recently helped plant a church called St Jude Oak Cliff in Oak Cliff, Dallas where she serves as the Resident Theologian. Take a few minutes to meditate on John 20 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Nika.   In this conversation we talk about What it must have been like for Mary. And how our own grief journey can help us enter into this story in a more observant way. How Mary got that one moment we all long for when someone we love dies – to have one more conversation to say all the things we left unsaid. That there is a day coming when all will be made right, and we will be reunited with the people we love who have died in Christ. How to properly say “zoology” and how Nika’s Zoology degree has proved helpful (or not) to her current role in ministry. And as a bonus, I left our funny little outtake in for you. Nika thought we were done, but I was still going. It gave us both a good laugh - and it was very sweet of her too.  The exact verses read in this podcast are John 20:1, 11-18 in the NIV. You can find out more about Nika and her podcast, God on Tap, at https://www.nikaspaulding.com/ You can find her online theology classes here

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

He is risen! He is risen, indeed.

Prepare your heart for the glory of Easter as you meditate on the resurrection of Jesus.

 

Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal

 

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

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik

 

Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies

 

The exact verses read in this podcast are printed in the guided Lent Journal for your use:

Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal

 

 

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

Laura Murray is a spiritual director, coach, speaker and author. She served for years on the pastoral staff at a large church until the Lord called her to a new ministry of helping ministry leaders find healthy and restorative rhythms for their relationship with the Lord. One of the ways she does this is through her online silent retreats.

Take a few minutes to meditate on 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 and then listen in on our conversation where we explore the practice of Silence and Solitude – and how it can be deeply impactful in your relationship with the Lord.

Some highlights from our conversation:

1. Silence and Solitude is a spiritual practice of receiving. We have the action of showing up. But beyond that we simply receive from the Lord. When practicing Silence and Solitude, expect resistance. Everything in our world cuts against this practice. It’s hard to be still in what can seem like an unproductive way. Yet God does much with our time of silence and solitude.

2. Practical tips for entering into a time of silence and solitude: let people know you’re unavailable, take off your watch, and turn off your phone. When practicing silence and solitude, you don’t have to be still. You can go outside and go for a walk. Just don’t use it as a time to achieve something like exercise. Noises will come. Someone will start a lawnmower – a dog will bark – try to let those pass. And when internal noise rises up, don’t let it tempt you to abandon what you are doing. It is not a sign of failure.

When practicing silence and solitude, expect it to get noisier before it gets quieter. Allow that noise to pass.

You can find Laura and her silent retreats at: https://laurabmurray.com/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurabmurray/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurabmurray

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

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

 

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

 

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

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

And God calls his creation remarkable and wondrous.

Even the details you aren’t particularly fond of.

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

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

 

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

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 139:13-16, CSB

13 For it was you who created my inward parts;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

14 I will praise you

because I have been remarkably and wondrously made.,

Your works are wondrous,

and I know this very well.

15 My bones were not hidden from you

when I was made in secret,

when I was formed in the depths of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw me when I was formless;

all my days were written in your book and planned

before a single one of them began.

 

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Natalia leads the ministry Girlfriends in the Word, which has a podcast by the same name and multiple published Bible Studies. Her heart is to encourage women to spend regular time in God’s word. She is also pursuing her masters at Dallas Theological Seminary. She lives in SW Florida with her husband and three boys. Take a few minutes to meditate on Matthew 17:1-8 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Natalia. Some highlights from our conversation: How Jesus made the intentional decision to take the three disciples up the mountain with him and how he makes intentional decisions to take us places too. How our world documents and shares everything – and how sometimes we need to keep experiences with God private. How Jesus met the disciples needs with both his words and actions. What time with the Lord looks like for Natalia as she homeschools her three boys, pursues her master’s degree and manages her ministry.   You can find Natalia at https://www.nataliadrumm.com/ You can follow Natalis on Instagram @nataliadrumm And on Facebook: @nataliadrumm   The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 17:1-8, NIV … Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. 3 Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus. 4 Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. 7 But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” 8 When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.

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This guided Christian meditation in Proverbs 3 will bring you peace as you remember God is with you even when life doesn’t make sense.

Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here.

Why?

It’s a question we ask God a lot.

And a question for which we rarely get satisfactory answers.

Spinning in the unanswerable question of why can bring fear and anxiety.

This meditation will give you space to acknowledge your questions and release them to God. Then, turn to God in trust. Because as Proverbs 3 reminds us, that is where the path gets straight, and the next steps become clear.

 

Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Proverbs 3:5-6, Christian Standard Bible

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

and do not rely on your own understanding;

6 in all your ways know him,

and he will make your paths straight.

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This guided Christian meditation from Galatians will help you reflect on and embrace the freedom Christ gives us.

 

In this meditation, you will be invited to:

Consider what freedom is and isn’t

Ask God to help you identify any places where you aren’t experiencing freedom

Allow the Spirit to guide you toward freedom in this area of your life

 

Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here.

 

This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

 

Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here.

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

 

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The whole meditation text is as follows:

Galatians 5:1, 13-14 - NLT

So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.

13 For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 14 For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

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God’s grace is a gift—freely given and completely undeserved. In this guided meditation from Ephesians 2, we reflect on God’s unearned kindness, favor, and forgiveness that flows abundantly into our lives. God is grace.

Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-10 (NLT), reminds us that:

• God, rich in mercy, loved us even when we were dead in our sins.
• We are saved by His grace, not by anything we’ve done.
• We are God’s masterpiece, created for the good works He prepared for us.

This meditation invites you to pause and reflect on how you’ve experienced God’s grace in your life. How has His unearned kindness, favor, and forgiveness shaped your story? And what does it mean that you are His masterpiece?

Take a moment to rest in this truth: Because of God’s grace, you are loved, you are redeemed, and you are created with purpose.

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-10, NLT

4 But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!)

8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. 10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

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Some days feel crushing – like everything is caving in at once.

 

Paul understood this when he said:

We are hard-pressed, but not crushed.

Perplexed, but not in despair.

Persecuted, but not abandoned.

Struck down, but not destroyed.

 

If you’re feeling hard-pressed, listen in for a fresh breath of hope.

 

Take a few quiet moments to listen to this Scripture from 2 Corinthians, reflect on its meaning, and respond to God's invitation. As we journey through this passage, we discover that even in the midst of challenging seasons, God is with us, and we can have hope because of Jesus.

 

Once you’ve listened to the Scripture Meditation, don’t miss the bonus episode with pastor and author Benjamin Windle (Releases 9/6/23). We discuss his new book, Good Catastrophe, and how we can find hope in Christ amid challenging circumstances.

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

 

The entire meditation text is as follows: 

2 Corinthians 4:8-10, NLT

8 We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. 9 We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. 10 Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.

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This guided Christian meditation from Matthew 6 will help you remember that God cares about your future and will meet your needs.

 

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

 

Will there be enough for tomorrow?

What if the economy collapses? Will I lose all I have?

There’s no shortage of fears swirling around about the economy and our future.

 

While there is wisdom in preparing for our future through wise living and saving, we cannot let what we’ve stored away, or what we haven’t stored away, become an idol.

Idols are false Gods, and they only make hollow promises.

God is the only one who promises to truly take care of us. And God keeps his promises.

Matthew 6 reminds us that if God cares for the bird's daily needs, he will also care for yours.

As you meditate on Matthew 6, part of Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount, let it comfort you with the reminder that God will take care of you today and in the future.

 

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

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Matthew 6:31–34, NIV

So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

 

The other passages mentioned in this podcast are:

Matthew 6:19-21, NIV

19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

 

Matthew 6:25-26, NIV

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

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This guided Scripture meditation for Lent leads us to consider where true greatness is found.

So, what does makes someone great?

Power. Influence. Authority. Wealth. Accomplishments.

We know these things don’t really make us great, yet we still desire them. We still strive after them. And we even convince ourselves we will use all this greatness for the good of the Kingdom.

And then, Jesus flips greatness upside down. The way up is really down.

To be great is to serve.

To lower ourselves.  

To open our hands.

To be great is to be like Jesus, the King and the Creator. The One who really did have it all and was truly great.

And he laid it all down to serve us, you and me.

This is the measure of greatness.

And it isn’t easy.

 

As you listen to this week’s meditation, know that I’m praying for you to embrace God’s definition of greatness for your life. His way is not our way, but His way is always the better way.

 

This is our fourth Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here.

Here’s some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life:

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The passage meditated on in this episode is:

Matthew 20:20-28, CSB

20 Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons approached JESUS with her sons. She knelt down to ask him for something. 21 “What do you want?” he asked her.

“Promise,” she said to him, “that these two sons of mine may sit, one on your right and the other on your left, in your kingdom.”

22 Jesus answered, “You don’t know what you’re asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?”,

“We are able,” they said to him.

23 He told them, “You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right and left is not mine to give; instead, it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.”

24 When the ten disciples heard this, they became indignant with the two brothers. 25 Jesus called them over and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in high positions act as tyrants over them. 26 It must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

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This guided Scripture meditation for Lent leads us to consider how we love God and love others.

Download your free guided Lent journal here.

The Old Testament Law was complex. There were 613 laws that Jews were required to follow. Religious leaders in Jesus’ day liked to debate which of these laws were more important than the others. When Jesus received this question, he summed up the entire law simply. In fact, he used just one word: love. Love God and love others.

 

This guided meditation will give you space to consider how God may be inviting you to love him and others in new ways.

 

This is our fifth Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here.

Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life:

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The passage meditated on in this episode is:

Mark 12:28–31, NIV

28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”

29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ n There is no commandment greater than these.”

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Join Jodie as she talks with Cheri Hudspith, a Spiritual Director in Dallas, about her experience doing Lectio in John 12. Not only will you hear what the Lord drew Cheri to in the passage, but you will also learn more about what Spiritual Direction is and what Cheri loves about this being her vocation and calling.

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

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

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

Will God redeem the mess?

Will He restore what’s been broken?

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 71:19-21, NLT

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

You have done such wonderful things.

Who can compare with you, O God?

20 You have allowed me to suffer much hardship,

but you will restore me to life again

and lift me up from the depths of the earth.

21 You will restore me to even greater honor

and comfort me once again.

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This is a guided prayer for the fourth week of Lent.

Get your FREE lent guide here.

 

Our meditation passage (released on 3.11.24) was Matthew Mark 12:28-31. In this account, Jesus reminds us that love is the most important command.

 

In this guided prayer, we begin by thanking God for his love and asking him to help us receive his love. Then we ask God to help us notice how he may be inviting us to love him differently. And finally, we ask God to help us know how he is inviting us to love someone practically today or this week.

 

May God grant you the courage to love well today, this week, and moving forward.

 

Here are some helpful links:

You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here.

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

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

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

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

Aryn is a faith-based songwriter, recording artist, worship leader and mother of four from Dallas, TX. You will quickly hear how talented she is as she sings an original recording of our Psalm to start and end the podcast this week. Take a few minutes to listen to the experience podcast doing Lectio Divina on Psalm 121 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Aryn. We talk about how God being called The Maker encouraged Aryn with how she is called to make music. We also discussed how God comes to our aid and what that means and doesn’t mean. The exact verses read in this podcast are Psalm 121:1-3, 7-8 in the NIV. You can find Aryn at https://www.arynmichelle.com/ And follow her at: YouTube Facebook TikToc Instagram

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

Rev Adele Ahlberg Calhoun is a spiritual director, pastor, and author. She is currently the Co-Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Highrock Church in Arlington, MA. She has written several books – including two of my favorites: The Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices that Transform Us and Spiritual Rhythms for the Enneagram: A Handbook for Harmony and Transformation   As the title of the second book reveals, she is an expert in using the Enneagram for spiritual formation. She has also taught courses at Wheaton College and Northern Baptist Theological Seminary.   Take a few minutes to meditate on Matthew 15:21-28 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Adele.   Some highlights from our conversation: We discuss what Jesus meant when he said, “it is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” We discuss how this passage shows the humanity of Jesus. We reflect on this woman’s bravery in seeking healing for her daughter. We talk about spiritual pilgrimages - what they are and how you could join one.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 15:21-28 in the NIV.   You can find Adele at Calhounministries.org   Here books are linked above. They are both excellent.

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

Get your free Lent guide here.

When Jesus faced his deepest need, he turned to God in prayer.

And in prayer, Jesus found strength.

Jesus also invited the disciples to pray because temptation was barreling toward them. Jesus knew the disciples would also be strengthened through prayer.

Unfortunately, they fell asleep. They didn’t understand the urgency of Jesus’s exhortation to pray.

Prayer can be hard for all of us. And yet, we know it is an essential practice that connects us to God.

As you listen to this meditation, you will be guided to reflect on how God is inviting you to pray and how it can help you stay strong in the face of your temptations.

This is our sixth Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here.

Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life:

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The passage meditated on in this episode is:

Luke 22:40–46, CSV

40 When he reached the place, he told them, “Pray that you may not fall into temptation.” 41 Then he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and began to pray, 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me—nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.”

43 Then an angel from heaven appeared to him, strengthening him. 44 Being in anguish, he prayed more fervently, and his sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground. 45 When he got up from prayer and came to the disciples, he found them sleeping, exhausted from their grief. 46 “Why are you sleeping?” he asked them. “Get up and pray, so that you won’t fall into temptation.”

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Pastor Robert Daniels is the lead pastor of Christ Freedom Church in Lewisville, Texas. Take a few minutes to listen to the experience podcast doing Lectio Divina on Psalm 37 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Robert. We discuss trusting God in the darkest and hardest places of life. We also talk about how being raw and real before God can lead to healing and comfort from God. The exact verses read in this podcast are Psalm 62:1-2, 5-8 in the NIV. You can find Robert at: https://christfreedomchurch.org/robert-daniels/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertrobd/

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

Note: Meditation starts at 1:50   Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then listen to the interview with Rev. Summer Gross on the spiritual discipline of journaling.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Psalm 111:2-5 2 Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. 3 Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever. 4 He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate. 5 He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever.

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

Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Linda Seidler to hear where the Lord led her. Linda is a pastor, speaker and all-around encourager. The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 9:9-13 in the NIV. You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.

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

This week’s podcast is a Guided Lectio Divina Scripture meditation on the Fruit of the Spirit of Goodness.

 

Are you feeling weary?

 

You aren’t alone. It’s easy to get discouraged when it feels like the good work we are doing isn’t getting the results we hoped for. Or the relationship isn’t getting better. Or it just feels like we keep hitting dead ends.

 

Take a moment to breathe, reflect on, and remember the goodness of God through this guided meditation on Galatians 6. As you meditate, allow the Holy Spirit to guide you to what he has for us – and trust him to cultivate the fruit of goodness in your life. He will do it.

 

Remember: God’s timing isn’t always our timing. But his timing is perfect and good. We will reap a harvest in his good timing, so don’t give up my friend. Keep walking in the good works God is calling you to.

 

The full meditation passage is as follows:

Galatians 6:9-10, NIV

9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

 

Get you FREE Fruit of the Spirit Guided Meditation Journal: here 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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

Ellen and her daughters, Taylor and Ashley, run the ministry Coffee and Bible Time, which started on YouTube to inspire the delight of God’s word and to help people come to know Jesus personally - it now has over 340,000 subscribers. They’ve branched out to become a community of followers that seeks to share stories, spark imagination and be welcoming to new friends. And Ellen, as the mentor mama, hosts the coffee and Bible time podcast. They also write Bible studies and create other resources to help followers as the journey with Jesus. Take a few minutes to meditate on Deuteronomy 8:6-14 and then listen in to hear where God led Ellen.   Some highlights from our conversation: Ellen looks up two of the key words in the passage, obedience and revere, and helps us understand the fuller meaning of these tricky and often misrepresented words. How the Lord used this passage to remind Ellen of some truths she will need as she shares their new YouTube series Biblical Perspectives on Raw Topics The three things Ellen saw in this passage How the Coffee and Bible Time ministry started and what it’s like to work with her daughters.   You can find Ellen and her daughters at https://www.coffeeandbibletime.com/   Where you will find links to their podcast, videos and Bible study resources. Follow their YouTube channel here Follow on Instagram: @coffeeandbibletime On Facebook: CoffeeandBibleTime   The exact verses read in this podcast are Deuteronomy 8:6-14 6 Observe the commands of the Lord your God, walking in obedience to him and revering him. 7 For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land—a land with brooks, streams, and deep springs gushing out into the valleys and hills; 8 a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; 9 a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills. 10 When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. 11 Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. 12 Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, 13 and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, 14 then your heart will become proud and you will forget the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

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Prepare your heart for Easter as you meditate on this silent day of waiting and wondering.

 

Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal

 

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

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik

 

Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies

 

The exact verses read in this podcast are printed in the guided Lent Journal for your use:

Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal

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This guided Christian meditation in Matthew 6 will remind you that you matter to God and he will take care of you.

Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here.

It’s easy to let worry consume our thoughts and energy. So easy.

It can be difficult to trust that God will help us through what we’re facing.

But today, for this moment, I want to invite you to take a lesson from the birds.

Breath deep. See how God takes care of them. They’re going to be ok.

So will you.

As you listen to this meditation, I’m praying the Lord helps you lay aside whatever you’re carrying and rest in his capable care today.

Get your FREE Peace, Be Still Guided Meditation Journal here.

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Matthew 6:25–27, NIV

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

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This is a guided prayer for the fourth week of Lent.

Get your FREE lent guide here.

Our meditation passage (released on 3.4.24) was Matthew 20:20-28. In this account, Jesus flips greatness on its head and unpacks the kingdom principle that the way up is really down.

In this guided prayer we will take a moment to identify some of the desires we have – and realize not all our desires are bad. We will then ask the Lord to help us notice where we are tempted to try to control the outcome and force things to happen in our way and according to our will. Finally, we will ask the Lord to help us reorder our desires according to his kingdom principles.

 

Here are some helpful links:

You can find out more about Lent through my free Lent Guide here.

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Scripture meditation and download your free Lectio Divina Scripture Meditation Journal here.

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

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

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

Peter thought he was protecting Jesus, his friend and his Rabbi. He had no idea that his good intentions would play into the hands of the enemy and thwart the plans of eternity.

We often have good intentions as we try to make something happen. It seems reasonable – even good from our perspective.

Yet God sees and knows infinitely more than we do.

And his ways are not our ways.

If Peter’s plan had succeeded, he would have rescued Jesus from a moment of pain but created a lifetime of loss for everyone else.

As you listen to this week’s meditation, I’m praying you find a little God perspective to help you endure whatever you are facing.

This is our third Lent meditation. You can find out more about Lent, where it originated, and how Christians traditionally practice it through my free Lent Guide here.

Here are some additional links to help you learn more about me and to help you create space for God in your life:

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The passage meditated on in this episode is:

Matthew 16:21–26, NLT

From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead.

22 But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!”

23 Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”

24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. 25 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. 26 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?

 

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*** Download your free Sacred Summer Journal here. ****

 

Trust in the Lord and do good.

Trust God. Do good.

Easier said than done.

 

At its core, Psalm 37 is an invitation to trust God with all the things we can’t control. And then refocus on what we are supposed to do instead.

 

Allow the Spirit to guide you into this beautiful Psalm and help you release what’s holding you back so you can move forward in peace.

God has good and beautiful work for you – work that will be the delight of your heart.

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Sacred Summer Journal here.

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

The resurrection story is likely familiar.

And yet, there may be a few details you’ve missed.

 

That’s why I love talking with Russ Ramsey, author of The Passion of the King of Glory, he notices things differently than I do.

In this conversation, Russ helps us see and understand just how amazing the events are that led up to the cross and the resurrection. And why it was so beautiful when he entrusted Mary to share his resurrection with the disciples.

You do not want to miss this episode. You will likely see something new. And may never read the story the same again afterward.

NOTE: You can receive 30% off Russ’s entire Retelling the Story Series including the book we discuss on the podcast, The Passion of The King of Glory, at the following link until April 19, 2023 with the code MUCHMORE.

https://www.ivpress.com/the-passion-of-the-king-of-glory

 

Some highlights from our conversation:

• Have you ever wondered why Jesus could be tried and punished with capital punishment? Yes, we understand his death needed to happen at a cosmic level – but what was happening in Jesus’s world that made his actions punishable by death? Russ helps us understand the political and religious environment Jesus was in – and why he was such a threat to the establishment.
• Russ encourages us to read Scripture with our imagination – and makes a compelling case for why it was always intended to be read this way.
• Russ shares some details he saw and wondered about as he researched and wrote his book – like what kind of wine did Jesus really make?
• Here’s another detail to consider: Jesus was anointed with an oil-based perfume a few days before his crucifixion, is it possible that he carried that scent with him to the cross?
• We also talk about Mary showing up at the tomb when no one else does. And how Jesus reveals himself to her and sends her out to proclaim his resurrection to the others. We discuss why Jesus chose her, why it’s important, and what it means for the rest of us.
• Finally, Russ gives us some pastoral encouragement as we enter Easter week. I’ll sum it up: The pain we endure in this life is not the end of the story… because of Jesus. (He says it better – so listen to the end for this!)

 

You can connect with Russ at http://russ-ramsey.com/

On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/russramsey1/

On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/russ.ramsey

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Lectio Divina is the sacred reading of Scripture and is a way to meditate on God’s word. Create some space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to guide you into his living and active Word, you may be surprised by what he wants you to notice.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Trey Grant, pastor of the Well Church in Keller, Texas.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 11:25-30 in the NIV. It’s printed below for your convenience.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download the free Lectio Divina Guided Journal here   Matthew 11:25-30, NIV: 25 At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 26 Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. 27 “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. 28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

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This guided Christian meditation in Romans 8 reminds us that there is nothing we can do to separate ourselves from God’s love. We are held secure in his love.

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

Do you wonder…

Will God ever turn away from me? Even if I’m really awful?

If my loved one walks away from their faith, will they still be with me in heaven?

Am I in this difficult season because God is upset with me? Am I being punished?

 

The core of these questions is fear.

Fear that God will stop loving us.

 

Many Scriptures affirm that he won’t.

Romans 8 specifically reminds us that nothing we do—or do not do—will ever make God stop loving us.

We are held secure in God’s love because of Jesus and our faith in him.

 

Whether you’ve secretly wondered about Christ’s love for you or a loved one, let this meditation reassure you that you are held secure in God’s loving grip.

Find a quiet space, take a few deep breaths, and allow your fears to fade away.

 

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

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Romans 8:35, 37-39 NLT

35 Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?  37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

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Kay has served in leadership positions on church staffs for over 10 years. She’s also an author, Bible teacher and the founder and executive director of Beyond Ordinary Women (BOW) which is a ministry that seeks to encourage, equip, challenge and train women to use their influence for the kingdom. Take a few minutes to experience the Lectio Divina on Genesis 50 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Kay. We have a deep conversation about sin, why we cover it up and what it needs to be addressed. We also talk about the long process of forgiveness – and what it is and isn’t. The exact verses read in this podcast are Genesis 45:25-46:5 in the NIV. You can find Kay and lots of free and useful resources at https://beyondordinarywomen.org/

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This guided meditation and prayer from Psalm 86 will help you stand strong by remembering and relying on God’s character and strength.

 

Get your FREE Praying with The Psalms Journal here.

 

Psalm 86 is a heartfelt prayer from David, who cried out to God while facing unjust attacks from his enemies. Though David confronted ruthless foes who sought to take his life, this prayer serves as a reminder that we all have enemies—whether external challenges, difficult people, or internal struggles such as sin patterns or negative thought cycles.

 

The Psalm encourages us to remember that God is greater than any enemy we could face.

 

Whatever "enemy" you may be confronting today, be encouraged that God is bigger and stronger. As you meditate on Psalm 86, allow these truths to deepen your trust in Him and strengthen your heart to walk faithfully in His ways.

 

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

 

Advent is coming. Get your free Advent guide here. This guide was made in partnership with Unhurried Living and contains weekly Scripture meditations, daily devotionals, reflection questions, and more. All to guide you through the Advent season at an unhurried and gracious pace.

Get your Advent guide here: https://www.unhurriedliving.com/advent2024

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

 

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 86:11-15, NIV

11 Teach me your way, Lord,

that I may rely on your faithfulness;

give me an undivided heart,

that I may fear your name.

12 I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart;

I will glorify your name forever.

13 For great is your love toward me;

you have delivered me from the depths,

from the realm of the dead.

14 Arrogant foes are attacking me, O God;

ruthless people are trying to kill me—

they have no regard for you.

15 But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,

slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.

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Imaginative prayer invites us to use our God-given sanctified imagination to slow down and enter a story of Scripture. This form of Scripture meditation helps us notice details we may have missed before. It also gives us an opportunity to talk to Jesus about what we noticed and why it matters to us – and most importantly, why it matters to him.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Liz Sarno to hear where the Lord led her. Liz is a pastor, author, speaker and worship leader.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Matthew 15:29-38 in the NIV. It’s also printed below for your convenience.   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download the free Lectio Divina Guided Journal here   Matthew 15:29-38, NIV 29 Jesus left there and went along the Sea of Galilee. Then he went up on a mountainside and sat down. 30 Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them. 31 The people were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled made well, the lame walking and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel. 32 Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.” 33 His disciples answered, “Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?” 34 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied, “and a few small fish.” 35 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. 36 Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. 37 They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 38 The number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children.

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Engage with God through his Word in this Imaginative Prayer experience based in Luke 8:40-50. In this passage, multiple people come to Jesus for healing. As the crowds gather, he responds to each of their needs.

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This guided Christmas meditation is perfect for you or the entire family. Take a few quiet moments to remember the story of Christmas and reflect through prayer and thanksgiving on what it means for you today.

You can find our more about Jodie at:

http://www.jodieniznik.com/

If you’re interested in Entering a New Season Guided Retreat, you can find more information here.

Join my Monday email newsletter here.

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

Note: This is an encore presentation from 2022. 

Here's the entire text of the reading:

Luke 2:1-20, Message

About that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David’s town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. He went with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant.

6–7  While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.

An Event for Everyone

8–12  There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.”

13–14  At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises:

Glory to God in the heavenly heights,

Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.

15–18  As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. “Let’s get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us.” They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed.

19–20  Mary kept all these things to herself, holding them dear, deep within herself. The sheepherders returned and let loose, glorifying and praising God for everything they had heard and seen. It turned out exactly the way they’d been told!

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Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by what he has for you. You will certainly be encouraged. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Sara Chapple, an author and speaker, on where the Lord led her and what he is teaching her. The exact verses read in this podcast are Genesis 41:1, 8-16, 39-40 in the NIV. If you want to supplement these podcasts and go deeper into Joseph’s life, you can find the Bible study Trust here. You can find out more about Jodie at jodieniznik.com or follow her on instagram @jodieniznik or @creatingspaceforgod

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

Julie holds a Master's and a Doctor of Educational Ministry degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. She is the host of The Bearing Life Podcast and the author of two books with a third releasing in early 2023. Her heart is to use her voice and experience to equip others to define steps and practical ways to move through and beyond the fallout of unplanned events.    Take a few minutes to meditate on Matthew 26 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Julie.   Some highlights from our conversation: Julie’s ministry to equip people with practical compassion How she imagined the evening in the garden to be calm and peaceful – but also with an air of foreboding. Why it comforted Julie to notice that Jesus took his inner circle into the garden and let them know what he needed. How the Lord convicted Julie about keeping watch and what that means for her life right now.   You can find Julie at: https://drjulieshannon.com/ On Instagram @julieshannonofficial On FaceBook @drjulieshannon     The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use. Matthew 26:36-46, NIV   36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” 39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” 40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. 41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” 43 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. 44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. 45 Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”

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Note: Meditation starts at 1:40 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with author and non-profit leader Mark Matlock to hear where the Lord led him. If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 5 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use. Exodus 7:8-13 8 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, 9 “When Pharaoh says to you, ‘Perform a miracle,’ then say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh,’ and it will become a snake.” 10 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the Lord commanded. Aaron threw his staff down in front of Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a snake. 11 Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts: 12 Each one threw down his staff and it became a snake. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13 Yet Pharaoh’s heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said.

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Is it possible to have peace even when life feels chaotic? Jesus tells us we can have true peace – a peace that is outside of circumstances, a peace that surpasses understanding.

Yes, please. Sign us up. We need more peace.

How can we have more peace? This is the real question.

Listen in to this guided scripture meditation and let the Holy Spirit guide you into his peaceful presence. He has something just for you: the gift of peace. And he wants you to have more of it.

The full meditation passage is:

John 14:25-27

25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Get you FREE Fruit of the Spirit Guided Meditation Journal: here 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

Checkout our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@creatingspaceforgod

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

Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Rev. Dr. Stephen Macchia to hear where the Lord led him. Steve is the Founder and President of Leadership Transformations, Inc (LTI). He is also the Director of the Pierce Center for Discipleship-Building at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. And has authored over a dozen books. His latest is The Discerning Life: An Invitation to Notice God in Everything. The exact verses read in this podcast are Luke 24:25-34, NIV   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.

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

No one asks for restless moments.

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

Some highlights from our conversation:

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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When you fast.

 

This is how Jesus started his instructions on fasting. Not if you fast, but when.

He assumed we would be fasting.

 

Why do we fast? There are many reasons.

 

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

 

Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with Amy Seiffert. We discuss her new book Starved, where she talks about practices that can help us make a needed spiritual diet change. And you guessed it… one of the practices she discusses is fasting.

 

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

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatingspaceforgod/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JodieGNiznik

Download your free Lent journal here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/free-lent-journal

 

Looking for a Bible Study to help you go deeper with the Lord? Download free sample chapters of my studies here: http://www.jodieniznik.com/studies

 

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

 

Matthew 6:16-18

16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

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Note: Meditation starts at 1:38 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Mentor Mama and Coffee and Bible Time co-founder Ellen Krause to hear where the Lord led her. If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 7 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use. Deuteronomy 8:6-14 6 Observe the commands of the Lord your God, walking in obedience to him and revering him. 7 For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land—a land with brooks, streams, and deep springs gushing out into the valleys and hills; 8 a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; 9 a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills. 10 When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. 11 Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. 12 Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, 13 and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, 14 then your heart will become proud and you will forget the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

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This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 100 will help you experience and praise God for his unending love for you.

In this meditation, you will be invited to:

Become aware of God’s presence with you

Praise God for how he made you

Praise God that you belong to him, and he cares for you tenderly and completely

Praise God for his loyal and enduring love from the beginning of time and into the future

 

Get your FREE Sacred Summer Guided Meditation Journal here.

 

This Sacred Summer guided meditation series is designed to help you stay connected to God wherever your summer takes you. It’s a few moments to unplug, take some deep breaths, and hear God’s Word to help you pause and reset.

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

 

Follow along with a FREE printed guide of this meditation along with the entire Sacred Summer series here.

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

Follow me on Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

 

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The whole meditation text is as follows:

Psalm 100, NET Bible

A thanksgiving psalm.

1Shout out praises to the Lord, all the earth!

2 Worship the Lord with joy!

Enter his presence with joyful singing!

3 Acknowledge that the Lord is God!

He made us and we belong to him;

we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,

and his courts with praise!

Give him thanks!

Praise his name!

5 For the Lord is good.

His loyal love endures,

and he is faithful through all generations.

 

Psalm 100, The Message

On your feet now—applaud God!

                        Bring a gift of laughter,

                        sing yourselves into his presence.

3        Know this: God is God, and God, God.

                        He made us; we didn’t make him.

                        We’re his people, his well-tended sheep.

4        Enter with the password: “Thank you!”

                        Make yourselves at home, talking praise.

                        Thank him. Worship him.

5        For God is sheer beauty,

                        all-generous in love,

                        loyal always and ever.

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Christy is the owner and founder of Love Well Collective, an online company dedicated to equipping women via education and custom gift boxes to tangibly love their people well who are walking through grief and other difficult circumstances. Christy started her company in 2019 and is passionate about encouraging others to take action when it comes to loving others as well as, helping to dispel some of the myths surrounding grief.   Take a few minutes to meditate on John 13:34-35 – Jesus’s exhortation to us that we love others well – and then listen into this conversation for some practical tips and tools for how we can love others well.   Some highlights from our conversation: Christy shares her story of grief and loss and how her learnings from this journey helped her start her company, Love Well Collective. Christy gives us practical tips for what we should and shouldn’t do when those we love are walking through grief. Christy also helps us understand some things we can do longer term that are helpful – like remembering the anniversary and talking about the person who passed away. Christy also shares about her business and how she helps people send gift boxes as a tangible way to show love and care.   You can find Christy at: https://www.lovewellcollective.com/ On Instagram: @lovewellco.shop On Facebook: lovewellco.shop   And use code: SOMUCHMORE15 to receive 15% off a custom giftbox. Good until 12/31/22

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JoAnn is a graduate from Dallas Theological Seminary and has served for 29 years on the pastoral team at Bent Tree Bible Fellowship in Carrollton, Texas. Her current role is Pastor of Shared Leadership JoAnn is a gifted communicator and is passionate about helping people experience the abundant life found only in Jesus Christ. JoAnn is also working on her doctorate in transformational leadership and is wrapping up her dissertation project in anticipation of graduating in June 2023.   Take a few minutes to listen to the experience podcast doing Lectio Divina on Psalm 84 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led JoAnn. We discuss:   What the Valley of Baka really is. The choices we get to make in the midst of pain and suffering. JoAnn’s infamous sermon illustration regarding a scape goat. What transformational leadership is and why we need leaders who are being transformed.   The exact verses read in this podcast are Psalm 84:1, 4-8 in the NIV.   You can listen to JoAnn’s sermon on Psalm 84 here: https://benttree.org/sermon/a-heart-set-on-pilgrimage/   And you can find JoAnn on Facebook @joann.hummel And on Instagram @Hummel_Joann

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Sharifa is an author, editor, speaker and singer. She’s also graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and lately she has been filling her days as the homeschool mom of two young boys.   Take a few minutes to meditate on Luke 5:4-11 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Sharifa.   Some highlights from our conversation: How the Lord used this process of Scripture meditation to help Sharifa see where she was holding God at arm’s length. How this Scripture spoke to and encouraged Sharifa in her experience as a black woman to continue fighting the righteous fight and being a strong witness for justice – even when she won’t see the full fulfillment of these things. How the Lord encouraged Sharifa with the concept of consistency and kindness – and to not give up on people.   You can find Sharifa at https://sharifastevens.com/ And follow her on Instagram @sharifawrites And Facebook @sharifahaylestevens     The exact verses read in this podcast are Luke 5:4-11 in the NIV.   4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” 6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.

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Dominic is the founder of Pursuing Faith and the author of a new book Your Longing Has a Name: Come Alive to the Story You Were Made For where he uses 2 Peter 1:5-8, the exact verses we are mediating on, to show us how our souls can and should flourish in difficult times. Dominic has a master’s in theology from the University of Oxford and has served as a pastor, a professor and a missionary.   Take a few minutes to meditate on 2 Peter 1:5-8 and then tune into this interview to hear where God led Dominic.   Some highlights from our conversation: How God led Dominic to write an entire book on 4 verses of Scripture. What flourishing looks like according to Jesus – and how it’s very different than what the world says flourishing is. What Peter means when he tells us to, “make every effort.” What goodness is, according to Scripture, and how we can find goodness in our lives. How Pursuing Faith is helping those who are deconstructing. (If you know someone who is deconstructing or has walked away from the faith all together, this ministry will be a gift to you.) You can find Dominic at www.pursuingfaith.org Grab a copy of his excellent book, Your Longing Has a Name, here Find Dominic on Facebook Instagram @dominicdone Twitter: DominicDone The exact verses we discuss are: 2 Peter 1:5-8, NIV 5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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Amanda, who is known as the Red-haired Archaeologist, studied biblical Archaeology at Harvard and is passionate about helping people understand the intersection of Archaeology and the Bible. She’s the author of a number of books including The Red-Haired Archaeologist Digs Israel. Take a few minutes to meditate on Exodus 14:10-15, 21-22 and then listen in to hear where God led Amanda. Some highlights from our conversation: How Amanda got interested in Biblical Archaeology How the Lectio Divina process helped her slow down to see something new in this passage – one she has studied quite a bit before. How God often does supernatural things in natural ways. What we should do when we find a contradiction or confusing part of Scripture. How Archaeology has evolved and why we can trust what is coming out of the ground around Biblical Archaeology   You can find Amanda at https://redhairedarchaeologist.com/ Listen to her podcast here Follow Amanda on Instagram: @redhairedarchaeologist On Facebook: AmandaHopeHaley   The exact verses read in this podcast are Exodus 14:10-15, 21-22 10 As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. 11 They said to Moses, “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Didn’t we say to you in Egypt, ‘Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians’? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!” 13 Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 15 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. 21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, 22 and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.

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Rachael is a writer, speaker, and host of The Love Offering podcast. Her devotional titled “A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to A Significant Life” releases October 2022. Take a few minutes to experience Genesis 43 as a Lectio Divina. Then tune into this interview to hear where God led Rachael. The Lord gave her some incredible insights around how generous Joseph was to his brothers, even after they had levied so much hurt and pain on him. This led her to how Jesus does the same for us. We also talk about the long and hard process of true forgiveness. The exact verses read in this podcast are Genesis 43:11, 13-16, 24-31 in the NIV. You can find Rachael at https://rachaelkadams.com and on social media @rachaeladamsauthor You can also listen to her podcast, The Love Offering, every Tuesday wherever you listen to podcasts.

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

This guided Christian meditation in Joshua 1 reminds us we can be strong and courageous as we face the future because God is with us.

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

The fear of the unknown plagues us. What if something happens that turns our lives upside down and inside out?

These imagined worst-case scenarios breed fear and anxiety that can spiral out of control.

Yet God will not give you the grace to handle your imagined futures, but he will give you the grace you need to walk through your reality.

When fear starts to spiral, pause and remember these truths from Joshua 1.

Joshua was called to lead the people into a new land. God knew the journey wouldn’t be easy, so he exhorted Joshua three times–be strong and courageous.

Joshua could remain strong and courageous because he knew God would never leave him, God would help him succeed, and God would be with him each step of the way.

While this was a specific promise for Joshua, it is also for us.

God is with us.

He will never leave us or forsake us.

We will have success when we follow his plans—maybe not success as the world deems success, but success in all the ways that really matter.

Take a few moments to settle in and allow this passage from Joshua to encourage your heart.

You do not need to fear the future. God is with you.

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

 

Here are some additional helpful links:

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

 

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Joshua 1:5-9, NIV

As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.

7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

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This second week of Advent invites us to reflect on the theme of peace—a peace that became possible through the arrival of Jesus.

Get your FREE Unhurried Advent Guide here.
This 25-day guide is filled with Scripture meditations, devotional readings with reflective questions, and contemplative imagery—all designed to help you slow down and savor the Advent season. Created in collaboration with Unhurried Living, a ministry I’m confident you’ll love.

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Jesus brought peace. Peace in our relationship with God, peace into our lives, and peace into the world.

The peace He offers isn’t a distant, someday-when-life-is-perfect kind of peace. It’s a peace we can experience right now—in the middle of the mess.

I love how Alan Fadling, from Unhurried Living and one of the contributors to the Unhurried Advent Guide, puts it:
“Anything we can do in anxiety, we can do better in peace.”

This doesn’t ignore the fact that real life is often messy and difficult. But imagine if there were an undercurrent of peace flowing through your life instead of anxiety. How would that change the way you live, love, and respond to your circumstances?

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Today, we’re meditating on the announcement of Jesus’s birth to the shepherds. In this extraordinary moment, God gives them (and us) the profound gift of peace.

As you listen to this meditation, I invite you to step into the shepherds’ shoes and wonder: What would it have been like to witness this moment?

More importantly, how might Jesus be inviting you to embrace His peace this Advent season?

I’m praying that this meditation helps you pause, reflect, and receive the peace Jesus offers.

Get your FREE Unhurried Advent Guide here.

Here are some additional helpful links:

Did you love today’s calming music by Simon Wester? If so, head here to find links to his music. I have his Spotify playlist on repeat.

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

Luke 2:8–14, NLT

8 That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. 9 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. 11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! 12 And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

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Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his living and active Word guided by the Spirit.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Jan Johnson on her experience doing lectio on Psalm 139. Jan is a writer, speaker and spiritual director. She has degrees in biblical studies and Christian spirituality. And has written twenty-three books, including one of my very favorite books, Meeting God in Scripture, a hands-on guide to lectio Divina. The exact verses read in this podcast are Psalm 139:1-4 and 23-24 in the NIV. You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieGniznik

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

The religious leaders were silent.

They had no answer.

They became trapped by their pride and misunderstanding.

 

But Jesus acts in love. He heals.

 

As you meditate on Mark 3, allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life.

Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with pastors and authors Matt Tebbe and Ben Sternke. We discuss what love means and how love helps us have the mind of Christ.

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

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

Mark 3:1-5

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

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

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

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What’s the cost of living a distracted life?

 

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

 

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

 

Here’s a few highlights from our conversation:

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

 

Here’s how you can connect with Katie:

https://katiewestenberg.com/

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

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

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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

One day, Jesus was praying in a certain place.

The disciples were obviously watching Jesus. They seem curious and inspired.

So, they ask him, Lord, teach us to pray.

Teach us to do what you were just doing.

And he does.

 

As you meditate on Luke 11, a version of what we often call “The Lord’s Prayer,” allow the Spirit to help you notice something from these words that applies to your own life.

 

Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, head over to the next episode and listen to the interview with pastor and poet Drew Jackson. We discuss all this poetry – including when and why Drew started writing poetry and how it helps him slow down and notice God. He also recites some of his poetry for us, including a poem that comes from this passage.

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

 

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

Luke 11:1-4, NIV

One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”

2 He said to them, “When you pray, say:

“ ‘Father,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come.

3 Give us each day our daily bread.

4 Forgive us our sins,

for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.

And lead us not into temptation.’ ”

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Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his living and active Word guided by the Spirit. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Dieula Previlon to hear where the Lord led her. Dieula is an ordained minister through the Evangelical Covenant Church, a Licensed Professional Counselor and the founder of ElevateHer International ministries. Dieula’s passion is teaching on the intersections of faith and trauma, racial justice and how the gospel liberates women and all God’s children to live a life of purpose on purpose. The exact verses read in this podcast are Psalm 37:1-4, 7 in the NIV. You can find Jodie at: Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieGniznik

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How can we have a deeper and fuller walk with the Holy Spirit?

Jack Levison, renowned theologian, and acclaimed author, has spent years studying the person of the Holy Spirit, and what he’s found will surprise and transform you.

He shares some of the secrets he’s discovered that lead us to a fuller, deeper, and more powerful relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Jack Levison holds the WJA Power Chair of Old Testament Interpretation and Biblical Hebrew at Southern Methodist University. He previously taught at Duke Divinity School and Seattle Pacific University. Jack has the gift of connecting with popular audiences with essays featured in The Huffington Post, parade.com, relevant.com, and beliefnet.com. He is the author and editor of many books, including A Boundless God. Which was Christianity Today's 2021 Book Award winner and his newest release, Seven Secrets of the Spirit-Filled Life.

 

Here are a few highlights from our conversation:

• We start with a few questions I have about the Holy Spirit. First, the church feels all over the map on how we handle the Holy Spirit. Jack helps us understand a better way.
• Second, I ask Jack to explain why Scripture says we are both filled with the Spirit and indwelt by the Spirit. Jack explains this and shares that he believes the filling of the Spirit is to propel us toward mission. This was super interesting to me.
• An interesting thing about Jack and his wife is that they live in a dorm at SMU with 185 undergraduate students. He tells us about some of the challenges and blessings of this.
• Jack shares where the Lord led him as he meditated on John 14. So amazing to see the living and active Word at work! I love how God showed him something new in the passage.
• This leads us to talk about one of the secrets he discovered about life with the Spirit – we need to saturate ourselves in Scripture. The Spirit will help us recall – but we need something to recall first. This is why we need to be filling ourselves with God’s word.
• Jack tells us why failed Bible study can be some of the best Bible study. This is interesting!
• We then talk about how God has upended some things in Jack’s life as he’s studied God’s word. He tells us how his views have changed on some critical issues.
• Finally, Jack ends with some encouragement for us found in Acts 8 and the life of Philip. Super encouraging – and maybe a bit convicting.

 

Here’s how you can connect with Jack:

https://people.smu.edu/jacklevison/

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

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

Follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/spiritchatter

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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This week’s podcast is a Guided Lectio Divina Scripture meditation for the first week of Advent focused on hope.

Jesus is our true and lasting hope.

Without hope, we become disillusioned – troubled with fear and anxiety about the future.

Yet, Jesus tells us, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”

We find hope in trusting Jesus with our future. We find hope in believing that this life is not all there is. We find hope that someday, “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)

Hope is an appropriate place to start Advent. We are a people who need hope.

I pray you find hope as you meditate on Jesus’ words through this Christian meditation.

The full meditation passage is as follows:

John 14:1-6, NIV

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.”

5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

 

If you’re interested in Entering a New Season Guided Retreat, you can find more information here.

Get you FREE Fruit of the Spirit Guided Meditation Journal: here 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Lectio Divina Journal here.

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The fourth week of Advent invites us to reflect on joy—true joy—and how we experience it.

Get your FREE Unhurried Advent Guide here.

This 25-day guide is filled with Scripture meditations, devotional readings with reflective questions, and contemplative imagery—all designed to help you slow down and savor the Advent season. Created in collaboration with Unhurried Living, a ministry I’m confident you’ll love.

Joy is the focus of this final week of Advent.
What I love about joy is that it weaves through all the themes of Advent:

• We have joy because Jesus is our sure hope.
• We have joy because Jesus is the Prince of Peace.
• We have joy because God is love, and Jesus reveals this to us.

At the heart of it all, we have joy because of Jesus—our Savior, who came to us that first Christmas morning.

In this meditation, we’ll explore how we can know more joy.
John 15:9-12 ties joy to a somewhat surprising source—obedience and love. Jesus tells us that true, overflowing joy comes when we follow his command to love one another as he has loved us.

As you meditate on this passage, may you rest in God’s love for you and discover the deep, overflowing joy that comes from loving as Jesus loves.

Get your FREE Unhurried Advent Guide here.

Here are some additional helpful links:

Did you love today’s calming music by Simon Wester? If so, head here to find links to his music. I have his Spotify playlist on repeat.

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

Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik

Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik

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

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

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

Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

The entire meditation text is as follows:

John 15:9-12, NLT

9 “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. 10 When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! 12 This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you.

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*** Download your free Sacred Summer Journal here. ****

Peace be with you.

Peace be with you.

Peace be with you.

Three times Jesus spoke these words over his disciples after he was risen.

Each time the disciples were locked in a room together, afraid. Fearful they would be killed or harmed, just like the religious leaders had crucified Jesus. Their fear was legitimate.

Jesus doesn’t chastise them or shame them. He gives them peace. And then he reminds them of their calling.

If you need a little more peace from Jesus, listen in to this meditation and see what the Spirit helps you notice.

Just like he offered peace to the disciples, Jesus is offering you his peace.

 

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

Instagram @creatingspaceforgod

Facebook @JodieGNiznik

Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here.

Download your free Sacred Summer Journal here.

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