Open Our Bibles Together with MFahring: Recent Episodes

Michelle Fahring

Do you sometimes find it hard to pick up your Bible? To know where to begin, what you are even reading, how to study + dig deeper?? I get it, friend. I have most definitely been there too! It can be so overwhelming and intimidating for sure. I have discovered over the years that it becomes easier if you have someone to read alongside you, so please join me as we open our Bibles to read together – one chapter at a time.

In this episode, we're in Joshua 10–12, and there's a lot going on.

We start with Joshua in the middle of battle at Gibeon, praying this bold prayer that the sun would stand still so there's enough time to finish the fight—and God actually responds. From there, we see victory after victory as the southern and then northern kings come against Israel.

Hazor rises up like the "Jericho of the north," and on paper everything looks overwhelming—massive armies, horses, chariots, the same kind of force Israel would've remembered from Egypt and the Red Sea. But God keeps saying the same thing: "Don't be afraid."

And what stands out is how long this actually takes. Joshua 11 makes it clear this is years of steady obedience, not quick wins—just trusting God step by step. Day after day. Week after week. Month after month. Year after year.

Then Joshua 12 slows everything down with a long list of kings and land - It can feel like just names and places, but it's really a testimony. A reminder that God kept every promise He made to Abraham all the way back in Genesis. Every boundary, every victory, every detail—it all lines up with what God said He would do.

At the end of the day, this wasn't about Israel's strength—it was about God's faithfulness. Gosh that's so good.

AND, please be sure you don't miss the announcement at the end of today's episode with all the details about OOBT's upcoming summer break – my plans, the official return date, and so much more! I do hope you find moments to connect more fully with those you love AND with your Bibles in study this summer!

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/joshua-10-12/

In this episode, we're walking through Joshua 7–9, and honestly, these chapters move through a lot of familiar ground in the life of faith—victory, failure, confusion, and then restoration.

Israel comes off the high of Jericho and immediately runs into a hard moment at Ai. Achan's hidden sin brings unexpected defeat, and Joshua is left asking some very real questions about what just happened and why things fell apart so quickly.

But the story doesn't stay there.

In Joshua 8, God speaks again with those familiar words—"do not be afraid or discouraged"—and brings Israel back into step with Him. What follows is a reset of sorts: obedience, clarity, and a renewed commitment to God's covenant as the people gather between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim to re-center their lives around Him.

Then in Joshua 9, the tone shifts again. The Gibeonites show up—not with weapons, but with a story and a plan. They deceive Israel into making a covenant, and suddenly Joshua is dealing with the fallout of a decision made without asking God first. It's messy, complicated, and honestly very human.

And through all of it, one theme keeps surfacing: God is still leading. Even when His people stumble, miss things, or get it wrong, He keeps working with them and moving His promises forward.

So if you've ever wondered what faith looks like in the middle of failure, confusion, or second chances—this section of Joshua has a lot to say. Oh, my OOBTers, please don't miss this one—I promise you're going to want to hear it!

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/joshua-7-9/

In this episode of Open Our Bible Together, we pick up right after Israel crosses the Jordan River on dry ground into the Promised Land—and things move forward, but not in the way you might expect.

Instead of rushing straight into battle, God first tells His people to remember. Twelve stones are taken from the Jordan and set up in Gilgal as a memorial, so every generation would know—it was the Lord who made a way through the water.

Then, before anything else happens, God brings Israel back to who they are. Through circumcision and the Passover, He reminds them that they are His chosen people. The manna stops after 40 years, and for the first time, they're eating from the land He promised them. It's a clear turning point—wilderness to promise… right in front of their eyes.

And then they're standing in front of Jericho.

No battle plan that makes sense on paper. Just instructions that require trust. Walk. Be silent. Wait. Repeat. For six days, nothing seems to happen. But on the seventh day, everything changes. The trumpets sound, the people shout, and the walls of Jericho come down—not because of military strength, but because God kept His word.

And right in the middle of it all, we see Rahab and a scarlet cord—a quiet but powerful picture of rescue and redemption that points us forward to something even greater.

From stones in the river to silence around a city, Joshua 4–6 reminds us that God is faithful in every step of the journey. He calls His people to trust Him, follow Him, and watch Him do what only He can do.

Because when the walls come down… it's always Him. ❤

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/joshua-4-6/

In this special 100th episode of Open Our Bibles Together, we step into the book of Joshua and begin a powerful new chapter in God's story.

Picking up where Deuteronomy left off, the Israelites stand at the edge of the Promised Land. Moses is gone. Joshua is now leading. And in this moment of transition, God repeatedly calls Joshua to be strong and courageous—not because of who he is, but because God will be with him.

In these first 3 chapters of Joshua, we have a front row seat to see everything begin to unfold just as God says it will. From Rahab's unexpected faith in Jericho to the Israelites standing before the flood-stage Jordan River, God is already at work—going before His people and preparing the way.

And when the time comes to move forward, the priests step into the water carrying the Ark of the Covenant—the very symbol of God's presence—and the river parts, allowing the people to cross on dry ground.

Through it all, one truth remains: God is with His people.

He goes before them, meets them in the middle, and faithfully leads them into what He promised all the way back in Genesis. Gosh, that's good!

As we celebrate 100 episodes—and cue that confetti—please know that we're just getting started, my OOBTers! There are many more of the 66 books in our Bible to go, and I'm so glad you're here for the journey.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/joshua-1-3/

In today's episode of OOBT, we get to sit with Moses in his final moments with the Israelites. Can you imagine being there, hearing his words for the last time? We hear his song — a powerful reminder that God is faithful, a warning about the cost of turning away, and a call to trust Him and remember His ways. This song wasn't just for one generation; it was meant to be sung, passed down, and remembered — and even now, it still speaks to our hearts.

We also spend time in Psalm 91, a psalm of refuge and protection. It reminds us that God is present in the wilderness seasons, in uncertainty, and when life feels unpredictable. His shelter is real, His care is tangible, and His faithfulness carries us through every challenge.

Then we take a closer look at the blessings Moses gave to the tribes. Each one was different — some received land, others strength, others safety. No blessing was better than another. God equips everyone in His way, and every gift matters. It's a reminder that His blessings aren't just for one moment — they ripple through families, communities, and even generations. They point us to the bigger story He's telling and the promises He's keeping.

And the ending of Moses' life — wow. Still strong, clear-eyed, purposeful at 120, and God Himself lays him to rest in a place no one knows. No monument. No shrine. Just quiet faithfulness. Oh goodness.

From the song, to the blessings, to Psalm 91, to Moses' final moments, this episode is full of reflection, awe, and encouragement. It's a chance to sit with Moses speaking to the Israelites just as a father would — pouring out his heart, his love, his guidance for God's people one last time.

And… can you believe it?? By the end of today's episode, we've officially finished our sixth book of the Bible together. Up next: the book of Joshua PLUS the 100th episode of OOBT!

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-32-34-psalm-91/

In this episode, we slow down and just sit with one of those moments where everything feels about to change… a real turning point.

Israel has seen God show up again and again — provision in the wilderness, victories over enemies, Moses guiding them faithfully. But now things are shifting. A new land is ahead. A new leader is stepping up. And the people are being called to do something new: move from what they've already seen into courageous faith.

We get real about how easy it is for hearts to drift, even after seeing miracles. Seeing God move doesn't automatically make trusting Him simple. And yet, in His mercy, God isn't just trying to get them to act right. He's after their hearts — reshaping desires, redirecting love, changing them from the inside out.

We also walk through the leadership handoff from Moses to Joshua. That repeated call to "be strong and courageous" isn't about Joshua being enough — it's about remembering the God who goes before him. His faithfulness doesn't depend on one leader, one generation, or even perfect obedience. His covenant stands. His presence is steady.

As we close today, the big takeaway is this: the same God who has been faithful in the past is still the One leading us into what's next.

So, here's the question to sit with: where is He inviting you to step forward in trust?

Because the truth is… He still goes before His people. Gosh, that's so good.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-29-31/

As we step into Holy Week and prepare our hearts for Easter, I found myself thinking, this one I needed to hear again—and I hope it might touch your heart in the same way.

With that thought in mind, I'm re-airing the bonus Holy Week & Easter episode from last year of Open Our Bibles Together, where I had the joy of sitting down for a conversation with Tammy Munson from Christian Podcasting Secrets. In this one, we took a meaningful walk through the events of Holy Week as if we were actually there: the cheers of Palm Sunday, the solemn weight of the Last Supper, the heartbreak of the cross, and the shock and joy of the empty tomb.

Along the way, we connected these moments to Old Testament prophecies, key Scriptures, and even explored how visual portrayals—like The Chosen—bring the story of Easter to life in a fresh and powerful way.

And, of course… because it's Tammy and me, there was laughter too! We closed with a few lighthearted Easter questions, reminding us that even in the heaviness of Holy Week, there is hope, joy, and reason to celebrate.

As a side note: the show notes have also been updated with links for watching The Chosen Seasons 4 and 5, as well as all the previously included resources to help you dive deeper as you walk through Holy Week.

If you're looking for a way to slow down, reflect, and really prepare your heart for Easter, this re-air is an invitation to step into the story and let it come alive for you once again this year.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/re-air-what-if-you-saw-holy-week-up-close/

In today's episode of Open Our Bibles Together, we're opening up Deuteronomy chapters 26–28. These are chapters that often get labeled as "blessings and curses," and if you've ever felt a little uneasy with that language, please know that you're not alone (I'm definitely raising my hand over here along with you, my friends).

But as we slow down and read them carefully, we start to notice something else going on. Over and over, Moses is reminding the people to look back. To remember where they came from. To remember what God has already done for them.

And from that place of remembering, he talks about choices. Not to scare them. Not to control them. But to be honest about what life looks like when God is at the center of it—and what happens when He isn't.

This episode isn't about fear or rule-keeping. It's about God's heart. A God who loves His people enough to be clear, and who keeps inviting them toward life and blessing.

I can't wait for us to take our time with these chapters together and listen for God's heart behind the words! Be sure to listen in for all this and so much more!

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-26-28/

In today's episode of Open Our Bibles Together, we're digging into Deuteronomy chapters 23–25, and what might seem like a list of random rules at first actually comes together around one powerful theme: remembering the God who rescues.

Moses keeps reminding Israel—over and over again—to look back before they move forward. In Deuteronomy 24:18, he says, "Always remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God redeemed you from your slavery." God isn't just giving instructions—He's pointing His people back to their rescue story and saying, Let that shape how you live. Their compassion for the vulnerable, their care for one another, and their pursuit of holiness were all meant to flow out of remembering what God had already done for them.

We'll also talk through why these laws mattered so much—especially since God Himself was living in the midst of their camp—and how His commands were never about pushing people away, but about protecting His people and reflecting His heart. Along the way, we revisit key moments from Israel's past, including Balaam's failed attempt to curse God's people, and we trace the redemptive thread through Ruth and Boaz, discovering how even in laws and boundaries, God's grace and redemption are never far away.

As Moses speaks like a man running out of time—standing at the edge of the Promised Land—he urges the people to remember where they came from and who brought them out. And ultimately, we see how all of this points us forward to Jesus, our Rescuer, who redeems us and calls us to live differently because of His grace.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-23-25/

In this episode, we dive into Deuteronomy 20–22, standing with the Israelites on the edge of the Promised Land, listening to Moses' reminders and instructions, and seeing God as their Commander-in-Chief who goes before them and never leaves their side. We explore the battles they will face, the nations they will encounter, and the instructions God gave to protect life, uphold justice, and prepare His people to live faithfully in the land He promised to Abraham all the way back in Genesis.

We also walk through the everyday instructions — caring for neighbors, protecting property, honoring creation, and respecting marriage — and uncover the bigger principle: living faithfully, reflecting God's order, and trusting Him in every part of life.

Along the way, we reflect on worship songs that capture these truths — "See a Victory", "Surrounded", and "Battle Belongs" — reminders that God fights for us in every battle — big, small, and everything in between. May these songs be the anthems of our hearts, reminding us of our God With Us who goes before us and never leaves our side. Gosh, that's so good. ❤

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-20-22/

From Moses to the Messiah and Beyond — from the warnings and guidance of Moses to the courageous witness of Stephen, today's episode shows us God's faithfulness across generations. ❤️

Together, we explore Deuteronomy 17–19, taking a closer look at God's guidance for leadership, justice, and faithful living. We see how Moses prepared his people not just for the Promised Land, but for the ultimate Prophet, Priest, and King — Jesus Christ. His words were full of care, warning, and hope, pointing forward to God's plan for redemption.

Then we follow a thread from the Old Testament to the New as we turn to Stephen in Acts 7, whose courageous speech boldly proclaims Jesus as the Prophet Moses promised. Stephen recounts God's faithfulness throughout Israel's history — even when the people stumbled — reminding us that God's promises are never delayed or forgotten… all before he is martyred for his faith in Jesus.

Along the way, we reflect on God's heart for justice and mercy, including the cities of refuge and the principle that punishment should fit the crime. These instructions weren't just ancient rules — they reveal God's care for life, fairness, and the well-being of His people, showing how justice and compassion go hand in hand.

This episode invites us to see God's promises fulfilled and to recognize that the same faithfulness that guided the Israelites is still active in our lives today. ❤️

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-17-19/

🎉 Happy New Year, friends! Open Our Bibles Together with MFahring is officially back from a holiday break with another episode release! 🎉 It's been a little while — since the end of November, actually — that we've been walking through Deuteronomy together, so we start today with a quick refresher on where we've been before diving into chapters 14–16.

In this episode, we explore how God calls His people to live as His treasured possession. We unpack the dietary laws, tithing, and also the three pilgrim festivals to see how each one was designed to remind Israel of God's faithfulness and His presence among them.

Just as we saw in our recent Advent God With Us series, God's presence is at the center of the story — in the wilderness, in the Promised Land, and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus, Emmanuel. These chapters show that God's presence shapes identity, community, and daily life — and that truth is still true for us today.

Join us as we kick off the new year with this new episode, reflecting on God's tender care in His instructions, celebrating His faithfulness, and remembering that He is always with us. ✨

Gosh, I can't wait for you to listen in to this one! ❤

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-14-16/

Merry Merry Merriest of Christmases to each of you, my OOBTers! 🎄✨

Today's episode is the final episode in the God With Us Advent re-air series: The Awe + Wonder of Our Savior's Birth. What a perfect way to pause on Christmas Eve and prepare our hearts and minds for celebrating tomorrow—Christmas Day! We'll lean in to the real lives of those who were part of the very first Christmas—Zechariah and Elizabeth, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds in the fields, and even the Wise Men.

Even if you've heard the story hundreds of times, my prayer is that God will give us fresh eyes and renewed awe at the gift of that baby boy in the manger: Emmanuel, God With Us.

As we reflect on this story and the joy of Christ's arrival, may our hearts be filled with wonder, excitement, and deep gratitude that He came to us, for us, and is always with us. After all the waiting, Advent brings us to this amazing truth: Christ our Savior is born! Amazing. Just AMAZING. ❤

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/god-with-us-advent-2025-the-awe-wonder-of-christ-our-saviors-birth/

Welcome to Week 3 of the God With Us Advent re-air series on OOBT! Today's episode, God With Us While We Wait, invites us to pause in the midst of the busy holiday season and reflect on the deeper meaning of Advent: He has come… and He is coming.

In this episode, we explore how Jesus, our Emmanuel, is present with us in every part of life—the hard and the good, the joy and the pain, in the weariness and in the waiting. We dive into what it means to trust God in the "in-between" moments, to let Advent slow our hearts and minds, and to recognize that the waited time is not wasted time with Him.

You'll hear encouragement to take this season as an opportunity to lean into God's presence, to find hope, and to discover ways your weary soul can truly rejoice… even while we wait.

As I've mentioned repeatedly in this God With Us Advent series, I'm listening right alongside you, my OOBTers, letting the truths of this Advent message stir my heart just as they did when I first spoke them into the mic all those seasons ago. So good.

Don't forget to check the show notes—they're packed with bonus content, links, and reflection prompts to help you engage with Advent in fresh, meaningful ways.

Next week, we'll close out the series with The Awe + Wonder of Our Savior's Birth, releasing on Christmas Eve—a perfect way to prepare your heart and mind for our Savior's birth.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/god-with-us-advent-2025-god-with-us-while-we-wait

Merriest almost Christmas, OOBTers! This is Week 2 of the God With Us Advent series. In today's episode, we trace the threads of God's rescue plan through some often-overlooked parts of the Christmas story—beginning with the dedication of the firstborn, Simeon and Anna's encounter with Jesus in the Temple, the Wise Men's visit, the flight to Egypt, and God's call to return to Nazareth.

Through it all, we see God as our faithful Promise Keeper—working in both the light and the darkness, weaving joy and sorrow into His beautiful plan of redemption.

And just like you, I'm re-listening to these Advent messages right along with you. My heart is being stirred again by the very words I first spoke into the mic so many Advent seasons ago. God With Us then, God With Us now, God With Us forever.

Be sure to listen in for all this and more, my OOBTers—and don't forget, this Advent we're releasing a new re-air each week leading up to Christmas Eve.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/god-with-us-advent-2025-out-of-egypt-i-called-my-son

Advent is here! Today kicks off a brand-new series on OOBT: God With Us. For the next four weeks, leading right up to Christmas Eve, I'll be re-airing past Advent episodes—and I'll be listening right alongside you, my OOBTers!

In this episode, we trace Old Testament promises and prophecies of the Rescuer who came down to the Israelites in Egypt, just as our Rescuer came down to us in the form of a baby in a manger.

The gift of that baby in the manger is incredible, but even more amazing is the mystery of our Savior's presence forever with us through the Holy Spirit. God With Us isn't just a moment in history—it's the reality of Emmanuel now and forevermore.

As I listened back to this one myself, my heart was reminded just how much I needed the very words I spoke into the mic so many Advent seasons ago. I pray it does the same for you as we begin this journey together.

Please be sure to check out the show notes—they're filled with special Advent bonus content and helpful links!

So wherever this season takes you, I so hope you'll listen in and be reminded: our Emmanuel came down, and He is still God With Us. Always. ❤

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/god-with-us-advent-2025-rescue-came-down-his-name-is-emmanuel/

In this special episode, we're celebrating Open Our Bibles Together with MFahring's fourth anniversary and reflecting on what God has been teaching us through this journey. We also dive into Deuteronomy 10–13, where Moses reminds the Israelites—and us—of God's faithfulness, His call to wholehearted obedience, and the importance of hearts fully devoted to Him.

We explore the rebuilding of the stone tablets after the golden calf incident, the ark of the covenant where God's presence dwelt, and what it means to circumcise our hearts. We also hear Moses' warnings about staying faithful and avoiding anything that would divide our hearts or pull us away from God.

With Thanksgiving Day tomorrow, I pause to reflect on gratitude and thankfulness, especially for each of you listening and studying God's Word alongside me. And I even share some exciting Advent news: Don't miss the God With Us series this December—four weeks leading to Christmas—and yes, I'll be listening along with you!

Through today's study, we're reminded that our God holds heaven, earth, and everything in it—that He goes before us, never gives up on us, and calls even broken people to participate in His work. This episode is an encouragement to remember His faithfulness, trust His guidance, and reflect on His presence as we head into Thanksgiving and even the Advent season to come.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-10-13/

In today's episode of Open Our Bibles Together, we continue our journey through Deuteronomy with a powerful reminder of who God is, what He has done, and how we are called to remember. We'll step into the words of Moses as he prepares Israel to enter the Promised Land, and we'll uncover why God called them to destroy idols, how He provided for them in the wilderness, and why their inheritance was never about their own goodness but always about His faithfulness.

Along the way, we'll wrestle with tough questions about God's judgment, learn why gratitude is the cure to forgetfulness, and see how even Jesus drew strength from these passages when He faced temptation. And as Moses retells the story of the golden calf, we'll be reminded of God's mercy that holds fast even when His people fail.

As we move into November and begin preparing our hearts for Thanksgiving, it's hard not to think about gratitude. But here's the thing—it's not just a once-a-year tradition as we gather around the table. Gratitude is really about remembering. It's choosing to look back at what God has done and letting that shape how we see Him, how we see ourselves, and even how we look at the world around us. That's so good. So very good.

Also, be sure to check out the show notes at mfahring.com for reflection questions that go deeper into today's study and include links to two previous gratitude-centered episodes: Thankful for God With Us + My Dad and Once Again Thankful for God With Us + My Dad.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-7-9/

So today on OOBT, we're diving into Deuteronomy 4–6, and wow… it stirred something in me for sure. In these chapters, Moses sounds less like a distant leader and more like a parent on the curb, sending their child off to college or moving them into their first apartment. He knows the Israelites are about to step into a land full of temptations, surrounded by many gods, and his heart is heavy but hopeful. Gosh, you can almost feel the urgency in his voice as he pleads with them to remember all God has done, to obey His commands, and to stay set apart.

We walk through his warnings against idolatry—complete with many examples from the cultures around them—and we hear again the Ten Commandments, a reminder that their covenant with God is not secondhand, but deeply personal. Then, in chapter 6, we get the Shema—"Hear, O Israel"—a call not just to listen, but to love God with heart, soul, and strength in a way that shows in every part of their daily lives.

This episode unpacks Moses' passion, God's faithfulness, and the invitation for us to live wholeheartedly for Him today, modeling His love for the next generation.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-4-6/

Can you even believe it, my OOBTers?!? Today we're kicking off a new book of the Bible—our sixth book—Deuteronomy! 🎉

In this episode, we dive into chapters 1–3 and explore how Moses reminds the second generation of Israelites to remember God's faithfulness before stepping into the Promised Land. From the 11-day journey that became 40 years of wandering, to the lessons from the scouts' fear and doubt, and the victories over kings like Sihon and Og, Moses repeatedly calls the people to trust, obey, and move forward courageously.

We also connect these stories to Rahab in Joshua, showing how God's power and faithfulness left a lasting impression on the nations around Israel. Don't miss the added insights about the context, the journey, the big picture of God's story, His promises, and how He never forgets His people.

By the end, my OOBTers, we should ALL be encouraged to remember the past, trust God's promises, and step forward boldly—because the same God who fought for Israel still fights for us today.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-1-3/

🎉 Cue that confetti once again, friends— today we’re finishing another book in these thin, crinkly pages! That’s right, our FIFTH book of the Bible together—after Genesis, Job, Exodus, and Leviticus— now we’ve made it through the book of Numbers! 🎉

In today’s OOBT episode release, we wrap up the final chapters of Numbers and take a good look at God’s faithfulness in action. We talk about how He carefully divides the Promised Land, provides for the Levites, and sets up the cities of refuge—showing mercy, protection, and care for His people. We also revisit the story of Zelophehad’s daughters, reminding us that God keeps His promises and cares about each individual.

Of course, we can’t forget Caleb and Joshua—the faithful ones from the old generation—who finally get to step into the land God promised. And as we reflect on all of it, we see little glimpses of Jesus, our ultimate refuge and fulfillment of God’s promises. By the end, we’re standing right there on the edge with Israel, celebrating God’s faithfulness and feeling the anticipation of what’s coming next in Deuteronomy. Oh, that’s so good!

Be sure to listen in—you definitely don’t want to miss this one!

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-34-36/

In Numbers 31–33, we walk with Israel through some pivotal moments at the very edge of the Promised Land. First, the Lord commands Moses to send the Israelites into battle against the Midianites, the very people who had enticed Israel into sin back in Numbers 25. This becomes Moses’ last conquest, a battle where not one of the 12,000 Israelite soldiers is lost, and where we see offerings given in gratitude and purification laws reminding the people of God’s holiness.

Then, in chapter 32, the tribes of Reuben and Gad ask to settle east of the Jordan River instead of entering the Promised Land. Moses is furious at first, connecting their request to the failure of the ten spies decades earlier that led to forty years of wandering. He fears history will repeat itself. In the end, the tribes agree to help their brothers fight, but their decision becomes a sobering example of settling for less than God’s best and making plans outside of His promises. We’ll see the long-term effects of this choice ripple throughout Scripture in Joshua, Kings, and the prophets.

Finally, chapter 33 gives us a travel log of Israel’s wilderness journey — every stop, every camp, every step guided by God’s presence. It’s a reminder that nothing was wasted, and every mile mattered because He was with them.

Together, these chapters highlight God’s protection in battle, the danger of half-hearted obedience, and the steady faithfulness of His presence through every season of the journey. Oh, that’s so good!

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-31-33/

Today on OOBT, we’re diving into Numbers 28–30 — and while it may look like laws and lists at first glance, there’s something much deeper happening here. Chapters 28 and 29 lay out a rhythm of daily, weekly, monthly, and festival offerings—a calendar of worship designed to keep God’s people anchored in remembrance. For 40 years, Israel camped with the Tabernacle at the center. Worship wasn’t just an activity; it was the structure of their lives. But now, they’re about to enter the Promised Land. Life is about to shift. No more camp setup around God’s visible presence—families will be spread across towns and fields. Worship will no longer be automatic; it will have to become intentional. Then in chapter 30, we zoom in to something personal: vows—the promises people make to God. Whether out of desperation, devotion, or gratitude, vows are sacred, and God takes them seriously. Think of marriage vows, or the Nazirite vow—voluntary devotion like we saw with Samson. Or Hannah, who promised her son to God in 1 Samuel and followed through. These chapters remind us to live with integrity in what we say, and remembrance in how we live. And ultimately? All these rituals and rhythms point forward to Jesus, the once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10). No more daily offerings. He fulfilled it all with His perfect love. So let’s talk about what it looks like to live with remembrance, intention, and integrity—right where we are. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-28-30/

OOBT is back from a summer break, and what better way to return than with the 80th episode! Cue the confetti! 🎉 Annddd this episode has it all—idolatry, courage, a new beginning, and a God who listens, corrects, and restores. We’ll start in Numbers 25 with a shocking fall into sin. Israel, fresh off a major victory, stumbles hard—lured into worshiping Baal by Moabite and Midianite women. Spoiler alert: Balaam was behind the scenes the whole time. But in the middle of judgment, God raises up Phinehas to defend His holiness and stop the plague. In chapter 26, it’s a clean slate. A brand-new census counts the next generation, those who will finally enter the Promised Land. God is still faithful—still fulfilling His promises, even after failure. Then in Numbers 27, we meet the bold daughters of Zelophehad, who step up and ask for their inheritance. And God listens. He doesn’t just grant their request—He changes the law for future generations. We also see Joshua commissioned as Israel’s next leader, filled with the Spirit and ready to walk in Moses’ footsteps. From heartbreak to hope, this section of Scripture reminds us that even after failure, God still leads His people forward. He is just, merciful, and deeply personal—a God who listens. For the full episode show notes, please go to mfahring.com/numbers-25-27

In this episode, we step into one of the most surprising stories in the Bible — talking donkeys, hired curses, and blessings that can’t be stopped. We meet Balaam, a mysterious pagan prophet-for-hire. He’s not part of Israel, but he hears from God — and when the king of Moab tries to pay him to curse God’s people, things don’t go according to plan. Today, we dive into: · Who Balaam really was (and why he’s so hard to pin down) · The ancient practice of paying prophets to curse enemies · That unforgettable moment with a talking donkey · And how all of this unexpectedly points to Jesus Even in confusion, compromise, or enemy schemes, God’s blessing holds firm. PLUS, please be sure you don’t miss the announcement at the end of today’s episode with all the details about OOBT’s upcoming summer break – my plans, the official return date, and so much more! I do hope you find moments to connect more fully with those you love AND with your Bibles in study this summer! For the full episode show notes, please go to Mfahringmfahring.com/numbers-22-24

In this episode of OOBT, we walk with Israel through some of the hardest moments in their wilderness journey — and we see how every scene whispers of Jesus. Here’s what you’ll hear: * A strange ritual with a red heifer — What’s up with ashes and cleansing? And how does it connect to Jesus purifying us from death?

Moses’ heartbreaking mistake — He strikes the rock in frustration instead of speaking to it — and the consequence? He can’t enter the Promised Land.
A family rejection from Edom — Israel asks to pass through peacefully. Edom, their “brother nation,” says no. What do we do when even family lets us down?
Poisonous serpents and the bronze snake — The people complain. Serpents strike. But God provides healing through something strange: a bronze snake lifted high.

Spoiler: Jesus says this moment was always about Him (see John 3:14). * And the surprise ending? — Moses does enter the Promised Land—on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17, Mark 9). He stands beside Jesus in glory.

Grace has the final word. So even when we fail, even when the road is long, God doesn’t give up on His people. The Rock was struck for us. The Son was lifted up. And when we look to Him — we live. That’s so good, friends. So very good. Be sure to listen in for all this and so much more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-19-21/

Numbers 16–18 brings us one of the most dramatic turns in Israel’s wilderness journey — with rebellion in the camp, a high-stakes showdown, and God’s unmistakable response. But this isn’t just a story about judgment. It’s a story about mercy, leadership, and second chances. We talk about Korah’s rebellion and what it reveals about the human heart, but also how God defends His holiness with grace — raising up Aaron, once the maker of the golden calf, to intercede for the people. And even from the fallout of Korah’s sin, we see redemption stories in the surprising legacy of his sons, who go from a broken family line to writing worshipful psalms that still speak to us today. It’s a story of rebellion after rebellion, yes — but even more, it’s a story of rescue and redemption— and how God continues to write stories of grace, even in the wilderness. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-16-18/

In this episode of OOBT, we’re diving into Numbers 13–15 and Psalm 90—and wow, this is such a powerful stretch of Scripture. The Israelites are standing right at the edge of the Promised Land, but instead of stepping into what God already promised, they let fear win. What was supposed to be a 40-day scouting trip turns into 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. It’s heartbreaking—but also incredibly relatable. We’ve all faced moments where fear feels louder than faith. And yet, even in their rebellion, God’s promises still stand. His mercy still shows up. We’ll unpack why fear can so easily drown out the evidence of God’s faithfulness, what it looks like to live in holiness even after we’ve blown it, and how God’s justice and mercy are never at odds with each other. We’ll also talk about the significance of tassels (yes, tassels!) as reminders to stay close to God, and how Psalm 90—Moses’ raw and honest prayer—grounds us in the truth of God’s everlasting love. Be sure to listen in as together we unpack fear versus faith, justice alongside mercy, and practical ways to cling to the One who never walks away—even when we wander. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-13-15-psalm-90/

In Numbers 10-12, Israel finally breaks camp after almost a year at Mount Sinai. The cloud lifts, the trumpets sound, and they’re off—God’s presence leading every step. But even with the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night, doubts creep in, and complaints get loud. Sound familiar? Here’s what we’re unpacking in this episode: * God’s Divine GPS: The cloud and fire weren’t just symbols—they were daily reminders that God was with them. But did Israel trust His timing? * Complaints in the Wilderness: Despite seeing God’s presence, the people still grumbled about food, comfort, and the journey. We’ll talk about why we often do the same. * Moses’ Breaking Point: Even leaders struggle. Moses reaches his limit, but God doesn’t leave him to handle it alone. * Sibling Drama & God's Defense: Miriam and Aaron question Moses’ role, but God reminds them that He chooses whom He calls.

Through it all, we’re reminded that God’s presence is constant—even when the path is hard, even when we’re tired, even when we don’t understand. The real question is: Will we follow Him, even when it’s uncomfortable? For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-10-12/

Get ready to step back in time! In this special Holy Week episode of Open Our Bible Together, I sat down with Tammy Munson, host of Christian Podcasting Secrets, for a powerful conversation about witnessing the events of Holy Week and Easter as if we were there. We dive into: * The celebration and tension of Palm Sunday (Matthew 21:1-11) * The emotional weight and confusion of the Last Supper (Luke 22:14-20) * The heartbreak of Good Friday (Isaiah 53, Psalm 22) * The world-changing joy of Resurrection Sunday (Luke 24:1-12)

PLUS—we explore how visual portrayals, like The Chosen Season 4, bring these moments to life in a whole new way! Join us as we reflect on Old Testament prophecies, biblical insights, and what it would be like to stand in the crowd during the most significant week in history. AND… of course, Tammy and I are having a little fun in this one too! We can’t help ourselves! Be sure to listen in as we’re answering some lighthearted Easter questions to end our time together—so get ready to laugh, reflect, and celebrate the real reason we have hope this Easter season. Thank You, Jesus! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/what-if-you-saw-holy-week-up-close/

Hey there OOBTers! Today, we’re diving into Numbers 7-9, and these chapters are jam-packed! We’ll start with a long (and I mean long) list of offerings in chapter 7 — each tribe brings their gifts for the dedication of the tabernacle. It might feel repetitive, but there’s something beautiful about the equal participation of all God's people. Then, in chapter 8, we see the Levites set apart for their work, a reminder that God calls His people to specific roles in His grand story. But chapter 9? That’s where things get really interesting. We revisit the Passover — a crucial moment of remembrance for Israel — and then we get this incredible image of God’s presence leading His people through the wilderness. The cloud by day, the fire by night — where God moves, they move. Also, don’t miss the connection we’ll unpack to Jesus in the wilderness and Lent. Just like Israel followed God’s presence through the unknown, Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness, fasting and relying on God. And as we study these chapters today, we find ourselves in the season Lent — journeying toward Easter. This season is a time of reflection as we wait on and draw closer to God, much like Jesus did in the wilderness. Just as Israel depended on God’s presence to guide them, we’re invited to trust His leading in our own lives. Amazing. Simply amazing... So, honestly, though, what does this mean for us today? How do we lean into God’s presence and trust His timing? Let’s explore all of that together, shall we?! I can’t wait! For the full episode show notes, please go to mfahring.com/numbers-7-9

Ever wonder why the Bible includes so many detailed instructions? In today’s episode, God gives the Israelites specific jobs for carrying the Tabernacle, rules for staying pure, and a beautiful blessing over His people. At first glance, it might seem like a lot of rules—but when we dig in, we see something deeper. These chapters show us God’s holiness, His order, and His care for His people. And the best part? It all points to Jesus. In this episode, we’re talking about: * How the Levites carried God’s presence with reverence * Why purity and holiness mattered (and still do!) * The Nazarite vow and how it connects to Jesus * The famous Priestly Blessing ("The Lord bless you and keep you…") — and what it means for us today!

Plus, I’ll share how reading the Bible chronologically with The Bible Recap and watching The Bible Project videos in order has been a total game-changer and how I believe it will be for each of you as we continue our studies together on OOBT! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-4-6/.

At first glance, Numbers might not sound like the most exciting book—but don’t let the title fool you. These opening chapters are about way more than a census. They tell the story of a people in transition, our God who calls each person by name, and a journey through the wilderness with Him at the center. In this episode, we’ll unpack how God was preparing His people—not just for travel, but for trust. Each tribe was counted, every role assigned, and the camp was arranged with God’s presence right in the middle. It’s a powerful reminder that He isn’t distant at all. He leads, provides, and walks with His people—even in seasons of uncertainty. And just like Israel, we all go through wilderness seasons. Times when the path ahead isn’t clear, when we feel lost or stuck. But the same God who guided them guides us too. He knows our names, calls us with purpose, and invites us to trust Him as we journey forward. Join me as we remind ourselves that Numbers is more than just a list of numbers and names—it’s a story of faith, presence, and God’s unwavering care in the middle of it all. Let’s walk this wilderness journey together, knowing He is with us every step of the way. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-1-3/.

We did it OOBTers! We’ve made it to the last chapters of Leviticus! Let’s be honest: Leviticus is the book where most Bible reading plans go to die… but not us! We stuck it out, and these final chapters (24-27) are packed with powerful reminders of God’s holiness, His rescue plan, and His desire to walk among us. So good. In this episode, we’re breaking it all down: * Why honoring God’s name matters and what happens when people don’t. * The concept of Sabbath and Jubilee years—where debts are canceled, slaves are freed, and the land itself gets to rest! (hello, freedom and restoration!) * A big if/then moment—God lays out the blessings of obedience and the tough consequences of turning away. But even in the warnings, His mercy shines through! * AND THEN, in the final chapter, we see a call to full dedication because everything ultimately belongs to God.

Through all of this, we see that these laws aren’t just ancient rules—they point straight to Jesus and God’s ultimate plan to redeem and restore us. So beautiful. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/leviticus-24-27/

Hey friends! In this episode of Open Our Bibles Together with MFahring, we’re diving into Leviticus chapters 20 through 23, and trust me, this isn’t just a list of rules—it’s an invitation to understand God’s heart and what it means to live a life set apart. Leviticus 20 may seem intense with its focus on consequences, but it’s really about the seriousness of living in alignment with God’s holiness. God calls His people to be different, to stand out in the best way possible. Why? Because He wants them—and us—to reflect His character to the world. So good. As we move into chapters 21 and 22, the focus is on the priests and their responsibilities. These chapters remind us that those who lead in worship have a unique calling to model holiness. But here’s the twist: this isn’t just for priests! In the New Testament, we’re called a royal priesthood, which means these lessons apply to all of us. Holiness isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional, set apart for God’s purposes. And chapter 23? Oh, it’s a feast—literally! God lays out a calendar of holy days that teach His people to pause, remember, and celebrate His faithfulness. From the Sabbath to the Feast of Tabernacles, these moments of rest and worship are woven into the rhythm of life. They’re a beautiful reminder that holiness isn’t just about rules—it’s about relationship. So, what does this mean for us today? Being set apart doesn’t mean we’re better than anyone else and it isn’t about perfection or just following rules—it’s about reflecting who He is in how we live. Oh, my OOBTers, let’s open our Bibles together to explore even further what being “set apart” looks like for the Israelites and us! AND SPOILER ALERT: up next, we’re wrapping up our studies in the book of Leviticus! Sounds like it is about time to cue that confetti again! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/leviticus-20-23/

Hey, OOBTers! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the thick of Leviticus, and my oh my, is it ever packed with so much goodness for us to discover? We’ll start with the Day of Atonement, a day so central to Israel’s worship. Spoiler alert: It points us straight to Jesus and His ultimate sacrifice for us on the cross. Seriously, the connections to Hebrews 9 are mind-blowing! Wow. Just WOW. From there, we’ll explore the significance of blood in atonement—cue the hymn Nothing But the Blood (maybe you remember singing this one? Or still do even?). It’s crazy to think how these words found in Leviticus tie into the songs we still sing today. Then we see things get real as God lays out some super-specific instructions for how His people are to live holy lives. And while some of it might feel uncomfortable or heavy to read, we’re reminded that “clarity is kindness.” God wasn’t just handing out rules—He was showing His people how to be set apart, to be holy as He is holy. How to draw near to Him. That’s so good. Be sure you don’t miss our talk about how these instructions mirror the Ten Commandments, how they challenge us to live differently in our world today, and, most importantly, how they show us God’s heart for His people. Honestly, there’s so much to uncover about God’s holiness and His amazing plan for us. Oh, friends, I can’t wait to open our Bibles together! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/leviticus-16-19/

Hello and welcome back to the book of Leviticus, my OOBTers! Today OOBT is coming off the Advent season as well as a VERY long surgery recovery break. First off, before we go any further, I just want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU for your patience with me in the process. I’m sooo glad to be back here with all of you as we pick up where we left off before that day I walked through the doors of the hospital a few months ago. And, in being true to His nature, God doesn’t miss a beat in linking our studies in Leviticus with multiple themes I came across in my Advent studies this last month. I so love that about Him! God is helping us to not only see but also pull the threads no matter what season or book we find ourselves in. So good! We also take on some pretty tough but important topics about purity, being clean/unclean, holiness, and very specific ways God cared for His people’s well-being. These chapters cover things like childbirth, skin diseases, and other bodily discharges—which might feel a little uncomfortable to read at first! Yikes! We got this right?! LOL! I promise that together we will break down what these laws meant for the Israelites, why they mattered, and how they helped the community stay healthy and connected to our God who longs to draw near to them… and to us today. Most importantly, we’ll explore how these passages point us to Jesus, the One who brings true healing and restoration to all of our lives. Honestly friends there is so much more in today’s episode… I so hope you listen in to hear more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/leviticus-12-15/

Welcome back to the book of Leviticus, my OOBTers! Today, we're diving into the ordination of the priests and how Jesus is Our Great High Priest. How He is right beside us. Never far off. Never distant as the priests of the Old Testament were from the Israelites. I just love that, don’t you? So beautiful. Together we'll see how Moses follows God's instructions for the ordination of Aaron and his sons, preparing them for service. In Leviticus 9 we recognize all the offerings we’ve studied already, but this time offered for the priests themselves. I can’t help but notice the order of all this: sin had to be dealt with first and THEN it happened – God’s glory appears in a miraculous fire that consumes the offering on the altar as a sign of God’s acceptance and presence dwelling with them in the Tabernacle. And then we’ll witness the Israelites fall facedown in worship (more on that in today’s episode too.) They bowed down in honor of our God who wants to be with us. So good. Honestly, friends there is so much more in today’s episode…the importance of keeping God’s fire burning, the tragic story of Nadab and Abihu, and many laws about clean and unclean animals. Through all of this, we'll uncover the deep significance of holiness and obedience in our relationship with God. And there’s that word again… holiness. My how that one has become such a valuable part of our studies in the book of Leviticus! Annndddd please be sure to listen in to the very end of this one as I have an important last-minute announcement about the podcast to share with all of you… about what one of those unexpected things life throws our way means for OOBT in the days and weeks to come. I so you hope you listen in! For the full episode show notes and more, please go to https://mfahring.com/leviticus-8-11/

Welcome back to the Open Our Bibles Together podcast! As promised at the end of our last episode, back to school equals back to the podcast after a much-needed summer break. It is honestly mind-blowing to consider all of the changes happening in our home and lives this Fall which makes me SUPER GRATEFUL I had the opportunity to slow down and soak in all of the times our F7 family spent together in Summer 2024. It truly was quite a blessing, BUT NOW, I’m back and VERY ready to dive into our studies in the book of Leviticus together. Sooooo, as a bit of a refresher, please recall that Leviticus picks up right where Exodus left off. At the end of Exodus, we saw that God filled the tent with His glory after the Tabernacle was completed, but His presence was too holy, so not even Moses could enter. The question Exodus left us with is this… How can we live in the presence of our holy God? Well, friends, we find that answer in the book of Leviticus!! How’s that for an enticing teaser to an often overlooked and frequently abandoned book of the Bible?! LOL! As we pick up today (and before we explore Leviticus chapters 5 through 7), we first take a step back to consider a couple 30,000 feet/big picture story type views I found on repeat over and over and over again in my studies... this time by focusing in on the themes of God’s holiness and His Presence among His people. God With Us. So good. In this episode, we’ll also unpack the various offerings described in these chapters, including the Sin Offering, Guilt Offering, Burnt Offering, Grain Offering, and Peace Offering. We discuss the significance of these sacrifices, their role in atonement and purification, and how they point us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Honestly, there’s all this and so much more in this first episode release after our OOBT summer break! Be sure you don’t miss out on this one! I can’t wait to study with you! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/leviticus-5-7/

Hello and welcome back to another episode release of our podcast my friends!!! I’m so glad you are here as we begin our studies in the book of Leviticus together. And yes… I did say LEVITICUS. LOL! You may have heard me say in previous episodes of OOBT that the book of Leviticus is often referred to as the place where many one-year Bible reading plans go to die…. Oh goodness. But not for us am I right my OOBTers?! We got this… one chapter, one page at a time. ANNNDDD as I mentioned to you all when we recently finished the book of Exodus… I discovered SO MANY new threads to pull in studying Leviticus, that I am super excited to be able to begin sharing some of them with you… not only in today’s episode… but also in the episodes to come. In the meantime, though, since we’re once again getting ready to take a summer break for OOBT as we have done in previous summers, I wanted to spend this last episode before we do give us a good solid introduction to the book along with a peek of all that is to come by diving right on into Leviticus 1-4. These chapters will help to get us positioned and ready to return to our studies in mid-August. PLUS, there’s much more about that return date found at the end of this episode as well! Gosh, I’m so glad you are joining me, my friends! With that said, how about we just head right on into today’s episode shall we?! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/leviticus-intro-1-4/

Welcome to Summer 2024 my friends! Today we are going to go all the way back to the beginning of OOBT – dusting off EPISODE TWO and once again taking a listen to some of my fav tips and tricks about How I Study the Bible… as a refresher for many of us and maybe even a first-time listen for all of our new friends who have joined us along the way! What a trip down memory lane to listen to this one from the very early days of the Open Our Bibles Together podcast. Oh my. LOL! Honestly, though, I thought now was the PERFECT time to hear a refresher of all those tips on how to lean in while studying as found in this one… especially since we are getting ready to begin studying the book of Leviticus in the coming weeks…. Our next episode to be exact. Leviticus is often labeled as one of the perceived hardest books of the Bible to study and understand… aside from the book of Revelation but we got this my OOBTers!! ANNNDDD... I am also SUPER EXCITED to announce that the release of this throwback episode of the podcast coincides with the release of my newly created How I Study the Bible guide. This pdf is overflowing with my fav Bible study tips perfect for helping you to dig into the pages of God's Word on your own... so much study goodness all in one place! What's not to love about that? This FREE resource is now available when you sign up for it on the mfahring.com website. And while you are there, don’t forget to sign up for My Must Have Study Resources guide featuring 20+ of my absolute favorites. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/throwback-how-i-study-the-bible-podcast/

As I promised at the end of our last episode of OOBT, we’re going to go back and take a re-listen to our bonus and prequel episode to Exodus from last summer (yep... a whole year ago!) because I really do believe that all I included in that one is going to mean so much more to us now that we've finished our studies in the book of Exodus. I know it sure did land differently for me when I went back to listen so I’m hoping it does the same for you, my friends. We truly have learned so much in the last year my OOBTers… in those thin crinkly pages of Exodus. I hope you discover some glimpses of that in today’s re-air of our prequel episode too. So good! The Big Picture. Waiting. Slavery in Egypt. Suffering. God hears. God sees. God remembered. God provides. Promise Keeper. God knew. God knows. Oh goodness. Truly there’s so much to share in this one! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/throwback-bonus-prequel-to-exodus/

:::: THAT’S A WRAP MY OOBTers!! :::: WELL…. WITH THE BOOK OF EXODUS ANYWAY! 🎉🎉🎉 Three books down (Genesis, Job, and now Exodus) with only 63 more to go! We got this right?! LOL! So we FINISH the book of Exodus today AND up next we’ll BEGIN Leviticus. (More on that to come… I promise!) In the meantime, though, I think we could easily sum up nearly all that is happening in today’s episode with these words on repeat in our readings…. “Just as the LORD had commanded Moses.” That particular phrase is repeated nearly 10 times in Exodus chapter 39 alone… all that repetition should make us sit up and take notice of what Moses is detailing in the construction of the Tabernacle and the priestly garments. Honestly, even the repetition all over again of the specific instructions for crafting all the pieces and parts of the Tabernacle should remind us of the importance of Israel’s full obedience in doing everything … you guessed it… “Just as the LORD had commanded Moses.” How about instead of continuing to talk in circles about repetition and all the things, you just listen in to this one to hear how all it comes together for yourself? And be sure you don’t miss all the talk about God’s presence. God dwelling. God With Them and Us PLUS some of the many ways that the story of Exodus is our story too. Oh goodness please trust me when I say this is a don’t miss episode of OOBT!

“Show me Your glory.” These words not only ended our last episode of OOBT but are also the ones we pick back up with today as well. Not only does Moses have the opportunity to see God’s glory, but he also comes back down from Mt. Sinai with a radiant face from spending time in God’s presence. Wow! Just wow. We also hear the words God used to describe Himself. Gracious. Merciful. Slow to Anger. Faithful. Forgiving. Gosh, OOBTers… How can we not recognize all of these characteristics over and over again in His care for His people? In His continued presence with these rebellious people. In rewriting the stone tablets Moses broke. In reaffirming His covenant by highlighting the specific commands to avoid idolatry and unacceptable worship in the future (especially after that unfortunate golden calf incident). In His command to build the Tabernacle so He can dwell among the Israelites. In spite of all that has happened up to this point. Our God. Our God of second chances. Our God who is full of compassion and mercy. Our God who is slow to anger and is filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. Our God who provides. The Same God. Our God With Us. So beautiful. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-34-36/

Welcome to OOBT’s 60th episode my friends!! Yep… you read that right… the big 6-0! Wow! Let’s take a moment today to celebrate that we’ve reached another milestone here on OOBT… in our studies together… we just keep moving right along on those thin crinkly pages and the episodes just keep on piling up, don’t they?! Yay! I’m so glad you’re here with me to celebrate! Annndddd I am super humbled and oh so very excited to still be studying alongside each one of you … now 60 episodes later… AMAZING! Ok, enough of all that…how about we let our confetti settle to now return our attention to Moses and those Israelites at Mount Sinai. We start off our studies today with God instructing Moses on how He has not only chosen two craftsmen for the construction of all things related to the Tabernacle but that He has also filled them with wisdom for creating all of the items EXACTLY as He has detailed to Moses. This serves as further proof that whatever God requires of us, He equips us for & He gives us all we need for the assignment. So good. There is also more talk about Sabbath rest and then… dun dun duuun… there is that golden calf incident. Yikes! Truthfully, there’s so much more I could say about Episode 60 but how about instead I just let you listen in for yourselves? LOL! Seriously though, be sure you don’t miss this one! (And yes, I am aware that I probably say that with EVERY episode release, but I actually mean it each time as well… I discovered so much in my studies that I can’t wait to share with each one of you!) I love our times together so much my OOBTers! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-31-33/

And then what? Have you ever taken a moment in your Easter celebrations to consider the answer to this question… to look to see what happens next in Scripture AFTER we read that the tomb was empty? When we do, what we find, is another 40 days of Jesus here on Earth. Annnndddd we also find a whole lot of post-Resurrection moments that could only be described as this…. Mundane. Now that’s definitely not a word any of us would have EVER thought could be associated with Easter, right?! BUT, in today’s episode, we’ll learn how the seemingly mundane post-Resurrection appearances of Jesus were actually not that at all … and yes… you heard that right… Our Savior, who defeated death and the grave, did not choose fireworks or parades but instead used ordinary interactions with people to announce His Resurrection. Honestly, this is especially incredible as we consider the fact that this message Jesus entrusted to nobodies somehow made it to our ears and hearts 2,000 years later. Amazing. Be sure to listen in for LOTS of talk about 40 days… and day 41 even. All of this and so much more… Let’s be sure we don’t rush through this week without taking a moment to fix our eyes not only on the Resurrection but also all those appearances Jesus made to many before ascending to heaven… on day 41. Wishing all of you the happiest of Easters as you celebrate that our Jesus is Risen… He is Risen Indeed OOBT friends! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/easter-jesus-on-the-road-to-emmaus/

In today’s chapters in Exodus, we take a deep dive into God’s directions to Moses about the priestly garments and the consecration of the priests. However, please know this … all of this is merely meant to point us to Jesus who is described in the New Testament as our Great High Priest. He is the fulfillment of all the things that we see happening here in Exodus. PLUS, we learn quite a bit more about God and His desire to dwell with us as we finish out the remainder of the descriptions of the items to be placed within the tabernacle. With that thought in mind, please be sure to listen ALL THE WAY to the end of this one to hear some conversation about how we are all now little mini tabernacles walking around in the wilderness of this world carrying our God With Us inside of us. Now that’s most definitely so good my OOBTers! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-28-30/

Today’s studies on the podcast include LOTS AND LOTS of details about God’s plans to create a tabernacle as a place for Him to dwell among His people here on earth. I don’t know about you but this idea of God dwelling with us reminds me of one of my most favorite things about God… Emmanuel, our God with Us. Annnnddd if you have listened for any amount of time at all, you have probably also heard me say quite OFTEN on OOBT, that our Emmanuel is not just a baby in the manger. Actually, we saw God’s desire to dwell with His people all that way back in the beginning… yes… the literal beginning… of creation that is… as found in Genesis… when God dwelled with Adam and Eve in perfect relationship in the Garden of Eden. As we’ve seen throughout our studies, ever since sin entered the world, God has been in the process of rescue and restoration of His relationship with His people. And this tabernacle is just one more step in that direction. We are also going to see in the tabernacle many pointers to Jesus, God’s character, and reminders from the Garden of Eden even. And don’t forget that all these directions are coming through the conversation between God and Moses during those 40 Days and 40 Nights on Mount Sinai. I can just visualize Moses sitting and taking notes as God speaks, can’t you?! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-25-27/

Law & Order. Anyone who knows me knows that ALL the Law & Order shows are my absolute favorites to watch… most specifically Olivia Benson and Law & Order SVU. 25 seasons and still going strong. So… yes… just in case you are wondering… the play on words in the title of this episode was 100% intentional! LOL! Truthfully, though, it also directly relates to where we are headed in our studies today on OOBT. The 10 Words or 10 Commandments. The Book of the Covenant. So many examples of how God is using His laws to bring order. And about those laws found in the Book of the Covenant… please know that while many of the laws we’re reading don’t sit well or don’t make any sense at all to us, we must remember that they are not written for us today. Instead, they are written for the Israelite culture as they were leaving slavery and the oppression of the Egyptians. The Israelites are newly freed from slavery and in a learning process. * trying to learn how to live not as slaves any longer but as a new nation * how to live at peace with God and at peace with one another * how to deal with issues of property rights, personal injury, and issues of justice * how God is setting them apart from the nations surrounding them in very significant ways

Throughout this learning process, we see God so graciously not only provide the laws for order but actually give them detailed instructions as found in the Book of the Covenant of what these laws mean in everyday life for them at that time. And please don’t miss out on the touching covenant ceremony between God and the Israelites during which they not only saw God, but they feasted with Him in the wilderness too. Can you even imagine my OOBTers? I can’t wait to study this and so much more with all of you! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-22-24/

Remember Egypt. These two words seem to adequately sum up the beginning of our studies on today's episode of OOBT as we see God reminding the Israelites to remember their rescue … Oh gosh friends. What rescue or (if we're being honest) RESCUES, would God ask you to remember my OOBTers? We’ve already seen God's rescue, His provision, and His loving relationship with the Israelites being formed WAY before He now prepares to give them rules to live by. Relationship over rules… guessing you have probably heard that saying before and, yep, we talk about that a bit today too. And speaking of those rules, we also dive right on into the 10 Words otherwise known as the 10 Commandments. Well, you may be aware of the term and even one, five, or maybe all of them, but did you know that a survey showed that we are more likely to know the ingredients of a Big Mac than the 10 Commandments?! Ouch. Maybe you know that ad campaign? "Two All Beef Patties, Special Sauce, Lettuce, Cheese, Pickles, Onions on a Sesame Seed Bun." Honestly though, even if that particular one’s not familiar, there are probably 1 million other ad campaigns to choose from that you could recall quickly if asked… Possibly more quickly than the 10 Commandments themselves. Today we lean into the 10 Words, God making His presence known to the Israelites on Mount Sinai, and that touching moment when we realize that Moses has come full circle with the promise God made to him at the burning bush. All that and so very much more in today’s episode. I hope you take a moment to tune in! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-19-21-ten-words-for-them-and-us/

Happiest of New Year's to all of you my OOBTers! I’m so very glad to be back studying with you after a much needed break during the holiday season! However, I can assure you that I am now 100% ready to jump right into our studies as together we take a deeper dive into just who is this I AM referenced 6,519 times in the Old Testament alone. To revisit Moses’ conversation with our Mighty God at the burning bush and be reminded that God often chooses the most ordinary people (like Moses, myself, and possibly even you) to play a significant role in His unfolding story. Annnddd all of this leads us to a whole lot of talk in today’s episode about God’s cross-references as found throughout the Bible. I’m just going to stop right here and say that if you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to go to today’s show notes or my post on socials to see the image of overlapping arc on top of overlapping arc. This graphic depicts the 63,779 cross-references in the Bible (places where what is mentioned in one part is mentioned in another). It is so amazing to see this visual when considering the fact Scripture was written by 40 authors over 1500 years on three different continents and all very much a part of the story…the plan… God is still working out to this very day. Honestly, don’t you think our God who has 63,779 cross references in Scripture is more than able to still be cross-referencing our lives with His plans today even? Let’s choose to trust Him more and more as we move into 2024, shall we?! Oh friends, all this and so much more is found in this first episode of OOBT in this new year…many, many threads to pull and connections to the Christmas story, Exodus, Isaiah and so much more. Please don’t miss out on this one! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/gods-cross-references-and-i-ams-plans/

Merriest ALMOST Christmas to all of you my OOBTers! It’s hard to believe this episode release happens less than one week before Christmas so let’s be sure we spend some time slowing our hearts and minds to lean into that story; to be fully prepared to celebrate that baby in the manger on Christmas Day. With that thought in mind, how about we start our time in this episode in the Christmas story with the Passover and dedication of the firstborn…. Makes perfect sense right?! Well, I certainly hope it does by the end of our time together anyway. LOL! This connection leads us to an often overlooked part of Jesus’ birth story, his first visit to the Temple where Simeon and Anna met him. Oh, that one is such a beautiful example of God as our Promise Keeper. We’ll then move right into a part of the story that took place roughly two years after Jesus’ birth = the visit of the Wise Men, God warning Joseph in a dream to escape to Egypt for safety, King Herod’s massacre of the innocents, and then God later calling them back out of Egypt and to Nazareth where Jesus spent the rest of his growing up years. We are also reminded once again that all of this… the light and the darkness, the hard and the good of the Christmas story, are all part of God’s rescue plan… the plan in existence and in process since that first sin of Adam and Eve in the Garden. Through it all, we see the threads of redemption and rescue weaved throughout the storyline of Christmas…actually the storyline of the entire Bible. Beautiful. Just beautiful. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/advent-out-of-egypt-i-called-my-son/

Advent. A time to turn our attention toward preparing our hearts and homes to celebrate Jesus’ birth… prepare Him room so to speak. Today’s episode highlights some Old Testament threads, promises, and prophecies of the Rescuer who came down to the Israelites in Egypt just as our Rescuer came down in the form of the baby in a manger. How amazing it truly is. God Himself would come. God came down to rescue. Yes, the gift of that baby in the manger on Christmas morning is absolutely amazing but even more amazing is the mystery of our Savior’s presence forever with us, wherever we go, through the Holy Spirit. God With Us wasn’t one event on Christmas Day or one lifetime lived in the 33 years that Jesus walked the earth. God With Us is most definitely now AND forevermore too. He was and still is our Emmanuel, our Wonderful Counselor, our Mighty God, our Everlasting Father, and our Prince of Peace. This season unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given. Jesus is Emmanuel… God With Us; God come down to us; God come down to you; God with you (and me). Amazing… just amazing to take it all in, am I right? Beautiful. Be sure to listen in for all this and so much more my OOBTers! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/advent-rescue-came-down-his-name-is-emmanuel/

I am guessing this will come as no surprise to any of us, but gratitude is not often our default setting. Complaining and grumbling is. Ouch. With that said (and since we are just coming off the grumbling and complaining of the Israelites in the wilderness after their Exodus from Egypt in our studies), I felt this is an ideal time to lean in here a bit more to have us all consider to true antidote to complaining and grumbling…. Yep… you guessed it. Thankfulness and gratitude. While we can all know this at a head level, it is much more difficult to live, am I right my friends?! Be sure you listen in to this EXTENDED BONUS episode covering so many other things too… wilderness seasons of life. joy and pain. hard and good. friendship with God. God’s presence in it all. Emmanuel. God With Us. Annnddd be sure you don’t miss the end where I talk candidly about the one-year anniversary of my Dad’s unexpected death and how I am STILL trying to find a way to fight for thankfulness this Thanksgiving season. One WHOLE YEAR later. To be aggressively grateful for what God has done, is doing, and promised to do in my life… right where I’m at. Right here. Right now. As I grieve the loss of my Dad, and yet, in the same breath, am so truly thankful for the example of a life well lived, one in which he chose to love me and others in a meaningful way. Every day. Clear up to his last day. ❤ Truthfully, I am reminded just how much thankfulness and gratitude for my Dad over the course of this last year has been so valuable in the healing process. Once again holding that tension of both blessing and loss together. Oh my still grieving but also still healing heart. Heartbreak and Thankfulness. Joy and Pain. Hard and Good. Both/And. Only God can do this in our lives am I right my friends?! Oh goodness. You’re really just going to have to listen in as I speak words into the mic to find out more… a message I know I so desperately needed to hear… and maybe you do too right about now my friends?! ❤ M For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/once-again-thankful-for-god-with-us-my-dad/

Hello and Welcome to this episode JAM PACKED FULL of ALL SORTs of celebrating OOBT’s 50th episode + 2nd ANNIVERSARY. Eek! Can you believe it!?! For that reason, we promise you are in for a TREAT today on OOBT… and that sure does seem fitting since we are celebrating not one but TWO big milestones am I right?! Anyway, this episode finds me not just talking to the wall by myself but instead sharing the mic with my Podcast Editor + Coach (and great friend), Tammy Munson of Wildfire Creative, for what we lovingly call the Tammy Takeover. LOL! She asks all the questions today and I do my best to give all the answers about things both serious and silly related to me and to OOBT such as – * The story of OOBT’s beginnings and just what that has to do with a pandemic. * How Tammy and I met through Called Creatives. (Fun side note here: we have yet to meet in person, but I now consider her one of my closest + dearest friends + we can’t wait to officially get together for queso and chips… hopefully soon right Tam?!) * How OOBT launched two years ago because of Moses and continues to this day because of things learned from Moses. * Why our stories and the stories we find on the pages of God’s Word ALL MATTER. * Some behind-the-scenes glimpses of the obstacles I continue to face and how I am pushing through them. (I so hope this part of the conversation encourages you as much as these reminders encouraged me personally… preaching to myself today I guess!) * Annndddd then there’s my real-time processing of Tammy’s fun questions near the end… You certainly don’t want to miss those! Oh my! LOL! * PLUS be sure to listen for the details about the recent release of a FREE guide created with all of you in mind … My Must Have Study Resources PDF is now available for download through the link in today’s show notes on mfahring.com! YAY!

Truthfully though, I am so over the top thrilled to reach this 50th episode + 2-year milestone by the grace of God + alongside each one of you. ANNNDDD I am EVEN MORE excited to see where our studies continue to take us together in the future of OOBT! WOW. Just wow. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/oobt-50th-episode-2nd-anniversary-celebration/

Grumbling. Complaining. Manna from Heaven. Bread of Life. Water from the Rock. Living Water. Rest. Provision. Moses’ Raised Hands. Victory Over the Amalekites. “The LORD is My Banner.” Jethro’s Visit + Zipporah and Their Sons Return to Moses. ((How about I just go ahead and say it right now… the more I read about the grumbling of the Israelites and their many MANY complaints in the book of Exodus, the more I realize that I AM the Israelites. Ouch.)) Then there is that advice Jethro gives to Moses… those words found in Exodus 18:17-18 which read… “This is not good! You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself.” Oh my. This seems to land somewhere deep in my heart and mind. Don’t go it alone Moses… Don’t go it alone M. Do you feel the weight of that reminder too my OOBTers?! ANNNDDDD… please be sure to listen all the way to the end for an exciting announcement about what is to come on OOBT! It may or may not include some confetti in the air!! 🎉🎉 🎉 For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-16-18/

FIGHT. This one word seems to accurately sum up today’s episode of OOBT. So. Much. Fighting. Pharaoh and his army came for the Israelites. The Israelites fought against Moses about bringing them out into the wilderness to die. God fought for the Israelites when their backs were to the Red Sea. A fight for freedom. A million voices singing praises to Yahweh their warrior and rescuer only for them to end our readings for today fighting against God and Moses by complaining of thirst in the desert. However, even with all this fighting going on today, let’s not overlook the most important takeaway of all OOBTers… God alone fought for them + rescued them, AND more than 1,200 years after this Red Sea miracle, God fought again for His children… this time on a hill called Calvary. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus made a way for each one of us to experience salvation. Like the Israelites at the Red Sea crossing, we did absolutely nothing to help in the fight. Our salvation, just as the Israelites’, was and is a gift from God. End of story friends. Oh, that we would choose to quiet our souls before our Father God and realize that He still fights for us, His children. We may not see it in the moment, but God can make a way… ”The LORD will fight for you, and you only have to be silent” (Exodus 14:14 ESV). Now that’s a GOOD FIGHT worth fighting, am I right?! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-13-15/

Exodus 10-12 details the last three plagues of the ten plagues that fell upon Egypt because Pharaoh hardened his heart and refused to let the people of God go. Locusts infesting the entire land and devouring whatever food was left after the hail, total darkness that lasted for three days and could be “felt,” the 10th and final plague of the death of all the firstborns in Egypt… through all of this, we have a front row seat to see the power and authority of God over all of creation. Then, in the middle of the night, an estimated 2-3 MILLION PEOPLE left Egypt together on foot… AND SO THE EXODUS BEGAN. (Can you even imagine what that looked like? The magnitude of this exodus? How long that took? Somedays trying to get just 7 people out the door of our home feels nearly impossible! LOL!) Oh, my OOBTers… Hopefully, you are beginning to see this truth played out through each and every one of these plagues up to now…. God’s intent in the Exodus story is certainly to show Pharaoh and Egypt who the One true God is, but it is also to write on the hearts of His own people, the Israelites, that He is a faithful and trustworthy Deliverer without whose help no rescue was possible. Our God is a Deliverer + Rescuer. So beautiful. Be sure to listen in to hear about all of this and so much more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-10-12/

Today on OOBT we find the phrase “Let my people go” on repeat. The reason why? Pharaoh’s hardened heart. Full stop. Over and over again we see God sending Moses and Aaron back to request Pharaoh let the Israelites go AND over and over again we hear Pharaoh refuse… just as God said he would. We also see on repeat the disaster and devastation Pharaoh’s hard heart brought upon Egypt. UNBELIEVABLE… especially when you consider what living through these plagues was like for the people… all the people… including Moses and Aaron. The Nile turned to blood. Frogs. Gnats. Flies. Death of Livestock. Hail. Whew! What a traumatic set of events! Unfortunately, there is even more devastation to come in our next episode, but we shouldn’t get ahead of ourselves, should we?! Oh, and be sure you don’t miss the run-through M shares near the end today to hear about all of those Egyptian gods OUR GOD was defeating… one plague… one miracle… at a time. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-7-9/

In today’s episode of OOBT, we pick up with more conversation between God and Moses at that burning bush. Truthfully, the verses covered in Exodus 4 were the literal mic drop moment in the creation of this podcast (and yep… the mic pun was definitely intended there! LOL!). These words are now forever etched in M’s mind as confirmation that God has called her to serve as a Bible Study Podcast Host for His glory and the good of others. Really though friends… when God says who made a human’s mouth? How does one even begin to argue with that? All of this is a very tender realization as we are now 45 episodes into the podcast God so lovingly placed on M’s heart in the pages of her then study in the book of Exodus. She had been working through many things since January of that year BUT this study M started in April 2021 was the clincher to the eventual launch of the Open Our Bibles Together with MFahring podcast in early November of 2021. Amazing. Just amazing. We also dive into the truth that Moses’ doubt and questioning would not stop God from fulfilling His promises to His people. The same God who spoke to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob was now speaking to the Israelites through Moses, AND He’s now speaking of those promises in the past tense. As in, these were a done deal already in God’s eyes. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob knew God as a Promise Maker, but Moses experiences Yahweh as the one who fulfills promises. Promise Keeper. ALWAYS. All this and so much more… please don’t miss out on any of it friends! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-4-6/

Hello and Welcome to the book of Exodus OOBTers! Listen in as M helps us with the framework of what is for us only a flip of the page from Genesis to Exodus but actually represents many years of hard living and struggle for the Israelites in Egypt. There is so much happening in the “in-between” of the continuation of that storyline. Genesis begins at creation and concludes with the events leading up to the Israelites’ time in the land of Egypt just prior to their slavery there. As we begin in Exodus in today’s episode, we are going to hear God’s plans to rescue the Israelites from Egyptian oppression. Annnnndd what a plan it is friends!! M also leans in to process this thought with us… “The exodus is the defining moment in the Old Testament for the Hebrews as 9-11 is for us today or Jesus’ death and resurrection is for the New Testament.” Amazing to consider! Be sure to listen in to hear more about Moses’ timeline + how Old Faithful and the faithfulness of God are seemingly unrelated but actually VERY related after all. Whew! All this and so much more in this first episode release after an OOBT summer break in the month of July… truly quite a blessing to spend time with family (and in Orange Beach, AL even!) BUT NOW, M is back and VERY ready to dive into our studies in the beginning chapters of the book of Exodus together! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/exodus-1-3/

Welcome back OOBTers! This episode is both a BONUS and a PREQUEL to our upcoming studies in the book of Exodus. As M has been digging in to prep for this time together, she’s found so many things to share with you to help us transition from Genesis to Exodus. Truthfully, there are so many valuable things for us to hear … so many things discovered that M decided we would just make time for them in a BONUS + PREQUEL episode in an effort to help set us up for what is to come. The Big Picture. 400/430 years. Waiting. Slavery in Egypt. Suffering. God hears. God sees. God remembered. God provides. Promise Keeper. God knew. God knows. Oh goodness. Truly there’s so much to share in this one! PLUS, spoiler alert here, near the end of today’s episode, M will be sharing some information about an upcoming summer break for OOBT. Given that pause, she wanted to set us up to be ready to dive right into Exodus chapters 1-3 when the podcast returns from this break in early August. Pretty sure that’s most certainly one of the benefits of being the podcast host, right?! Deciding when and how we move on as we journey through these books of the Bible. LOL! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/bonus-prequel-to-exodus/

Welcome to Summer 2023 OOBTers! In today's episode, we are going to go all the way back to the beginning of OOBT as a refresher for many of us as well as maybe even a first-time listen for all of our new friends who have joined us along the way! If finishing the book of Genesis has taught us anything, for sure it has shown us the importance of the beginnings of all things. With that in mind, let's revisit together just how this Bible study podcast even came to be. Join M as she discusses the why and who behind the creation of the Open Our Bible Together with MFahring podcast. You may be surprised to learn it has a whole lot to do with Moses’ conversation with God at the burning bush + a hard good that needed a surrendered yes. ANNNDDD... be sure to check out the NEWLY UPDATED show notes with many MANY more additional resources than were found in the first time release of this episode + a link to another "beginning" episode (this time from the beginning of 2023!) that further develops both Moses' story and our own obedience to both the big and the small callings God places on each one of our lives. All this Moses talk is also the PERFECT setup for our upcoming studies in the book of Exodus! Sounds like a win-win right?! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/why-a-bible-study-podcast-2023-re-air/

:::: THAT’S A WRAP MY OOBTers!! :::: WELL…. WITH THE BOOK OF GENESIS ANYWAY! 🎉🎉🎉 Two books down (Genesis and Job) with only 64 more to go! We got this right?! LOL! So we FINISH the book of Genesis today AND up next we’ll BEGIN Exodus. In the meantime, though, please tuck this truth in the back of your mind… We cannot cut the ties between the books of Genesis and Exodus. (More on that later… I promise!) God Meant It for GOOD. Joseph spoke these hard-earned words to be a guide for us in the hard times of life as well. In our own Hard Good stories. Life in those moments may not feel good, but we can stand in the truth and in the courage of heart, after reading Joseph’s story, that good is there. It doesn’t have to feel good to be good. Where God is, good is being worked. In our lives, in the lives of those around us, or all of the above even. We don’t have to see it. We can choose to believe it because we believe in God. Oh my. How about you just listen in to hear more about our good God in the hard good found in our lives as well as the ways we must remember that flipping the page from the book of Genesis to Exodus is merely a continuation (400 years later) of the storyline we’ve been studying in Genesis. This is so so good my OOBTers! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-49-50/

Hello there and welcome to the Open Our Bibles Together podcast! I am so happy you are here and joining me today as we once again continue our studies in the book of Genesis. BUUTTT can we just pause to take a moment to celebrate the big 4-O?? Well, OOBT’s 40th episode anyway! LOL! I am super humbled and oh so very excited to still be studying alongside each one of you … now 40 episodes later… so so good! OK, enough of that…how about we set down our confetti to now return our attention to Joseph and his father Jacob. We start off our studies today with Jacob responding to God’s calling with these words…. “Here I am.” Wow. How touching that God chooses to lean in at this very moment to speak reassurances to Jacob as he is packing up + setting out with his family and belongings to make the 450-mile journey to Egypt. The God With Jacob is the same God With Us today. Beautiful. Just beautiful my friends.

Hey there! M here checking in with all of my absolute favorite Bible study partners as we take a deep dive together into Genesis 43-45 in this episode release of the OOBT podcast. Truthfully, where should we even begin as there is so much found in these three chapters tucked near the middle of Joseph’s story… With that in mind, how about we start by considering some of the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of these brothers on that trip back to Egypt and even on the way to Joseph’s palace. There is so much depth, and humanness lying beneath the surface of these stories found on the pages of our Bibles. And then there is this statement of truth… with God, there is always a meanwhile. Let’s repeat that to ourselves one more time to make sure we settle these words in the depths of our souls…. God is ALWAYS working… in the meanwhile. God’s hand of faithfulness and goodness was there even when Joseph couldn’t understand it. No matter the situations we face in life, if there is one thing that Joseph’s story seems to be showing us on repeat is that God is always up to something in the meanwhile moments of our lives. Now that is most certainly something to be grateful for in praise and worship to God – in the good times + in our suffering. Thank You, God, for Your Meanwhile. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-43-45/

Today’s OOBT can best be summed up with these words you’ll hear in this episode, “When you are facing a setback, the beginning of a Joseph-like attitude is to acknowledge that God is with you. There is nothing like His presence to shed new light on a dark situation.” Oh my. Yet another example of our Emmanuel - God With Us, right?! And nope, that is absolutely not just a title of God and Jesus that we should only leave in the Christmas story… here we see it alluded to in the story of Joseph as well. Let’s hold tight to that truth, shall we?! So important for each of us to remember our hard good/good hard stories. Be sure to listen to today’s episode to hear this and so much more related to the life of Joseph (plus his connections to Jesus’ story here on earth) as found in the book of Genesis! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-40-42/

THERE REALLY IS SOMETHING ABOUT MARY. About both of those Marys. Pretty bizarre way to describe an EASTER edition of the OOBT podcast, right?! Today we take a closer look at Mary Magdalene + Mary of Bethany (plus her sister Martha and brother Lazarus) as we consider the miracles and events leading up to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Kinda hard to explain briefly, but M PROMISES it will make more sense when you listen in! LOL! Let’s be sure we don’t rush through this week without taking a moment to fix our eyes on the miracles + Holy Week + Easter stories sooooo, with that in mind, enter TODAY’S RELEASE of BONUS Episode 37 of the OOBT podcast. Join M to lean into all things related to Holy Week, especially that incredible Resurrection on Sunday … and all just in time for this Easter! He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed OOBT friends! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/those-marys-and-easter/.

Today on OOBT, we start our studies with Joseph being sold into slavery and THEN in the very next chapter we read about his brother Judah, and his daughter-in-law, Tamar, to THEN end our time together back with Joseph… but this time… in prison. What seems like a break in the narrative actually becomes crucial to our understanding of the unfolding metanarrative of scripture found in both stories – Joseph’s + Judah and Tamar (and their eventual inclusion in the lineage of Jesus). Both stories are VERY important after all - to the Bible’s developing storyline that gives us all a glimpse of God’s grace and the amazing ways His promises were fulfilled despite all sorts of bad choices by Judah as well as because of the choices Joseph made while in slavery in Egypt. That is A LOT of background to unpack a story that is, at its root, a story of God’s faithfulness to a family. God had made a promise to Abraham. He made a promise to Isaac and to Jacob. And at so many turns, the promise appears threatened by someone’s sin. Further proof that God can and does redeem the hardest, most impossible, most complicated stories. Oh, OOBTers… What an incredible gift that truth is. Amazing. Simply amazing. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-37-39.

Ok, friends, let's just start with this... there’s some really hard stuff found in Genesis 34-36. This one actually comes with a trigger warning as the subject of rape, abuse, and murder are all dealt with in Dinah’s story, as found in Genesis 34. However, as God often does, there is so much tenderness and steadfast love tucked in these chapters as well. Reminders that Jacob’s return to Bethel… to the place he had previously met with God – is also a valuable reminder to each of us to take time in our own lives to remember God’s faithfulness to us in gratitude and worship… to keep looking for those reminders of God’s faithfulness in our lives. The importance of returning to the places we previously met with God…where we saw His faithfulness… the importance of remembering. Such a beautiful reminder for us all - even when we are unfaithful, God is faithful. Thank You, God. So with that in mind, please be sure to listen in for all of this and much more in today’s episode release of OOBT! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-34-36/.

Wrestling. This one word seems to sum up almost everything happening in today’s OOBT episode. Wrestling between Jacob and Laban as Jacob leaves to return to Canaan. Literal wrestling between God and Jacob. (Yes… this really happens!!) Jacob wrestling with his identity and is then given a new name by God. The end of the wrestling between two brothers after 20 years. Oh, friends, maybe you, too, are in a season of wrestling right now… Maybe you, too, need to hear how God worked all the wrestling and chaos out in someone else’s life. If so, then today’s episode is definitely for you! Annndddd, even if you are not in a season of wrestling right now, as always, there is still plenty to be discovered on the pages of God’s Word for all of us today! PLUS, be sure to listen in as we also see the further development of God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Same God. Promises made. Promises kept. Faithful back then. Faithful to us now. Oh OOBTers, don’t miss out on this one for sure! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-31-33/

Today’s episode opens with a 500-mile journey (on the run) to Haran. A stairway from heaven. God’s reminder of promises He made to Abraham and Isaac (and now to Jacob). The cheater is cheated. The deceiver is deceived. And then throw in a whole lot of striving, comparison, hurt, jealousy, resentment, and competition between two sister-wives. How about we just come right out and say it… isn’t it the most amazing thing that God would choose to use sinners to accomplish His purposes and plan?! Truthfully though, it’s so important for us to remember that sinners are actually all God has to use because that means each one of us too, right?! Annnddd you certainly won’t want to miss out on the final portions of this one when we take a deeper dive into this VERY complicated relationship between these two sisters. Leah and Rachel. Oh my. Let’s just leave that difficult conversation for the episode, shall we?! Friends, you don’t want to miss out! Promise! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-28-30/

Deceit. Manipulation. Cheating. Favoritism. Fear. Doubt. Hatred. Danger. Now that’s quite a list, isn’t it?? Today our study resumes in Genesis with the death of Abraham and then lands us right back in the story of Isaac + Rebekah + their twin sons. And every single word on that list above is found in today’s episode of OOBT. Whew. The story of Esau + Jacob begins with a scandalous claim that the older brother would serve the younger, and it certainly doesn’t improve from there! However, as we have already seen in Genesis (and Job), God only has imperfect, sinful people to work with, yet somehow His grace not only continues to cover it all but also weaves together a story that ultimately brings Him glory. Amazing. Simply amazing! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-25-27/.

Welcome back OOBTers to a New Year + New Episode of the Podcast! As we are a little over one year into M’s obedience to God’s call for her to be a Bible Study Podcast Host, listen in as she not only encourages herself to keep on in the God-sized mission God gave her in OOBT, but also encourages each one of us to step into both the big and the small callings God places on each one of our hearts, minds, and lives. Please please please be sure to not only listen in but to then also process this one further in all the many resources found in the show notes M provided for today’s episode. God is up to some BIG things in 2023 and beyond so let’s not miss out friends! We are all called to go in one way or another so let’s figure out how we can join God in His plans for each one of us in 2023. This is going to be so good OOBTers! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/called-to-go-in-2023/

Merry Merry Merriest of Christmases to each of you! Be sure to join M on today’s episode of OOBT as she leans in to consider the real lives of the people involved in the Christmas story. In all honesty, her prayer has been and continues to be that God will give us all a new sense of AWE + WONDER as we look closer at the gift of that baby boy in the manger through the eyes of Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, Joseph, the Shepherds, and the Wise Men even… that we will find new ways to approach the story we may have already heard hundreds of times before of Emmanuel, God With Us, coming down to earth. After all the waiting, there is so much room for joy, awe, and a whole lot of wonder at Jesus’ arrival, right? Christ, Our Savior, is Born! Let’s marvel at that truth together, shall we? Amazing. Just AMAZING. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/the-awe-wonder-of-christ-our-saviors-birth/

Welcome back, friends! Be sure to listen in to today’s episode as we dive right on into M’s most favorite time of the year = Advent + Christmas. With that in mind, did you know that Advent actually has two meanings? He has come + He is coming. The first Advent of Jesus as the baby in the manger, and the second Advent will be when He returns someday to make all things right and new. In the meantime, though, Jesus is Emmanuel, God With Us. In the hard and the good. The joy and the pain. In the weariness. In the waiting. Truthfully, friends, we must trust that waited time is not wasted time with God. M invites all of us to join her in taking the opportunity Advent brings to slow down and consider the gift of Christ’s coming. To discover ways our weary souls can rejoice… Even while we wait. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/god-with-us-while-we-wait/.

Hey there OOBTers! Before we get started today, please know that this episode is coming to you from a place of deep heartbreak, loss, and grief mixed with a whole lot of thankfulness and gratitude. “Both/And.” Hard and Good. Joy and Pain. Truthfully, on this side of heaven, we seem to always live in the tension of having both joy AND pain in our lives in one form or another … all at the same time. Often found in varying degrees of more joy or more pain, but both are present. Always. Right now. Be sure to listen in for some questions to consider and some practical ways you can begin (even today) to develop a gratitude practice in your own lives - just in time for Thanksgiving and all the days to follow. This doesn’t mean that we have to thank God for our hard circumstances, but we can certainly thank Him through them + be on the lookout for all of His blessings in the midst of it all… to fight for thankfulness to God for being with each one of us in the hard and the good. Emmanuel. God With Us. Amazing. Just AMAZING. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/thankful-for-god-with-us-my-dad/.

LET’S BEGIN THIS EPISODE BY CELEBRATING OOBT’s ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY ON NOVEMBER 3rd!! 🎉 🎉 🎉 Eek! Can you believe it?! M is so over the top thrilled to reach this one-year milestone by the grace of God + alongside each one of you. Annddd she is EVEN MORE excited to see where our studies continue to take us together in the future! WOW! Just wow. With all that said, please join M as we dig deeper in our study of Abraham, including a promise + 25 years of waiting + the promise finally fulfilled through the birth of Isaac. God kept His Word. He always does, friends. We will also take a closer look at an unimaginable test of Abraham by God + an answer to prayer before the prayer was even finished. Goodness, friends, as always, M has so much to share with you in this one … Be sure to listen in to find out more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-21-24/.

In today’s extended episode, M continues our study of Abraham’s story together. M admits she struggles to stay within the allotted time frame for episodes as she finds so many things that she feels she must share. Guilty as charged! LOL! With this in mind, our reading begins with Sarai taking matters into her own hands and her servant Hagar then running away to the wilderness to meet with the God Who Sees. Abram is renamed Abraham, Sarai becomes Sarah, Sodom & Gomorrah are destroyed, Lot’s wife looks back and is turned to salt, + God steps in to once again free Sarah from Abraham’s lies – this time to King Abimelech. Whew! That is A LOT, but it also sounds pretty intriguing, right?! You also don’t want to miss out on M’s bit of a deep dive into how God can and uses the faithlessness often found in our lives to fulfill His promises and purposes. When we are faithless, He is faithful. Oh, OOBT friends, you certainly don’t want to miss this one! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-16-20/.

Hello, again, OOBTers! Join M as she takes us back to the beginning… well, the beginning book of the Bible anyway! Following our completion of the book of Job, we are heading back to Genesis. Specifically, we are diving back in at chapter 12 with a promise of God to Abram (who will later be renamed, Abraham). Listen in as M discusses covenants, waiting, the unbreakable promises of God, and how not even one of God’s promises to Abraham remains unfulfilled. Did you hear that? Not a single one. Amazing! So you may be asking, why should a set of ancient covenants in the Bible matter to us now? Because just like these people spent their lives waiting for God to fulfill his promises of redemption, we also find ourselves waiting. In our waiting, we can look to God’s covenants with Noah and Abraham and find hope. As it turns out, our lives may not be all that different from Noah and Abraham’s after all. Be sure to listen in to learn about all this and so much more in today’s episode of OOBT. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-12-15/.

Welcome back OOBTers!

M is VERY excited to share today’s BONUS + EXTENDED episode with you! You may or may not have noticed yet, but this one pulling some threads from the book of Job is 1 HOUR & 15+ MINUTES of content - now that’s definitely BONUS + EXTENDED, right?! M has a variety of perspectives to discuss in this episode as we determine how to struggle well… to suffer strong… in our own Job moments of life. Something she landed on repeatedly in her studies is our need to redefine the definition of good (and even hard) as Christians. GoodHard. Life is always both. The good and hard are always commingled in our lives. God made us do the hard things in the midst of the good story He’s writing in our lives. Wow. M believes God’s trying to tell us something here, friends (well, so many things, actually)… let’s have ears to hear. Good Hard. Hard Good. “Suffering is not the end of the story. Our stories have been so so hard, but they’ve also been so so good. Dear ones, keep persevering in your own GoodHard story. Tell your GoodHard story to others. Your story will be someone else’s survival guide.” Oh, friends… This is a don’t miss show today on OOBT. For today’s BONUS + EXTENDED episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/extended-bonus-threads-to-pull/.

Welcome back OOBTers!

M is VERY excited to share today’s BONUS + EXTENDED episode with you! You may or may not have noticed yet, but this one pulling some threads from the book of Job is 1 HOUR & 15+ MINUTES of content - now that’s definitely BONUS + EXTENDED, right?! M has a variety of perspectives to discuss in this episode as we determine how to struggle well… to suffer strong… in our own Job moments of life. Something she landed on repeatedly in her studies is our need to redefine the definition of good (and even hard) as Christians. GoodHard. Life is always both. The good and hard are always commingled in our lives. God made us do the hard things in the midst of the good story He’s writing in our lives. Wow. M believes God’s trying to tell us something here, friends (well, so many things, actually)… let’s have ears to hear. Good Hard. Hard Good. “Suffering is not the end of the story. Our stories have been so so hard, but they’ve also been so so good. Dear ones, keep persevering in your own GoodHard story. Tell your GoodHard story to others. Your story will be someone else’s survival guide.” Oh, friends… This is a don’t miss show today on OOBT. For today’s BONUS + EXTENDED episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/extended-bonus-threads-to-pull/.

God shows up in a very real way on today’s episode of OOBT!! The God who speaks… Eek! We have waited so very long for this moment!! Join M as she shares what she discovered in studying the last F I V E chapters of the book of Job. Yep. You read that right - we are wrapping up our first full book of the Bible in this episode! CUE THE CONFETTI, right friends?! ((Surely you are already aware that M is ALWAYS game for throwing confetti in the air in celebration!! LOL! 🎉 🎉 🎉)) You also don’t want to miss it as M ties together multiple themes related to the conversation between God and Job. Kansas Thunderstorms. The Eye of the Storm. I am not, but I know I AM. Light Flies. Behemoth & Leviathan. Rudy Ruettiger. Don’t Give Up Too Soon. The God Who Sees Me. Sound a bit unrelated?! Intrigued yet?? Hope so! Be sure to listen in to find out how M connects it all together for us! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-38-42/.

God shows up in a very real way on today’s episode of OOBT!! The God who speaks… Eek! We have waited so very long for this moment!! Join M as she shares what she discovered in studying the last F I V E chapters of the book of Job. Yep. You read that right - we are wrapping up our first full book of the Bible in this episode! CUE THE CONFETTI, right friends?! ((Surely you are already aware that M is ALWAYS game for throwing confetti in the air in celebration!! LOL! 🎉 🎉 🎉)) You also don’t want to miss it as M ties together multiple themes related to the conversation between God and Job. Kansas Thunderstorms. The Eye of the Storm. I am not, but I know I AM. Light Flies. Behemoth & Leviathan. Rudy Ruettiger. Don’t Give Up Too Soon. The God Who Sees Me. Sound a bit unrelated?! Intrigued yet?? Hope so! Be sure to listen in to find out how M connects it all together for us! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-38-42/.

Today’s OOBT episode finds us meeting friend #4, Elihu, who, up until this point, has remained silent. He begins his speech by claiming God had “advanced his wisdom way beyond his years”… well friends, you’ll just have to listen in to find out if he was right about that! Truthfully though, are you exhausted by the ways Job is repeatedly misunderstood? Imagine losing all Job has lost, feeling distant from God, and your friends all just keep attacking you -- and you can’t, for the life of you, think of what you might need to repent of! Oh, and you’re covered in boils. While we don’t envy Job, we can certainly be glad his story is recorded in Scripture because we’ve all experienced seasons of life that feel like this to some small degree. And if you haven’t yet, you will, friend. In all our hard moments, Job’s story reminds us we are not alone. And he shows us how to suffer well. Oh, Job. Also, stay tuned until the very end of this episode to hear about God’s Majesty, His Power, and a Million Little Miracles along the way. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-32-37/.

Have you ever found yourself whispering or even yelling these words out loud? Oh, friends, M has too. Why God? Listen to today’s episode as we find Job heartbroken as he remembers how good his life had been. We would have understood if this was Job’s tipping point, right?! BUT Job still cries out to God. It is a despairing cry, but a cry nonetheless: “I cry out to you for help, but You do not answer me.” His words foreshadow the ultimate cry of despair when Christ hangs on a cross and asks, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” As we consider that God had his own Son go through suffering, not around it, it should give us confirmation that if God allows us to go through sufferings and heartbreaks, then He has a plan to use those seasons for our good, the good of others, and for His glory. He does not waste our tears, and we never walk alone - no matter how hard the journey. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-29-31/.

Life. Loss. Loneliness. Suffering. Heartaches. All of these things confuse us and can lead us into dark places as we question over and over the things we can’t understand. Like Job, sufferings in our lives often leave us desperately searching for answers. Searching for wisdom. Searching for God. Join M as she continues to journey through the pages of scripture to see how these painful places are often where we discover the deepest, most precious treasure. God Himself. The entire book of Job gives us a glimpse into his immense sufferings, but as we will soon see, the book ultimately ends with a deeper sense of intimacy between God and Job. What a challenge to each of us to not give up and wrestle well even. In some strange way, Job causes us to truly appreciate the value of wisdom and the often-difficult search for it that leads us straight into the very presence of God. Friends, M has so much to share with you in this one … Be sure to listen in to find out more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-25-28/.

PLEASE NOTE:: Today’s episode comes with a trigger warning as M speaks candidly of her experiences with miscarriage and depression.

Hey friends! This one is a definite switch in OOBT’s typical content + format as M spends time openly sharing about a shattering Job season in her own life… and the ways God showed up to meet her in the depths of her despair as well as some “good” she now recognizes He brought to her life on the other side of her time in the pit so to speak. The statement, “God is making beautiful things out of our lives - out of us,” becomes a crucial part of today’s discussion.

Be sure to listen in to not only find out more about what it looks like to be “a Job of your time” but also how to keep your faith in the midst of immense suffering, all while trusting that God has a bigger plan and purpose for all of it.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-22-24/.

As M opens today’s episode, there is really nothing left to say at this point except, “Oh, Job.”

How our hearts continue to break for him. In the loss. The grief. The physical pain. The accusations of the “miserable comforters” he is struggling to call friends still. How many of us have been or even are there right now? Oh, friend.

And then there is this… Longsuffering. Not a word any of us would like to have used to describe our times of struggle, but so often, this is the only word that actually seems to fit in those seasons.

Thank goodness M also spends some time leaning into Job 19:25-27 and learning what Job is referring to when he declares, “But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives.”

OOBT friends, you certainly don’t want to miss this one!

86,400 seconds. The length of a day. Have you ever thought about that? Let that number sink in for a minute, OOBT friends, and then be sure to join M as she helps us consider the many ways God can (and often does) use the heartbreak and pain of walking through one more TODAY in the midst of our own struggles… the next 86,400 seconds… and the next and the next. AND SPOILER ALERT HERE: M takes us for a peek at the end of the book of Job. Have you ever been guilty of that too? Of reading a book that was getting so intense, you just must look ahead to see how it turned out in an effort to ease your mind about what was happening in the moment? M admits she is MOST CERTAINLY guilty as charged of doing that, and she definitely goes there in today’s episode. This one is jam-packed with all this and so much more - it is one you don’t want to miss! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-15-17/.

Ridicule. Scorn. Reproach. Contempt. Criticism. Just saying those words makes our hearts heavy for Job. In today’s episode, we hear from Job’s third friend, Zophar, who lashes out at him in anger, saying that Job deserved more punishment, not less. Ouch. Have you ever been devastated by the false accusations of a friend? Or misunderstood by someone you love and trust? Pretty sure we can all say we have experienced these heartaches at some point in our lives. Maybe even right now. Be sure to listen in to how, in the midst of the seemingly constant criticism of his friends, Job not only calls them out for their weak attempts to make everything neat and tidy but also hear these words from him, “I’ve had it with you, I’m going directly to God.” May we, like Job, go directly to God when the struggles and heartaches of this world weigh too heavy to bear in our own lives. Let’s dive in OOBTers! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-11-14/.

In today’s episode, M continues our study of Job’s story together. Our reading starts with Job having to endure the bad advice, harsh words, and untrue accusations from the second of his three friends, Bildad. We then return to the courtroom so to speak as we did in the heavenly courtroom scenes between God and Satan, the Accuser, in chapters 1 + 2, but this time it is Job requesting a personal appearance before God Himself to plead his case. Be sure to listen in to hear how Job presents his case of innocence against what he believes is the unjust God of the universe. Talk about the court case of the ages…You certainly won’t find this one on Law and Order! Sounds intriguing, right?! M thinks so too! You also don’t want to miss out on M’s deep dive into how God can and does use the shattered dust moments in our lives + a challenge at the end. OOBT friends, you certainly can’t miss this one! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-8-10/.

Welcome back, OOBTers! In today’s episode, M picks up where we left off last time…in the middle of a conversation between Job and one of his friends, Eliphaz. Oh, how devastated and hurt Job must have been by the barrage of words Eliphaz is attacking him with. Unexplainable and unimaginable grief with debilitating pain plus now accusation upon accusation of wrongdoing he did not commit coming from one of his closest friends… can you even imagine what Job is thinking and feeling at this point in his life?! Then we hear from Job once again in response to Eliphaz's incorrect assumptions. What is so impressive about Job in these verses? Job doesn’t try to appear strong or brave or gloss over his pain by replying, “I’m fine,” like so many of us tend to do. Nor does he attempt to be some spiritual giant by suffering in silence. He speaks up. He cries out. He owns and confesses his intense thoughts and emotions. Friends, there is soooo much we can learn from both Job and even Eliphaz (yes, you heard that right!) in this episode… Be sure to listen in to find out more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-5-7/.

Today on OOBT, join M as she once again returns to our study in the book of Job. Together we see Job had no sooner finished saying, “The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away, blessed be the name of the Lord” after losing his 10 children and all his possessions, when Satan, the Accuser, once more enters the heavenly courtroom to ask God for permission to take Job’s health as well. Really?! Goodness gracious.

Fast forward a bit as M offers a not-so-common perspective about Job’s wife and his response to her harsh words. While the arrival of Job’s friends to silently sit with him seems to be a comfort at first, we will quickly learn that it would have been best if they had continued to sit silently though! Be sure to listen in for all this, plus some comparisons of Job and Jesus and more as found in the pages of the book of Job.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-2-4/

Join M as she pauses our study in the book of Job to take a deep dive into all things related to Holy Week … just in time for Easter!

As M discussed during our Advent studies, God is in the business of revealing new things constantly through His Word, and we just must have our hearts ready to receive by reading this story we’ve possibly already heard hundreds of times before with fresh eyes and a heart desiring to discover more and more of our Savior on the cross who leaves an empty tomb on the third day. He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed OOBT friends!

Even if you have yet to go locate the show notes I provide for each episode, I would strongly encourage you that this is the episode to start using them... so many extras this time!

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/holy-week-easter.

In today’s OOBT episode, join M as she transitions us from Genesis to the 18th book of the Bible in our chronological Bible reading plan – Yep - You heard that right - #18! Anyway, Job chapter 1 lands us about 400 years post-flood, and we meet a man named (you guessed it) Job. Initially, Job sounds a whole lot like Noah -- he’s blameless and upright and fears God. In Noah’s story, things got really dark, then there was some relief at the end, and we’ll see the same type of thing playing out in Job’s story, but not before we witness a heavenly courtroom scene vaguely reminiscent of episodes from the Law and Order franchise (some of M’s favorites to watch!) that results in such devastating losses in Job’s life that he is often said to foreshadow Jesus and his suffering on the cross. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/job-1/.

Did you know that the word for rainbow in the promise God made to Noah actually refers to a bow in some other Bible translations? As in a warrior’s bow. God hung up His bow in the sky and promised to never again destroy the earth by flood. Pretty interesting perspective, right?!

Or did you know that the events happening after Noah’s family leave the ark clear up until the incident between Noah and his sons in the vineyard are said to be a second creation? A new command to be fruitful and multiply, another garden, once again naked and ashamed.

God is remaking His creation, but unlike before, where He blesses Adam and Eve who knew no sin, here we see God bless Noah’s family even in their sin. Isn’t that the best news friends? When we are sinful, He is merciful. God will never give up on His creation. He will never give up on us.

For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-9-11/.

Maybe you’ve heard the verse from the book of Genesis that says Noah did everything exactly as God commanded him. But have you ever taken a closer look to see precisely what God commanded him to do? Join M as she does just that and discovers along the way Noah’s everything + exactly = 100+ years building an ark in the middle of the desert when he had never even seen rain & over a year (371 days by most accounts) on a boat with his wife, 3 sons, their wives, and over 7,000 animals. Well, now that sounds cozy AND incredibly smelly, right?! And by the way, Noah’s Ark… This is no cute little boat with animals sticking out the side as we often see in children’s storybook Bibles + on Noah’s ark-themed nursery décor. Nope. Not at all, friends. Be sure to listen in to find out more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-6-8/

Today on OOBT, M dives right on into the first true crime story in the Bible. Yep. You read that right. The first true crime story in the Bible story is found in Cain’s murder of Abel. This murder of one brother by another brother puts a whole new (and very disturbing) take on that phrase you often hear parents often say; “They fight so much I hope they don’t kill each other.” Yikes! Sibling rivalry. Anger. Murder. Unfortunately, this murder is only the beginning of the downward spiral of sin found in Genesis. However, on a more positive note, tucked in a couple of LONG listings of names in the genealogies from Adam to Noah, M came across a man named Enoch who “walked with God” + “was no more.” Just to clarify, this doesn’t mean a daily stroll. Nope. This one means so much more. Intrigued?! M sure hopes so! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-4-5/

In today’s episode, join M as she backtracks a bit into Genesis 2 to talk about how dust and broken-off bone don’t seem like the most promising of beginnings, BUT when the breath of God is added, these were nothing turned into the most glorious something.

Moving on to Genesis 3, M considers how the serpent’s deception in the Garden of Eden began with only four words. “Did God really say?”

Discover how this one question not only led to the fall of Adam and Eve into sin but ALSO became a promise from God to send Our Savior … on an all-out mission to crush the head of the snake. Yep. The first promise of Jesus’ coming is found all the way back in Genesis. Sounds interesting, right?!

Be sure to listen in to find out more! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-2-3/

Have you ever wondered just why the universe God created is so gigantic? Join M as she shares what she learned when searching for an answer to this question as well as ties together multiple themes related to the creation account as found in Genesis 1+2. A Perfect Home. The Beginning of a Love Story. A Blank Page. Law and Order. The Trinity. A Trip Around the Sun. Rest. God-Blessed Rest. When not If. Sound a bit unrelated?! Be sure to listen in to find out how M connects it all together for us! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-1-2/

Isn’t there’s just something about beginnings, a new start, a new year, a new day even, a clean white planner page just waiting to be filled… Well, you get the idea, right?! Join M as she begins a deep dive in the very first thin, crinkly pages of our Bibles… The beginning of all beginnings, the book of Genesis. The true history of who God is, who we are, where we came from, how things went wrong, and God’s planned rescue through Jesus all along. Genesis lays the foundation for everything else we will encounter in the remaining 65 books of the Bible so that sounds like a pretty important place to start for sure! Please don’t miss out on any of this + so much more as we launch into the new year in Genesis! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/genesis-1/

Join M for this extended Advent BONUS episode of the podcast as she takes a deep dive into all things related to the Christmas story… just in time for Christmas! God is in the business of revealing new things constantly through His Word; we must have our hearts ready to receive by reading this story we’ve possibly already heard hundreds of times before with fresh eyes and a heart desiring to discover more and more of that baby boy in the manger on the thin, wrinkled pages of our Bibles. That baby in the manger who also becomes our Savior on the cross. Christ, Our Savior, is Born, my friends! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/advent-christ-our-savior-is-born/

It’s beginning to sound a whole lot like Christmas…. Well, Advent actually… on the podcast today friends! Join M as she ties together multiple themes related to Advent. The Waiting. The Arrival. Prophecies of Jesus. Promises fulfilled. The Old Testament and the New Testament. 400 years of Silence. The Family Line of Jesus. Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. A weary world rejoices on a Holy Night. And even more Waiting. Should be interesting right?! Be sure to listen in to find out! For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/advent-waiting-for-the-messiah/

This “how-to” episode begins at the exact spot so many of us find ourselves right now…. struggling to spend time with God. Join M as she shares some of her favorite time-tested study tips along with a big picture story overview of the Bible’s all-in-one 66-volume set of books as we seek to overcome our obstacles to finally dig into God’s Word together. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/how-i-study-the-bible-podcast/

So how did this Bible study podcast even come to be? Join M as she discusses the why and who behind the creation of the Open Our Bible Together with MFahring podcast. You may be surprised to learn it has a whole lot to do with Moses’ conversation with God at the burning bush + a hard good that needed a surrendered yes. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/why-a-bible-study-podcast/

Do you sometimes find it hard to pick up your Bible? To know where to begin, what you are even reading, how to study + dig deeper??

I get it, friend. I have most definitely been there too! It can be so overwhelming and intimidating for sure.

I have discovered over the years that it becomes easier if you have someone to read alongside you, so please join me as we open our Bibles to read together – one chapter at a time.