Simply Stories Podcast: Recent Episodes
Emily Humphries
Simply Stories, hosted by Emily Humphries, is a weekly podcast with a heart for story. Guests share their stories of what God has done in their lives and encourage others to do the same in the unique way He has gifted them to do so. Whether they are non-fiction authors, speakers, or every day neighbors, to fiction authors, creatives and artists, we all have a story that matters and are loved by a creative God who made us to share them.
Today, I have the absolute pleasure of sharing my conversation with the one and only Douglas McKelvey. Douglas is a songwriter, author, and liturgy writer extraordinaire. I have never met someone like Douglas. His gift with words and passion for Christ cultivates a visceral invitation to be more present in this life, to find your fight again as you walk this weary way, and speaks to our hope of the next life with Jesus.
Douglas shares with me his story of what led him to Nashville, TN, his journey from songwriting to fiction writing and the idea of unpacking his belief that every moment in this life is sacramental, and sometimes words can help us to be present. Thus, the birth of Every Moment Holy. There are now 3 volumes of Every Moment Holy, each unique in how they offer opportunities for us to be awake to the moments we are living in. Whether that is something as simple as waking up in the morning and enjoying a sunrise, something unique like beginning a novel, or the keeping of bees, holiday celebrations, to going on a trip, there is a liturgy for it in one of these volumes. Many of these liturgies, especially in volume two, also hold space for the hard and holy moments around grief and lament, and even for those facing the end of their life. I cannot begin to express how much many of these liturgies have ministered to me as we’ve walked through many losses, and the anniversary of losses, over the last few years.
As it is that time of year, Douglas and I also talk about how to embrace the season of advent, which asks our hearts to prepare Christ room, but also to ask “where is our hope?” as we wait for Jesus to come back again. He even blesses us with a reading of his “A Liturgy for the Start of the Christmas Season.” I hope all of this conversation serves as a blessing for you in this season. I hope it is serves as an invitation to prepare Him room not just for now, but for always. And I hope and pray, it reminds you that you are not alone in this life, no matter how it may seem, and Jesus is coming back for us. You matter. Your story matters. Merry Christmas!
Connecting with Douglas and Every Moment Holy:
Douglas’ Website
EMH Website
EMH Downloads, some free, some for purchase
EMH App
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts. My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:36-Christ is the Lord over all
Colossians 3:17-Whatever you do whether in word or deed
Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12- Being a living sacrifice
Romans 8:22- Groaning and longing with creation
Acts 2, Hebrews 10:19-25-The body of Christ in worship together
Romans 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, Ephesians 4:7-13- 1 Timothy 4:14-, 1 Peter 4:10- We are given spiritual gifts and our gifts are for ministering
Psalm 23:4- The valley of the shadow
Psalm 91, Psalm 42, Psalm 55, Psalm 34- Psalms that express disappointment, fear, pain, heartbreak
Lamentations 3:19-24-But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope… great is His faithfulness
Job 2:8-10- sitting on the ash heap
Job 13:15- Even so I believe you are faithful
Psalm 27:13-14- What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord? Wait for and hope for the Lord
Revelation 12:12-13- come quickly
John 1:5- The light has come and pierced the darkness
Daniel 2:44, Revelation 11:15- Jesus is the King who will set all things right and establish a dwelling place on earth that never ends
Revelation 21:4- He will wipe every tear from your eyes
Habbakuk 1:2-How long oh Lord will you make me look at violence
Luke 22:19-20-The Lord’s Supper
1 Corinthians 13:12, Hebrews 10:1-5- We see now with veiled faces and a dim picture
Revelation 19:6-9-The marriage supper of the lamb
John 1 (14)- the MSG- “Jesus moves into the neighborhood”
Luke 1-3-The Christmas story
Isaiah 9:6- The Prince of Peace
1 Corinthians 16:23- Jesus is waiting with open arms
References:
Charlie and Andi Peacok- The Art House
Mechanical royalties for songwriters
Coram deo
Leslie Bustard
“In the Garden”
Odessa Settles
Andrew Peterson
Every Moment Holy Volume 1
Rabbit Room Press
“Liturgy for the Ritual of Morning Coffee”
Every Moment Holy: Death, Grief and Hope Volume 2
Ned Bustard
Examples of the cries of the Psalmists are “alive to the hope and alive to the heartache”
My personal favorite reel of the insanity of December
Every Moment Holy: The Work of the People Volume 3
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
A self-proclaimed “accidental author”, Carole Holiday was living a very full life as a wife, mother, and nana, until one day, everything fell apart. Her marriage to her childhood sweetheart of over 35 years ended, followed by losing her job and ultimately filing for bankruptcy. Then she developed heart issues because of all the stress, and a continued windfall of loss, and grief in losing close loved ones, until it felt like there was absolutely nothing recognizable about the life she had known.
In her book I Don’t Know Who I Am Anymore, Carole shares her story, but it is such a unique book that weaves honest reflections, practical applications of how to minister to those in grief, beautiful applications from scripture, and recipes to share with others or to comfort your own heart. She asks powerful questions about what we build our lives on, and find our identity in. These can be good things like relationships, careers, and even our health, but they are ultimately temporal. Christ alone is the cornerstone that can keep a life on a firm foundation.
This is an episode for my friends who are asking God, “What do I do now?” when a dream has died. This is an episode for my single friends, my divorced friends, and my widowed friends who may feel unseen in their communities. This is an episode for those who have known any amount of grief or loss and need to know they are not going to disappear or drown in this season. There is hope for you, we can testify to it. As long as you’re breathing, there is more for your story. You matter and your story matters.
Connecting with Carole:
Book
Website
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts. My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
1 Timothy 4:12-Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young
Psalm 95:6-, Matthew 16:24, James 4:7- We lay it down before the Lord
Matthew 17:19-21-The mustard seed of faith
Galatians 5:22-23-Produce fruit in me
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8-There’s a time to tear down and to build
Psalm 118:22, Matthew 21:42, Acts 4:11-Jesus is the cornerstone that the builders rejected
Matthew 7:24-27-Building on the sand or the rock
Luke 22:31-Being shifted like wheat
Luke 7:36-50-The woman who washes Jesus’ feet with her tears
Luke 7:11-16-The widow whose son had died
Mark 12:41-44-The woman with her small offering
John 11-Mary and Martha at Lazarus’ tomb
Romans 8:22-29-Creation groans and longs to be restored
Romans 8:26 -The Holy Spirit speaks a language of lament
John 14:26-The Holy Spirit is our advocate
Habakkuk 1:2-4-How long Lord will you make me look at injustice and violence?
Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21–23-The heart is deceitful above all else
Psalm 6:6-David flooded his bed with tears
2 Samuel 12:1-25-When Nathan spoke to David, he hit his face to the ground
Psalm 56:8-God gathers our tears in bottles
Matthew 21:12-17, John 2:13-25-Jesus goes charging into the Temple angry
John 2:15-17-Jesus sat and created a whip
Philippians 1:6-God is not finished with your story
Psalm 107:2-Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story
References:
-Dr. Paul Conti’s book Trauma: The Invisible Epidemic
-Seeing Beautiful Again- Lysa Terkeurst
-The women’s movement of the 60’s
-Holocaust - hear the survivor’s stories
-Celebrate Recovery
-A.E. Graham’s episode where she shared about being in George W’s White House, and practicing scrutiny
-Bonnie Lewis- wrote a translation of the Bible called Timshel
-“Operation no more tears”- Sally Lloyd Jones
-Lament in the Bible
-A “thin space”
-Patricia Raybon’s episode
-Jim Crow
-Julia Child
-Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving Others Without Losing the Best of Who You are- Lysa Terkeurst
-
“Daniel Tiger”- “The Mixed Feelings” song
-
“Bluey”
-
Life of the Beloved - Henri Nouwen
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Over the last several years, I don’t think there is anyone who has not been touched by loss or some kind of grief. Today's guest, author, and literary agent Mike Nappa is incredibly familiar with loss and living with grief. In 2016, he lost his beloved wife, Amy, to cancer. In his learning how to live life without her, God has shown him why grieving is such an important part of losing a loved one. As Mike says, he learned how to cry into his keyboard and produced one of the most poignant books that bears witness to grief that I have ever personally encountered. It is called Reflections for the Grieving Soul: Meditations and Scripture for Finding Hope After Loss.
We are often so uncomfortable with grief and treat it like it is a problem to be solved. However, God Himself, in all three persons of the Trinity, grieves, and we are made in His image. It isn’t sinful to grieve. Mike says: “There are things in this world worth loving enough to grieve, and if we don’t grieve well, we are taking away from the image of God within us.” Although, as we’ll discuss in this episode, there are ways to grieve well and there are also ways to grieve poorly and even destructively. The depths of grief isn’t a place where we want to live permanently, but we have to hold space for it or it will make itself known in other ways. When we don’t walk this journey, we miss out on the blessings for those who mourn.
There are quite a few tears shed during this episode, but honest, perhaps blessed, tears. I would like to offer this episode as a benevolent witness and comfort to whoever might need it in this season. The Lord promises blessing and comfort for us, dear ones. He is near to you. You matter, and Your story matters.
Connecting with Mike:
Books and other publications
Website
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts. My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
John 12:4-6- Judas was the treasurer
Ephesians 2:8-There’s nothing I can do to earn God’s love
John 15-Without Him we have nothing
Psalm 121, John 14:26-We need help from the Helper
Genesis 6:6- God looks at the wickedness of man and is grieved
Matthew 26:38-Jesus says “My soul is crushed with grief”
Ephesians 4:30-Paul reminds us that we can grieve the Holy Spirit
John 11:17-41-Jesus stood outside of Lazarus’ tomb and wept
Matthew 5:4-Blessed are those who mourn
Matthew 5:1-11- the beginning of the Beatitudes and their promises
Psalm 34:18-19-The Lord is near to the brokenhearted
Deuteronomy 31:6-8, Hebrews 13:5-6-He will never leave me or forsake me
Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28-God has a purpose and a plan for your life
Acts 17:28-In Christ we live and move and have our being
References:
-Norman, OK
-Lebanon
-Judas Iscariot’s story
-Hard Way Home
-Dr. Gary Chapman
-Pixar
-An example of a book written by women on her journey home What We Wish Were True by Tallu Quinn
- “What is grief if not love persevering?”- Wandavision
-If you’d like to see it, here is my Dad baptizing my daughter.
-Hebrew and Greek translations of “blessed” makarios
- “Ten Unexpected Benefits of Grieving Well” article by Mike
-Douglas McElvey and Every Moment Holy “Liturgy for Leavings”
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Gary Miracle is an author and a speaker who passionately believes in the power of storytelling and how it unites us and spurs us on when life is tragically hard, and also reminds us who we are and who God made us to be. In this episode, he shares his story of growing immersed in church culture on Sunday but then suffered from an identity crisis the rest of the week as he chased perfection, and changed personas in order to be affirmed by anyone and everyone. Finally, later in his life and career, now a married man with kids, Gary reached his breaking point and reached out to his friend Bart Millard of the band “Mercy’s Me” who began to disciple Gary and guide him to a life-changing and intimate relationship with Jesus.
Not long after, in December 2019, Gary went from celebrating Christmas with his family feeling a little under the weather to being on his literal deathbed on New Year’s Eve. The first week of 2020 Gary’s life hung in the balance as teams of doctors worked on him and cared for him, and his loved ones stormed heaven for him. On January 10th, 2020, Gary opened his eyes, alive, but his body would never be the same, and his limbs were dying. Gary shares his journey of his 107 days stay in the hospital, reentering into his life without his legs and hands, and how God met him in all of it in our time together, but he goes more in-depth in his book No More Bad Days: Trading the Pursuit of Perfection for the Gift of Grace.
Gary is passionate about choosing to truly live instead of just being alive and doing that authentically with others. We were made in the image of a communal God, and as we face the intensity and heartbreak of our lives, He provides people to walk through hard things with us. However, that call to live in community requires risk and humility, but as Gary reminds us, when life is at its lowest moments, people God gives us can echo hope back to us.
This is a message for anyone who needs to know there is more left for them in this life. This is a message for those who need to remember God is still in the business of miracles. This is a message for someone who is walking through horrible circumstances but needs to be reminded that God still has good for them. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Gary:
Book
Website
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Romans 10:8-9, John 1:12-13, Galatians 4:4-6-, There’s nothing I can do to make Jesus stop loving me
Galatians 2:20- It is no longer I who lives, but Christ in me
1 Samuel 17:36-54- David wrestled with lions as a shepherd before he faced Goliath
Lamentations 3:22-23- His new mercies are new every day
Job 1:21- The Lord gives and the Lord takes away
Job 42:5- All of my life I’ve heard about You, but now I’ve seen you with my eyes
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world
Luke 18:19, 1 John 1:5- God is truly good
Ephesians 3:16-19- I pray that He would strengthen you with power according to
Jeremiah 29:13- seek me and you will find me if you seek me with all of your heart
John 3:16- For God so loved the world that He gave us His son
2 Peter 1:3- God has given you His power, and authority to live this life
John 10:10 - The enemy is coming to steal, kill and destroy, but Christ came to give us life to the full
Matthew 24:36-Nobody knows the day or the hour
Revelation 21:27- The Lamb’s book of life
John 14:3, Acts 1:11, Revelation 22- We’re going to Heaven
Exodus 3- Moses’ story in the Bible, he struggled to speak
Romans 6:17, chapter 7 Grace is not a license to sin
Romans 6:1-7-We are no longer slaves to sin
Psalm 139:14- Still fearfully and wonderfully made
Psalm 27:13- What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord
Revelation 19:10, and 12:11 A spirit of testimony
Philippians 1:6- God is not finished with me
Exodus 14:13-Stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the Lord
Psalm 27:14 (AMP), Isaiah 40:30-31- I will hope, I will wait, I will long for the Lord
2 Corinthians 12:9-11-I am weak but Christ is strong
Ephesians 1:18- This is the hope to which we’ve been called
Jeremiah 29:11- God has plans for hope and a future
Micah 6:8- help us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God
Mark 2:17, Matthew 10 Jesus came to heal the sick, and save the lost
2 Corinthians 10:5- Take every thought captive
References:
Skillet
Audio Adrenaline
Bart Millard
Mercy Me
“I Can Only Imagine” movie
“Say I Won’t”
ECMO Machine
God kept transforming David’s life (The Uriah and Bathsheeba incident, leading Israel, strife and conflict in his family…)
The Blue vs. Gold dress debate
Jada Edwards
The study I mentioned is When You Pray
Mark Stuart
The Christian shirts of the 90’s
“Almost Home” by Mercy Me
“Take heart” that Jesus uses is the same term “tharseō” that Moses used with “stand firm”
Ben Roethlisberger
Pat Riley
Shaquillel O’Neil
Kobe Bryant
Toby Mac’s Dove Awards acceptance speech
Other ways to hear Gary speak
Gary speaking at his daughter’s graduation
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Justin and J.L. Gerhardt are on the podcast today, and you will love hearing from them! There is an epic retelling of their meeting and falling in love complete with 90’s Hearthrob meet cute and all. More than that, Justin and J.L. share about their journey of God leading them both into ministry with words, calling their family to travel the world, and unleashing their creativity and courage to press into new ways to encounter God and His Word. This journey has given birth to various creative outlets for the Gerhardt family, but the one we talk about the most in this episode is Justin’s incredible podcast “Holy Ghost Stories.”
“Holy Ghost Stories” is a unique podcast that is more like an immersive narrated experience that takes stories from the Old Testament, unpacks them, and breathes life into the grit and shadow as well as the rapture and delight of God encountering His people. Justin’s heart for this podcast is to remind us that we have an inheritance of stories in scripture that we share in an immersive, but often adolescent way to children, to try and captivate them and introduce them to God. And then they grow up. And as Justin says “We stop telling the stories and stop teaching the stories. And a story taught is different than a story told.” There is absolutely fruit to be found in teaching! However, grown-ups can miss out on what these stories have always had for us when we face real suffering, real rejoicing, and everything in between unless we revisit what they really were: real events that happened with real people with a very real God.
Y’all hanging out with the Gerhardts is such a delight, and I can’t wait for you to get to know them a little better. If you loved this episode, or love Holy Ghost Stories you need to attend a live experience! And for my local friends, there is one coming up in Nashville in December! I really believe you will see the Old Testament in a more alive and engaging way, and it will help you prepare your heart for the coming of Christmas. I hope I see you there.
Connecting with the Gerhardts:
Hazefire Studios
Holy Ghost Stories Podcast
J.L.’s Substack- “The Goodness”
Justin’s Substack “The Latest”
Holy Ghost Stories Instagram
J.L.’s Instagram and Books
Giving to Holy Ghost Stories one time or via Patreon
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
2 Corinthians 12:9- Strength in weakness
Hebrews 12:2- God is the author
Hebrews 4:12-The Bible is alive and active
1 Samuel 28- The witch of Endor
Genesis 37-50- The Story of Joseph
Jonah 1-4- Jonah and the Whale
Genesis 6- Noah and the Ark
Genesis 39:12-18-Potiphar’s wife calling to Joseph
Judges 3:12-30- The story of Ehud and Eglon
Judges 1- The book of Judges
Genesis 25 (is where it starts)- The Story of Jacob
Genesis 32:22-31- Particularly when Jacob wrestles with the Angel
Mark 10:51, John 5:1-15- Jesus asks “What do you want?”
Number 23:19, God is not a human, but He is a person
Matthew 2:16-18, There are multiple genocides in the New Testament (encompasses Revelation)
Acts 8:1-2, Acts 9- There is persecution in the New Testament
Job 1:21- God gives and takes away
Genesis 6:6, Ezekiel 6:9, God’s heart grieves
Matthew 9:35-37, John 11:11-44, John 12:27, John 16- Jesus grieved
Ephesians 4:30- Holy Spirit grieves
Genesis 1:27-We are made in God’s image
Luke 24:13-35-Jesus and the Road to Emmaus
Exodus 3- The burning bush that is aflame, but doesn't burn up
Psalm 84
Psalm 130 (The Voice)
Luke 1:5-19-Elizabeth and Zechariah
References:
Videos of people seeing color for the first time (OK seriously grab your tissues)
My first interview with J.L.
Peaky Blinders
90’s Leo DiCaprio
Avengers “assemble!”
Fyre Festival
Kate Bowler
This is the book of Kate’s I mentioned that was under my computer. I LOVE it.
Kuala Lumpur (in Malaysia)
Holy Ghost Stories series episode with the Witch of Endor: The Lion, the Witch and the War Zone
HGS series on Joseph: The Harbinger, The Fugitive and the Host- Part 1, 2 and 3
HGS episode on Noah and the Ark: The Optimist and the Only One
A pie chart of the genres within the Bible
Episode 3 of HGS- Ehud and Eglon: The Mastermind, the Southpaw and the Big Boy
HGS Episode on Jacob: The Father and the Second Born
Curt Thompson’s new book The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope
Episode of HGS on Jonah: The Pushover, the Runaway and the Belly of the Beast (Part one and two)
The Moses Season of Holy Ghost Stories
The Exodus episode: Rite and Passage
A Storied Family
Holy Ghost Stories LIVE in Nashville: the Christmas show!
Holy Ghost Stories Live in other cities
The episode J.L. wrote for HGS on Eve: The Giver and the Taker
What is Advent?
400 years of enslavement in Egypt
400 years of silence from God
Rahab’s HGS Episode: The Dismantler, the Secret Agents, and the Woman on the Inside
Tamar’s HGS Episode: The Kinsman, the Widow, and the Mark
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
I am so excited to share with you a really special conversation with the incredibly talented Renaissance woman Nikki Anders. Nikki is an award-winning musician, songwriter, and music producer in the TV and film industry. She shares some of her experiences in the music industry as a solo artist and member of the music group Avalon, her and her husband Adam’s time working on “Glee” as well as many other films, and now are the creative team behind the new movie musical “The Journey to Bethlehem.”
Nikki shares how the Lord closed and opened so many doors over the last seventeen years from an idea about a Christmas movie the whole family could enjoy and focus on the true story of Christmas, all the way to bringing the music, script, and spectacular vision on their hearts to fruition. Placing themselves in the shoes of the real people who lived the days of Jesus’ coming into the world was a practice of holy imagination and allowing themselves to wonder how God wove this story together. The Christmas story is sometimes too familiar to those who have grown up hearing it. This movie and its music breathes so much life into the incredible true story of the God who loved us so much, He sent His Son as a baby, to a very real family, who faced very real risks, because we needed a Savior.
Ever since I had this conversation with Nikki, the music has brought up some really amazing conversation opportunities and questions from my two kids, and I already can tell our experience of Christmas and Advent this year will be different because of this movie, the music, and the way it has ignited the curiosity and imagination of my children.
This world is weary and longs and groans to be restored. A Savior has come and made redemption and salvation available to all who call on Him. And I hope that wherever you are, I can whisper some hope to your heart today. You matter, friend. And your story matters.
Connecting with Nikki:
Anders Media
Adam’s Instagram
“Journey to Bethlehem”’s Instagram
“Journey to Bethlehem” soundtrack
Nikki’s Instagram
Twitter/ X
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Ephesians 4:1- Following the call of God
Matthew 13:1-9- Scattering seed living as God wants you to live
1 Corinthians 10:31- Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God
Daniel 1- Daniel and the exile in the Palace of Babylon
Daniel 3- Shadrach, Meshach and Abendengo’s God
Matthew 1-2, Luke 1-2- Mary, Joseph, and the Christmas story that is in the pages of scripture
Luke 1:26-56 - Mary and an angel appeared to her
Matthew 2:16- The massacre of the innocents
1 John 1:7 (among others!)Jesus covers us with His blood
Matthew 6:13- Thine is the Kingdom
Ecclesiastes 1:9- There is nothing new under the sun
Luke 1:20-25, Luke 1:57-80- Zechariah couldn’t speak
Isaiah 14:27-Nothing can stop the Lord
Luke 1:37- Nothing will be impossible with God
Matthew 2- The wise men
Matthew 2:7-9-Conversations between the wise men and Herod
Ephesians 6:10-18-We are armed with the Armor of God
James 1:2-4- consider it all joy when you endure trials
Ephesians 6:12- We are not at war with flesh and blood
Hebrews 9:28 (and many others)- He’s coming again
References:
Adam Anders
Avalon
Steven Curtis Chapman
See ALL of Niki’s accolades and credits here. It is a LONG list.
“Glee”
Belmont University
Avalon “A Maze of Grace”
“Adonai”
Lea Michelle
When you sing you vibrate your vagus nerve/singer's joy
Corey Monteith
Mark Salling
Naya Rivera
“The Glee Project”
“Glee” First Season Soundtrack
“Glee” Second Season Soundtrack
“Faithfully” from Glee
“High School Musical” movies
Zac Efron
“The Greatest Showman”
“If Only”
Dove Cameron
Lost Valley Ranch
The Navigators
Bob Foster
“West Side Story”
“Annie”
“Dawson’s Creek”
Her song from Dawson’s Creek “Only Give My Heart”
Paula Cole’s theme song from DC
“The Wedding Planner” movie
Jennifer Lopez
“Adore You” from TWP movie
“Camp Rock”
“White Christmas”
“Meet Me in St. Louis”
“Elf”
Our past Advent series on the podcast
Antonio Banderas
The Dad from “Spy Kids” and “Puss in Boots”
Joel Smallbone - “In My Blood”
“The Chosen”
“It's Good to Be King”- Antonio Banderas
“The Passion” on Fox hosted by Tyler Perry
The wise men didn’t come right away
Charlie Brown reading the Christmas Story
“Mother to a Savior & King”
“Mary You’re Getting Married”
For King & Country
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Travis Thompson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practices in Middle Tennessee. He is a PhD candidate who works with clients from many backgrounds to find the deeper meaning of their struggles and embrace long-term recovery from the pains that they experienced. His work is focused on being healed from past hurt and toward future success. During our conversation, Travis shares his journey of wrestling with his own mental health as a teenager, his recovery and healing journey, and entering the world of becoming a mental health professional serving and helping others like those who served and helped him.
We’ll talk today about the stigmas around mental health, counseling, and medication, particularly in Christian circles, and how to care for people struggling with addiction AND those walking through it with them. Travis has actually written a book specifically around that topic of understanding addiction and how it impacts those around an addict and it is called To Those Left Behind: Helping Partners and Families Understand and Heal from Addiction. He’ll unpack many of the themes from his book, the effect and aftermath on mental health and addiction from the pandemic, where we see mental health in the Bible and he offers hope to those who may be suffering in the cycle of addiction as well as encouragement for those in the residual waves of it with someone they love.
Modern mental health issues and recovery can seem overwhelming and confusing. I hope this conversation can serve you wherever you are in your journey, and perhaps Travis’ book might as well! No matter whether this journey is a part of your story, or someone you love, we are all wrestling with real issues bound up in these broken bodies. There is hope for all of us. As long as you’re breathing, God is not finished with you. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Travis:
Book
Twitter (X)
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Romans 8:28- God works all things together for good
Psalm 107:2- Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story
Psalm 142 (an example)King David struggling with mental health
Ephesians 4:17-32- Paul talks about putting off the old self, drunkenness for one
Job 16:2- Job’s friends and their bad advice
Gensis 3- Eve misquotes God’s word
Galatians 5:24-Paul talks about gnostic dualism
Matthew 17:20- Mustard seed
Psalm 19:1- The Heavens are declaring the glory of God
Psalm 112:1-9 Psalm 37:4-, God made us to know delight
Hebrews 4:12- The word of God is alive and active
Genesis 19:30-38- Forgive me Noah!! It was LOT getting drunk off the boat and having sex with his kids. Whoops!
Genesis 6:1-8- Nephelim… so weird
1 Samuel 17 (51-54) David cuts Goliath’s head off and keeps it as a trophy (ew)
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8- To everything there is a season
Philippians 1:6- This isn’t how the story ends
References:
-Little Free Library
-Foster Care in TN
-Recidivism
-”Bluey”
-Vanderbilt Mental Health facility
-OnSite
-My conversation with Irene Rollins, her book Reframe Your Shame
-gnostic dualism
-Witchcraft in scripture
Job’s unhelpful friends
-Book of Job from Bible Project (so insightful)
-Impact 360 Institute
-Kathryn Maack talks about integrating your head and your heart
-”All truth is God’s truth”- Saint Augustine
“Every story whispers his name”- Sally Lloyd Jones
Louie Giglio’s testimony (and love for science)
Louie’s Devotionals for kids about science (there’s also a podcast)
Dr. Michael Heiser- supernatural worldview theologian (this series is what I am currently listening to and its WILD)
-Dr. Heiser’s episode with me
-The video teaching with him and other supernatural worldview called “The Unseen Realm” theologians on some of the stuff I mentioned briefly about nephlim and Jericoh and whoa.
The World Turned Upside Down: Finding The Gospel in Stranger Things
-Big T trauma and Little t trauma
-The 4 responses- fight, flight, fawn and freeze
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
I have a powerhouse on the podcast in the form of Kelly Balarie. Kelly is an author and a speaker who is passionate about Jesus and the Word of God. She is a sister in the trenches and a self-proclaimed spiritual cheerleader. Every book she has written, she writes from a place of “this is where God has been faithful to me in this season.” Or “this is what God has been teaching me,” full of authenticity, and powerful scripture-saturated insights for women who desire to walk well and be filled to the fullness of God.
In our conversation today, you’ll hear about her latest book Taking Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy For the Mind of Christ. We unpack that term,“the mind of Christ,” and what it means, how to connect deeper into the heart of God as we yield our minds and hearts to His love, plans, and purposes for our lives. We go deep and wide about spiritual warfare and even the differences between spiritual possession and oppression. We’ll talk about the goodness of God in the “even ifs” of life, how our thoughts in suffering can impact us, how God can and will meet us in the feelings He gave us, and so much more. Kelly’s love for the Lord and the power of His word is vivacious and galvanizing and I truly believe it will serve as a balm to your soul today.
God is not finished with us. He is not finished with the Church. He is not finished with this world. Even when things are hard, or everything looks like it is past redemption, hope and His love get the final word. You matter, friend. Your story matters.
Connecting with Kelly:
Current Book: Taking Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy For the Mind of Christ
Website
For great resources for Bible study and getting into God’s word check out the Daily Grace Co!
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Ephesians 3:19-21- Filled to the fullness of God
2 Corinthians 10:5- Take every thought captive
Philippians 2:1-11, Ephesians 3:16-21- We are powerful in Christ Jesus
Psalm 42:7- Deep calls to deep
Matthew 4:1-11- Jesus in the wilderness
Luke 4:1-14- Jesus was endowed with power (after His temptation)
1 Corinthians 11
1 Corinthians 2:9- No eye has seen, no ear has heard what I have for You
Philippians 4:7- Beyond our understanding
1 Corinthians 2:10- These things are revealed by the Spirit
1 Corinthians 2:11, 2:12-13-Who can know the Lord’s thoughts… but we can understand these things for we have the mind of Christ
Romans 5:8- Jesus died for us while we were still sinners
John 10:27- “The sheep that are my own hear and are listening to My voice and I know them and they follow me.”
1 Peter 5:7- Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you.
Psalm 23:5- You set a table from me in the presence of my enemy
Psalm 27:13-14- What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living
Jeremiah 29:11- Plans of a hope and for a future
2 Peter 1:3- You have everything you need in Christ
Matthew 14:22-34-Peter hops out of the boat
Hebrews 12:1-3- He’s the Author and Perfector of our faith
2 Corinthians 5:17- I am a new creation
Galatians 2:20- It is no longer I who live, but Christ in me
Romans 6:11- I am dead to the old and alive to the new
Romans 13:14, Colossians 3:12-15, Ephesians 6:10-18-Clothing ourselves in God’s word
Matthew 6:11- I receive today our daily bread
Exodus 16- The manna in the wilderness, trusting every morning He would provide
2 Corinthians 3:18- We are being transformed into the image of Christ
Genesis 3- Eve’s desire to know what it was like on the other side of the bite
Ecclesiastes 3- There is a time for everything and every season under Heaven
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world
1 Peter 1:12-Angels marvel at the mystery of the Gospel
Isaiah 14:27-Who can stop the Lord almighty?
Revelation 12:11-We triumph by the blood of the Lamb and the Spirit of testimony
Job 13:15-Thou He slay me, I will trust in the name of the Lord
Matthew 13- The enemy comes and eats the seed that’s been laid by the Lord
Demon possession in scripture
Ephesians 1, 3 -Holy Spirit is inside of those who believe in Jesus
Matthew 16:23- “Satan, get behind me”
Psalm 121:4- The Lord never sleeps or slumbers
Psalm 91 Rest
Romans 8:28- God works all things together for the good of those who love Him
Proverbs 26:2- A curse without cause cannot alight
Psalm 24:3-4-Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord? Those with clean hands and a pure heart
Psalm 51:7- Wash me
2 Timothy 1:7- We don’t have a spirit of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind
Romans 8:37-I am more than a conqueror in Christ
Proverbs 18:21- The power of life and death is in the power of the tongue
Genesis 1, Psalm 33:9- God spoke the world into being
Nahum 1:1-7-, Isaiah 14:27- Who can stand against the Lord Almighty?
Ephesians 3:17-That Christ would be more and more at home in your hearts
Ephesians 3:14-21- The power to understand God’s love (I LOVE this scripture as a prayer)
Exodus 3:14 · John 8:58, John 17- He is a triune God
Romans 12:3-13-We need each other in community
2 Corinthians 12:6-10- Paul had a thorn in his flesh, God said His power is made known in His weakness
Isaiah 55:8-9-Our ways are not His ways
Psalm 139:14-We were perfectly and wonderfully made
Philippians 1:6- He is not finished with your story
Psalm 23:6- Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of our lives
Psalm 37:4- Give the desires of our heart
Psalm 145:13, 2 Peter 3:9, Hebrews 10:23, Isaiah 55:11- He is faithful to His word
Psalm 56:9- This I know, God is on my side
Galatians 5:22-24- Where the Spirit is there is no law
Psalms 33:18-22- Trust and obey
Isaiah 30:21-A voice behind me will say “this is the way walk in it”
References:
Nutella Latte
Fear Fighting
Battle Ready
Rest Now
Keep your head where your feet are (12 Step)
Spiritual possession vs oppression (spiritual warfare)
Real witchcraft in the world
Witchcraft in scripture
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Dr. Clarence Shuler is the President and CEO of his nonprofit BLR- which stands for Building Lasting Relationships. Their mission is to equip others for discipleship in various venues. He and his wife both speak and write about marriage, but also dealing with infidelity, and divorce, but they especially love to minister to singles in the church. Whatever it looks like, the Shulers are committed to “loving people with God’s love with no agenda and see what happens.”
During our conversation today, Dr. Shuler shared his story of coming to Christ through a relationship that would impact his life in many ways, through a young guy by the name of Gary Chapman. Yup, the Love Languages guy. I share that because their relationship gave birth to 50+ years of friendship and an opportunity to share how crossing those racial lines in the 1960s taught them both and continues to guide them in helping others learn how to embrace cross-cultural friendships today. Dr. Shuler himself does quite a bit of diversity training for companies, and for churches, and brings such gracious honesty to the table about what it has been like for him as a Black man in predominately white spaces.
His most recent book is a really powerful and raw look into his journey with depression and a sense of hopelessness. The book is called Finding Hope in Dark Places: Facing Loneliness, Depression, and Anxiety with the Power of Grace. He coauthored it with his therapist, Dr. Monique Smith Gadson, otherwise known as Dr. Mo. Their book is unique in that it gives an honest narrative of Clarence’s personal experiences as he walked out the darkest place of his life, but also shows his relationship with his counselor and how she was able to help him in that season. It is full of spiritual and mental health wisdom, it does not end tied in a bow, but it is overflowing with hope. Dr. Shuler hopes that sharing his journey will empower anyone, but especially Black men, to embrace vulnerability and find God’s power and healing in weakness.
I also want to echo this powerful reminder Dr. Shuler gives in this episode: Being in a dark place is not a sin. It is a place for the Lord to reveal Himself in a whole new way. We see throughout scripture about the Lord shepherding us in dark places, and in this world, we will know and have trouble, but we will never be alone and He will help us to find our hearts again there. He is not finished with you, friend. You matter and your story matters.
Connecting with Dr. Clarence Shuler:
Books
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Matthew 28:19-20- Making disciples
Genesis 1:26-28
Colossians 2:10- You are complete in Christ
Genesis 3- Men’s curse/purpose from the Garden
John 14:27- The world gives peace that doesn’t satisfy
Isaiah 45:3- “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.”
Isaiah 43-46
2 Corinthians 1-4
Psalm 63, Psalm 57, Psalm 142-David was in a dark place hiding in caves
1 Samuel 24- When David didn’t kill Saul
Revelations 3:7-8-I can shut a door no one can open and open doors no one can shut
Acts 2- the tongues of fire and each in their own language understanding one another
Genesis 11:1-9-Tower of Babel
John 13:35- They will know Me by your love
1 Chronicles 12:32- Men and women of Issacar and know what time it is
2 Corinthians 1:9- Indeed we felt within ourselves we would die… but we believe in the God who raises the dead
James 1:2-4- Suffering isn’t punishment
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble
1 Peter1:6-7 , Zechariah 13:9- you are going to have many trials, the fire will refine you
Romans 5:3-5- Suffering produces character, which produces…
Philippians 1:6- The Lord isn’t finished with you
Revelation 21- This isn’t how the story ends
2 Corinthians 1:10- On Him we have set our hope
Colossians 3:23-24- We do not find our significance in men but in the Lord
Hebrews 13:5- We’re never alone
Lamentations 3:19-25
Psalm 23
Psalm 27:13-14-What would have become of me had I not believed I would see the goodnes of the Lord in the land of the living
References:
Brandi Wilson’s episode where she shares about her divorce
Brown v. Board
Desegregation in the South was still SLOW.
Gary Chapman
Black Panther Party
KKK Parades
Finding Hope in Dark Places
Dr. Mo- aka Dr. Monique Smith Gadson
No More Faking Fine: Ending the Pretending by Esther Fleece
Gary and Clarence sharing about their relationship
The book they wrote: Life Changing Cross Cultural Relationships: How You Can Help Heal Racial Divides, One Relationship At A Time
Stephen Kendrick
Charles Stanley
Hymns about victory from white protestant churches
Songs from the Black church about suffering, survival and lament.
The #1 group battling depression in America is Black men
Research shows that when people are able to talk about suicidal ideation, they are less likely to follow through with it.
Statistics show that in the coming years, the vast majority of America will be brown (Michelle Ami Reyes speaks on this as well on our podcast and in her work)
Apartheid ended, what happened?
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Today I have the absolute joy of sharing with you my conversation with Kayla Craig. Kayla is a modern liturgist as the woman behind Liturgies for Parents online. She is a Mama of 4, a supportive pastor’s wife, and just this week she released her second book Every Season Sacred. In our conversation today, you’ll get to hear Kayla’s heart as she shares about what it looks like to pursue an honest and abundant life full of wonder and work. In all the spaces she occupies, she offers an open invitation to be curious, to express our questions, doubts, or confusion as we walk out our faith journeys, and to see the Lord make Himself known no matter where we are.
Her first book To Light Their Way is a book of liturgies for everyday life and real-life parenting feelings, celebrations, issues, and places that are hard to parent through. (It is a personal favorite in my home and in walking life out with my friends and family). Her most recent book Every Season Sacred is an offering to still engage your faith life in your parenting journey and faith conversations with your kids, no matter where they lie. This book isn’t a formulaic way to do faith and family. It is what Kayla would call a “hand hold” for wherever you are. It is for you as well as your kiddos. It is practical and applicable, but also invitational and gracious. What you find in these pages is flexible for application while living your actual life and can easily be incorporated in an intentional, but parent life-sized way. There are prayers for all kinds of life experiences, and hold space for each of your unique kids to respond (or not respond) uniquely. I can’t wait for you to hear more about it and just find yourself encouraged by Kayla today.
You don’t have to do this parenting thing perfectly or shoot just the living life thing, perfectly. As Kayla reminded us, we are all in process and working out the hard things in our life, whether people realize it or share it or not. You are not alone, God is with you. And you matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Kayla:
Liturgies for Parents’ Instagram
Kayla’s Instagram
Podcast
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Ephesians 3:20-21.Psalm 113:4-6-God is bigger than anything we could fathom
Psalm 139:23-24-He already knows our questions or doubts or fears
James 4:6--God is so gracious
Zephaniah 3:17, Deuteronomy 31:6, Psalm 139:7-12 -God is with us
Colossians 2:2, Ephesians 3-We can rest in the mystery of Christ
1 Corinthians 3:9-Co-laborer for the Gospel
Matthew 6:9-13-The Lord’s Prayer
Isaiah 6:3- -There is glory happening around us all the time (the Earth is filled with His glory)
1 Corinthians 12:12-27-We are ALL part of the family of God
Philippians 2:9-11, Revelation 7:9 -God is the God of all tribes of all tongues and nations
Jeremiah 31:3,, John 3:16- -God loves you
1 John 3:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:5, God calls you a beloved child
Jeremiah 29:11-We don’t know what the future holds, but He does
Philippians 1:6-The story isn’t over
References:
-Kayla’s first episode on the podcast
-To Light Their Way her first book (which is SO good)
-The “Craigmore”
-”Home Alone” house
-MySpace (RIP)
-Liturgy for talking about racism with your kids
-Liturgy for School Shooting
-Liturgy for When Child Sees Something Scary on the News
-Every Season Sacred
-The Church Calendar (a GREAT resource for incorporating this into your life! And an episode from us explaining the Church Calendar)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Today I get to share with you my conversation with Patricia Raybon. Patricia is a woman who wears many hats as a writer of both nonfiction and fiction. She shares with me what it was like for her to grow up under Jim Crow segregation and how that informed her identity from a young age, and how writing out stories helped her to make sense of what she experienced from the culture at large while her faith bloomed in her own soul. As an adult, in her journalism career, she cultivated the art of listening and understanding people’s history to help her wrestle with forgiveness, the effects of racism on her life, learn to love when things got hard, and writing it all down so that the Lord could reveal Himself to her, and ultimately others, in that journey.
Most recently she burst into the Christian fiction scene with her award winning debut novel All That is Secret is the first book in the Annalee Spain trilogy which follows a young Black woman in 1923 working in higher ed as a theology professor, as well as writing as a journalist. Annalee finds herself in the midst of a mystery in the wild west of Colorado, where the second wave of the Klu Klux Klan is flexing its power, and willing to do anything to keep secrets hidden. Patricia shares with me the inspiration for her female professor turned detective, the realities her story is based on, and the resilience and heart of Black women that beats through each page.
She shares a little bit about the topics that come up in the rest of the trilogy such as interracial marriage, Black women’s roles in society historically, female detectives as a whole, but mostly, we talk about the realities of what many people continue to face day in and day out and yet still have to persevere in their days. When we listen to the stories of others to better understand their experience, not to pass judgement, even if it makes us uncomfortable, we have such a rich opportunity to encounter God, learn more about fellow image bearers in the Kingdom of God, and consider life from a perspective we may not have had a chance to otheriwse. Patricia has such a sweet spirit, but a fiery tenacity that I know you are just going to love. I cannot wait for you to spend time with us today.
Connecting with Patricia:
Books
Reader’s Circle
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
Scripture References:
John 15:18, 16:33- The world may hate you, but it hated Jesus first, take heart
John 3:16- God loves you (among a thousand other verses!)
Zephanie 3:17- God sings over you
Colossians 3:12, 1 John 4:7-God calls you beloved
Psalm 116:15, Psalm 139:13-16, Jeremiah 31:3, Ephesians 2:10- You are precious in the Lord’s sight
Jesus’ parables (his stories)
Galatians 6:4- “Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.” (NLT)
References:
Jim Crow Segregation
Internalized oppression
The Denver Post
United Methodist Publishing House
The Holocaust
Holocaust denial
Reconstruction
The prison pipeline
The middle passage
Night - Ellie Wiesel
James Baldwin
President Truman integrated the army (July 1948)
University of Colorado
USA Today, New York Times, Newsweek
Penguin Random House
My First White Friend : Confessions on Race, Love and Forgiveness
Zondervan
I Told the Mountain to Move
Christianity Today
One Year: God’s Great Blessings Devotional
Civil Rights Movement
The klan = Klu Klux Klan
The second highest KKK membership in the country in the second wave in Colorado
What is the “white savior” narrative?
The Help book and movie
The Black friend who enlightens the white protagonist trope
Sherlock Holmes
The instagram post about the model cover
Anti Miscegenation Undivided: A Muslim Daughter, Her Christian Mother, Their Path to Peace
Steph Curry’s book club pick!
Our Daily Bread
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
I am so honored to get to share with you my conversation with the amazing Brandi Wilson. Brandi is a woman who loves Jesus fiercely, being a Mom to her 3 boys and cheering them on as they play football. She is passionate about walking with women as a coach working through their callings, and walking with them when they’re in the midst of relational healing journeys. Recently, she released her first book Better Than Okay: Finding Hope and Healing When Your Marriage Ends which shares her journey of following God’s call to plant a church in Nashville, TN with her then-pastor husband, watching it grow exponentially into a massive and impactful ministry with multiple sites, meanwhile at home experiencing heartbreak and betrayal. This ultimately led to a very painful divorce as well as a public parting with the faith community that had been the epicenter of their ministry and their lives.
During her book as well as our conversation, Brandi shares how God met her as she wrestled through grief, mothered her boys, navigated what it means to be a divorced Christian woman, as well as a former pastor’s wife, and just how she navigates life in co-parenting, and so much more. Brandi is honest, hilarious, and heartfelt in her sharing of her story while also giving such beautiful advice for how to hold space for the people we love as they grieve through their own experiences, and letting that happen at their own pace. She shares ways that might be helpful to those walking through seasons of trauma and loss, in others' lives, annnnd the not-helpful ways to maybe steer clear of as well. She’s a self-proclaimed deep feeler, but also a deep healer and if that’s not a word of hope that I think we all need no matter where we are, I don’t know what is.
Brandi is an amazing follow on Instagram, her book is such a breathtaking view into her heart, overflowing with honesty but constantly pointing to hope, and like she said, a reminder that there are NEW things that are still coming. I hope that hearing this episode helps anyone who needs it to feel seen and cared for wherever you are in your story, because we are all feeling, and we all carry the possibility for healing. The One who made you cares about all the pieces that feel broken, and His hope never runs out. You matter, friend. And your story matters.
Connecting with Brandi:
Book
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
Scripture References:
God is still good
Psalm 27:13- God is going to be good to me
1 Peter 5:7- Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you
Romans 5:5-11-Hope does not disappoint
Philiipians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you
References:
Acteens
Young Life
Experiencing God
Mind of Christ
Crosspoint Church
Lori Wilhite
Central Church Vegas
Leading and Loving It
Onsite
Enneagram 2
Jennifer Dukes Lee’s journal Stuff I’d Only Tell God journal (it is AMAZING)
Jennifer Dukes Lee’s episode with me!
David Thomas’ episode on the podcast
Raising Emotionally Strong Boys
Sissy Goff
Sissy Goff and David Thomas’ podcast “Raising Boys and Girls”
Daystar Counseling
Side plug, I cannot say enough good things about Sissy’s new book The Worry-Free Parent
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
I am so thrilled to welcome back to the podcast, the one and only Dorena Williamson! Dorena is a woman of deep faith, with a passion for building the kingdom of God and living a legacy of faith as a minister, a mama, a pastor’s wife, and a woman of impactful and instructive words. She is the author of 8 children’s books that all provide beautiful insight into the heart of God and scripture’s call to live in diversity and humility as we learn and grow together in the world. Whether that diversity is found in differing racial or ethnic communities and cultures, to others living with visible or invisible disabilities, or on the margins socioeconomically. She encourages children and the big people who love them, in every story that she writes to celebrate how God made them, and to delight in His world that He made and all those made in His image.
Her most recent book is called I Know Who I Am. It is a book of scriptural affirmations for kids. It is designed to serve as a companion to come alongside families and those that love kids with words that contain truth about them, about the Lord, and to see all of God’s image bearers represented in the pages from around the world! It gives beautiful verbiage for children to repeat over themselves and to speak over other children of all ages they encounter as they walk through the hills and valleys and changes of life. My kids absolutely loved it, and it would be a perfect addition to a morning or evening routine for kiddos that are starting back to school!
In this conversation, Dorena also shares her heart so beautifully about where God has her in her lament as a leader in her church, a Mama raising Black kids, and the world around her. She invites us to consider how all Believers can lean in to the reality of what is before communities and their daily fears and concerns and how to bear one another’s burdens together at the feet of Jesus. She offers an invitation to lean in to humility and honor towards others as we experience beauty, hope, tragedy, and all that is found on Earth this side of Heaven together. None of us are perfect, we will make mistakes, but God honors our learning, our choices to lean in and have Him show us His heart for us and for others. He has so much to show us. Always remember, you matter, and your story matters.
Just as an FYI, we recorded this episode right in the midst of our communities’ grief over the Covenant shooting in the Spring. We mention it briefly in the beginning of the episode, but we spend a little more time (around 5-7 minutes) discussing its impact on our community around 40 minutes in. If that is a tender place for you, I just want to be sensitive to that and give you that heads up. We fairly quickly transition to Dorena sharing about how to be the body of Christ in the midst of seasons of communal lament. It’s a powerful word, not solely about that tragedy, but about how to lock arms and shields of faith with others as humans made in God’s image walking this weary land together until we all go home.
Connecting with Dorena:
Books
Website
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Instagram
Website
Please consider joining our Patreon community. We need your support! If you have enjoyed what you heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Scripture References:
Psalm 136, Psalm 27:13-14,James 1:17 - God is good (plus many more verses)
Psalm 100:5 – His truth endures to all generations
John 2:1-11- Water into wine
Matthew 6:10- On Earth as it is in Heaven
Ephesians 3:14-15, Revelation 7:9- The family of God in Heaven
Isaiah 6:1-3-The Earth is full of God’s glory
Matthew 7:24-29-I build my life on Jesus who is the solid rock, vs. shifting sand
Jeremiah 29:11- You have plans for me for hope and my future
Hebrews 13:5–6; Deuteronomy 31:6–8-You will not leave me
Isaiah 40:31- Wait on the Lord, He will renew your strength
Psalm 8:5-8- Crowned with glory and God’s strength
Psalm 5:1-12, Romans 8:26- Oh Lord, with deep groanings
Exodus 1:8-14, Exodus 2:23-25- Exodus and the cries of those enslaved, and God heard them and saw their grief and He was concerned
Ephesians 1:4, 1 Corinthians 2:7, 1 Peter 1:19-20 - His plans from the foundations of the earth (futher insight here)
Exodus 6-14- The Exodus story and the plagues
Exodus 14:9-31- God parted the seas for His people
Psalm 3:3- Lift my head
Jude 1:24-25- God keeps us
Romans 8:28- God works together for the good of those that love Him
Galatians 6:2- Bear one another’s burdens
Matthew 28:18–20; Revelation 5:9–10; Revelation 7:9–10; Revelation 14:6–7 Every nation tribe and tongue in Heaven
Genesis 1:26-28- Let us make man and woman in our image
References:
Dorena’s previous episodes on the podcast (part one, part two, Advent)
The Covenant School shooting in Nashville
Bridge Builder
Taylor Swift concerts ;)
Loving Day and the Lovings’ Story and the Loving Act (Loving v. Virginia 1967)
Dr. Chris Williamson’s episode on the podcast
Strong Tower Bible Church
Trayvon Martin
Colorfull
Thoughtfull
Buddy Walk - The Extra Mile - DS Association
Dr. Jemar Tisby (and our episode together!)
Latasha Morrison
Target diverse Christmas line (Listen, I know the struggle with Target is real for a lot of believers right now. However. This is honoring Black people and culture in a huge way and I’m super grateful for those strides forward.)
I Know Who I Am
Nashville tornadoes
“Wait on the Lord”- Maverick City
“Same God”- Elevation Worship
Fuller Story Initiative
Ralph Yarl shooting
Xenophobia
Cheerleaders shot for going to the wrong car
American Girl book The Care and Keeping of You
Crowned with Glory
Michelle Reyes
Dr. Christina Edmondson
The Story of Juneteenth
Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday
Notes for White Allies and how they can honor Juneteenth without centering themselves, and also here. Danielle Coke also does a fantastic job sharing about practical ways to celebrate and elevate.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
I have one heck of a power-packed conversation for you with the lovely, hilarious, and always honest T.I. Lowe. T.I. is a born and bred Southern woman, and fiction author with a fiery passion for the Lord, and she shares her story with me of God coming into her life and redefining love and family, and how He can change a life. Some people have said they can really hear my southern accent on the podcast… but T.I. brings out my roots, and I love it.
Her heart to understand the experiences of others led her to take her secret love of writing and breathe life into stories of deep pain and wild Divine redemption. No topic is off limits because no human is exempt from pain and suffering. Her stories run the gamut of spiritual leaders battling major mental health issues, suicide, dealing with abusive relationships, and more, but they are saturated with the real reminder that nothing and no one is beyond the redemption of the Lord.
T.I.’s latest book Indigo Isle is a little bit of “Beauty and the Beast” and the Prodigal Son parable and a whole lot of T.I.’s personal brand of “grit and grace.” It deals with issues so many of us wrestle with like knowing our worth, identity, being held back by our past, sexual abuse, and the deep lies Satan sews to keep us captive from receiving love from others, but most importantly receiving the love of God. This one is a deeply personal one for me because it echoed so much of my personal story, which we talk transparently and boldly about in this podcast. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, we see you and are with you, but also I want to offer a trigger warning as a sister who has been there. You’re not alone.
The Bible is no stranger to the things that make some feel seen, and others uncomfortable. All of it is real. It is not in God’s nature to shy away from our pain and suffering. He enters in. So we offer you this conversation today so that we can enter in together.
Connecting with T.I.
Books (the current one we discussed at length is Indigo Isle!)
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
References:
Sweet Valley High series
Lulu’s Cafe (it is free for Kindle Unlimited users btw!)
Under the Magnolias
“Beauty and the Beast”
The #metoo movement (For faith-based conversation here, some of my favorite voices are Tiffany Bluhm and Ash Abercrombie)
“True Love Waits” movement and Purity Culture (I also really appreciate Tiffany and Ash’s voices on this as well. We talk about it a good bit on these episodes, but on their podcast, they have good conversations too)
Fight, flight, freeze, or fawn trauma responses
Learning about various trauma responses (example- there’s an endless well of resources I could point you to! This podcast is another.)
Young Life
Cru
The Body Keeps the Score
Scarlet Hope
My conversation with the founder of SH, Rachelle Starr
Christy Awards
The book of Habbakuk
How to make indigo
Low Country Boil (we made this recipe last week at the beach actually!)
Charleston, SC
Mount Pleasant, SC
Scripture References:
Psalm 139:16- He knew me before I was born
Psalm 13- Psalms that depict suicidal ideation
Genesis 21:8-21- Hagar wishing for death
Luke 15:11-32- The prodigal son parable
Genesis 1:27- You are an image bearer
John 4- The Samaritan woman
Joshua 2- Rahab
John 1:1-5, John 17:20-21- We were made by a communal God who does everything in three
Mark 3:13-19-Jesus modeled having a small group of friends
Matthew 17-Then he had even a smaller group of trusted friends
Matthew 14:22-33,Mark 6:45-52,John 6:15-21- He went away to be alone with the Father
Revelation 1:7, Revelation 19:7-9- The Bride of Christ is not going anywhere and Jesus is coming back for her
Habakkuk 1:1
Luke 15:1-7-Going after the lost sheep
Isaiah 58:12-Mending broken things
Ezekiel 37:1-14- Bringing dry bones to life
Ezekiel 34:16- I will search for my lost loved ones and I will bring them back home safely again
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
I am so delighted to share with you my conversation with the lovely and amazing Jennifer Dukes Lee. Jennifer is a Bible teacher and writer living on a fifth-generation farm in the middle of Iowa with her family. She began her career of words working in journalism and was on the way to a successful political correspondent career. Then, the Lord called her and her husband to the farm life raising crops and daughters, and there, she began to really wrestle with the faith she grew up in, and used her interrogation skills from her journalism career and took them to God and His word. What she found there was so rich and full and transformative, and God began to help her share what she was learning and invite others into that same adventure.
Her latest work is a guided journal titled Stuff I’d Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous, Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery. The journal is a book of questions and prompts because as Jennifer says there are beautiful things that can be encountered at the end of a question mark. It is unlike any other journal I’ve ever encountered, it is full of questions that plumb the depths of your soul, and others that make you laugh out loud. Jennifer and I even share some of our answers to some of the really funny ones later in this episode, but much of what we talk about today is unpacking how we perceive Jesus’ questions, the tones we assign to scripture, why we resist growth, questions, and are scared to confess our doubts. Jesus is not afraid of what He already knows we’re wrestling with. Perhaps this conversation will serve as an invitation for you to consider what He may have for you at the end of a question mark.
Y’all I cannot express how much I enjoyed this journal. It has given me space to be all the versions of myself. Serious me, introspective me, silly me, music-obsessed me, all of it. Is it hard for you to answer questions about yourself? Serious ones or lighthearted ones? Are you like me and struggle to embrace fun and whimsy in your life?
I want to challenge you to hold space for the weird and the wonderful in you, no matter what that looks like. The Lord welcomes you, as you are, as He made you, questions, doubts, quirks, and all. I hope this conversation serves as a catalyst for just that. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Jennifer:
Stuff I’d Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous, Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery
Books
Instagram (The seperate journal’s instagram page!)
Website
References:
Grief bacon- “kummerspeck”
Baker Publishing Group (hey, to my friends!)
Bethany Publishers
Jennifer’s post about her daughter going to Oxford
“Des Moines Register” (newspaper)
“The Chosen” - Jesus and Simon “I’ve got you.”
Growing Slow
Annie F. Downs
8 Track Tape
“The Osmond Family Christmas”
“Chipmunk Punk”- Alvin and The Chipmunks
“Thriller”- Michael Jackson
“Pump up the Jam”
“Make You Sweat” (“Everybody Dance Now”) C+C Music Factory
“Can’t Touch This” MC Hammer
“Vogue” - Madonna
The Stuff I’d Only Tell God playlist
The band Chicago
“Cinderella” Disney movie soundtrack
Casey Kasem American Top 40 (now Ryan Seacrest) Countdown
“Phenomenon” movie soundtrack
“French Kiss” movie soundtrack
“Dizzy Up the Girl” by Goo Goo Dolls
Maverick City Music
Brandon Lake
“Baby’s Black Balloon” - Goo Goo Dolls
“Tubthumping” by Chabuwamba
“Home” by Phillip Phillips
“Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magenetic Zeros
“The Walking Dead”
Scripture References:
John 20:24-29-Thomas
Matthew 12:1-8, Mark 2:23-28, Matthew 15:1-9, Luke 6:1-5, John 8:1-11- The disciples’ concern with breaking the Law (and the Pharisees and Sadducees, and etc)
Acts 9 -Scales came off Paul’s eyes
John 5:1-15- Do you want to get well?
Luke 18:41-43- what do you want me to do for you?
Matthew 14:31 - Why did you doubt?
John 6:67 - You do not want to leave too, do you?
Matthew 26:14-30, Luke 22 (this account is different than John. John says he was “prompted” to betray Jesus, and after Jesus fed him the bread, Satan entered Judas and he left the supper) John 13- When Jesus speaks to Judas
Luke 2:1-20- Jesus showed up as a baby
Luke 2:52-Jesus grew up in wisdom and stature
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Today we are continuing our conversation about mental health and faith and caring for our hearts with identity coach Ray Leight. Ray and his wife Kathryn lead Faith by Grace, a coaching practice and ministry designed to equip people to do deep inner work to live lives of freedom and joy. Ray shares with me today how the Lord led him into ministry and a passion for identity coaching through his own journey of coping with trauma as well as living with undiagnosed neurodivergence and bipolar two until he was well into adulthood. Ray brings some really fascinating insights into this conversation that brings to the surface some of the points of contention that can confuse Christians about spiritual healing, maturing in faith, and neurological and biological roadblocks that occur genetically or as a result of trauma and life experience.
Have you ever had a breakthrough in a struggle and then after time you feel like you go backward? Have you ever questioned God’s healing in your life? Do you lack clarity with terms like ‘codependency’ or ‘boundaries’, but find it confusing about how that might actually apply practically? I’d love to invite you to give this conversation a listen with Holy Spirit-led discernment for your healing journey. His discernment is always available to those who call on Him! And I ALWAYS want to encourage you to pursue His leading in any conversation we have! But I think some of the things we discuss today touch on places we can get tripped up in the church, so I just want to remind us all to have ears to hear and hearts tuned to the One who made us and will bring us to the day of completion.
We are professionals with our tools we fashion for survival, aren’t we? But friends, we have to hand over those tools to the Carpenter who made us by hand and have Him give us new tools, new skills, and new ways of living life. The Lord can and will recalibrate and reset what you have always known and how you have coped. God’s goodness and mercy and hope are always there and are always enough as we walk out this journey. As Ray shared, “It is not selfish to care for yourself.” In fact, it honors God and makes space for Him to continue doing a work in you. You matter, my friend. Your story matters.
Connecting with Ray:
Book: Maturing into Yourself
(Other books)
Twitter
Website (and Coaching information)
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
References:
Bipolar 2
ADHD
CRU (Campus Crusade)
Life Builders
Leanne Payne’s Pastoral care model
Bethel Church (Just a quick word of using the Holy Spirit-led discernment here)
Sozo and shabar work (same here)
We’re all just spiritual beings walking around in earth suits - Well I royally screwed this one up. I merged multiple quotes together and CS Lewis didn’t say one of them. Good times. But this was insightful.
On-Site Podcast on Treating Trauma, and the other about Living Centered- (this is the episode I was listening to) - On-site is a REALLY sound resource at the intersection of faith and mental health.
codependency
Finding a New Normal
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Bod in the Healing of Trauma- Bessel van der Kolk (this is an incredible resource for understanding how trauma and experiences stored in the body and affects us over time)
An example of a study of people believe that they are actually saved or not
Also studies of what do people mean when they say they’re Christian and how Americans and faith have shifted since the pandemic
Example of some stories we’ve heard on the podcast of spiritual things we may or may not understand Tessa Afshar, Michael Heiser, and Todd Nettleton.
“Beloved is where we begin.”
Scripture References:
Genesis 3 - Adam and Eve believed the lie and ate the fruit
John 8:42-47- We have an enemy that lies to us
Romans 5, Romans 14:16-19, 2 Corinthians 4:1-6, 2 Timothy 1:7- Kingdom of the world is fear, shame, and guilt. Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit
Deuteronomy 6:4-7,Matthew 22:37-40,Mark 12:30-31,Luke 10:27-We are called to love the Lord our God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
Philippians 1:6- Jesus is working on you until the day of completion
Psalm 51:10-19- Create in me a clean heart oh God
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble
John 10:10- He is the One who gives us life and to the full
Galatians 5:22-23- Fruits of the Spirit
1 Corinthians 12- Gifts of the Spirit
2 Corinthians 5:17- You are a new creation
Jeremiah 17:9- The heart is deceitful above all else
Ezekiel 11:19; Ezekiel 36:26; Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10- We are given a heart of flesh for our heart of stone
Hebrews 10:16, Jeremiah 31:33- Jesus wrote the Law on our hearts
Hebrews 10- Jesus fulfilled the Law
Matthew 28:19-20- We are called to go and share the Gospel
The Holy Spiri has the power to save
John 17- Jesus talking to God about bringing Him glory in the garden
Ephesians 1, Romans 8:31-39- Your identity is who you are in Christ
Matthew 13:31-32-Faith of a mustard seed parable
Matthew 7:5-Take the log out of your own eye
Mark 12:30-31- Love the Lord your God and love your neighbor as yourself
1 John 4:19- We love because He first loved us
Ephesians 3:14-21- How vast God’s love is for us
Romans 5:8- While we were still sinners (us and all our issues) Christ died for us
Colossians 1:24-27-Christ in You the hope of glory
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
We are diving into part two of my conversation with author and advocate Ally Henny. If you missed part one of this conversation I would strongly recommend you check that episode out first so you can hear some context of Ally’s life, ministry, and some of her experiences as a Black woman in predominately white Christian spaces, and a glimpse into her journey of allowing herself to speak up and not just allow racism to be what is just an accepted part of her occupying space in the world. This gave birth to her new book I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You.
Ally shares with us what it can really look like to fight racism from the inside, offers ideas of how to be welcoming in predominately white spaces, and how white people's good intentions can still cause harm if they (including me) aren’t willing to lean in when it's uncomfortable and admit we don’t know what we don’t know. She challenges people to consider what it might look like to embrace discomfort in these conversations. and embracing what we didn’t know and engaging people who do know, and then being willing to learn and sit with it.
Let’s lean in today, friends, and embrace this Kingdom-building work and learn how to better build one another up, and bear one another’s burdens as the body of Christ. I hope and pray that every time you encounter the stories on this podcast, you walk away encouraged to live more fully in your story, equipped with how to engage those around you more fully in their story, and how to better see your place in God’s story. You matter and your story matters.
Connecting with Ally:
The Audiobook is not out yet, stay tuned though!
Book: I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You
Patreon
Podcast “Combing the Roots”
TikTok
Website
Please consider joining our Patreon community. If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story.
References:
Part one of my conversation with Ally (Spotify, Apple)
The death of George Floyd
Dr. Jemar Tisby
Dr. Tisby’s episode on the podcast (Ep 119)
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. talking about white liberal allies
Malcolm X talking about white liberal allies
Black churches exist because of white people’s racism - The Color of Compromise is a fantastic historical look at this by the way. (I’m linking his audiobook version here because the first two chapters are audio lectures and easy access to learning!)
Respectability politics
A Tale of Two Cities
“Be the Bridge” Facebook group (There’s a rule if you join it and you are white, you have to be quiet for 3 months before you can say or ask ANYTHING.)
“Be the Bridge” is an incredible resource that truly takes the time to offer resources specifically for white people to learn about how to be an ally.
Notion app
Pass the Mic podcast episode with Ally talking about Prince Harry, the Royal Family and the Meghan Markle factor /(I THINK it was this episode or the next one where she mentions the parallels with the Royal Family and how H&M left loud)
Spare- Prince Harry
The Tennessee Three // In the heat of the situation
The Justins (Rep. Justin Pearson and Rep. Justin Jones) and a few insanely captured moments of just blatant trying to get them to sit down and shut up when they were asking questions (oh this one is wild) and one for Rep. Gloria Johnson as well.
Belmont University (can I just say, listening to Dr. Tisby speak at a university that is on the property of a former plantation where hundreds of people were enslaved was… full of feelings.)
Dr. Christina Edmondson
The Witness Black Christian Collective
Pass the Mic podcast
Tyler Burns, President of “The Witness”
Ally and Tyler sharing about their Joy and Justice conference
The Color of Compromise: The Truth About the American Church’s Complicity in Racism by Dr. Jemar Tisby
Scripture References:
Romans 8:29-Growing to be more like Christ
Growing as brothers and sisters in Christ (so many scriptures)
Micah 6:8- Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with your God
Matthew 6:33-Seek the Kingdom of God
Galatians 6:2, Ephesians 4:1-3-Bear one another’s burdens
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Today I get to share with you my powerful conversation with the amazing Ally Henny. Ally is an author, a speaker, a minister, an advocate, and the vice president of The Witness, a Black Christian Collective which is an organization committed to encouraging, engaging, and empowering Black Christians toward liberation from racism. This week, Ally released her book I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You which one reviewer poignantly and perfectly called “An unvarnished perspective on racism that calls Black women to find their voice.”
During our conversation today, Ally is going to share some of the insights from her incredible book as well as some of her experiences as a Black Christian woman who for many, many years felt constantly silenced but perpetually on display for public opinion. She shares how it feels for her to never be “off” because her responses in conversations, even her facial expressions are constantly being evaluated and judged. Or what it feels like to consistently be perceived as a potential threat or as someone who needs to be handled or managed. She unpacks topics such as society’s expectation of women being the burden bearers, the helper, and the nurturers in American society, but how that uniquely plays out for many Black women and its roots in systemic harm.
Ultimately, Ally shares a glimpse into the culmination of events that led to her finding what she calls her “holy hell no,” the sacred boundary that rose up in her and said I do not deserve to be treated this way and that racism does not have to be an accepted fact of life. Her book moved me so deeply and continued opening my eyes to experiences I’ve lived in ignorance of, and this conversation continues to remind me about the beauty and the power of not staying silent in the face of injustice and the heart of God to let ALL of our lights shine before men. This conversation goes so deep and wide, that this is actually part one of two episodes, and I can’t wait to listen and learn right along with you. Remember friend, no matter where you are in your journey, you matter and your story matters.
Connecting with Ally:
Book: I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You
Website
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
References:
The Witness Black Christian Collective
Fuller Seminary
Juneteenth
“Black Panther”
The Black Panther Party
Kantha Bae headwraps
Chadwick Boseman (“Wakanda Forever!”)
T’Challa
Fred Hampton
Huey P. Newton
The assassination of Fred Hampton
Mercury
Mercury thermometers
Sassy Black friend trope (examples: “Sex and the City,” “Save the Last Dance”,”Clueless,” etc.)
The idea during slavery that Black women could give birth and go back right out to the field.
(This is a fascinating read as well about the mindset towards enslaved women)
The history of medical racism, gynecology and struggle for Black women and also discusses the “science” myth that Black women were built stronger of enslavement rhetoric
Black maternal mortality rates
Serena Williams’ birth experience
Simone Biles
Educated Black women are more likely to die in childbirth than undereducated white women and other statistics
Big tobacco lawsuits
The prevalent nature of smoking in the 20th century
Marketing menthols to Black communities specifically
Constellations in the sky
Science Olympiad- “Reach for the Stars”
Reconstruction
Civil Rights Movement
School-to-prison pipeline
Liquor stores and fast food funneled disproportionately into predominately Black neighborhoods
History of redlining
Booker T. Washington and respectability politics
Ferguson, MO protests sparked by the shooting of Michael Brown Jr.
The gateway arch to the west, St. Louis, MO
The L.A. riots in 1992
The Watts Uprising/Rebellion
Civil Rights Movement protests (these photos are from Nashville)
“Downton Abbey”
“The West Wing”
“The Golden Girls”
Scripture References:
Matthew 5:16- “Let your light shine before men.”
Job 38:11- Thus far and no more
Micah 6:8- “He has shown you o mortal what is good, do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.”
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Today, I get to share my conversation with minister and author Kathryn Maack. Kathryn shares her seemingly accidental, but God-ordained road into vocational ministry. God began to reveal Himself to her in ways that helped her to process how we as Believers approach the Lord, and that there can be a segregation that happens within ourselves in how to we relate to the Lord or even are willing to learn about Him or worship Him. Whether that be disconnect between our head and heart, Spirit and the Truth, there is much that can be disrupted and disjointed due to pain, our experiences, or perhaps even half truths we’ve come to believe as the whole truth. She dives into this topic in the book she coauthored with ministry partner Aaron Williams Whole: The Life-Changing Power of Relating to God with All of Yourself. When the Lord made us, He did not make us in segmented pieces, but as a whole person. Kathryn and Aaron want to remind us that Jesus wants to make us holy and whole and He wants us to live out the identity He created us to have.
if you are struggling in your own story because it is just… loud. Too much yelling, too much fighting, too many confusing narratives, I want you to hear me say that the Lord is with you. He is the God of peace, and a God of justice and mercy. He will not leave you here.
If you are struggling in your story because it is just too quiet, and you feel like God is too far and you don’t know what to make of what you see, feel or what you’ve seen, I want you to hear me say that the Lord is also with you. He has a history that suggests that even when it seems like He is absent, He is anything but. He never leaves us or forsakes us and rejoices over us with loud singing. He listens to lament, He can take our questions, and He will not leave you here.
No matter you are, I hope you know that you matter, and your story matters. Thanks for hanging out with me and I’ll see you next time.
Connecting with Kathryn:
Kathryn and Aaron’s book: Whole: The Life-Changing Power of Relating to God with All of Yourself
Website
Connecting with Dwellings:
App
Podcast
Website
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
References:
Aaron Williams
Dwellings is a ministry that helps ordinary people cultivate kingdom communities, typically in small groups or house churches
Jennie Allen
IF Gathering
Ancient Jewish perspective on the heart being one
“Build My Life”
Revival at Asbury University
Peter Greig 24/7
The Great Awakening
The Hebrides Revival
The Welsh Revival
“Walk Down This Mountain” - Bebo Norman
The Jesus movement in the 60’s-70’s
“Jesus Revolution” movie
Barna study about Gen Z not being in the church
Men of Valor
“Reckless Love”- Cody Asbury
“Rattle” - Elevation Worship
“Sanctified”- Mercy Me - “We worship with the sound of broken shackles falling to the ground.”
Priscilla Shirer- Armor of God study
The power is in the name of Jesus
Scripture References:
Mark 12:30-31- Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
John 4:23- true worshippers come to Jesus in Spirit and Truth
Jeremiah 17:9- The heart is deceitful above all else
John 11:38-44 Matthew 21:12-13; Mark 11:15-18; John 2:13-22,Mark 3:5) Matthew 14:14; 15:32, Matthew 9:36, Matthew 4:1-11,Mark 1:12-13,Luke 4:1-13, Hebrews 4:15- Jesus came and displayed emotions but never sinned
Matthew 22:34-40-This is the first and greatest commandment
Galatians 5:22- The fruit of the spirit is joy
Psalm 34:8- Taste and see that the Lord is good
Ephesians 1:18- The Spirit enlivens the eyes of the heart
John 5:39- You search the scriptures and you want to find Me, but you don’t know Me
Exodus 34:29-35-Moses shining with God glory’s off the mountain
Exodus 32- Moses catching the people in a hot mess
Exodus 34- Moses comes back with the Law again
John 16:13- The Holy Spirit guides us into all Truth
John 16:8- The Holy Spirit convicts us
John 14:25-26, 1 Corinthians 2:9-14 -The Holy Spirit helps us discern scripture
Psalm 28:7, Psalm 121- He is our help
Ezekiel 37:1-14- God calls the bones to life
2 Corinthians 3:17- There is Someone who wants you to be free
John 8:36, Galatians 5:1, Isaiah 28:16- Christ is the cornerstone
Ephesians 6:17-The sword of the Spirit is the word of God
Ephesians 6:12- We are not at war with flesh and blood
1 Thessalonians 5:23- Jesus wants to make us holy and whole and He wants us to live out the identity He created us to have.
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Welcome to summer, my friends! This month, we’ll be talking about how to engage who we are on the inside so we can better connect with God, get to know who He has always been, and walk with Him from a more authentic place. Once we can do that, it spills over into our relationships around us. Past me would think it was completely crazy to pursue space for growing myself in the summer but present me says that this part of our story matters. We’ve got self-examination, growth, and care to do. God has much to show us and heal in us. Are you willing to come along for the ride?
Today we’ll start with Meredith Boggs. Meredith is a podcaster and an author. Her book The Journey Home: A Biblical Guide to Using the Enneagram to Deepen Your Faith and Relationships tells the story of her life as a young adult and doing all the good Christian things, but finding herself burned out and confused. Looking for a way to breathe life back into her soul and her faith and the Enneagram became a tool that God used to minister to her.
Ohhhh the Enneagram: We’re going to talk about the beef people have with it, the understandable concerns many have about it, the misuse of it, AND if it is a useful tool to you, then how could we see what God has for people of faith in it so they can grow into who God made them to be. Maybe you’ve never even heard of it or only heard weird things about it OR you’re over it. Give us another chance today because how Meredith breaks down perspectives about how the enneagram can be used well and not well in relationships, and how it can build one another up in the body of Christ is really beautiful and unique. Of all the Enneagram content I’ve consumed over the years, Meredith’s voice has become my favorite. Her book is about spiritual growth more than a personality evaluation. It is grace-filled, but honest and nuanced. I loved this conversation with her so much where you will get to hear some of Meredith’s story and hear her share about her journey with recognizing weaknesses and surrendering in recovery and learning how to trust God in those places.
I hope that this conversation ministers to you today. If anything, I hope you hear that we are ALL in progress. We all have weaknesses and limits and the Lord can and will make Himself known in all of them. Transformation takes time, it is messy, and grappling with who God really versus how broken people sometimes claim Him to be can be an adventure, but a worthwhile one. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Meredith:
Book: The Journey Home: A Biblical Guide to Using the Enneagram to Deepen Your Faith and Relationships
Podcast
TikTok
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
References:
Enneagram
The Road Back to You
Enneagram 8
Enneagram Test (a free one) Enneagram Test from Enneagram Institute (paid one!)
Ian Morgan Cron
Annie F. Downs’ Enneasummer series
Myers Briggs
Strengths Finder
Enneagram 7
Enneagram 3
Beth McCord
Harry Potter (y’all know I’m a #Potterhead), the beef with it when the books were coming out
“Hocus Pocus 2”
Enneagram 2
Codependency (more words about this here and here)
John Calvin quote- “Without knowledge of self there is no knowledge of God Our wisdom, in so far as it ought to be deemed true and solid Wisdom, consists almost entirely of two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves. But as these are connected together by many ties, it is not easy to determine which of the two precedes and gives birth to the other.”
Our friend Kelsey is Kelsey Chapman. You can hear my conversation with her on episode 73
Triads
Attributes of God Daily Grace Co. study (Affiliate link, thank you for your support!)
Communicable vs. incommunicable attributes of God
Walking in the Spirit
Aslan who creates (From Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis)
12-Step Recovery Process
The Power to Choose
Meredith’s resources on her website
Scripture References:
Galatians 5:22-23- Fruit of the Spirit
1 Corinthians 12:12-27- How the body of Christ functions (all its unique parts)
Lamentations 3:40- see ourselves rightly
Luke 10:27; Matthew 22:36–40; Mark 12:28–31-Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself
Psalm 90:12- Grant me a heart of wisdom
Ephesians 1:18- Enlighten the eyes of my heart
Isaiah 9:7- God’s power has no end and He has no limits
2 Corinthians 12:9-11- In my limits/weaknesses, He is strong
Ephesians 3:20- Even more, than we could ask or imagine
Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28- He has a purpose for you
Isaiah 63:7- God is kind to us
Psalm 27:13-God is good (just one scripture!)
1 Corinthians 3:9- We are co-creators with God
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in us
Philippians 4:19-God does provide for all of our needs
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Today I get to share with you a really fun and powerful conversation with my friends Chris and Stephanie Teague. In our conversation you’ll get to hear the story of how Chris and Stephanie met, their marriage when they were in college, pursuing the quintessential Christian couple life, and then the secrets, addictions, and doubts that led to their divorce in 2010. Then, during a season where they each in their own way were desperate for answers to what they didn’t understand, God met them and showed them He was trustworthy with their lives individually, freeing them both from the pressure of living a put-together know-it-all Christian life and receiving the invitation to be alive with Christ and live in hope. And then, in His grace, He also redeemed their marriage. Over a decade later, here we are hanging out unpacking this story today! Praise God.
This time with them was a special experience of hearing them unpack how God met them then, how He continues to reveal Himself to them now, and the heart of the calling on their lives now as the band Out of the Dust. Through their music, and sharing their story, Chris and Stephanie now travel the country speaking and singing hope over people who wonder if all hope is lost. As you’ll hear, it’s not about trying to fix broken marriages or bootstrapping your way to a better life, it’s issuing an invitation to encounter the heart of God. This is such a powerful conversation annnnnd for those of us who grow up in the 90’s/early 2000’s Christian world, I think there’s going to be a lot you can probably relate to, for better or for worse as well. It’s a good time and I can’t wait to share it with you.
I hope above all things you hear in this episode, you hear that the Lord specializes at making beautiful things out of the dust. Dust of things that have yet to know life, or dust of ashes where things have all burned down. He is the God of redemption and resurrection and He cares about your heart encountering healing with Him. If you have any questions about any of that, please don’t ever hesitate to reach out to me, or to someone like Stephanie and Chris, we are imperfect people who have seen a perfect God in our story, but we also know what it means to shake our fists and wonder why and have Him love us there too. Wherever you are today, friend, I hope that you can hear me say, you matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Stephanie & Chris
Patreon
Spotify
SUMMER TOUR DATES!
Website
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
References:
-Episodes Chris and Stephanie have helped me out on before! Our readings of Esther and Ruth
-MTSU
-Passion Conference
-Chris Tomlin
-Matt Redman
-Christy and Nathan Nockels and Watermark
-Jesus movement (70’s)
-Louie Giglio
-Some of Louie’s teaching based on science and faith (and devotionals for kids too! Our family loves these)
-Podcast episode where we talk about suicidal ideation with Jennifer Greenberg, her book I mention is Not Forsaken: A Story of Life After Abuse. How faith brought one woman from victim to survivor
-Enneagram 1
-We got it wrong, Jehovah-Raah is the Lord is my Shepherd
-Divorce Care
-”Redemption Skies”- their song with the lyric “Let the valley teach you what the mountain can’t”
- “Beautiful Things” by Gungor
-Ellie Holcomb spotify
-For the record the church we attend together is Fellowship Bible Church Murfreesboro ;)
-GMA Immerse
-Topher Teague
-Gungor “You Have Me”
-Brooke Fraser “Who Are We Fooling”
-Belmont University
-Tanya Godsey
-Our Daily Bread
-Family Life
-Another episode about working through doubts, questions and truly finding Jesus (Taylor Turkington author of Trembling Faith)
-spiritual disciplines
-the attributes of God (I REALLY loved this study about this from Daily Grace Co. It was a huge help to me)
-Searching For Enough- Tyler Staton, our conversation
-John Mark Comer (not Michael lol)
Scripture References:
Mark 2:15-22-, Mark 5:1-20,Luke 8:26-39, Luke 19:1-10, Luke 17:11-19, John 4-Jesus went to the raw and real places
Psalm 23
Deuteronomy 7:9, Psalm 25:10, Luke 6:36-37, Ephesians 2:4-5-God’s mercy
Luke 15:11-32 (esp 17-21)-Prodigal pacing (earning your way back home)
Psalm 34:4-God is with you in the valley
Psalm 34:18-He is close to the brokenhearted
Exodus 3-A Moses, nope God you got the wrong guy
Exodus 34:6, Nehemiah 9:16-17, Psalm 103:8, 2 Peter 3:8-9-God is so patient
Lamentations 3:22-23, 1 Corinthians 1:9 -He is faithful (among many verses and stories!)
Judges 6, Habakkuk 1-He is OK with us working through questions and doubts
James 4:8-Draw near to Him
Isaiah 46:9-10, Psalm 139, 1 John 3:20, Ephesians 1-He is all-knowing, but we get to know Him
2 Timothy 3:16-17-scripture is God breathed
John 16:33 -This world is broken, and in this world we will have trouble
Psalm 147:5, James 3:17-God has infinite wisdom
Matthew 14:13-21, Luke 8:26-56-Jesus welcomed interuptions and weren’t on the plan
Matthew 26:36-46, Luke 22:39-46, John 17-18 and John 11 -Jesus grieved in the garden and at the tomb of His friend
Job 10:3, Job 19:5-7, Job 27, -Job indicting God
John 20:24-31-”doubting” Thomas
Psalm 27:13-What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord
John 9, 2 Corinthians 12:6-7 -Using suffering for our good (example)
Daniel 3:18-If not He is still good
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Today, I have Dennis Allen on the podcast. Dennis followed his heart to the Air Force as fighter pilot, and suddenly was hit with a life altering diagnosis that ended his military career. Propelled into the business world, he would ultimately become a consultant to guide businesses how to better address internal issues, shore up where they might be struggling, and reevaluate leadership. In his work, he began to see the similarities in the issues he was unpacking within businesses and modern Western discipleship, and the Church. Thus his book The Discipleship Dilemma: Rethinking and Reforming How the Church Does Discipleship was born.
In our conversation he shares with us his personal story of God quite literally giving him a new heart and growing his heart to help leaders in churches as well as every member of the Body of Christ refresh and recapture their vision for Jesus’ call to go and make disciples of all nations. We unpack what discipleship is and isn’t, and how to address some of the issues going unaddressed in churches and hurting hearts who are questioning God because of their encounters with His people. Its a challenging message and conversation, but its a really really good one. I hope you’ll circle up for this family meeting of sorts and dive deep with us.
There are all kinds of ways this conversation could land on you and wherever you are in life as a whole and your relationship with God or with His church. I want you to know that no matter what, there is room for the wrestling and questions, and that is part of being a disciple in fact. There is hope for redemption, friends. Above all else, there is a God who loves you dearly and made you on purpose. Seek Him, and you WILL find him. I hope this podcast can be a tool to point you to places in scripture where you can learn to know Him more, but also to resources, tools and people that could perhaps aid you in your journey. Just know that you’re not alone. We’re all learning. Praise God He’s not finished with us. Just remember. You matter to the Lord. Your story matters.
Connecting with Dennis:
Book
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
References:
Pistol Pete Maravich
Jim Fixx The Running Book
Definition of orthodoxy
Definition of orthopraxy
Definition of heterodoxy
Young LIfe
Simeon the Styllite Elder
Billy Graham
Theodoret (wrote about Simeon)
The Bedouin world
To follow a rabbi as a Jewish student
Constantine’s impact on Christianity (we have great episodes on this part 1 and 2)
Clericalism
The word for “take heart” - Tharseo
CRU
Christ is the cornerstone
You have never met a mere mortal - C.S. Lewis
The Jesus Storybook Bible - Sally Lloyd Jones
Billy Graham’s Interview at the end of his life
William Wilberforce “You may choose to look the other way, but you can never say you did not know.”
Scripture References:
Matthew 28:19- Go and make disciples
John 6:66- From that time on many stopped following Jesus
John 14:6- Jesus is the way, the truth and the life
Psalm 143:3, 1 Peter 5:8- We have an enemy of our soul
James 3:1-5 Responsibility and accountability for leaders
Micah 6:8- do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with your God
Acts 15- Early Church arguments
The Church is the Bride of Christ
Matthew 16:18, Romans 8:36-39- Nothing can stop the church
Matthew 16:24-26-If you are my follow Me you must take up the cross and follow Me
Ephesians 4:11-16 (not GAlatians) - some are called to be evangelists
1 Peter 4:12-19 - we have the reason for the hope
1 Corinthians 12-We all have spiritual gifts
Jeremiah 29:11- plans for hope and a future
Romans 11:11-31-You are grafted into the family of God
John 15-without Christ we can do nothing
2 Pter 1:3-we have all been given what we need for life and godliness
John 21:22- do you understand what it means to be a disciple?
John 16:33- Take heart I have overcome the world
Exodus 14:13-14-Don’t be afraid (before Red Sea crossing)
Psalm 91:4-6- We live under the shelter of His wings
Luke 15:11-32- Prodigal sons and daughters
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Sopha Rush is an author, online influencer and encourager, and professional promise proclaimer. Her book 100 Days of Living Deeply Rooted is such an encouraging word for life in the trenches of trying to unpack past narratives about yourself, believing what God says is true about you, and learning to trust Him more wherever you are walking in life.
In our conversation today, Sopha shares a little bit of her family’s powerful story of fleeing the Cambodian genocide and starting their family in Chicago. Her Mom became a single parent after a tragedy at a very young age, and she and her siblings grew up under the umbrella of incredible strength, and resilience, but also so much grief. There is much to unpack growing up as the helper when you become a parent, isn’t there? Learning to find value in yourself and just being who you are, not what you have to offer, seeing the value in taking care of and holding space for yourself to just be but also to heal. Sopha shares about how God has met her in all of these places, showing her what a good and trustworthy Father He truly is, and how He heals and redeems, and when we are deeply rooted in Him, we can come to know Him and find life.
I felt like this was a message for those who need to know the heart of God is for them. The wrestling of standards of the world, and feeling like you are never enough, and those who struggle to understand who God is and who He is not. Our deep fears that came from how we grow up, and how we misunderstood Him, can hold us back from seeing who He has always been. Take the risk, friends. There is so much life, goodness, and hope for you in Him. If that’s you today, I hope you know that you matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Sopha:
Book: 100 Days of Living Deeply Rooted
Instagram (Living Deeply Rooted) Instagram 2 (Sopha’s!)
Podcast
TikTok
Website
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
References:
-Cambodian genocide and the killing fields (also super interesting
-Cambodian refugees in Thailand
-”First They Killed My Father” - film on Cambodian genocide
-”Magic School Bus” -the OG
-”Magic School Bus Rides Again” - the new one, the tree episode I mentioned
-bi-polar disorder
-The refiner's fire
-”Moms’ Actually” podcast episode I mentioned
-How trauma sits in the brain
-Trauma in the body
-Ancestoral (or intergenerational) trauma
-The Body Keeps the Score Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
-If Our Bodies Could Talk - James Hamblin
-Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself - Nedra Glover Tawwab
-Articles by Sopha for (in)courage
Scripture References:
1 Corinthians 1-3-We have a heavenly Father
Job 38-41, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Corinthians 9:8, Matthew 6:25-34God provides for you
Psalm 36 , John 3:16,John 15:13 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Ephesians 3:17-19, Romans 8:35-39-God loves you
Proverbs 9:10, 1 John 4:17-19-Yes, we’re called to fear God but not from shame
Romans 12:2-Be transformed by the renewal of your mind
2 Corinthians 10:5-Take every thought captive
John 1:12-13, 1 John 3:1We are children of God
Acts 1:8,1 Corinthians 3:16 -We have the power of the holy spirit in us
2 Timothy 1:7-We are not given a spirit of fear
Psalm 23:4-He walks with us through the valley of suffering
Romans 11:11-24, John 15:1-6-Without Him we can do nothing, the need for being grafted into the Vine
Jeremiah 17:8 -Being deeply rooted
1 Corinthians 12:12-27-The Body of Christ
Colossians 3:16, 1 Thessalonians 5:11-Encourage one another, lifting one another up
John 14:3, Revelation 22:12-13-Jesus is coming back for us
Matthew 25:6, Revelation 19:7-The Bridegroom is coming back for the Bride (the church!)
Titus 2:1-5- older women share with the younger women
Jeremiah 29:11-There is hope for you
Psalm 27:13-There is good for you in the land of the living
Deuteronomy 6:4-5, Matthew 22:37-We’re called to love the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Dr. Jeremiah Johnston is an author, pastor of apologetics, and what he refers to as a Christian thinker. He knew that he loved God and loved His word, but he had a burning desire to want to not only understand it better, and to be able to know and see for Himself that the Christian faith could stand up to questioning. Ultimately, what he found is “Jesus and the faith and the scriptures are the answers to the questions you have today, not just the questions of yesterday.”
Now he is the pastor of apologetics at Prestonwood Baptist Church, and his ministry Christian Thinkers Society is designed to speak to seekers and skeptics and those who have big and very real questions about the historical Jesus, the church, and scripture, but also to encourage followers of Christ to own their faith. In his latest book Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus- and Why It Matters Today Dr. Johnston shares some of the fascinating details that prove the resurrection as a historical event, and why focusing on the resurrection and not just the cross deeply matters. In his work and in our conversation today, he unpacks a little bit of the context of the world Jesus revealed Himself to in His resurrected form, and we discuss details that perhaps have been overlooked due to the familiarity of the narrative of the resurrection to many of us in the church.
I don’t know where you are or where this conversation finds you, but I hope that you can walk away with a little more hope and encouragement in your soul. The bedrock of Christianity stands firm. It is based on facts, and it can take questions and research, archeology, and history. Our resurrected Savior can take our big feelings, our questions, and the cries of our weary souls. The God of the universe that took on flesh, died, and rose again, cares about you, and He gave it all to show you. I hope you can believe that today. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Dr. Johnston
Book: Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus- and Why It Matters Today
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
References:
Oxford University
Craig Evans
Bodleian Library
Papyrology
Codicology
Paleography
Christian Thinkers Society
Prestonwood Baptist Church
Pastor of Apologetics
Unanswered by Dr. Johnston
The head of Christ painting
Road to Emmaus painting by Robert Zund, 1877
James the brother of Jesus
The Messiah would be another David or Samson or would cleanse the priesthood and the Temple
Dead Sea Scrolls
The New Testament: Its Background, Growth and Content- Bruce Metzger
Jospehus
Saducee- Progressives bought out by the Romans
Pharisee- Tradition of keeping the Torah
Zealots- Extremists who trained to take power from Rome back by force
Sanhedrin- The governing body of the Jewish community
The diaspora
Remember- celebrate with festival example
Mishnah
Verisamilitude
Bone boxes on the Mount of Olives
Unimaginable book by Dr. Johnston
Lee Strobel, The Case for Christ
Scripture References:
Hebrews 4:12- The word of God is alive and active
Luke 24, John 20- The resurrection of Jesus
Revelation 2:28-The morning star of our faith
1 Corinthians 15 - the death AND resurrection of Jesus Luke 23, John 18:28-19:42- The judiciary procedure that led to the crucifixion
John 20:1-18-Appears to women/Mary doesn’t recognize Jesus
John 20:24-29-Thomas
Luke 24:13-35-The two with Jesus on the road to Emmaus
Matthew 5-7- The sermon on the mount
Luke 4:14-30- the sermon in Nazareth
Exodus 11-19- The Passover
Deuteronomy 6:6-9,Deuteronomy 11:18-20,Isaiah 57:8- Put this on your doorpost
Luke 22:17-38- Jesus called them to remember through the last supper
Luke 22- Judas betrayed Jesus
Matthew 10:4,Mark 3:18,Luke 6:15,Acts 1:13- Simon the Zealot
John 19:38-40-Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus bury Jesus
Genesis 50:25- Joseph asked to have his bones carried back to the land of his father
Matthew 27:55-56-The women stayed with Jesus, and are at the cross
Matthew 26:56, Mark 14:50- They didn’t run like the disciples
1 Corinthians 12:12-31-The body of Christ needs all its parts for it to work
Romans 8- the message of the Gospl and of Jesus’ love that there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus
1 Corinthians 15:58-Be strong, steadfast and immovable, always abound in the work of the Lord
1 Corinthians 16- people are suffering, let’s care for people
Matthew 9:36- He had compassion on them because He saw them as sheep without a shepherd
Hebrews 12:2- keep your eyes on the author and perfector of our faith
1 Peter 2:4-8- Christ is the cornerstone
Hebrews 13:8-Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever
Hebrews 13:5–6; Deuteronomy 31:6–8- He never leaves us or forsakes us
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
As we walk into the days that follow Easter, we have such a unique opportunity to engage the truly incredible work Jesus not only did on the cross and walking out of the empty tomb, and how the world was literally turned upside down in the remaining days He was on Earth and after His ascension to Heaven and the coming of the Holy Spirit and the call to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth.
This is Dr. Bryan Litfin’s area of expertise. We’ve had a chance to talk about Dr. Litfin’s works of fiction on the podcast before, where he shares a story of an early Christian woman and a young warrior in Constantine’s army and how the trials of the time and their faiths are tested and proved, but today, we’re going to put all his various degrees to work as he shares with us about his newest non-fiction book Wisdom of the Ancients: 30 Timeless Lessons from the Early Church. Dr. Litfin is a Professor at Liberty University teaching theology and New Testament classes, and a former professor at Moody Bible Institute, and as we walk into this season that celebrates the birth of the early church, this conversation with Dr. Litfin is the perfect place to spend time.
Dr. Litfin walks us through the context of what he means by “the ancient period,” which his latest book focuses on and he defines it as within the time of Christ on earth in the 1st century through the 500 years or so that would follow leading up to the Middle Ages. For a lot of western Christians in particular, we sometimes grapple with the context of the early church and get confused about what happened when, how decisions were made, and we tend to skip from the end of Revelation to the Reformation or something like that. Dr. Litfin gives us a picture of what the world looked like as the Gospel spread. Then, he shares from his latest book some specific and perhaps surprising lessons we can consider and adapt to our modern faith walks and churches, and it is truly fascinating.
Jesus is alive, He came that we would have life to the full, not always easy, but full and never alone. His passion for His family has not changed, and I pray that ministers to you today.
Connecting with Dr. Litfin:
Books
Website
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
References:
-Episode 69 and Episode 116 The other episodes featuring Dr. Litfin on the podcast
-Dr. Litfin’s fiction trilogy: Constantine’s Empire
-His latest work: Wisdom of the Ancients: 30 Timeless Lessons from the Early Church
-Liberty University
-(Just being honest) the yuck from the top, but isn’t the heart of the university
-A glimpse into Paul’s missionary journeys
-The Protestant Reformation
-Constantine’s rise
-Plato
-Middle Ages
-Paul’s missionary journeys (geographically and timeline)
-Saint Patrick and the spreading of the Gospel to Ireland
-Early church in Ethiopia
-Soteriology
-Jupiter
-“Death Was Arrested”
-The God of gods
-Over the powers and principalities
-Dr. Michael Heiser’s documentary about spiritual dominion and a deep dive into this
-Also see his book Supernatural, and Unseen Realm and he has since passed away, but our conversation on the podcast was mindblowing.
-witness means martyr in Greek
-Catacombs
-Necropolis —> a cemetery (this was interesting, pardon the language)
-Temple prostitutes of Rome
- “The Chosen”
-Christocentric and Christotelic
-Life of Moses study from BSF
-Sally Lloyd Jones
-Episode of “The Chosen” showing the raised up snake on a pole (Season 1, episode 7)
-Nicodemus’ struggle on “The Chosen (Season 1, episode 7 also lol)
-Gnostic gospels
-Passover / Seder
-Getting to Know the Church Fathers
-Early Christian Martyr Stories
-After Acts
Scripture References:
Mark 16:15- Go and share the Gospel with all the world
Acts 1:6-11- Jesus’ ascension
Book of Acts (a lot of Paul’s missionary journeys)
Acts 1:8-The outermost parts of the Earth
Hebrews 13:8-Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever
Deuteronomy 10:17, 1 Chronicles 16:26, Psalm 97:7, Psalm 96:5- God is the god of gods
John 14:6-Jesus is the way the truth and the life
Ephesians 3:1-6-Paul calls the Gospel a mystery
1 Peter 1:12-even the angels marveled at the mystery
John 12:24-Jesus said unless a seed falls and dies it cannot grow
1 Corinthians 15:52-a trumpet will sound Matthew 27:55-61,Mark 15:40,Mark 15:47,Mark 16:1,Luke 24:10,Luke 23:49-56, Luke 8:43-48, Luke 8:1-3, John 8:1-11-Jesus mingled with women (those who followed Him and provided for Him), touched them (Bleeding Woman), and gave love to them (Mary Magdelene, woman caught in adultery)
Luke 1:39-45-Jesus revealed Himself first to Mary and Elizabeth
John 20:11-18-Jesus revealed Himself as a risen Savior first to a woman
2 Corinthians 3:4–6-The letter kills, the Spirit gives life
Luke 24:13-35-Jesus and His followers on the road to Emmaus
Genesis 22-Isaac and Abraham
Hebrews 11:17-19-the book of Hebrews points out Isaac is a type of Christ
Numbers 21:4-9-Moses and Aaron put snake on a pole to save Israel
John 3-Nicodemus coming to Jesus by night
Hebrews 4:12-The Bible is alive and active
Exodus 12-Passover
Matthew 26:17-30,Mark 14:12-26,Luke 22:7-23,John 13:1-35-Jesus’ last supper
Ecclesiastes 2:25-A time for fasting and a time feasting
John 15:5-Apart from Jesus we can do nothing
John 14:18-He will not leave us as orphans
Hebrews 12:2-We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
I’m excited to start this holy week off with this sweet and encouraging episode with Will and Courtney Kassner. Will and Courtney are the writers and creators behind Crew & Co. which is their ministry and shop full of products to invite beauty into the lives of families and make Scripture a practical part of their daily lives. Recently, they released their first children’s book called When the World Wakes Up, and my daughter Nora Beth hopped on this interview to share her thoughts and ask her questions about the beautiful book! They shared with us how God inspired the story from a moment with Will and his kids, and the beauty of God sharing that moment with them. It is a visually stunning book and a sweet story that invites kids to add their voice to the Kingdom of God.
In that same vein, we’ll talk in this conversation about how God takes the dreams and gifts we have and think they’ll become one thing, and He has a good plan and a purpose for all of it that we can’t even imagine because ministry comes in so many shapes and forms. We all have unique gifts to offer the world. Satan tries his hardest to shut us up but calls us to use our voice and gifts in the way He made us to.
During a week where Jesus went into Jerusalem with a much bigger plan for the world and the Kingdom of God than we could ever dream of, it feels right to start with that word of encouragement, to us big kids, but especially to young hearts in a big scary world. I hope after hearing this conversation that you feel encouraged to use your voice, whatever that looks like. Create the art. Write the story. Encourage the neighbor. Have the conversation you’ve been putting off. Who knows what the Lord will do with it? No matter where you are today, I hope that you know that you matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Will & Courtney + Crew & Co.
Book: When the World Wakes Up
Crew & Co.
TikTok
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
References:
-The animals on “Bambi” were twitterpated lol
-Young Life
-His Kids Company - Placemats
-Example of devotions Will writes on the Crew & Co. Instagram
-Their intern singing on Instagram (Emma & Annabeth!)
-” The Chosen” - Episode “Two by Two”
-Ellie Holcolmb’s “Sing: Creation Songs” album – this is a great resource to compliment the Kassner’s book!
-Crew & Co. encouragement boxes
Scripture References:
Psalm 118:24-This is the day the Lord has made
Romans 12-Ministry comes in so many shapes and forms
Proverbs 3:5-7, Joel 2:13, James 4:10-Submitting our heart to the Lord to see what He’ll do with it
Hebrews 10:24-25-Spur one another one in good deeds
Matthew 10:1; Luke 6:12–13; Mark 6:7–13; Luke 9:1–2- Jesus sends out the disciples two by two
Colossians 3:17,23, Romans 11:33-36-Worship is all of what we do
1 Peter 4:10-We are recipients and stewards of God’s grace
Lamentations 3:22-23-New mercies every morning
Genesis 1-2, John 1:1-5, Colossians 1:16-God is the one who created us all
Romans 8:22-The whole world longs for God and to be made right
Psalm 19:1-The heavens declare the glory of God
1 Corinthians 12:1-11-Using our gifts for God
Exodus 31-37-Creating the Tabernacle in the wilderness
Psalm 27:13-The good is not over
Psalm 16:11, Psalm 30:5-There is still joy
Genesis 50:20-What the enemy meant for evil God can use for good
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Taylor Turkington is an author, Bible teacher, teacher of Bible teachers. She is is passionate about training women to interpret and teach the Bible informally or formally through her ministry Bible Equipping. She has a love for the word of God that is so life giving and it pours out onto the pages of her book Trembling Faith: How a Distressed Prophet Equips Us to Trust God in a Chaotic World. Its a book that unpacks the book of Habakkuk in the Bible and offers an invitation to investigate what it means to lament.
For those of us who have ever even considered lament, we sometimes get hung up on doing it “the right way.” Whether that be in regards to formality, worrying about the right kinds of prayers or various Biblical application tools to use, or what have you. Taylor would offer however, that “lament is informal and natural and its expressing our great need because of the people that we are. Its saying this world is not right, but God, you are right and good. And there is a discrepancy here, and I need You to do something.” We unpack the gift of what lament offers in deepening our relationship with God, and coming to God with our emotions is a healthy practice.
Taylor also shares the historical context of the prophet Habakkuk, the uniqueness of the book in the midst of the minor prophets, and Habakkuk’s raw sharing with God, and his belief in God’s goodness despite how messed up the world still is and how real his heartbreak continues to be.
This episode I think is such a powerful gift as many of us are approaching the last lap of Lent and are following Jesus straight into a week ripe with lament, for the joy set before the Messiah, in the days leading up to the His death, burial and resurrection.
Connecting with Taylor:
Book Trembling Faith: How a Distressed Prophet Equips Us to Trust God in a Chaotic World
Ministry
Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel
Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off
Website
References:
-Bible Equipping
-The book of Habakkuk
-Learn It + Give It
-Learn It +Give It Intensives
-Missiology
-There are spiritual gifts of teaching
-The book of Lamentations
-Sons of Josiah, staring with Jehoahaz… not good
-King Jehoiakim… REALLY not good, hello Babylonian invasion
-Concrete beaches of Croatia
-“Katrina Babies” Documentary (and a picture of the power of community in cultures of color)
-Dr. Jemar Tisby - (our episode, his podcast, his substack, his books The Color of Compromise, and How To Fight Racism he is such a powerful teacher)
**Quick note- the audiobook release has been delayed! But forthcoming :)
-Resources for Trembling Faith
Scripture References:
Hebrews 4:12- The word of God speaks
Habakkuk
Isaiah 7:14, 52:13-15, 53:1-12- Isaiah talks about Jesus
Jeremiah 29:11
Matthew 28:19-20-All believers are called to learn God’s word and share it with others
Ephesians 4:25, 1 Thessalonians 5:11- Using the Word to encourage
Acts 2- Church is a group of people who are called to minister to each other and to the world
1 Corinthians 12- You have a spiritual gift, go use it!
Job 42:1-3, Proverbs 20:5, Romans 8:28- You were made on purpose for a purpose
Luke 10:27-Love the Lord your God with all your heart mind soul and strength
Luke 1:39-56- Mary and Elizabeth proclaim the King
John 4- The woman at the well goes and evangelizes Samaria
John 20:18- Mary Magdelene gets to go and tell the Disciples Jesus is risen
Habakkuk 3- Habakkuk points to the choice we have in how to respond and what we choose to believe
Lamentations
2 Kings 2-23- The revival under King Josiah
Psalm 102:1- Lord, please help
Ephesians 5:14, Isaiah 51:17, 52:1, 60:1, Malachi 4:2, Romans 13:11- Awake, oh sleeper
Psalm 130:6- More than watchmen wait for the morning
Habakkuk 1:2, Psalm 13;1-6, Psalm 27:14, Isaiah 40:31- Examples of “God act, wait on the Lord, how long oh Lord”
Matthew 4:17, Luke 12:35-40, Luke 4:14-30,Isaiah 61, Matthew 5:43-48 -God has come in Christ and He is working now, be ready, love your enemies
Habakkuk 1:1-4-Why do you make me look at violence and do nothing
Job 38:4-42:6- God doesn’t explain everything to Job
Habakkuk 2:4- the arrogant won’t live, but the righteous live by their faith
Habakkuk 1:3- My friends are surrounded! Help them!
Exodus 22:22-23, Psalm 82:3, Romans 13:8-10, Matthew 25:40- You are breaking the Law of God when not caring for others in scripture
Matthew 19:26, Romans 8:32- We are sought after by a limitless God
Psalm 147:5-God is all knowing and all seeing.
Habakkuk 3:18-19-But they decide “I will rejoice in the Lord because He gives me strength”
Psalm 42:7- Deep calls unto deep
Psalm 10
Psalm 13
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Dr. Jessica Peck is a professor, nurse practitioner, author, and mama who has written a book called Behind Closed Doors: A Guide to Help Parents and Teens Navigate Through Life’s Toughest Issues, and it is precisely that. It's an incredible resource that talks about what Jessica sees in her office with parents and kids and teens of varying ages as well as in her own home. We are going to talk about A LOT of things today and some of them may feel kind of scary, or uncomfortable. Still, the goal of this conversation is to learn how to engage in very uncomfortable things in a “quasi-comfortable” or at the very least approachable way. Things like the mental health crisis in this country among young people, the effects of social media, living at the speed of a smartphone, conversations surrounding suicide, the drive to be perfect, and more.
The goal is not for those of us who love young people as parents, ministers, doctors, nurses, teachers, coaches, aunts, uncles, or whoever you are to be scared of the world that young people are facing but to remember the hope we have in Jesus no matter what happens in this world. AND through people like Dr. Peck, we can be empowered with knowledge and equip us for what may lay ahead.
I am so hopeful that you find something in this conversation for you and your relationship with the young people in your life. We cannot protect them from everything. We will not do this perfectly. But we can build healthy, honest, relationships with the young people and teenagers in our life. Remember: it is never too late to redeem a relationship, ask for forgiveness, or to change the trajectory of our decisions. I hope you find hope in that today. The Lord is not finished with your story. He has plans for a hopeful future for you, and He will carry them out until the very end. You matter, and your story matters.
*Connecting with Dr. Jessica Peck:
Audiobook
Book
Podcast
Website
References:
-“Jumani”- THE OG!!
-Simone Biles’ mental health decision at the Olympics
-University of Tennessee of the 90’s
-Eye contact secretes oxcytocin
-My instagram live with Dr. Peck about Sex Trafficiking
-Human trafficking resource
-Signs of sex trafficking
-Lunchbox questions for kids/teens
-Lunchbox jokes Harry Potter and Star Wars (Pinterest is a gold mine!)
-Cece Winans’ “Goodness of God”
-Pediatric Clinic in India through Baylor
Scripture References:
Ephesians 6:10-18-put on the full of armor of God
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8- -there is a time to reap and a time to sow
Lamentations 3:22–33; Psalm 30; 2 Corinthians 8:1–9-God’s mercies are new every single morning
Ezekiel 37:1-14-God’s power can raise bones from the desert
2 Corinthians 12:9-God’s power is made known in our weakness
John 16:33-In this world we will have trouble, but God
Psalm 84:11- No good thing will God withhold from me
Jeremiah 29:11 The Lord has plans for a hopeful future for you
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
Irene Rollins is the author of the book Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back. In her book and in our conversation today, Irene shares her story of adolescent addiction to alcohol that consumed her life and rewired her brain chemistry until she found herself in college, tired and desperate for life, which she found in a relationship with Jesus, and the love of a wonderful man. As they grew their family and begin to pastor churches together, the old coping strategies, shame narratives, and lure of alcohol’s offer of escape began to pull on Irene’s weary heart until she found herself steeped in functional alcoholism. Perfect wife, mother and pastor by day, passed out in the bathroom by night, Irene’s life was falling apart. In 2017, she went to rehab. After incredible amounts of recovery work, thousands of prayers and redemptive reconciliation, Irene is celebrating 7 years of sobriety. She now, alongside her husband Jimmy Rollins, lives with a renewed purpose for ministering to people struggling with addictions, how to spot unhealthy habits that we use to help us cope with pain, brain hijacking, trying to work through crises in marriage, and speaking truth to the lies of the enemy that are keeping people in the crippling cycle of toxic shame, codependency, and powerlessness, and the difference Jesus brings with a life of pursuing healing, reconciliation, repentance, and freedom in Him.
We covered so much ground in this episode. Everything from types of addictions, mental health struggles, sexual abuse, toxic shame, the narratives we tell ourselves, the difference between conviction and shame, and normalizing discomfort as we learn and grow, and use our feelings as teachers and not masters. Recovery is not exclusive to alcoholism. We are called to throw off everything that hinders us. What an opportunity to examine how we can reframe the narratives in our lives and pursue God’s heart for how He sees us, allowing Him to transform our hearts and mind.
Wherever you are in your story, what hinders your growth, or keeps you captive from healing, you are worth the work. Yes, we are weak. Yes, we have believed lies that have allowed people to hurt us, or we’ve hurt ourselves. But in our weakness God is strong. He has good for you in the land of the living and a future of hope. Take heart, friend. This isn’t how the story ends. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Irene:
Book: Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back
Their ministry: Two Equals One // Their instagram:
Website
Scripture References:
1 Corinthians 6:12- I can do anything, but I must not become a slave to anything
Romans 3:23-24, James 4:17- Sin keeps us from being who we were made to be (we all have sin)
2 Corinthians 3:18, 5:17, 2 Peter 1:2-4- Jesus can transform our lives
2 Corinthians 12:9- Seeing His power be made known in our weaknesses
Psalm 51:10- Create in me a clean heart
Luke 10:38-42-Martha syndrome
John 10:10- The enemy comes to seek, kill and destroy
Romans 8:1- Therefore there is now no condemnation
John 3:16-17-Jesus died on the cross for our sins
Hebrews 12:2-Focus on the joy that is set before us
Luke 22:42- Jesus asked the Father to take this cup from Him, but He surrendered to His will
2 Corinthians 7:10, Romans 2:4- Conviction leads to repentance
Jeremiah 6:14-16- You can’t heal a wound you don’t see
Psalm 139:13-14-God created me in my Mother’s wombs
Deuteronomy 31:6, Matthew 28:20, John 14:16-17 God is ALWAYS with us
Psalm 23- His rod and staff lead and comfort me
1 Corinthians 15:58- Nothing is wasted
Psalm 27
References:
Find a therapist near you
Codependcy
Reframing Your Shame Prayer Prompts (scroll to the bottom to sign up for them for free!)
Alateen
Alanon
The Language of Letting Go App
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
On the podcast today, I have the absolutely amazing Sara Billups. Our show’s format is very conversational and I love it that way. Truthfully I was so impressed, curious and moved by Sara’s book Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find the Way Home that this episode is a little more like a conversations with friends over dinner. It ebbs and weaves and then starts one way and moves another with the feverent pace of “oh man, you too?!” and also, “holy smokes I’ve never thought about that before.” Sara shares pieces of her story of growing up in the environment of end times prophecies being commonplace over her plate of macaroni and cheese as a child, or a booth at a milkshake shop with a friend. She unpacks huge terms like premillenial dispensationalism, how heavily focused rapture narratives held her family captive from engaging life on this side of heaven, and asking big questions like how does tradition become theology in the middle of a genuine love for Jesus and then how do things get lost in fear or just being human?
Sara would define an orphaned believer as someone who looks around the American church or just general broad strokes Christian culture and doesn’t know where they belong. Or they are people like myself and Sara who sometimes struggle with what they’re experiencing with many beloved brothers and sisters in Christ who are not acting like the Jesus we have experienced or of the Gospel. In that tension, how do put our eyes back on who God has always been and who He always will be? How do we pursue and embrace what role or gifts God has for us in this journey of healing? How do we allow God to use suffering, doubt, and confusion to draw us closer to Him no matter how much we desire to escape the pain? Its a lot, but its SO good.
Even though I was a bit of a poor conversation steward today, (my over excitement can get the best of me sometimes!) I hope and pray somewhere along the way you found a space for you in this conversation. You get to bring all of you and your questions and your broken experiences to the Jesus who knows people better than we know ourselves. He’s aware of what comes against His church, distracts His people and distorts His name. But He’s not finished. There is so much more hope to be found here on earth, and together with Him in Heaven, no matter when we get to see Him, He is coming back for us. BUT He has SO MUCH for us before He comes. That’s just one of the many gifts of the Gospel is the promise, and assurance that He will be with us no matter what happens next. You are so loved, friend. You matter, and your story matters.
PS: Guess what y’all, the podcast book club is actually going to be reading this book together, AND Sara is (hopefully!) going to come talk with us about it as well because there’s just so much more to unpack. So be sure and check out how to join us for the book club in our show notes, website or link in social media bios!
Connecting with Sara:
Book: Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find Their Way Home
The Bitter Scroll Substack
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
References:
The Late Great Planet Earth- Hal Lindsey
“The Late Great Planet Earth” movie
The rapture
Pre-millienial dispensationalism
The Cold War
Cessationism
Mars Hill Church
John Mark Comer
This Cultural Moment podcast
Rise and Fall of Mars Hill story (via podcast)
Mark Driscoll (Proceed with caution on this website…)
Real time article of Mars Hill Church disbanding
TO Fuller State Park in Memphis
Schools of thought on when the rapture will take place
John Nelson Darby
Social Gospel Period
Left Behind Series- authors Tim LaHaye, and Jerry Jenkins
L. Ron Hubbard books
Scientology beliefs (-- proceed with caution on any Scientology websites, y’all. My personal favorite resources for learning about Scientology are either “Going Clear” or “Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath”)
The Chronicles of Narnia - C.S. Lewis
“All My Favorite People” - Over the Rhine
Christian Nationalism
“Wedding Dress”- Derek Webb
Caedmon’s Call
Redeeming Love -Francine Rivers
Lectio Divina
Religious Icons
Taylor University
Jay Kesler
“As Good As It Gets” (the tuna salad scene)
Eschatology
Black eschatology
Black Coffee with White Friends
Dr. Amy-Jill Levine and our episode
Jacob from the Insurrection and his response later in retrospect
Scripture References:
Daniel 7:9-10-, Matthew 24:36-44, Acts 2:37-39, 2 Peter 3:3-4, 2 Timothy 3:1-5 The End Times” -These are taken straight from scripture. The end of days is spoken about a ton in various locations in scripture, but they need A LOT of context. Here is a continued list, but I encourage you to proceed with Holy Spirit-led discernment. There is much to be studied, but the general point is: Jesus is coming back, we don’t know when, we’re called to live for Him like every day is our last, but to walk with trust and hope in the abundant life Jesus came, died and rose again to give us, and it’ll get real messy, but God is a purely holy, good God and righteous Judge. The Ancient of Days is trustworthy with our futures. - xo, Em
Revelation 13:15-18- The mark of the beast
Revelation 6:1-16:21- The 7 year tribulation
Ezekiel 38-39- The battle of Gog and Magog
The book of Revelation- A brief teaching on it part 1 and part 2 from the Bible Project
John 14:18-”I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you.”
1 John 1:8-9, Hebrews 13:8- Jesus’ mercy never runs out
Matthew 28:19- Jesus left us with the church
The book of Hosea
Romans 8:15, Ephesians 1:6, 1 John 3:1-I am beloved because the Lord says so
Lamentations 3:22-23- God’s mercies are new every morning
Ephesians 5:22-23, Revelation 18-22- The church is called the Bride of Christ
Matthew 16:17-19- The gates of hell cannot stand against it
Matthew 5-7- Sermon on the Mount
Genesis 3:8-24- When Adam and Eve left the garden
Psalm 23
Luke 4:14-21, John 3:16- Jesus came for all people
Revelation 21:4- Every tear dried
Acts 15, see also Galatians 5:2-6- The book of Acts and whether or not you had to be Jewish
Luke 15- The Lost Sheep
John 1:5- The Light of the world has come and darkness has not overcome it
Psalm 107:2-The redeemed of the Lord tell their story
Acts 6:1–1- (and John 14:18) Jesus is coming back for us
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Blake Guichet, better known as the Girl Named Blake, is the host of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian Podcast, and the author of her book with a similar title, Confessions of a Crappy Christian Real-Life Talk About All the Things Christians Aren’t Sure We’re Supposed to Say and Why They Matter to God. Blake shares a little bit of her story of growing up at war with herself because she felt like she didn’t fit anywhere, and the journey of making her faith her own as she grew up. She began asking big questions like who is God really? Who does he say that I am? What have I culturally believed is true and what do I actually believe is true because God’s Word says its true?
In the middle of that season, she tried all the things that seemed like the next right step for a woman with a voice who loved Jesus, but hustle culture took a devastating toll on her mind, body, and heart. Then, the Lord had to meet her in that place and to trust Him and His timing to be the One who would lead her to what it meant to work and minister for His glory, and to live from her heart for Him from all the platforms He’s given her.
We talk about what it means to to have self confidence and also posses humility, and how to honor God in the way He designed us. Trying to peel away the stigmas that surround big topics everyone faces, and normalize Christians talking about mental health, shame, being female and maybe not the “typical” and “expected” Christian female, Blake’s reckoning with the Proverbs 31 woman, not the one from the tote bags, but the one that was written in the original language of scripture, all of it is on the docket, and you won’t want to miss it!
I hope that in this conversation you can find some piece of yourself in it. No matter how God made you, no matter whether you feel like you fit in or not, you matter to the Lord, and your story matters.
Connecting with Blake:
The Girl Named Blake Website : Home for all her services, the podcast, etc.
Podcast Instagram
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Resources:
Confessions of a Crappy Christian Podcast
Confessions of a Crappy Christian
Ann Swindell
Adrenal Failure
Ennegram 8
Hard work is Biblical
Kāḇôḏ (Honor) (from Psalm 62:7)-
'iššâ (woman or wife) or ḥayil (valor)
Doris Day
Katharine Hepburn
Ash Abercrombie first episode with her and the second one
Mary Magdelene
“Vulnerability hangover”- Brene Brown-ism
Scripture References:
John 1:16-The fullness of grace
Ecclesiastes 3-There is a time to tear down and to build
Gensis 32:22-32- Wrestling with the Lord
1 Corinthians 12- Spiritual Gifts
Psalm 62
Genesis 31- Laban is angry at Jacob
Genesis 41:41-46-Joseph being elevated
Exodus 13:20-22, 33:1-23- Shekinah Glory (God’s presence in the Exodus and Wilderness)
Galatians 2:20-I died and it is Christ who lives in me
Philippians 4:8-9- (whaatever is true, whatever is lovely)
Ephesians 6:10-18, John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:8- Spiritual attack
Colossians 3:3- You are hidden in Christ
Proverbs 31:10-31- The Proverbs 31 Woman
Judges 4-5- Deborah
Judges 4:17-21- Jael - the tent peg killer ;)
Acts 18, 1 Corinthians 16:19, 2 Timothy 4:19- Priscilla and Aquila
1 Corinthians 12:12-27- The body of Christ needs all its parts for it to work
Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2, John 19:25-27- Mary Mother of Jesus
Genesis 2-3- Eve
Ruth the Moabite
Gensis 12:11-13-Sarah- we’re gonna do what now?? (Just one example)
Genesis 6:22-Genesis 9- Noah’s wife
Gensis 19- Lot’s wife
Genesis 1:29-31- Eve was the crown of creation
Proverbs 7:4-23- If wisdom is a woman
Ephesians 5:22-33- The church is the Bride of Christ
Psalm 145:9, 103:8- God is good
1 Peter 4:10-God has gifts for me
Exodus 34:29-35- Moses’ face shining from encountering God’s glory
Esther 4:14- For such a time as this
Judges 6:36-40- Gideon putting out the fleece
Judges 6- ALL the signs Gideon asks for
Psalm 23
Matthew 11:28-30-Come all you who are weary and heavy laden
Mark 6:30-34 - has sent the disciples out two by two, and then afterward, he pulled them away to rest
Exodus 31:15-Dishonoring the Sabbath has a severe punishment
1 Kings 19- Elijah- snack and a nap
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11- There’s a time to fight and a time to rest
Exodus 14:14- Let the Lord fight for you, be still
John 4:5-42- The woman at the well
Psalm 27:13- “What would have become of me had I not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living?”
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
I am so delighted to share with you my conversation with author, Christian communicator and teacher Wendy Speake. In this episode, she shares with me her journey of God calling her into a life of using her words for His glory and honing her craft as a storyteller, God meeting her as she mothers her 4 boys, rubbing elbows with others in the trenches, and it is such an encouraging word.
Wendy is passionate about God’s word and encouraging others to learn how to engage it and identify what keeps them tripped up and triggered in their relationship with Him, His word, and with other people. She pushes us to ask ourselves HARD question such as: How do we respond when we fail? How do we grow to be more like Christ so we get triggered and tripped up less? How do take our triggers to the lamplight of God’s word and how do we do right when “they”- whoever they is in our life- do wrong? A lot of these questions she offers in the context of parenting, but isn’t that a call for all relationships? We cannot control anyone’s actions or reactions towards us, but we can step into the process of God sanctifying our own story, and see where He is calling us to grow, and what our triggers are so that we can heal and grow and become more like the parents, spouses, friends, and neighbors God made us to be.
We’ll talk about fasting and how Wendy has found in her own journey that fasting from various things in her Instead of moving from high to high, sugar, social media, shopping, whatever it is that is tripping us up and that we chose to reach for so we can cope with what’s happening in our life, the process of fasting can point to the Most High God and offer opportunity to feast on His word.
Friends, I hope you walk away from this conversation encouraged and open to the invitation to engage God’s word so that you can find nourishment and healing. No matter where you are in your relationship with Him, or His word or His church, He is always present and near to us.
No matter where you are in your story friend, the Lord is with you. Closer than you even realize. Ask Him to make Himself known to you, because you matter to Him, and your story matters.
Connecting with Wendy:
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
References:
MOPS
Amber Lia
Amber and Wendy’s work together
Triggers: Exchanging Parents' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses
Parenting Scripts
The 40 Day Sugar Fast
The 40 Day Social Media Fast
“Gilmore Girls” – “Oy with the poodles already!”
The 40-Day Feast: Taste and See the Goodness of God’s Word
Jesus Storybook Bible
The Serenity Prayer
David Thomas and Sissy Goff of Daystar Counseling - “Raising Boys and Girls Podcast”
David Thomas’ episode with me! (Epiosde 134)
DT’s Instagram live with me
Tyndale Bible
William Tyndale’s story
The 40 Day Fast Journal
Scripture References:
John 3:16- God loves you
Psalm 119:105-God’s word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path
Proverbs 22:6-Training a child up in the way they should go
Becoming more like Christ (a whole list of verses!)
Book of Proverbs (Video for insights and overview)
Book of Matthew (Video for insights and overview)
Genesis 2:16-17, Joshua 24:15,John 8:36, 1 Corinthians 6:12, Galatians 5:16-17, Revelation 3:20- God values us enough to give us free will
Mark 12:31-Love our neighbors
Psalm 139:14-We are uniquely and wonderfully made
John 1:1-5-Jesus is the light that the darkness cannot overcome
Deuteronomy 11
Romans 12:21- Do not overcome evil with evil, but overcome evil with good
Psalm 34:8-Taste and see that the Lord is good
James 1:22- Don’t just be readers of the word, but be doers of the word
Matthew 21:12-13,Mark 11:15-18- Turn over the tables
Psalm 147:3-God binds up the brokenhearted
Matthew 11:28-Come to me when you’re weary and heavy laden
Psalm 61:2, Psalm 94:18-19- Go to God when you are overwhelmed
Psalm 107:20-“His word was sent to heal us”
The book of John (Video for insights)
The book of Psalms (Video for insights!)
Psalm 1
Joshua 23:14, Proverbs 30:5- You can take God at His Word
Luke 8:43-48- The woman with the issue of blood
Exodus 4:10-31- Bringing Moses and Aaron together in the desert
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)FacebookTwitterBlog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Rachelle Starr is the founder of Scarlet Hope, which is a ministry designed to share the hope of Jesus with women in the adult entertainment industry. She is also the author of Outrageous Obedience: Answering God’s Call to Shine in the Darkest Places. The month of January is sex trafficking awareness month. Rachelle knows firsthand from her work with Scarlet Hope, spending the last 15 years loving on and building relationships with women who work in strip clubs, and the world of porn and prostitution, and shares with us some of what she’s seen, how a woman finds herself entrapped in such a situation, and what its like to see their lives totally changed by Christ and having some of their physical needs addressed for them to experience rescue holistically as well. Rachelle’s book is a galvanizing experience full of questions for each of us who are called to love like Jesus, and her passion for Christ, and for the hurting is contagious.
Buckle up, you guys, this is one story you won’t want to miss hearing, and perhaps the Lord even has something just for you and your story in it. If you are interested in connecting with Rachelle or looking into the ministry of Scarlet Hope, be sure and follow them and see if there is a local chapter near you!
There is hope for our stories, and He’s not finished with any of us.
Connecting with Rachelle Starr AND Scarlet Hope
Buy a copy of Outrageous Obedience
Rachelle’s Website
Scarlet Hope
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
*References:
Crazy Love by Francis Chan
Scarlet Hope Bakery
Scarlet Hope career development program
Passion Conference
End It Movement
Christine Caine and A21
Sex Trafficking story from Atlanta // AG
A similar situation in Florida
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
“Filthy Rich” documentary on Netflix about Jeffrey Epstein
Paul Tripp
“Pretty Woman”
Signs to look for in airports and public spaces
Dr. Jessica Peck
*Scripture References:
-The book of Esther (quick overview!)
-The book of Ruth (quick overview again ;))
Genesis 1:27-You were created in God’s image
1 Peter 2:9, Colossians 1:6, Jeremiah 29:11 -He’s created you for a purpose and for Himself
Romans 2:3-4-God’s kindness leads people to repentance and relationship with Him
Matthew 25:36-40-When have you seen me naked?
John 10:10-The enemy comes to steal kill and destroy and Jesus came to give us life
Lamentations 3:22-23-Mercies are new every morning
John 8:1-11-Who of us can cast the first stone
Matthew 9:36-Jesus saw them like sheep without a shepherd
James 1:22-25-we don’t want to just be full of knowledge
John 14:15-being obedient to God’s call
Isaiah 6:8-Here I am send me
John 14:26, Acts 1:8, 1 Corinthians 2 -Listening to the Holy Spirit
Luke 16:10-(she) who is faithful in little is faithful in much
Ecclesiastes 3:1-There is a season for everything
1 Corinthians 15:58-The Lord wastes nothing
1 Corinthians 2:1-5-2 Corinthians 12:9- The Lord makes Himself known in His weakness
John 10:11-18-The Lord is a good shepherd
1 Peter 2:9-We have been called into His marvelous light
*Questions to ponder:
-what have You saved me for and who have You saved me for?
-can we ask God to have your heart softened for those inside the walls of a place you want to look away from
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)FacebookTwitterBlog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Welcome back to the Simply Stories Podcast! I’m thrilled to be back with new episodes and heading into season 4 with author and educator Danielle Hitchen of Catechesis Books. Danielle is passionate about sharing her love of church history and the tools we have at our fingertips by way of the church calendar in order to offer encouragement and connection with God and with one another in every season of life. She is the author of a series of baby believer primer books, and creates all kinds of content that help teach the tenets of the faith and helps us disciple our time, ourselves, and our families in our faith and with hope.
Today Danielle shares with us what exactly catechesis is, where some of these practices come from, why liturgy can be such a gift, and how these patterns and practices of the early church can minister to us today. Now Danielle nor I want to add something to your already long to do list. These tools she has created and shared, and this conversation are simply opportunities to connect with the Lord and remind us of who He has always been. There is grace for all the seasons, Jesus Himself experienced all of the seasons, and we’re going to explore how to provide intentional opportunities to engage God uniquely where we are and maybe learn some things we didn’t know before which perhaps could breathe life into the ancient, but familiar.
What a sweet way to start the new year, yeah? I know we’re surrounded by resolutions and gym membership flyers, but personally, I’ve just been trying to get out of bed, and remember what day it is. I love the grace and gentle invitation the church calendar offers us, as a way to connect with the ever-present always faithful God, and I love Danielle’s mission to help us find our place in whatever season we are in.
Friends, I’ve missed you. The Lord was so kind to me in my sabbatical, and I am full of anticipation about what God has been doing and curious to see what He does next. I’m so honored that you are here in it with me. Remember, friend. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Danielle:
Baby Believer Primers (her board books for kids!)
Newsletter Sign Up
Podcast
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Tik Tok
Website
YouTube
References:
-C.S. Lewis
-Joan of Arc
-The Protestant Reformation
-Martin Luther
-We’ve talked about this a little bit on the podcast before! Check out episodes with Dr. Bryan Litfin (Part 2 also)
-The Apostle’s Creed
-The Nicene Creed
-The feast of Pentecost
-The “church” was growing, book of Acts
-What William Tyndale did to allow access to scripture for others
-Invention of the printing press
-The role of religious icons
-Kayla Craig’s episode, and the role of liturgy
-Liturgy for Parents
-A Long Obedience in the Same Direction- Eugene Peterson
-The Jesse Tree
-Jesus Storybook Bible
-The story of Ruth
-Candlemas- February 2nd
-Feast of the Annunciation- March 25th “Lady Day”
-”Lady Day” waffle day!
-To Light Their Way- Kayla Craig
-Every Moment Holy
-Feast of Saint Lucia
-American Girl story with Kirsten celebrating Saint Lucia’s Day // Kirsten’s Surprise
-Saint Nicholas Day
Scripture References:
Psalm 24:1/Psalm 135:6-7-The Lord is sovereign over all
Acts 1:9-12-Jesus ascended
Acts 2- the Holy Spirit came
Matthew 2:12--The Magi coming to Jesus
Matthew 3:13-17-The voice of God declares Jesus as His Son at His baptism
Matthew 17-The transfiguration of Christ
Luke 2:52-Jesus grew in wisdom and stature with God and with men
Matthew 4:1-11-Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness
Matthew 26-28-Jesus’s death and resurrection
Ephesians 2:8-By God’s grace we are saved
Exodus 32-Another golden calf
Luke 1-2-Luke and the Christmas story
Luke 2:22-38-The story of Jesus in the temple meeting Simeon and Anna
Luke 1:26-38-Gabriel coming to Mary
Luke 1:46-55-The Magnificat
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)FacebookTwitterBlog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today we are wrapping up our all things fiction series with my conversation with new author Sara Brunsvold. In this conversation Sara shares about her turbulent faith journey of when she was younger and the role older women who were further along in their faith played in helping speak to her heart and help her to know who the Lord truly is.
As she began to find her footing in various seasons, a story began to form in her heart and from her experiences. The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kipp, Sara’s debut novel, is an exquisite look into a journey of surrender, facing the brutal and holy realities of life and death on this side of heaven, learning to trust God, and engaging life with a full hold on hope.
Sara and I both have lost close family members in the last few years, and we talk about the tension of grieving with hope, how we respond and wrestle as women of faith when we see or experience suffering, and the dignity that is found in walking someone home. BUT we don’t want people to be afraid of this book (or parts of this conversation!) because death is in the title and part of the story. In this story death is not the victor, nor is it the protagonist. It is a story wrapped in hope about what death can and cannot in the lives of those that we love, and how we choose to live this side of Heaven.
This is also a conversation about examining questions such as What does it mean to mentor? What does it mean to be discipled? What and whom do we allow to disciple us? Looking at how we all have influence and how we live and encounter others matters and more. There’s a scripture that says “Teach us to number our days so that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” I think that’s what Sara and Mrs. Kip are calling us to in Jesus’ name. There is a much much bigger story happening all arond us all the time. Yours adds to it in a way that is entirely unique to you and who you are, but its potential for impact can stretch beyond anything you could imagine. We need you and your story. I hope you feel encouraged to seek the Lord in it.
Connecting with Sara:
Book: The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kipp
Mrs. Kip’s Rules to Live By (for newsletter subscribers)
Website
References:
-Kansas City, MO
-A great resource about mentorship is my episode 73 with Kelsey Chapman who wrote the book What They Taught Me: Recognizing Mentors Who Will Take You From Dream to Done
-What happened in Laos during the Vietnam conflict
-Laotian refugee community in Kansas City
-Fort Leveanworth
-When America withdrew troops from Saigon and it fell
-The Vietnam humanitarian crisis
Scripture References:
2 John 4,3 John 3-4-Walk in truth
-Titus 2
John 3:30,Galatians 2:20-21, Galatians 5:24-25, Philippians 1:21-dying to self
Romans 5:3-5, Romans 6:16-walking in obedience even when it hurts
Proverbs 3:5-6, Philippians 4:6-7 -trusting God even when it makes no sense
Proverbs 27:1, Matthew 6:33-34, James 4:13-15-we’re not guaranteed the next breath
Romans 8:31-39-Jesus’ victory is greater than the suffering and loss we face
1 Peter 1:3-5-We have hope in Jesus
Isaiah 61:1-3-beauty from the ashes
John 11:38-44-Jesus weeping as he saw the grief of the people He loved
Luke 24:50-53, John 19:28-30, Acts 1:6-11- Jesus went home when His work was finished (on the cross, and His ascension)
Matthew 5:16, Romans 12:13, Galatians 6:2, Hebrews 13:16-speaking life and hope into the lives of others
2 Corinthians 9:6, Galatians 6:8, -sowing seeds of eternity into the lives of those around us
-Titus 2 NLT
Psalm 139:14-You are uniquely and wonderfully made
1 Timothy 4:12-Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young
Psalm 51:10-create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit
Ezekiel 36:26-take our heart of stone and give us a heart of flesh
Psalm 90:12-teach us to number our days
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the honor of sharing my conversation with the one and the only Tracie Peterson. Tracie has been a staple in Christian historical fiction for 30 years. She is often called the queen of historical fiction romance, authoring 130 books over her career, all of them overflowing with incredible historical details that transport the reader into various parts of and times of the U.S., and her stories are always saturated with her passion for Christ and encouraging people with her faith by having characters walk through very real issues and finding a very faithful God in their journey.
Tracie shares with me how the Lord has met her over her career doing whatever she needs to do right where she is in the name of Jesus. How she has felt and continues to feel God’s faithfulness and care for her as she’s surrendered her life and stories to the Lord is so powerful as she has weathered the changes in her own life, in the publishing world, and getting to talk with her is like getting to sit down for coffee with a woman who has lived a deep life of faith and left and continues to leave a life that sews kingdom seeds in all she does, and I hope it encourages you wherever you are in your story.
Friend, I hope that no matter where you are today, you are reminded that the Lord is not finished with your life. Scripture promises us that God will carry out what He stared in us until it is complete. Keep going. Take heart. You matter and your story matters.
Connecting with Tracie:
Books
Newsletter Sign up
Website
References:
Kimberley Woodhouse
Pantser vs. Plotter
Ted Dekker
My episode with Rachelle Dekker
“Love on the Santa Fe” series
San Marcay (sp?)- Ghost Town -Santa Fe Railroad Headquarters
Janette Oke
Catherine Marshall
Grace Livingston Hill
Pilgrim’s Progress
CS Lewis
Brock and Bodie Thoene
Michael Phillips
Judith Pella
WWII Zion Covenant Books
Francine Rivers
Robin Lee Hatcher
Karen Kingsbury- The Baxters
American Christian Fiction Writers
Martha Stewart’s jail time
The entrance of Amazon- July 1995
Border’s bookstores (the last one closed in 2011)
Family Christian Bookstores
Lifeway Christian Bookstores (but still available online)
Jaime Jo Wright
Heidi Chiavaroli
Mental health crisis for Alaskans (this was a tragic side bar in this department)
Mental health crisis for women, battling alcohol addiction in Montana
The Santa Fe Railroad
Novella for the Harvey Girls for Bethany House
The post I mentioned about the road into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday
Southern Railway
The Alaskan series
The Heirs of Montana series
The Libby app
Little Free Libraries
Along the Rio Grande
Ever Constant - The Treasures of Nome
The Alaskan, Yukon, & Pacific Exposition in 1909
Scripture References:
Colossians 3:17,23- Whatever you do whether in word or deed do it all in the name of the Lord
Mathew 13, 2 Corinthians 9:6, Galatians 6:7- Seed Sowing
Ecclesiastes 1:9- There is nothing new under the sun
James 4:14- We are but a vapor
Proverbs 3:5-6- Lean not on your own understanding
Psalm 27:13, Isaiah 40:31, Waiting on the Lord
Matthew 11:28-30- Rest in the Lord
Philippians 1:6- God will carry out what He stared in you until it is complete
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share with you my conversation with the absolutely lovely Betsy St. Amant. Betsy is a Christian fiction author who shares her story of growing up into the storyteller she loved being as a child, and the Lord meeting her in her heartbreak over her divorce, becoming a very young single Mom, the challenge and the redemption of writing novels saturated with romance while going through a divorce. She shares about dying to one dream while birthing another and the beauty of God meeting us in our grief as we feel layered emotions as seasons change. In our conversation today, she also offers a word to women walking out divorce, the loss of a relationship, and hope for their future, and to the re-married woman, step-mothers, and other beautiful but often confusing seasons as she now is navigating that season herself. The Lord has the grace for us to feel many things at the same time, and that is good news for us!
Her latest novel Tacos for Two is a fun little twist on “You’ve Got Mail” meets food trucks, identity, culture, generational familial expectations, and characters that you want to cheer for, shake, and absolutely love. I especially love that there is a beautifully written character with Down Syndrome that just filled my heart with warmth and appreciation for my friends and family living the Lucky Few life. Like her real life story, these characters are processing their life experiences in layers of joy, grief, loneliness, confusion, new community, change, and more. It is such a fantastic read, and so is this conversation.
Friend, I hope no matter where you are, you know that the God who made you is a God who sees you and cares about you where you are in your story. Whether you are walking through a divorce, navigating a new season you longed for but isn’t what you expected, or any other season of uncertainty, I want you to remember that you matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Betsy:
Subscribe to her Newsletter
Website
References:
-Shreveport-Bossier, LA
-Robin Jones Gunn novel
-Gayle Roper
-American Christian Fiction Writers
-Love Inspired (Betsy’s books)
-Zondervan
-Love Arrives in Pieces
-”You’ve Got Mail”
-Her most recent book Tacos for Two
-Down Syndrome
-Holy Angels - “Loving, living and learning for the differently able”
-“Gilmore Girls”
-The Undoing of Saint Silvanus- Beth Moore
-H.R Hutzel / her books / our episode
-Rachelle Dekker / her books / our episode
-Ted Dekker / his books
-Books by both the Dekkers
-Nine by Rachelle Dekker
-Frank Perreti
-Frank Petterti and Ted’s book
-Betsy’s novella collection : The Rom-Com 80’s Club
“Love Inspired” upcoming book from Betsy: Second Chance Christmas- You can pre-order it now, but it will release at the end of September!
Scripture References:
John 16:23-24, Acts 4:12, Romans 10:13, Hebrews 1:3, 1 John 5:13- The power in the name of Jesus
Psalm 34:18-The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
Proverbs 16:9- People make their plans but the Lord determines our steps
Romans 8:16-18, 28 The Lord uses our sin and suffering for His glory and our good
2 Corinthians 1:3-4-Comfort others from the comfort we’ve been given
Psalm 13, Psalm 44, Psalm 144- David going through a ton of emotions in one Psalm
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Autumn Lytle is a debut author who has written a truly fantastic novel that is interwoven with her personal story of battling an eating disorder. It is called All That Fills Us, and it is the incredible journey of a woman with anorexia and how the Lord used a cross-country journey to save her life.
Autumn shares her story with me about when things began to shift in her mind and exercise, obsessing over food, and constant comparison to others by her body size to a full-blown eating disorder. Her story is full of incredible snippets of insight and healing from how her Mother helped her journal through her painful thoughts, how running changed her life, and the gift that has come from creating this beautiful novel. We work through cross-cultural ideas about body image, comparison, how we talk about ourselves, and just so much more.
I love that Autumn wrote a story that not only would have spoken to her younger, hurting self, but provides incredible insight into the mind and healing journey of someone battling disordered eating. There are so many pictures of how to (and not to) minister to someone in this struggle, and on her website, you can actually find resources for diving further into this book and/or connecting those struggling with an eating disorder with some help. Truthfully, there were so many things in this book that just touched me in a visceral way. As a woman who struggles to believe what God says about my body, and is better at shaming myself than I’d care to admit, I could hear the Lord speaking tenderly to me as I watched this protagonist wrestle.
Wherever you are friend, know that you matter, and your story matters. The Lord will finish what He has started in you.
Connecting with Autumn:
Book : All That Fills Us
Book Trailer
Website
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
References:
Baker Books
Erin Bartels
Autumn’s thoughts (blog) from her recovery journey
Find a therapist (great resource to find one across the U.S.)
Scripture References:
2 Corinthians 12:7-10- Thorn in my flesh
Psalm 33:11, Jeremiah 29:11, Jeremiah 32:19, Ephesians 1:11- God made me on purpose
Genesis 1:29-31,Psalm 45:11,Psalm 139, - God made me beautiful
Genesis 3, Romans 1:18-32- Sin is horrific and it gives us all a tragic backstory
1 Peter 5:1-11, Luke 22:31, Romans 8:31-39- The evil one is against us and tries to separate us from God’s love
Psalm 34:18- The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
Luke 15- Leaves the 99 and the Lord goes after it
John 14:26- The Holy Spirit is the the Helper
Eccelsiastes 3:1-11- There is a time to tear down and a time to build
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
This one is for all my fellow Mamas that are trying to make their way through summer, walking out the exhausting seasons with their kids of any age, or just is so angry at the various things surrounding them in this broken world their anger or grief is overflowing into their parenting or marriages or other familial relationships. Today I get to share with you my conversation with Natalie Hixson who specializes in helping discouraged and burnt-out moms overcome destructive anger, so they can enjoy being a wife and mom.
Natalie shares with me her story of working through being early married, learning how to fight and communicate in general, and her extreme anger that surfaced during her motherhood. She vulnerably shares her story of recognizing her problem with anger, her rage that would exist alongside her young children’s tantrums, battling her shame, and her journey to pursue healing and help. That journey began with recognition of the problems, the actual lifelong journey of addressing her reactions to anger, yelling, and how to listen to herself, others, and the Lord. Natalie shares with us some of her processes about how to release the guilt, go back and repent and surrender to the Lord, and watch Him work in the relationships with our children, our spouses, and anyone else that we are struggling to not be angered by. The wisdom that Natalie shares today is truly powerful, and is saturated with hope, and I cannot wait for you to hear it.
I hope that no matter where you are today, you can believe Natalie when she says that it is never too late for redemption. That is the heart of God. He is always ready to show us a different way. If what we discuss in this conversation today resonates with you, or even this post peaks your interest, and check our link in bio for her Natalie’s Trigger Tracker, and find out more about her coaching and other resources there too. ’m so grateful to Natalie for sharing her story so vulnerably so her testimony can point others, like me, to hope and to the heart of God. The same is true for you friend. This isn’t how the story ends, and you matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Natalie:
Coaching
Trigger Tracker
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
References:
Family Life Marriage Conferences
Grounding Techniques
Sphenoid Bone (looks like a butterfly to massage your brain)
Pituitary Gland (sends the hormones to calm)
“The Joy of the Lord is my Strength” Rend Collective and Maverick City (two of my favorite versions of this song)
Trauma and the body (Great resource for this: The Body Keeps the Score)
Our guide to Lament
Scripture References:
2 Timothy 2:20-21, Romans 11:29 Becoming a tool from the Lord
John 10:27-28- My people will hear know my voice
John 8:44- Satan is the father of lies
2 Timothy 1:7-God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, sound mind, and self-control.
Galatians 5:22-23- Fruits of the Spirit
Epheisans 6:10-18- The armor of God
Matthew 21:12-13,Mark 11:15-18, John 2:13-17- We know that Jesus experienced righteous anger
1 Corinthians 3:16, Romans 7:15-24- When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, you receive the Holy Spirit, but you still experience sin (More in depth on receiving the Holy Spirit)
Ephesians 6:12- We are in a battle not of flesh and blood
Matthew 7:12- Treat others the way you want to be treated
John 15:5-- Without Him you can do nothing
Luke 10:27- Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
Nehemiah 8:10- The Joy of the Lord is your strength
Romans 5:3-5, Ephesians 3:20-21, 2 Corinthians 4:1-12- These challenges help us to grow (perseverence)
1 Corinthians 15:57, Romans 8:37- Jesus is victorious
Matthew 27:50-52- The curtain was ripped in two
Ephesians 2:18- We have access to our Father through Jesus and the Spirit
Ephesians 2:14-15- He took down the dividing lines between people and the spirit
Matthew 11:28-30, We have a standing invitation to come to the Father (Come to me all of you who are weary burdened)
Book of Lamentations (Bible Project video)
Jeremiah 20:10-11 -but the Lord is with me as a mighty awesome one
Ephesians 4:17-20, (a great list of verses on the difference) Grieving the Holy Spirit vs conviction
Thorn in my flesh
Luke 1:41-44, Luke 1:67-68, John 4:23-24- The Holy Spirit will bring us to praise
Psalm 139:23-24-Search me and know me
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share my beautiful conversation with Anjuli Paschal. Anjuli is an author who exquisitely and intentionally shares in her books and online about her journey of coming undone and being put back together by God’s love. She serves alongside her pastor husband, she’s a mother of five children whose ages range from 4-15, and today we talk about things like wrestling with reentry emotionally into society, being a woman and a mother with really big feelings and aftershocks of what we’ve been all through, trauma as a whole, and also helping our children navigate those things as well.
One of my favorite things she shares in her newest book Awake: Paying Attention to What Matters Most in a World That’s Pulling You Apart is unpacking the differences between being transparent and being vulnerable. Anjuli shares that “Vulnerability is being seen from the inside out, exposing who we truly are.” We talk about how hard that can be, and what kind of risk it can feel like to truly be ourselves for better or worse with others, but Anjuli argues that “It’s a greater risk to not be vulnerable.” We unpack that a little bit and it's just a really refreshing and powerful conversation on transformation, how trustworthy God truly is and His call for us to be awake to who He is, and who He made us to be. God is always providing us opportunities to be honest, come as we are and connect more intimately with Him and more deeply with those we live life with. What a scary concept, but with the potential for such rich fruit.
I hope this conversation helps you to feel less alone knowing that none of us have this figured out, and we are always being transformed and becoming more awake to the abundant life Christ gives us. Listen, friend, wherever you are today, remember that you matter, and your story matters. Thanks for hanging out with me and I’ll see you next time.
Connecting with Anjuli:
Courses
Website
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
References:
Anjuli’s first book Stay: Discovering Grace, Freedom, and Wholeness Where You Never Imagined Looking
Her latest book Awake: Paying Attention to What Matters Most in a World That’s Pulling You Apart
Her instagram post of resetting in the car
“Encanto”
My conversation with PSP hosts Sarah and Beth
Their book Now What: How to Move Forward When We’re Divided About Practically Everything
Looking for Lovely by Annie F. Downs
Scripture References:
Luke 23:26-43- The greatest vulnerability was Jesus on the cross
John 3:16, John 15:13, 1 John 3:1- God loves us (just to name a few!)
Isaiah 41;13, 1 Peeter 5:7-God cares for us
Psalm 130, Psalm 139:23-24- When we come to Him and say “I don’t know what I’m doing”
2 Chronicles 7:14, Joel 2:12-14- He says “I know, I’ve been here the whole time”
Ephesians 5:14- Wake up!
Ezekiel 37:1-14- Valley of dry bones
Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 28:20- God is with us
Romans 12:2, John 15- God is always transforming and refining us
Matthew 25:14-30- Parable of the Talents
Genesis 16:13, Psalm 17:8 God will never lose sight of me
Proverbs 3:5-6, Matthew 8:5-13- Jesus is trustworthy
Matthew 14:22-23, Hebrews 12:2-4- Keep your eyes on Jesus
John 12:32- Jesus will draw you to Himself
Psalm 118:22-23, Ephesians 2:19-22, Hebrews 12:1-3- Jesus is the foundation, the cornerstone and He will not be shaken (and neither will I in Him)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I am SO excited to share with you my conversation with David Thomas. David is an author, a speaker, and a counselor at Daystar Counseling in Nashville, TN. In this conversation, David shares such incredible wisdom, and insight based on his experience as a father of three, and twenty-five years of walking with and working with kids that have come in and out of his office. In all of his work, including the incredible Raising Boys and Girls podcast that he co-hosts with fellow Daystar counselors Sissy Goff and Melissa Trevathan, and his books Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys : A Practical Guide to Understanding the Way, The Mind, The Heart of a Boy and his latest book Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: Tools Your Son Can Build on for Life David shares his passion for boys to be seen for who they truly are from the inside out. These resources are also dedicated to equipping parents and other adults who have young kids in their lives to be able to practically connect with these young hearts and help navigate what they’re experiencing as they grow. He shares with us some of those insights and a flyover of the five stages of development we see through a boys life from birth until fully developed maturity in their early-mid twenties, and how we as the adults in their lives can meet them where they are all along the way as well as what challenges they may be facing as they grow.
If navigating raising kids wasn’t already a challenge, because it has always been a sanctifying experience, statistics that David and his partners at Daystar have found show that we are experiencing an epidemic of anxiety in children. So David is passionate about helping us adults think through how can we pivot and be proactive in the emotional lives of kids instead of reactive when we start to really see some signs that something is going on. David says “All behavior is communication,” so with that in mind he tries to peel back the layers and look underneath the behaviors to get to the heart of what’s really going on, and also taking into account the hard wiring of how boys in particular process emotion and anxiety in their bodies.
Also, please know this episode isn’t just for parents of boys, it has such helpful info for all kids of multiple ages, and its also not just for parents! There’s such good stuff here, and I cannot wait for you to hear it. No matter where you are in this journey, don’t forget that you matter, and your story matters, and the Lord will complete the work He has begun in you, and in the lives of the kids you love.
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
Connecting with David and Daystar Counseling:
Daystar Counseling in Nashville (This is how you can reach out for a consult with David)
Raising Boys and Girls Podcast
Website
References:
-Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys : A Practical Guide to Understanding the Way, The Mind, The Heart of a Boy
-Sissy Goff
-Young Life
-Stephen James (co-author of Wild Things)
-Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: Tools Your Son Can Build on for Life
Are My Kids On Track?
-Raising Worry-Free Girls
-David and Sissy working through the stages of development on the Raising Boys & Girls Podcast began with this episode, and then the following 8 podcasts are dedicated to each stage of development for boys AND girls.
-Feelings Chart
-Strong & Smart Workbook
-Phil Herndon and Sage Hill Counseling (Phil was on the podcast in episode 50 )
-”The Heart of the Matter” by Don Henley
-Sissy’s workbook Braver, Stronger, Smarter
Scripture Reference:
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you.
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the honor of welcoming back Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers. Sarah and Beth are authors, speakers, and the hosts of the podcast “Pantsuit Politics.” You’ll get to hear from Sarah and Beth about the origins of the podcast, how it began back in 2015 as a bipartisan conversation about politics, and the nuances that could be found in these discussions. As you can imagine, after the election in 2016, life and conversations around politics began to change drastically, and the way we talk about issues, and how we encounter people who disagree with us has just gotten messier. Sarah and Beth’s first book, I Think You’re Wrong But I’m Listening, a guide to grace-filled political conversations was exactly what it sounds like. It still is a truly incredible resource for how to engage in political conversations, particularly for people who just don’t know where to begin navigating them when the climate in the US is so polarized.
Their most recent book, however, titled Now What: How to Move Forward When We’re Divided About Practically Everything is less about politics and more about relationships. As Beth says “we are not even talking about politics anymore in the things that divide us. We are talking about personality and generational differences and the relationships that exist in the world, not just the issue itself, it’s all the things that inform a person’s feelings, experience and it’s a response to issues.” We talk today about what got us here, where we see the heart of God in this journey, and how to just unearth our humanity with honesty, compassion, and nuance.
Beth reminded us that everyone has a story inside of them that they need to connect with someone about because they are still trying to make sense of and work through their version of what we have all been through over these last few years. Wherever you are on that journey, friend, I hope you know that you matter. And your story matters.
PS: If you are interested, the Pantsuit Politics community is currently walking through their new book online, if you’d like to dive into that, and as the news of late continues to be heartbreaking and charged, they attempt to have conversations on the podcast week after week, they have amazing offerings for their patrons on Patreon, live events coming up, and so much more.
Connecting with Sarah and Beth and Pantsuit Politics:
Books
Instagram for Beth
Instagram for Sarah
Instagram for Pantsuit Politics
PSP on Twitter
The Pantsuit Politics Podcast
Their Patreon Community
Website
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
References:
First time Sarah and Beth were on the podcast
Their first book I Think You’re Wrong, But You’re Listening: A Guide for Grace Filled Political Conversation
Bluegrass Redhead (Sarah’s blog)
The Syrian Civil War
Vice President Kamala Harris
Escalation of Climate Change (December KY tornado)
Their new book Now What : How To Move Forward When We’re Divided About Practically Everything
Emily P. Freeman and “decision fatigue”
Iron Lungs and the Polio Vaccine
President Zelensky of Ukraine
Rosa Parks
The National Museum for Peace and Justice (lynching museum) in Montgomery, AL
Rosa Parks statue in downtown Montgomery, AL
Old Town Alabama
Type 1 Diabetes in kids
Think Like a Pancreas
Scripture References:
Matthew 24:44, Hebrews 10:24-25, Revelation 22:12, 22:20 Jesus is coming back, y’all!
1 Corinthians 12:12-31, Ephesians 4- The body of Christ is made up of unique and diverse human beings
Hebrews 2:14-16- Jesus came and took on flesh
Acts 2:1-21- Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came and helped us understand one another each in our own language
Ecclesiastes 1:9- There is nothing new under the sun
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Michelle Ami Reyes is a woman of many talents. She is an author, a speaker, a minister, a scholar in residence, a racial justice activist, a wife, a Mom, and one of my absolute favorite people to talk to about learning to engage in scripture and conversations about race and culture, and God’s vast heart for all image-bearers in His Kingdom. Her most recent book, The Race-Wise Family: Ten Postures to Becoming Households of Healing and Hope, she co-authored with the amazing Helen Lee. They define a race-wise family as “a family that asks God for help in unpacking racial issues and seeks His direction to know how to identify and combat racism in all its overt and subtle forms.”
This book is not a checklist, it is about pursuing God’s Word for a heart posture that cares about all people in the Kingdom of God. Then, once those postures are presented, there is so much practical application available. They’ve pooled resources, and ideas for families of varying ages, and might be the best equipping resource I have seen for engaging these big and real things for hearts of any age. There is a growing divide between the responses of black and brown and white Christians and Michelle and Helen are calling us to pull up chairs towards one another and see each other through the eyes of our Maker. It is not about who can debate better, it is about how each image bearer experiences the world and God’s heart for it in a very connected and relational way.
Since the time Michelle and I had this conversation, there have been multiple racially charged tragedies across the U.S. As I struggle to wrap my brain around what’s happened, we feel the weight of the evil in this broken world. Michelle and Helen’s book, the resources from Michelle’s website and newsletter provide such incredibly helpful tools for how to work through events like this in conversations with the children in your life. The Lord is near to all who call on Him. He can and will lead us through the dark days. We must point one another while we lament to His heart. This is not how the story ends, friends. I’m so grateful that people like Michelle and Helen are using their stories to help encourage us to keep going. Remember friend, you matter, your neighbor matters. Your stories matter.
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
Connecting with Michelle:
Articles
Book (most recent!) The Race-Wise Family: Ten Postures for Becoming Households of Healing and Hope
Free Resources from Michelle to connect with kids during a racial tragedy, coloring pages, question cards, feeling charts
Website
References:
Michelle's first episode on the podcast, number 104
AACC- Asian-American Christian Collaborative
Hope Community Church in Austin, TX
Becoming All Things: How Small Things Lead to Lasting Changes Across Cultures
Helen Lee
Intervasity Press
IVP’s Podcast
How to Fight Racism: A Guide for Standing Up for Racial Justice- Dr. Jemar Tisby (Dr. Tisby was a guest on the podcast on episode 119)
Head of Christ painting by Warner Sallman- the epitome of white Jesus
The diaspora
Anti-Asian racism violence is SO high (see the recent shooting at the Taiwaineese Presbyterian church)
Bystander training
Sissy Goff and Raising Boys and Girls Podcast
Scripture:
Matthew 18:2-4- You need to have faith like a child
Romans 5:12 (and a long list of other verses)- We are born with sin
Ezekiel 10 - angels covered front to back with eyes
Genesis 1:28 (and then again after the flood in Genesis 9:7) Adam and Eve, go forth and be fruitful and multiply
Genesis 11:1-9-The tower of Babel
Acts 2- Pentecost and all the languages
Revelation 7:9-10- the new heavens and earth, every tribe, tongue, and nation, everyone still retains their ethnicities and languages
Genesis 3:22-24- Adam and Eve banished from the Garden of Eden so they wouldn’t live forever tainted by sin
Genesis 6:9-9:17-Noah and the flood
Jonah 3:3-5- shortest sermon ever
Luke 19:1-10-Jesus comes to Zacchaeus
Psalm 145:18- The Lord is near to all those call on Him
Ecclesiastess 3:7- There’s a time to speak and a time to listen
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, I have an incredibly special conversation to share with you. Lisa Appelo is a writer, speaker, Bible study teacher, and homeschooling Mom of 7. As a young couple, Lisa and her husband had a vision of how they thought their life would unfold, and the Lord redirected those plans a number of times. One of the biggest things they never saw coming was that her husband, and high school sweetheart, passed away very suddenly. After this devastating loss, Lisa began trying to navigate life with her children ranging at the time from ages 4 to 19, and as a woman whose life had been so tightly woven together with her partner’s, and a woman who had always believed in and loved the Lord, but needed Him to be near, and real and good to her in a way she had never known before.
In her new book, Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It Falls Apart, and in our conversation today, Lisa shares what her journey of grief, wrestling with God, and truly depending on Him looked like in those first tender days and weeks, but even now as she continues to walk with the same God who has always been near to the brokenhearted in this broken world. We talk about some of the big questions we honestly ask in lament before our Maker like: are you going to be there for me? How are you going to provide for me? How are you going to fix these broken hearts? Are you really good? Is God doing this to me? Is He a mean God? As Lisa sought out God in His word and experienced His tangible care through those around her, she wrestled through these questions and shares today the difficult but life-giving process of turning to the Lord in crisis, and not turning away from Him. God has healing and purpose in everything He calls us to, and He is truly good. I know this is an episode many, many people need to hear and I pray it ministers to you today.
Just remember the pain you see around you, or that you personally know, this is not how the story ends. You matter, and your story matters.
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Connecting with Lisa:
Website
References:
Lisa’s book Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It Falls Apart
The science of tears (sidebar, apparently in Japan there are clubs called rui-katsu- its fascinating)
The Bible Recap (the Bible reading chronologically in a year plan I used)
Lisa’s 7 Day Bible Study 7 Days of Hope for Your Shattered Heart
The book of Exodus
Mount Sinai is NOT a tiny hill. Moses climbed it (by some accounts 8 times)
Resource for working through a process of Biblical lament
Scripture References:
John 15 (as one example)- God created us to live in trust and dependence on Him
Deuteronomy 4:30, 2 Samuel 2:27, Romans 8, 1 Peter 5:7-( a few examples) God truly cares about us in a deeply personal way
Romans 8:27- The Spirit knows our groans
Psalm 34:18- The Lord is close to the broken-hearted
Psalm 68:5-He’s a father to the fatherless
Jeremiah 17:9- The heart is deceitful
Matthew 16:23, Matthew 21:12-13- Jesus got angry too (but didn’t sin)
Psalm 63 being thirsty in a dry land
John 16:13-The Spirit speaks truth to us
Psalm 56:8- God keeps our tears in a bottle
Hebrews 10:23- (just one of my faves) God is faithful
Joshua 21:45- God keeps His promises
Romans 8:28- God is working
Psalm 27:13 AMPC (one of my faves) -God’s goodness
Ecclesiastes 1:9- There is nothing new under the sun
Matthew 6:9-13- Give us this day our daily bread
John 16:33- In this world, you will have trouble, but take heart
Job, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10- (just a couple of examples)- God can cause suffering
Isaiah 53, Luke 22:44, Luke 23:26-43 -Jesus suffers
Mark 6:1-13, Mark 14:50 (just a few examples)- He knows what it’s like to experience rejection
Matthew 26:36-46- He knows what it's like to feel loneliness
John 11:25-44, He knows what it's like to watch death and grieve it
Genesis 1, John 1:1-5-Jesus was in the beginning, and He knows what life is supposed to look like from the Garden
Psalm 27:13-14-I would have lost heart if I had not believed I would see God’s goodness, wait on the Lord
Exodus 32 (on example)Moses’ struggle to go up and down the mountain (and the hurt with the betrayal of the people)
Exodus 20:18-21- Some of the Israelites didn’t want to approach the mountain
2 Corinthians 4:18- Fix your eyes
Exodus 16- The manna began
Exodus 34:28- Moses’ 40 days on the mountain and fasted
Matthew 4:1-11- Jesus fasted 40 days in the wilderness
Exodus 17:8-14- Moses needs help to keep his hands up
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the pleasure of sharing my conversation with the absolutely amazing Ann Swindell. Ann is a woman who overflows with the love of God, and a desire to use her words for His glory, and to encourage others to do the same. This is the second time I’ve gotten to have Ann on the podcast, but literally, every time I encounter Ann in life, I feel like I glean something new about the Lord, and the same absolutely can be said about our conversation today.
Over the last couple of years, Ann found herself in a season where she desperately needed the peace of God in situations that felt ripe with anxiety, confusion, and big questions for the Lord. In that process, God led her on a journey through scripture examining the lives of men and women who were put in incredibly difficult situations, but God was their peace in it. Then, they obeyed the call God put on their lives, and He blessed them. Whether that played out in some kind of resolution or fulfilled promise or just the blessing of His presence, God has always been faithful to those who call on His name. Ann then poured out what she learned from that journey into her new book The Path to Peace: Experiencing God’s Comfort When You’re Overwhelmed. You’ll get to hear about that, and more about the goodness of God and how to cling to Him, wait for Him, and trust Him at all times.
I absolutely love Ann’s heart. She makes me want to know Jesus more, and I hope that hearing from her today calls you to draw near to God too. No matter where you are today, friend, I want you to remember that you matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Ann:
Newest book
Website
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
References:
First time Ann was on the podcast - Episode 19
Writing with Grace
Normal, IL
Still Waiting: Hope for When God Doesn’t Give You What You Want
Trichotillomania
Sarah’s choice to give Hagar to Abraham still has implications to this very day
Overcome- the Greek word has an overtone of victory- νενίκηκα
Amanda Cleary-Eastep
Scripture References:
Lamentations 3:21-24 (my favorite of the MANY) God is faithful
Psalm 27:13- ( “ “) God is good
Psalm 116:5-9- (“ “) God is kind
Matthew 9:20-22,Mark 5:25-34,Luke 8:43-48- The bleeding woman in scripture
Isaiah 40:31- Those who wait on the Lord
2 Corinthians 4:18- Keep our eyes not on what is seen but what is unseen
Psalm 27:13-14, Psalm 46:10, Psalm 130: 5-6, Be still and wait for the Lord
Exodus 14:14- He will fight for you
Psalm 121:1-2- Lift our eyes to the hills, our help comes from the Lord
Psalm 18:2 (a fave of many) God is our defender
Philippians 4:19- (“ “) God is our provider
Psalm 94:17-19 (NLT) My hope will be renewed in God
John 16:7-14, 2 Corinthians 3:14-18-, 2 Corinthians 5:17His Spirit transforms
Exodus 2- Moses in a basket
Exodus 14- Moses at parting the Red Sea
Exodus 3-4, 17, 32 (to name a few of arguing with God) Moses was terrified of what God had called him to and Moses argued with God MULTIPLE times
Exodus 4:1-13-“Lord please send someone else!”
Ruth
Luke 1- Mary the Mother of Jesus
Acts 9:1-19- Paul (We’ll just share his conversion, but he wrote A LOT of his story within his letters)
Genesis 18 and 21- Sarah
Hebrews 11 “Heroes of the faith”
Judges 4- Deborah
Exodus 2:11-15- Big whoops with Moses
Judges 6:11-27 AND Judges 6:33-40- Gideon also got to debate with God
Sometimes God answers with “I am the Lord” (Zachariah, Job, etc)
Exodus 4:14-31- I’ll bring you your brother to you
Exodus 17:12-14- I’ll send people to hold up your hands
Numbers 20:1-13- Moses wasn’t allowed in the Promised Land
Deuteronomy 34- God did show Him the Land
John 14:27- I don’t give peace as the world gives, take heart for I have overcome the world
Genesis 12- Sarai and Abram leave everything they know, and totally uproot everything to follow a God they just came to know
Genesis 12:10-20 AND Genesis 20- Abram’s lie that puts Sarai at risk, IT HAPPENS TWICE and the Lord sees her situation and He comes to her rescue
Hebrews 11:11-Sarah is counted in Hebrews as a woman of great faith
Genesis 16 AND Genesis 21:8-21- Sarah horribly mistreated Hagar
Genesis 16:13-Hagar is the first person who gets to name God “the God who sees”
John 16:33- Take heart for I have overcome the world
Philppians 4:7- Peace that surpasses understanding
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I’m hanging out with the absolutely amazing Jennifer Taylor Wagner. Jennifer was relentlessly bullied for her weight as a child, and then as an adult experienced incredible life change when she lost over 300 pounds. However, even after achieving such an amazing goal, she found that getting her body to a smaller size was not what fulfilled her life. She began to do some hard inner work and realized that the heart change that has to come about is vital to transforming how you view your body, and realizing what your body has been through.
During our conversation, Jennifer shares her powerful story, all about her book Your Good Body: Embracing a Body Positive Mindset in a Perfection-Focused World and takes us to places where we can unpack some of the narratives we have around our bodies, our fragmented relationships with food, and the mess that diet culture has created.
The heart of Jennifer’s message is: The more you can see yourself holistically as a person, made on purpose by God, who is in the middle of a redemption story, in a body, also made by God in the middle of a redemption story, can lead to walking in freedom and being able to engage the life you’re called to regardless of what your body looks like from the outside.
Jennifer also specifically uses the Enneagram as a tool that can help us understand our motives, our struggles internally as well as our responses to our body. You’ll hear that portion in the last 15 minutes or so and you can find her tools for how she uses it in the show notes and over on the blog!
The Lord isn’t finished with you, friend. There is so much healing to be had still on this side of Heaven. You matter and your story matters.
Connecting with Jennifer:
Audio book
Book
Online Course
Podcast
JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going! You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
-The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
-”When My Heart is Torn Asunder”- Phil Wickham
-The Enneagram
-Type 9
-Type 2
-Jennifer’s Enneagram resource
-A good free test to take
-Jennifer’s Bible reading plan via YouVersion “Body Image God’s Way”
Scripture References:
Psalm 139:14-Perfectly and wonderfully made
Luke 6:45-out of the heart the mouth speaks
1 Corinthians 13- “the love chapter”
2 Corinthians 10:5-take every thought captive
Psalm 139:13, Jeremiah 1:5-we were crafted inside the womb by God Himself and He knew us and still knows us
Genesis 3:11-13-”who told you you were naked?”
Ephesians 6:10-18-Using the “offensive weapon of the word of God” which is the sword of the Spirit
John 10:27-30-we can hear and follow the voice of the Shepherd
2 Corinthians 12:7-10-the thorn in your side
2 Corinthians 12:9-His grace is sufficient
Galatians 5:1-God is committed to our freedom
Ephesians 3:20-21 (MSG translation)
Deuteronomy 6:4-7,Matthew 22:37-40,Mark 12:30-31,Luke 10:27-Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and strength
2 Corinthians 4:16-Though outwardly we are wasting away, inwardly we are being renewed day by day
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Dr. Michael Andrews is an electrical engineer turned minister and teacher! He’s also the author of The Influential Christian: Learning to Lead from the Heart. This episode feels like the perfect place to pick up just after Easter but is also a timeless message for anyone who is trying to press into what it means to live a life on purpose for Christ.
What does it really mean to be an “influencer?” This is literally a job description these days. And as Mike points out this can take the form of marketing but is also something that is happening on a heart level constantly as we live as human beings. We are constantly being influenced by something or someone, and in turn, we are always influencing others. What is leading that? Are we being manipulative or do we genuinely want to point others to Christ and experience deep, eternal life change?
Mike shares with us how empathy is the key to connecting with people and calling them into a deeper relationship with Christ, and how it must be at the root of the influence we hold in all the various parts of our life. You can have all the best tools and resources at your disposable, but if you don’t care for your heart and work through how you connect with others, it won’t create a lasting impart. This carries into the workplace, how we parent, and so much more.
Empathy is a cultivated characteristic because we are by nature we are more self-centered. So as we embrace the call to be disciples, to be Jesus’ witnesses from where we live until the ends of the earth, we must press into how we engage others. We have to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and strength before we can love our neighbor. Mike is going to guide us through some intentional examination here, suggest practical application steps to for growth, and so much more all in this episode and I cannot wait for you to hear it.
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
Connecting with Dr. Mike Andrews:
Book
Website
References:
TN Tech University
What does it mean to be left-brained?
AT&T and Bell Laboratories
Erskine Seminary
Duke Divinity School
Spiritual disciplines
Simon Sinek Start with Why
God is the God of the oppressed, the widow, the outlier
Our Advent series from 2021
The history of Samaritans and the Jewish people
A particular episode where we talked about the Samaritan/Jewish history at length
Apologetics (we talk about these a lot in these episodes: 114 and 115)
Neuroplasticity
We’ve actually talked about neuroplasticity on the podcast before, with Dr. Tiffany Tajiri
Mindset- Carol Dwek
Scripture References:
Matthew 9:36, Ephesians 4:32, 1 Peter 3:8- Empathy is a picture of God’s character
Luke 10:27- We are called to love God first, then we are able to love our neighbor
John 15- we have to be grafted into the Vine
Luke 10:25-37- The Good Samaritan parable
Matthew 28:16-20- The Great Commission
Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23- Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us
Matthew 5:14-16- Because we are in Christ, we can show Christ to others
Ephesians 4:15- Speaking the truth in love
John 8:31-32- Knowing the truth (and it will set you free)
Romans 12:2- Being transformed by the renewal of your mind
John 4- (And Luke 10, see above)Jesus tells stories AND has encounters with Samaritans of great import and impact
Rahab, Ruth, King Nebuchadnezzar (for better or for worse) Cyrus the Great, Hagar- Gentiles that change everything in the Old Testament
Acts 1:8-Be a witness in Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the Earth
Isaiah 43:19- Streams in the desert and rivers in the wasteland
John 10:10,Luke 22:31,1 Peter 5:8- The enemy wants to steal, kill and destroy
Ephesians 6:10-18- The Armor of God
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share with you my conversation with Amber Albee Swenson. Amber is a wife, a Mom, a Bible Study author and teacher of the Word. She deeply wants to help other people know the Word of God, to help them know and love God more, and she wants to try and make God’s Word practical and applicable for people no matter what season they’re in. Amber shared with me where God has moved in her life and how He’s taught her the power of forgiveness, perseverance and seeing God’s faithfulness every step of the way.
Today is Good Friday, which is the day we remember the crucifixion of Christ. I hope that the gift of His life and His love falls fresh on you today from this conversation. No matter what’s held you back, the pain you’ve faced, the hurt you’ve felt from people, the confusion you may carry towards Christians, that doesn’t change the power of the truth: Jesus died and rose again so that You would know how loved you are. He can take your hurt. He invites you too. Life is hard. Amber reminded us in this conversation that the important things in God’s kingdom are going to be hard, but we also can remember that we will never be alone, forgiveness is worth the risk, and Jesus can and will meet us and lead us in all of it.
This is a word of encouragement for the weary. This is a word for those that don’t know what to do with the reality around them. This is a word for those who don’t know how to even get to the Gospel because of the noise in their way. This is a word for the ones who don’t know how to go back to church. Whether you hear this on Easter weekend, or some other day of the year, know that the Lord still cares for you. There is a place for you in the family of God.
He is risen, friend. You matter to Him. Your story matters.
Connecting with Amber:
Books
Podcast
Website
References:
-Her book/study Chosen for More
-Time of Grace media ministry (podcast, videos, blogs)
-Gifted for More- Dr. Bruce Becker
-Jackie Hill Perry
-”Let the lion out”- Actual quote by Charles Spurgeon :: ““The Word of God is like a lion. You don’t
have to defend a lion. All you have to do is let the lion loose, and the lion will defend itself.”
-Paul and Barnabas reconcile
-Conflict in the Church during Vietnam
-The Book of Psalms
-The Book of Proverbs
-Lamps tied to the ancients’ feet
Scripture References:
Exodus 3:7-22-Moses telling God all the reasons it was a bad idea for him to be a leader
Romans 5:3-5, Philippians 3:14-the call to persevere
Deuteronomy 32:4, Joshua 21:45, Lamentations 3:21-23, Psalm 33:4 -God is faithful (to name a few :))
Deuteronomy 31:6--He does not leave you
Philippians 4:13-We do things through HIS strength
Isaiah 40:29-31-He will give strength to the weary
Matthew 11:28-30-Come to Me all you who are weary and burdened
Matthew 6:11-Give us this day our daily bread
1 Kings 19-Elijah, and he’s had it, and the angel of the Lord appears to him.
1 Kings 17:2-16-Elijah fed by ravens
1 Kings 18:16-19:18-Ahab blames Elijah for everything
Matthew 26:69-75, Luke 22:54-62-One of Peter’s worst moments
Acts 9:1, Acts 22:20-One of Saul’s worst moments
Mark 10:35-45-One of John and James’ (sons of thunder) worst moments
Genesis 3-Eve’s worst moment
Ruth 2:1-3, 8-18-Ruth’s determination to survive
Esther 4-Esther didn’t want this job
John 21:15-25-Peter.. God love him, God still said He can use him.
Judges 4-Deborah
Galatians 2:11-21-Paul confronts Peter
Acts 15:36-16:10-Paul and Barnabas part ways over John Mark
2 Timothy 4:10-Paul talks about people deserting him
Ephesians 2:19-22-Christ is the cornerstone of the Church
2 Timothy 1:9-Grace and mercy in Jesus
Matthew 27:54-Truly He is the Son of God
Jeremiah 29:11-The Lord has a plan for you.
Ephesians 2:10-We are God’s handiwork
1 Corinthians 12:4-31-We each have spiritual gifts, We’re a body with different members but each called according to a purpose
John 10:10,Luke 22:31,1 Peter 5:8-Satan seeks to kill and destroy
Proverbs 27:17-iron sharpening iron
Colossians 1:18-Christ is the head
1 Corinthians 12:12-27-we’re called to be the body //we’re called to unity (not uniformity)
Luke 22:19, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26- Christ’s body broken for us
Matthew 22:15-22-Jesus being pushed to take a stand
John 8:1-11-Woman caught in adultery
Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 43:1-7, 41:13, Philippians 4:6-7 -Do not fear (the most repeated command in scripture, but here are a few)
Psalm 139:23-24-David prayed “search me”
Matthew 6:9-13-The Lord’s Prayer and forgiveness
Matthew 18:21-35-The parable of the unmerciful servant
Mark 14:27-52- Disciples leaving Jesus after arrest
Luke 22- Judas’ betrayal
John 21:1-17-Breakfast with his Savior
Matthew 26:69-75, Luke 22:54-62-Peter’s betrayal
Romans 12:2- Be transformed by the renewal of your mind
Galatians 1:11-2:21- Paul being on fire for the Lord and being called to learn instead of go
Acts 16:6- Paul wanted to go to Asia and God said no
Psalm 119:105- Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, it's my honor to invite you to join us for an incredibly unique and fascinating conversation with Dr. Amy-Jill Levine. Dr. Levine is an academic, an educator, and an author who is invested in Christians finding the Jewish context of their own story and helping them see where anti-Jewish messages exist in the world. Then, with her fellow Jews she desires to help them see that the New Testament is a Jewish story and that it fills in some of the gaps of Jewish history. Ultimately, her hope in all of this work is for Jews and Christians to stop bearing false witness against one another and treat each other as fellow children of God.
From a very young age, Dr. Levine began asking questions about how two groups of people that share so many similar beliefs about God, customs, etc, can villainize the other. We talk about those questions in our culture, within the Biblical and historical context, as well as why some believe there is a need to extract Jesus from His Jewishness, and how that truly takes away from the Biblical narrative and the gift of Christ on so many levels.
AJ calls Christians to own their faith in an incredibly powerful way. Her latest work Witnesses at the Cross examines the four Gospel accounts of the crucifixion of Christ and she offers many powerful statements about what we can learn from all of the various witnesses there. She not only weaves her vast wisdom of sacred texts and historical context into the accounts, but she also provides beautiful insights from her own experience. For example, while teaching a Divinity School class at Vanderbilt, she taught that class “on the inside” with inmates on death row. Their observations of Calvary implored her to consider the thieves on the cross from a lens she offers to us. She also challenges the readers to consider how we can find ourselves in the bystanders and scoffers as well as reminding us that even though many parts of this moment in time display many people at their worst, those people are made in the image of God. If Jesus is who He says He is, He was crucified for them too.
I hope that you find this conversation fascinating and thought provoking, friends. As we are about to walk into the days of Holy Week, with Palm Sunday here in just a couple of days, I hope you this conversation breathes fresh life into your Lenten journey. I hope it brings some questions to consider as we make our way to the Cross. As my friend Katie says “we are a Saturday people.” We long to see how the story ends. God is faithful to the end, for all of us. Jesus’ offering of His life is a gift that can never be taken, and is available to all who seek it. The Spirit dwells among us, and constantly reminds us of who God has always been and who He will always be. I pray we seek Him with fresh praise and gratitude and with open hands and hearts. You matter. Your story matters. He will complete the work He began in you.
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
Connecting with Dr. AJ Levine:
Class that she mentioned!
Hartford International University Webpage
Vanderbilt Webpage
References:
-Prophecies of Jesus in the Old Testament
-Anti-semitic art
-The Torah
-Book of Genesis
-Book of Isaiah
-Book of Deuteronomy
-Book of Leviticus
-circumcision becoming unnecessary
-Dr. AJ’s children’s books
-Sandy Eisenberg Sasso-Co-author of the children’s books
-The seven last words of Jesus
-Where is Cyrene? modern day Libya
-Paul and Jesus’ followers continue to observe Jewish traditions by attending synagogue and observing festivals etc,
-Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
-Vanderbilt Divinity School
-Men of Valor
-”Shawshank Redemption”
-Short Stories by Jesus- by Dr. AJ Levine
-Historical context of Jesus’ day between the Jewish leaders and Rome
-The revolt doesn’t come until 30 years post resurrection
-”client ruler”- Herod Antiapas (kills JTB)
-Herod the Great (kills the babies bc of his fear of losing the throne)
-Archelaus (Herod’s son who gets part of his inheritance, in Judea)
-Pontious Pilate
-Tyberius is on the throne in Jesus’ time
-Claudius
-Caligula
-Nero
-The Pharisees
-The back story of Jews and Samaritans, modern day issues
-Herod the Great had a Maccabean Princess
Scripture References:
John 3:16-He is the only begotten son of God and He died for our sins
-Exodus 3:7-10, The book of Esther, Jeremiah 29:11- His faithfulness to His covenant with the children of Abraham (to name a few)
Romans 7:12- the Law is holy, just and good
Galatians 3- don’t follow the Law, it can’t save you, you can’t do it
Acts 9:15,Acts 26:17-20, Galatians 1:15-16, Ephesians 3:7-8, -Paul is the apostle to Gentiles
Acts 13-Paul says in Acts to worship in the synagogue
Matthew 27:32,Mark 15:21,Luke 14:27,Luke 23:26-Simon of Cyrene
Matthew 27:57-60, Mark 15:42-47, Luke 23:50-26-Joseph of Arimathea
Mark 15:41-the women who followed Jesus and ministered to Him
Luke 8:1-3-Joanna and Susanna
Luke 8:2, John 20:11-18-Mary Magdalene
Luke 23:32-55-the two thieves on the cross
Luke 23:39-43-The “good” thief is the only one who seems to realize Jesus has a Kingdom
Matthew 13:45-46-the parable of the pearl of great price
Deuteronomy 6:5-9, Joshua 1:8, -the call to remember in the Old Testament, write it on your door posts, and seal it in
2 Kings 22-Josiah found the scrolls of the Law and their revival
-Luke 1:1-25, 1:57-80 - Zechariah John the Baptist’s father, his response is him remembering the Lord and his faith to see what would happen next
Matthew 27:42-The bystanders who demanded him to do a miracle to bring Himself off the cross
Mark 1-8- allllll the miracles
Mark 7:36, 10:45-Jesus doesn’t want to be known as the miracle worker, but the One who died as a ransom for many
John 2:19, Matthew 27:40-You said you were going to destroy this Temple
Mark 6:14-29-”client ruler”- Herod Antiapas (kills JTB)
Matthew 2:16-18-Herod the Great (kills the babies bc of his fear of losing the throne)
Luke 10:1-23-Jesus told them to go out without a sword or staff
Matthew 5:20-Sermon on the Mount, talks about the righteousness of the scribes and pharisees
John 3:1-21, Acts 9:1-19 -Some Pharisees begin to follow Jesus: Saul of Tarsus (Paul), Nicodemus
Acts 15 -mentions other Pharisees who follow Jesus’ teaching as well
Exodus 20:8-11-How do you follow the Sabbath and keep it holy
Mark 12:28-34- Jesus is teaching in the Temple, scribe approaches and asks about the greatest commandment
Matthew 22:34-40- retells that story with a different tone
John 8:42-44
Luke 10:25-37- The “good” samaritan story
John 4- The woman at the well
Matthew 1- Jesus’ lineage with women
Luke 10:38-42- Mary and Martha
Mark 15:40-41- women who traveled from afar that followed Jesus
Matthew 14:13-21- Feeding of the 5,000
Mark 14- He’s already been anointed
Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24: 6-7 (this is the actual quotation) don’t you remember what He told you (the angel says to the women)
Mark 14:12-26- the last supper when Jesus spoke to them about going back to Galilee
Luke 1:39-56-Elizabeth proclaims over Mary that she is carrying Christ
John 19:25-women were at the cross
Luke 23:55, Luke 24:1-12-women were at the tomb
Acts 2-women were at Pentecost and receive the tongues of fire
Book of Ruth
Book of Esther
Judges 4-Deborah
Exodus 2:1-10, Exodus 15:2-21, Micah 6:4-Miriam, a prophetess, worship leader
Matthew 18:20-Where are two or three are gathered
James 2:14-26- faith without works is dead
Genesis 1:27 - everybody is in the image and likeness of God
Esther 4:14- For such a time as this
Ecclesiastes 1:9-There is nothing new under the sun
Matthew 16:24-Pick up the cross and follow Him
Romans 3:10-12,Psalm 14:1-3,Psalm 53:1-3-There is no one righteous, not one
Revelation 5:9; Revelation 5:12; Revelation 13:8; Isaiah 53:7; John 1:29; John 1:36; 1 Peter 1:19 Jesus is the Lamb of God
Hebrews 8:1-4-Jesus is the High Priest
Jeremiah 29:13- Seek Him and you will find Him
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the absolute pleasure of sharing my conversation with Bible teacher and author Elizabeth Woodson. Elizabeth is a beam of sunshine and hope, and the light of Christ just radiates from her smile and her passion for people knowing and loving Jesus. She shares with me her journey into full time ministry, first on various church staffs such as leading singles ministry at Dr. Tony Evans’ church and then was most recently on staff at Village Church, teaching, equipping leaders, and doing theological equipping with the body,, and now she is pursuing her full time personal ministry. She is passionate about deep theology for every day folks because life is hard and God’s word is a lamp to our feet in every dark, foreign or uncertain land. Her first book just recently released, and speaks directly into that space. It's called Embrace Your Life: How to Find Joy When the Life You Have is Not What You Hoped For. Elizabeth shares so powerfully about practically walking out longing and lament in your life, and still experiencing the gift of joy and an abundant life. Her beautiful book looks into the Word of God about how to take our longing before the Lord and to work it out with Him, and then figure out the next step even when we don’t know what to do or how to feel. She offers some practical ways to process this in this conversation and it's just so insightful and full of experiential wisdom and Spirit led truth.
We cover so much ground in this episode. We talk about how to better love our single friends in the church, encouragement for pursuing mentorship and discipleship within the body of Christ, and also for those who are not currently part of a church, why it matters to have right theology, and to know who God truly is, and so much more. This word is a powerful one that carries the need for the salvation of Easter and the lament and longing of the Lord’s second coming because it is a hot. mess. down. here. But there is joy in the longing. There is beauty to be found in the middle of the story and I cannot wait for you to hear it.
I’d love to hear if this episode resonated with you! It means so much to me and to our guests when you share this podcast with the people in your life or to hear how the Lord is intersecting your story. Don’t forget, friend. No matter where you are, you matter. Your story matters. “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
Connecting with Elizabeth:
Book: Embrace Your Life: How to Find Joy When the Life You Have is Not What You Hoped For
Website
References:
Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS)
Dr. Tony Evans and his church Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
Village Church
Growing Together by Melissa Krueger
The Book of Psalms- David (and other authors’) honest and emotional outpourings to the Lord
All sin is equal before the Lord’s eyes
Joy is in Jesus
Free Bible app
World on Fire: Walking in the Wisdom of Christ When the World is Fighting About Everything
“Promises” and “Million Little Miracles” by Maverick City Music
“Wait on You” by Maverick City Music
The “Jubilee” album
Scripture References:
Acts 26:18, 1 Peter 2:9- Moving from darkness to light
Ephesians 3:20- Exceedingly and abundantly more than we could ask or imagine
2 Corinthians 4:17, Ecclesiastes 3:11- There is an eternity that awaits us
John 4:13-14, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, 1 Peter 1:3-6 -The hope we have in Jesus
Psalm 139:1-12, Psalm 23- He’s on the mountain tops and in the valleys
John 15, (and many other scriptures shared below) God has called us to cultivate and grow ourselves and relationships with Him and with the body
Jude 1:24,Psalm 121;7- He is a God who keeps you
Matthew 6:31-32, Matthew 7:11, Luke 12:24 Philippians 4:19- God will provide
Isaiah 63:7, Deuteronomy 11:18- We know and remember what God has done for us
Acts 1-2- How the Church began
Deuteronomy 7:9, John 13:34,-Being faithful because God is faithful
Matthew 5:38-42, Matthew 18, Ephesians 4:26-Handling disagreement in the body
Acts 9:15, Acts 22:21- Paul would be the one to go to the Gentiles
Ephesians 2:19-22, 1 John 3:1-2-The body of Christ is a family
Ruth 1:16-17-Where you go I will go
Genesis 5:32-10:1- Noah was told to build the boat, and then… years go by
Judges 6-7- Gideon and alllllllll his words from the Lord and all his angels (God love him)
John 10:10- Satan works overtime to seek and destroy
Ephesians 3-4- Our calling is so big as the Church/ the purpose of the church, the divine mystery of our transformation ministers to principalities
Matthew 5:1-12- The Beatitudes
Matthew 5:4-Blessed are those who mourn
Ecclesiastes 1:9-There is nothing new under the sun
Romans 6:23- All sin cost the same: the death of Christ
Ephesians 2:8-9, 2:20- We are all saved by the same grace and gift of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection
Genesis 1:27, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27- We are all image bearers, called not to uniformity but unity
Matthew 22:36-40- When we love the Lord our God rightly, then we can love our neighbor as yourself
Psalm 13- honest lament before God
Daniel 3:16-20, Esther 4:14- And if He will not
Psalm 27:13-14- God has good for me in the land of the living
Galatians 5:22-23- Joy is a fruit of the spirit
Revelations 21- There’s an end date on the things that hurt us
Psalm 16:11- In His presence is the fullness of joy
1 Peter 1:3- We live with hope
Psalm 51
2 Samuel- 11:1-In the season when kings go to war…. David was not
Matthew 1:6-7- Bathsheeba is in the named lineage of Christ
Psalm 27:13- The AMP translation of “what would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the good in the land of the living”
Isaiah 63:7- Let us rejoice and recount the goodness of the Lord
John 14:26- We have a helper, a counselor in the Holy Spirit
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Listen, I hope y’all are ready because Andi Andrew is on today and she brings a WHOLE WORD about relationships, broken belief systems and living lives that pursue the way, truth and life in Jesus! Andi is passionate about God, His word and His people and doing the work of being a human in this broken world so you can connect more deeply with God and with people. She’ll share in this conversation about what it was like for her family living and leading a church in NYC during the pandemic, and what was revealed to her about the hearts and relationships within the body of Christ locally and globally that ultimately deeply informed the book on her heart called: Friendship–It's Complicated Avoid the Drama, Create Authentic Connection, and Fulfill Your Purpose Together.
This book is more than just examining relationships, it cuts to the heart of the matter and calls us to look at the broken belief systems that inhibit our relationships from growing, and keep us from growing more into the image of Christ and who we were made to be. Andi asks big questions in her book and in this conversation such as: are we living the way and the truth and the life of Jesus or our own way? What’s the difference between healthy boundaries and building walls of isolation? A deep, healing, and restorative work is needed in each and every one of us so that we can love who we are created to be, and love others as they are created to be as image bearers of God.
Be sure and check out Andi’s free resources, her books, that are all linked in our show notes and blog! AND if you’re interested we’ll be reading her book for this month’s Simply Stories Book Club! Head to the link in bio to connect with Andi, the book club, and to hear the episode. Wherever you are friends, just remember that this is not how the story ends. That you matter, your story matters. “He will complete the work He began in You until the day of completion” Thanks for hanging out with me and I’ll see you next time.
Connecting with Andi:
Book
Facebook
Podcast
Twitter
Website
YouTube
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
-Liberty Church in New York
-Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life: Dr. Henry Cloud, Dr. John Townsend-codependency
-Free downloadable pdf about rebuilding relationships
-The enneagram
-Join the Simply Stories Podcast Book Club while we read Friendship– It's Complicated
Scripture References:-1 Corinthians 12:12-37-The body of Christ
-John 15- Pruning and bearing fruit
-Matthew 7:24-27-Are we standing on the rock or the sand?
-Matthew 5-7-The sermon on the mount
-John 14:6-The way, the truth and the life
-The book of Nehemiah, Nehemiah 3- the list of names of those who rebuilt the wall
-Psalm 16:5-6-The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places
-Joshua 18-19, Numbers 18:21-32-When God gives out inheritances to the tribes around the Tabernacle
-Romans 12:18-Inasmuch as it depends on you, live peaceably with everyone
-Malachi 3:2-The Refiner’s fire
-Acts 6:1-7, Acts 15-The New Testament church struggles
-Ecclesiastes 1:9-There’s nothing new under the sun
Acts 8:26-40-The eunuch and Phillip
Acts 16:16-40 Acts 27:27-28:5--Fellowships on ships, in prisons
-Hebrews 10:25-Do not neglect gathering
-Ephesians 2:19-22, Mark 12:1-11, Psalm 118:22-23-The cornerstone of our faith
-Matthew 18:15-The model of conflict in the Gospel
-Mark 3-The Lord experienced conflict (just as one example!)
-Unity in our diversity
-Galatians 2:20-Walking crucified with Christ
-Ephesians 4:11-16– the apostle, the teacher, the evangelist using their unique gifts bring maturity and unity to the body of Christ
-Exodus 1:1-21-The midwives,Shifra and Puah, who delivered Moses (and other Hebrew babes)
-Acts 13-Barnabas saw Saul, and brought forth Paul
Acts 15:36-16:10-Barnabas and Paul experienced conflict, but they reconciled (and I misspoke, it was about Mark, not Timothy
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the pleasure of sharing with you my conversation with Jenny Albers. Jenny is an author and a speaker who courageously shares her story of miscarriage and loss to encourage other women who are walking in a similar journey. Her book Courageously Expecting: 30 Days of Encouragement for Pregnancy After Loss is a beautiful offering of how to cling to hope and deal with all the trauma that comes with trying to grow your family after knowing loss. In this conversation she shares with me her story, where she is of learning how to cling to God after having so much heartbreak happen, and how she continued functioning in a marriage, as a parent, as a person while battling grief, guilt, confusion and fear
We also talk about the often undiscussed, and secretive parts of what women dealing with miscarriage or women who have had a baby, but don’t have a baby at home, and how the hush hush nature of this conversation can really wrap women up in a narrative of shame that keeps them from being able to heal at all. And this is an issue that affects so many women, the statistics say something like 1 in 8 women will experience miscarriage. This conversation is for the women who have this as part of their story, the people that have never known it, but want to be there for someone they know who has, and for just anyone who needs to remember how to cling to God when truly heartbreaking loss happens in life. I also realize that this is a very tender place for so many, and I hope that this episode serves as a safe place for your heart and your story.
No matter where you are, friend, I just want to remind you: You matter, and your story matters. God is not finished with your story. He will carry it through to the day of completion. Thanks for hanging out with me and I’ll see you next time.
Connecting with Jenny Albers:
Book: Courageously Expecting: 30 Days of Encouragement for Pregnancy After Loss
Website
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Ectopic pregnancy
Statistics of miscarriage among women
Jewish laws and women and blood
Lisa Bevere
Jesus experienced great emotion
Still Loved
SIDS
Scripture References:
Ephesians 2:19-22, and a list of other verses! (disclaimer: I don’t know anything about that website, I just saw a great compilation list of scriptures!) – The cornerstone of Christ can’t change
Genesis 3:16 -Eve in the Garden– from what I’m reading… only pain in childbirth and struggle for control with husband. Super fascinating
Luke 8:43-48-The woman with the issue of blood
Matthew 26:28, Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 9:22, a list of more verses -By blood we are saved
Leviticus 12:2-5, Leviticus 15-16, -Rules about women in the Bible and blood about CLEANLINESS
Genesis 9:4, Leviticus 17:11-14-God’s law about “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.” and not eating it.
Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28 -God does have plans and purpose for us
Genesis 50:20, Psalm 30:11-12-He can turn awful things into good
Lamentations 3, Psalm 91 (just a couple of examples)-Lament in praise, prayer
1 Samuel 1:9-28-Hannah’s prayer
Genesis 2-We were made for the garden of Eden and walking with God
2 Chronicles 7:14-(one of MANY examples)-God invites us to cry out to Him
Genesis 16:13-He is the God who sees
Psalm 121-He is the God who helps
Isaiah 41-God says “I will help”
Hebrews 4:15-God came and put on flesh and bone and became a High Priest who sympathizes
Psalm 34:18-God is close to the brokenhearted
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share my conversation with Bethany Beal of Girl Defined Ministries. Bethany and her sister Kristen Clark have written a timely book called Not Part of the Plan: Trusting God with the Twists and Turns of Your Story where they both share their stories of learning to trust God and deepen their faith in Him as they experienced seasons of longing and waiting. Bethany shares from her journey of singleness and longing for marriage, and Kristen shares her journey of infertility, multiple miscarriages and ultimately pursuing adoption. In this conversation Bethany and I talk about more of their story, what led them to create Girl Defined ministries, and growing hearts that are for women to have a place to truly find their identity in Christ so that they could cling to the hope of Christ no matter what happens in their lives.
We also talk about what it looks like in seasons where you do receive answers to prayer, but then those answers aren’t what you thought they would be, how to steward those experiences, and just generally how do we live by faith and wrestle with God well, not perfectly, but with perseverance. The only thing constant this side of Heaven is Christ and as we begin this Lenten season, I felt so called to look at stories of people who have really grieved, and wrestled and continue to do so, as we wait and long for Christ’s coming at Easter and Him coming again to make all things new, and I think Bethany’s story and her infectious hope for the Gospel is a really beautiful place for us to start.
Additionally, they have a deep connection to what is going on in Ukraine and are walking out a deep season of grief and trusting God in a way they’ve never experienced before. On of their sisters and her husband live in Ukraine and are fleeing from the attacks happening there. They are sharing their story transparently on instagram in particular, specific ways to pray for their sister, her husband’s family, their friends. Additionally, Kristen Clark’s adopted children are Ukrainian, so there’s this whole other level of grief for their homeland and people they love still in crisis there. The boys and their cousins are actually trying to help raise money for their orphanage in Ukraine, so if you would like to support their efforts, I have included Kristen’s venmo and cashapp links over in the show notes, and in my stories as well. Be sure and follow them, check out ways you can support them, and then maybe check out the resources they present on their website, in their book, and other books they’ve written that are designed to help us stand firm in what God says is true when life is happening in a way you never saw coming. No matter what happens, next, friends. You matter, and your story matters. God is not finished with your story. He will carry it through to the day of completion.
Connecting with Bethany Beal and Girl Defined Ministries:
Books
Instagram for Bethany
Instagram for Girl Defined
Website
YouTube
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Not Part of the Plan: Trusting God with the Twists and Turns of Your Story
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Besser van der Kolk
Resources on their website
Their mentorship course
The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands by Lysa TerKeurst
Ukraine Support:
Follow Kristen Clark- the other half of GD and her boys from Ukraine- on instagram
Follow their sister Ellissa Petrenko on instagram for updates
Kristen’s Venmo: @KristenClark73
Kristen’s Cash App: KristenClark123
Proceeds from their shop are going 100% to Ukrainian support
Scripture References:
Genesis 3- Part of Eve’s curse from the garden
Proverbs 3:5-6- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart”
Proverbs 16:9- Man makes his plans, but the Lord determines His steps
Mark 10:35-45-Disciples arguing about who will sit next to you in Heaven?
Hebrews 11, 2 Corinthians 5:7-By faith, what can happen
John 10:10- Life abundant in Christ
Genesis 2:18, Romans 12:4–5, Colossians 3:13–14, Hebrews 12:1- We weren’t made to live alone/Surround yourself with other believers
Deuteronomy 31:6- God will never leave you or forsake you
Psalm 27:12-14- God is good even when things don’t feel good ( a picture of the psalmist- despairing, but my hope is with You)
2 Corinthians 5:17, Revelation 21:1-8- All things will be made new
Psalm 25:1-3 We have a hope that will not be put to shame
Psalm 73:26- My heart and my flesh may fail
Hebrews 10:23- Hold unswervingly to the hope we profess
1 Peter 5:7- God cares for you
Daniel 3:18- “And if He will not”
Jeremiah 29:11- I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord
Revelations 3:7-13, Revelation 21- Where we are now, is not all there is
Ephesians 3- God’s given us insight into the mystery of the Gospel
Philippians 3:14-We press on toward the goal that calls us Heavenward
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you
Micah 6:8, Ephesians 4:1-6- Who does God call us to be
Matthew 28:16-20, Acts 1:1-11, Acts 2- The Good News that the church is founded on
God came to be among us
John 15:1-17, 1 John 4:13- We allow Him to make His home in us
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share with you my conversation with Shannon K. Evans. Shannon is an author and a speaker who shares about spirituality, social justice and encouraging women as she navigates mothering 5 kiddos. During our conversation, Shannon shares her story of growing up with a model of Christian servitude, and living lives full of mercy, and love, but as she grew up that became misconstrued into a confusing narrative about her significance in her relationship with God and others being only about her what she gave or how she served.
Shannon and her husband lived as overseas missionaries for a while and this issue really came to a head there as they began to realize this in fact may not be what they were called to after all. She shares her personal journey of wrestling with her shadow side, the lack of vulnerability as a missionary, then coming home and becoming an adoptive Mom, and ultimately coming to terms with what God was exposing in her own heart. She asked herself and continues to ask those who have ears to hear: What is just the appearance of living a holy life, and what is a life of being conformed into the image of Christ?
As their family grew, she began to wrestle further with the belief of her worth as woman and what made her a good mom was minimizing her needs, and only being as great as her sacrifice. Service, and motherhood is beautiful, but if you are bitter, and angry and miserable, how does that actually help anyone, and what is that modeling to your children? These are questions Shannon asked herself and then ultimately poured out into her writing. Shannon’s latest book Rewilding Motherhood is a motherhood book for those who struggle to find themselves in other motherhood books. While motherhood and parenthood books can be great tools for tackling issues, equipping for situations and more, Shannon wanted to focus more on the woman under all the motherhood, and discovering what it might look like to rewild it. What does it mean to rewild? She’ll share that with us and more.
Connecting with Shannon:
Books
Substack
Website
Today’s episode sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
-Indonesia
-Mission Friends
-GA’s / RA’s
-Acteens
-JL Gerhardt and our conversation on episode 113
-pastors in the public eye with exposed sexual sin (Ravi Z, Bill H. to name a few)
-missionaries in the SBC who have been found guilty of sexual abuse, but allowed to hold other positions
-Embracing Weakness
-My friends who are missionaries in Uganda-check out Angells in Africa (and feel free to support them!)
-House of Hospitality in TX
-Daniel Berrigan, if you want to follow Jesus you better look good on wood
-the word for helper is Ezer Kenegdo, also used in passages
-rewilding land- an ecological practice where you pull out all the human effects on it and try to take it back to its original form
-learned helplessness study
-statistics about the effects of covid on mothers (new mothers,this is a year old, and its only gotten worse)
-”Boundaries are you deciding what’s OK and what’s not OK”- Brene Brown
-Enneagram 4
-Shannon’s guided journal - Luminous
Scripture References:
Micah 6:8-Christian servitude, healthy loving lives full of mercy
Romans 8:29-being conformed to the image of Christ
Matthew 22:36-40-the Greatest commandment- loving God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength then love your neighbor
Isa. 64: 6, Romans 3:19-23; 6:23; 10:2-4; Eph. 2:8-9- dirty rags if you don’t have internal alignment with pursuing God’s righteousness
Luke 22:37, Isaiah 53:12/ Isaiah 53-suffering servant in Jesus
Judges 4-Deborah
Genesis 2:18-20, Exodus 18:4, Psalm 20:2, Psalm 89:19, Psalm 115:9-10, Psalm 121:1-2, Hosea 13:9- examples where the word Ezer Kenegdo is used in scripture
John 14:26-the Holy Spirit is the helper
Psalm 107:2-”Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story”
Ephesians 2:19-22-Christ is the cornerstone
Ephesians 2:10--We are His masterpiece
Philippians 1:6-He will complete the work He began
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the absolute pleasure of sharing with you my conversation with the one and the only Jasmine Holmes. Jasmine is an essayist, an educator and an excavator of jewels hidden in history. She shares her story of growing up in a predominately white environment and shares about the well-meaning people in her life who would say totally misguided and inappropriate things to her that she just felt like she had to accept as normal. As she began to learn about more about history and the Black experience within it, she began to realize how those patterns of behavior have been woven so deeply into the generations. When she became a wife and a Mother, she began to really unpack some of the layers of her community and experiences, which gave birth to her book Mother to Son: Letters to a Black Boy on Identity and Hope. In this beautiful book, she poured out her heart’s desire to raise young men who understand what they’ve inherited, to live honestly and authentically, but also to be led by hope.
During her journey of unpacking some unsung ambassodors of the faith that she mentioned in Mother to Son, readers approached Jasmine about wanting to know more about these Black pillars of the faith they had not heard of before. That set Jasmine on a journey of discovering who else is out there. What emerged is her beautiful work Carved in Ebony: Lessons from the Black Women Who Shape Us. Jasmine calls this her love letter to the little girl that she was who had a quest for knowledge, but so often did not see people that looked like her. Y’all this book is SO good. The women in its pages are fascinating women of fierce faith, who fought for abolition, carried the Gospel with them where they went and more. I’m so inspired by them and by Jasmine.
The beauty and importance of intentionally unearthing people in history who have long been hidden within its yellowed pages is to give others a chance to have their voice an opportunity to be heard and highlight that their story and their life matters, and her book Carved in Ebony is an opportunity to do just that. In it you will find inspiring, faith fueling, and humbling stories of women that speak of the power of God in their lives, and the book serves as such a poignant picture of how much stories matter. These women lived lives that were full of struggle and triumph and they are ministering to us anew. That’s what God does with the lives of people. They matter to Him. And you matter to Him, friend. You matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Jasmine
-Books
-Pre-Order the young reader’s edition of Carved in Ebony!
-Hear her on The Gospel Coalition’s Podcast “Let’s Talk”
-Podcast for “Carved in Ebony”
-Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
-Dr. Jemar Tisby (and our conversation on episode 119!)
-Night- Elie Wiesel
-The made up science created to insight panic and sew racism and prejudice about indigineous people, Black people and Jewish people (additional really good article from Harvard about Scientific Racism)
-Jim Crow
-Civil Rights Movement
-Reconstruction: a success or failure?
-Tuskegee Syphilis Study
From Mother to Son- Jasmine Holmes
-The Fire Next Time- James Baldwin
-St. Anthony Neighborhood- Philando Castille’s murder
-The death of Mike Brown
-co-dependency and the drama triangle
-Ida B. Wells
-Fannie Lou Hamer
-Mary McLeod Bethune
-Lucy Craft Laney (museum in Georgia)
-The Fortens in Philadelphia
-Harriet Tubman- Moses of the Underground Railroad, also a UNION SPY
-Sojourner Truth- feminist icon
-George Washington’s teeth were NOT wooden, see info from the Mount Vernon’s website
-Robert E. Lee “hated slavery,” but he actually had enslaved people on his plantation, ripped apart families, etc.
-Harry Potter
-Chris Jackson
-Leslie Odom Jr.
-”Smash”
-”Smash” reunion
-”Stand”- Leslie Odom Jr.
-Charlotte Forten (Grimke)
-Sara G. Stanley
-Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
-Aaron Burr and Theodosia
-Aaron Burr has an affair with an enslaved woman, and their kids were the cousins of Charlotte Forten’s mother
-”Who lives who dies who tells your story”- “Hamilton”
-Chris Jackson in “Hamilton” documentary about playing someone (Washington) who owned people
-Washington murdered indigenous peoples and was a complicted slave holder
-hunted Ona Judge until he died
-Nanny Helen Burroughs
-George Washington Carver
-Candace Owens
-Malcom X, his autobiography, his quest for respectability and didn’t realize until later how we he was treated like a mascot
-The African American Jeremiad
-MLK Jr’s “I Have a Dream Speech”
-American Puritan Preaching Tradition
-David Walker’s “Appeal”
-Maria Stewart
-Sarah Mapps Douglas
-Patrick Henry “give me liberty or give me death”
Scripture References:
2 Corinthians 5, Colossians 1:19-22-reconciliation with Jesus
Romans 3:23-we all have sin and fall short of the glory of God
Genesis 1:27-made in the image of God
-The book of Jeremiah // Bible Project Video
-The book of Isaiah // Bible Project Video
Isaiah 30:15, Matthew 3:8, Matthew 4:17, Luke 5:31-32, Luke 24:46-48, -repentance is a true turning
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Dr. Jemar Tisby is an author, educator, historian and speaker on a mission to share truths from the Black experience, witnessed and known in his own life, particularly within the Christian sphere. He sums it up this way: “To me as a historian that’s what I do is I tell stories. I tell stories of import and consequence and try to contextualize them to make them stand out for how they’re still relevant for others today.” He shares with us today his story of his experiences growing up, and later through becoming a Christian in high school through a predominately white evangelical church where he began the strange dance of growing in his faith and knowledge of Christ, while most commonly being one of the only people of color in the room.
Dr. Jemar’s story, and his work in trying to call racism out into the light and then address it, especially within the church has been wildly transformative in my life. His book Color of Compromise: The Truth About the American Church’s Complicity in Racism was so incredibly eye opening and galvanizing. His next book How to Fight Racism: Courageous Christianity and the Journey Towards Racial Justice takes that to the next level. There’s an adult version, and now a youth edition. In our conversation today, Dr. Jemar shares some of the key racial justice ideologies of his books, and how to begin addressing some of the pressing issues we may not even be aware of in our own churches, families, and communities. We want to examine the foundations that have been laid historically and see how they are still impacting people and communities today so that if it's being repeated we do something about it or that we take great stewarding care to dare not repeat it again.
One key point Dr. Jemar makes is that much of the dialogue around racial justice in many Christian spaces is heavy on the diagnosis and light on the prescription. He faces that issue head on in his works, and in this conversation, saturated in scripture and full of a desire to see Christians grow in this area and in their faith as a whole. Dr. Jemar challenges us, equips. and encourages us with how we engage this work of racial justice well and not add to the hurt in our attempts to help.
There is so much that is challenging about this conversation, my friends, but this is hard and holy work. I hope this conversation galvanizes you today, and that wherever the Lord leads you in your response, you would grow in your knowledge of Him, His love for you, and His love for all of His creation. You matter to Him. Your neighbor matters to Him. Your stories matter.
Connecting with Dr. Jemar Tisby and his work:
Audiobooks
Books
Founder of The Witness: a Black Christian Collective
Podcast: Pass the Mic
Website
Our episode’s sponsor: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan
Lebron James
“Space Jam: The New Legacy”
“Space Jam” the OG 0=)
University of Notre Dame
Dorena Williamson- our conversations on episodes 10, 11 and 110
Reformed theology (for the record, no one is saying they disagree with much of the statues of reformed theology. It's the exclusivity of people of color and the white centricity that’s the issue)
Ku Klux Klan
Segregation
Jim Crow Laws
Adhesive bandages creating multiple skin tone options (AS OF JUNE 2020!!!!!!)
The Color of Compromise: The Truth of the American Church’s Complicity in Racism
The Color of Compromise Bible Study
Mississippi Delta- cotton country
How to Fight Racism: Courageous Christianity and the Journey Toward Racial Justice
How to Fight Racism: Youth Edition
Withholding parts of the Bible from enslaved peoples so that they would not feel entitled to freedom
Enslaved peoples receiving a different ordinance of baptism so that they felt free in Christ, but still obedient to their masters
ARC of Racial Justice: Awareness, Relationships, Commitment
Laws being put in place for voter registration that are hurting not helping
Stacey Abrams’ book Our Time is Now (and her work for voting rights)
“Flesh tone” variety in colors of dance tights
Misty Copeland
Colors of the World Crayons (launched in May 2020, y’all. May. 2020.)
Kodak developing their film to the standard of a caucasian books
Audio book for How to Fight Racism: Youth Edition
Nashville Public Library Civil Rights Room
Scripture References:
Romans 3:23- We all have sin and fall short of the glory of God
Psalm 19:14, Deuteronomy 6:5, Isaiah 43:7, Matthew 22:37-39, 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, Colossians 3, Hebrews 12:14-15, 1 Peter 2- We are called to honor God
Ephesians 4- We are called to build up the church in all we say and do
Isaiah 29:13, Revelations 3:16-Lukewarm
1 Thessalonians 5:11- We’re called to call each other up as brothers and sisters
Genesis 1:27- Human beings are made in the image of God
Galatians 6:1-6- Bear one another’s burdens
Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:32,Hebrews 12:14- Reconciliation is relational (more here)
John 1:14- God sent another human being to establish relationships with other human beings in Jesus
Acts 2:2-28- The Holy Spirit came and enabled men and women to be able to speak and understand one another in different languages
Matthew 6:9-10- Build his kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven
Eternal redemption and the diversity of Kingdom in Heaven (nations, tribes and tongues)
Ephesians 3 and 4
Ephesians 4:15-16- Speak the truth, but don’t be a jerk
James 3- Being aware of our speech
Matthew 18:2-4- Come with faith like a child
Hosea 10:12-14, Matthew 13, Luke 8- Sowing seeds
Isaiah 30:18, 2 Peter 3:9, Philippians 1:6- The Lord isn’t finished with any of us
Lamentations 3:19-24- I remember my bitterness, my wondering and the gall, because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed
2 Corinthians 3:17-In the spirit of the Lord there is freedom
Amos 5:24, Zechariah 8:3-12, 16-17- God addressing justice, reconciliation, in scripture (article outlining more)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today we’re jumping back into my conversation with Dr. Christian Widener. So in part 1 of our conversation, Dr. Widener shared about the history of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem throughout the old and new testament scripture coupled with historic accounts and what he has learned in his research with renowned scholars, historians and archeologists. In this part two, he’ll walk us through the history of what happened to the Temple Mount after its destruction in 70 A.D. and why what remains in the remnants that we can see support his research from some historical, archeological, engineering perspectives, and why any of this matters to us today and for the future.
Ultimately, Dr. Widener has a heart for God’s people to turn their hearts to Him. He wants to lay a foundation of hope that what we can see about the Temple Mount is a sign that God is still keeping His promises in regards to restoring Israel and that Jesus is coming back to make all things right for all of creation. Prophecy and eschatology are complicated, but when we see in history and in the present that God keeps His promises it fuels our faith. It helps us to live in expectation of His activity in our own lives and in the big story of His kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven, and we are reminded and hopeful that He will never stop being faithful now and forevermore. It also calls us to evaluate what we do with our time and how we serve others and the Lord in this season of waiting with hope. What are we investing in? Whose kingdom are we building? There is always more to learn, and deeper places to discover in our walk with God. We have to be courageous enough to do the work.
The preservation of God’s people is just unbelievable. The fact that God continues to show human beings mercy, and has incredible patience so that no one may be lost to Him is astonishing. That goes for His set apart people through Abraham, and for those He has grafted in through His Son Jesus Christ. The Jewish people have always been special to God. They are His chosen nation.There is so much to learn from their history, their present, and their hope. I am actually learning a lot about this very thing currently and we may be unpacking it in other episodes, but that’s just a teaser note.
This story isn’t over, friends. And you’re a part of it. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Dr. Widener:
Book
His youtube video The Temple Revealed (which in many ways just summarizes his book)
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Hear part one of this conversation AND access all the detailed show notes here.
Super fascinating article from Chabad.org about the Jewish history of the Temple
-The Temple Mount
-FULL LAYOUT OF THE SECOND/HEROD’S TEMPLE: // a verbal description of the path walked through the Temple // from the outside in:: court of gentiles, court of women, court of Israel, court of priests and the small temple itself (Dr. Widener’s focus)
-The arches that exist on the southern side of the Temple Mount
-Ancient threshing floor
-First thing built there after temple’s destruction is a temple to Jupiter
--Super interesting articles about the current tension of the situation even in archeological pursuits from Smithsonian, and NBC that share the history and current conversation
-Early Christians made the temple mount a trash heap
-Pre-Tribulation, Post- Tribulation, etc (what do these things mean?!)
-The Siege of Jerusalem 636-637 AD by the Muslims (this is a super fascinating read as it is from an Islamic history site. )
-The dome of the spirits
-The East Gate (or the Golden Gate/Mercy Gate)— all walled up in stone (picture of it currently)
-Muslims believe that Jesus will return (this article is suuuuper interesting) and they want to keep him out
Graveyard near the western wall, Mamila Cemetery (a super interesting Palestinian perspective about this site)
Jewish graves on the mount of olives so that they’re there for the resurrection of the last day
The Sabbath practice of looking for Elijah
Emperor Heraclius went through the gate (I can’t really find about a “shortly there after” article to verify that part BUT it is interesting that the story says an angel walled up the gate) (an art piece depicting it)
The Road to Emmaus painting by Robert Zund
Foxes on the Wailing Wall in 2019 (and the scripture that goes with it/Lamentations 5:18)
Finding Solomon: Rediscovering the Works of Israel’s Greatest Builder (scroll all the way to the bottom of page!)
Scripture References:
Acts 15 – how much do we continue to honor Judaism and grow Christianity
2 Samuel 24:18-25-David made a sacrifice on the threshing floor
2 Chronicles 3:1-The Temple being built on the threshing floor
Genesis 22 -Issac was not sacrificed, but offered as one and then a goat was provided by God
Matthew 27:51-The area opened because the curtain ripped in two
Deuteronomy 11-12- this is the place where He will place the souls of His feet
Ezekiel 43
1 Kings 12-17 -Building the false temple in Israel after the Kingdom is divided in two, built in Bethel (and also Dan) so that they could have their own place of worship instead of where God declared where it should be
Judges 19-21 -Towards the end of the book of Judges with a false temple set up by a Levite for a family (ugh this story is gross. People are crazy)
Daniel 9 -The abomination that causes desolation
Zechariah 14:4-11; Revelation 19:11-16; 20:1-6-Revelation where Jesus comes back on the Mount of Olives
Zechariah 8-I’m going to bring them back into their own land
John 11:24, -Resurrection of the last day (more scriptures!)
Ezekiel 47, Revelation 3:7-13, Revelation 22:1-5- There will be a spring of living water, a mighty river that will turn the dead sea into fresh water
Hebrews 13:14-this is not our home
John 19:28-Jesus says “I thirst” on the cross, but the context of it in the Psalm 22:15
Daniel 5- the hand writing on the wall
Acts 1:11- -Men of Galilee why do you stand and look at the sky?
Lamentations 3:22-25, Joshua 23:14 -He is faithful and He will keep His promises
Jeremiah 30,Isaiah 61:7 -He will restore His people (a big list of scriptures on this!)
Acts 12- Herod Agrippa’s funky claims about his voicing being one with God’s and his death
Luke 24:13-35-The road to Emmaus
Isaiah 43:19-The Lord is doing a new thing, now it springs up do you not perceive it?
Matthew 25- The Ten Bridesmaids
Matthew 6:10-His will be done on earth as it is in heaven
Psalm 130:6-More than watchmen wait for the morning do we long for the Lord
John 11-weeping at Lazarus’ tomb
Isaiah 22:13; Proverbs 23:35; Luke 12:19; 1 Corinthians 15:32-Eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die
Hebrews 10:23-We hold unswervingly for He who promised is faithful
Revelation 21:4-He will wipe every tear from our eyes
2 Corinthians 4:17-This is a light and momentary trouble and there is coming an eternal glory
1 Kings 4:30-Solomon was the wisest person in the world
1 Kings 10- When the Queen of Sheba came and was blown away by what she saw
2 Corinthians 12:9-His grace is sufficient
Zechariah 8:3-22- the passage I read at the end about God’s restoration
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Dr. Christian Widener grew up from a curious kid who always needed to know ‘why’ and work it all the way through to an answer to become an investigator and researcher to the core. Through his in-depth research he has written a book called The Temple Revealed where he makes a case for the location of The Temple in Jerusalem. He worked in cooperation with numerous renowned archeologists, historians and theologians, and it's an incredibly detailed and fascinating look at what the future might hold, but ultimately a significant reminder of who holds the future.
This episode felt like sitting in on a seminary course. We’re digging into deep theological and eschatological topics, which just simply means the study of God, His word and the end times, through things like history, archeology, geography, and even engineering. It's fascinating but it is A LOT of information, so I’ve actually divided this conversation into two parts in an attempt to help us digest this more intentionally. In this first part, we’ll get a fly over of Dr. Widener’s work, and then we’ll back up and work through Israel’s history with the Temple through the Old and New Testament to try and give us a bit of ground work for some of the confusing (and often forgotten) parts of its past to set us up for understanding a bit of its present state and potential role in the future.
We cover so much ground in this episode, so I made sure and tried to include links to visual aids, maps in addition to the links to references he’s made, and the scriptures they connect to. I hope that’s helpful for you as you process this on your own journey!
Just a reminder: There are so many schools of thought here in regards to the Temple and eschatology, and this is just one. The beauty of all of it is founded on this main promise: Jesus is coming back. Praise God that where we are now isn’t all there is! Just like the temple mount itself that’s a literal picture of cycles of destruction, redemption, spiritual warfare, consequences of sin, and rebuilding again, God’s promises and faithful hand are constantly making His presence known because it is marked by His name, so are His people. Our hope is in the Messiah who cannot be shaken. And His story isn’t over, and neither is yours. You matter, friend. Your story matters.
*PS: So many of the visual resources I was able to find were provided by the work of the Megalim Institute/City of David Ancient Jerusalem
Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and check out their YouTube page. It is FASCINATING.
Connecting with Dr. Widener:
Book
His youtube video The Temple Revealed (which in many ways just summarizes his book)
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
—-
References:
-Aluminum lithium alloy and space shuttles
-The Temple Mount
-The Gates of the Temple Mount
-What is the Dome of the Rock?
-The East Gate (or the Golden Gate/Mercy Gate)— all walled up in stone (picture of it currently)
-The Mount of Olives (pictures)-- photo of the East Gate from Garden of Gethsemane on MofO)
-Suleyman (from the Jewish perspective) // Suleyman-the-Magnificent (general history)
-Josephus (they destroyed all the gates except two, and burned with fire– this site breaks down much of his observations of the process of its destruction)
-A Model of the Tabernacle
-A sermon by Charles Spurgeon about David’s experience with God of establishing where Solomon’s Temple should be built
-The first temple - Solomon’s
-finding the City of David recently (as in 2020) // FASCINATING video from the City of David Foundation
-city of David is not the same place of Bethlehem // more about the archeological journey and the history // City of David uncovered (see inside!)
-Destruction of the first Temple by Nebecudnezzer (a reenactment by the City of David Institute) // Great article on context and history and what lead exactly to the Siege of Jerusalem
-Charles Warren and Captain Wilson took bedrock measurements of the Temple Mount (This article is FASCINATING as it details the archeological process of unearthing the Temple Mount)
-Herod the Great comes along (Jewish by nationality, not a practicing Jew) a pagan King with a Jewish connection // A recreation of this process, and the construction of Herod’s Temple from the City of David Institute— the Jews make a deal with him to increase and beautify the Temple —> The video linked as a recreation shows the porticos were the only spot where people that were not men of Israel or priests could go (and where Jesus and the disciples would teach)
-Renderings of Herod’s Temple
-FULL LAYOUT OF THE SECOND/HEROD’S TEMPLE: // a verbal description of the path walked through the Temple // from the outside in:: court of gentiles, court of women, court of Israel, court of priests and the small temple itself (Dr. Widener’s focus)
-Pool of Siloam (or The Pool of Shiloah) (a tour of it today!)
-The Pilgrim’s walkway
-What happened to the ark of the covenant? (weeellll THIS was a fascinating today-years-old-moment. Apparently a group of Christians in Ethiopia claim to have the ark in a chapel there. I mean. WOW)
-“Raiders of the Lost Ark”
70 AD: Is when Herod’s Temple is destroyed, Jerusalem is ransacked (-From the City of David institute, here is a reenactment of the destruction of the second temple in 70AD)
-The double gate- an underground passageway and had a ramp to the other (here’s a 360 virtual reality look!)
-Robinson’s Arch
-Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall) is still there
Scripture References:
Genesis 6:9-9:17- Noah’s Ark
Book of Revelation (Bible Project Video part 1 and 2)
Matthew 24:42- “Watch therefore”
Ezekiel 44
Zechariah 9:9, Matthew 21:10-11, John 12-13- Jesus on Palm Sunday
Ezekiel 43:3-5--the glory of the Lord entered the by the East Gate of the Temple
Nehemiah 3 lists the rebuilding of the gates and he never mentions rebuilding the East Gate
Nehemiah 3:29- the keeper of the East Gate
Exodus 20-31, 35-40, Leviticus 1-10, Numbers 6-10- the Ten Commandments, establishing the sacrificial system and sacrifice it only in the Tabernacle by the established Levitical Priesthood
1 Chronicles 17, 2 Samuel 7- establishing the Davidic covenant / I will be your house and I will allow your family to build mine (summary)
1 Chronicles 21:18-30, 1 Chronicles 22- God shows David where the Temple should be built on the threshing floor of Araunah on Mount Moriah
Genesis 22-Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice on Mount Moriah (and the Lord provided another way!)
1 Kings 5-8 -Solomon builds the first Temple
Matthew 2-the wise men came to Jerusalem and met with Herod, and then they went to Jesus in Bethlehem
1 Kings 3-God came to Solomon and gave him wealth
1 Kings 9 -God came to Solomon again with a warning, and if you do, I will destroy this house you’ve built
2 Samuel 11, 2 Samuel 12:24-Solomon was the son of Bathsheba and David
2 Kings 24-25-Destruction of the first Temple by Nebecudnezzer, Israel goes into exile
Book of Ezra AND Nehemiah and story of rebuilding
Ezra rebuilt the Temple
Nehemiah 1-7- Nehemiah goes to help rebuild the wall (Zerubbabel helped)
Daniel 9
Daniel 12 - the abomination of the desolation (12:11-12)
Matthew 24- Jesus prophecies the destruction of the temple and the abomination of desolation – more commentary for deeper study here
Ezra 3:12- -the people at the consecration of the second temple who had seen the first temple wept because it wasn’t the same
Mark 13-The disciples are leaving the temple, look at all these buildings (within the confines of the Temple) and Jesus says “I tell you the truth not one stone will be built on another”
Matthew 21:12-13,Mark 11:15-18-Court of Gentiles and outside and around the Temple Mount where Jesus would turn over the tables of moneychangers treating the pilgrims of faith unfairly
Exodus 16:33-34, Numbers 17, Deuteronomy 31:26, Hebrews 9:4 -the 10 commandment stones, Aaron’s staff that budded, manna all inside the ark
1 Chronicles 13-16-the ark represented the presence of God (it goes on lots of trips over time- awesome list from ESV!)
Matthew 27:51-54-When the curtain was torn in two when Jesus was crucified
Ezekiel 43:7- this is the place where I will place my throne and I will dwell among Israel forever
2 Kings 20:20, John 7:37-39, John 9 -Pool of Siloam (or The Pool of Shiloah)
2 Thessalonians 2:4-9- it says its God’s temple that is desecrated
Jeremiah 3:16-there is a verse that says there will be a day where the ark isn’t even in the minds
Matthew 27:27-56,Mark 15:21-38,Luke 23:26-49,John 19:16-37-Jesus’ death and resurrection
1 Peter 1:3-6, 1 John 5:13-14, Ephesians 2:8-10, Hebrews 10:23- We have hope in Jesus
Acts 3:21, Revelations 21:4- Jesus is coming back to restore all things
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today we get to go to class with Dr. Bryan Litfin, and take a deep dive into the history of the Ancient church, and what life looked like after the New Testament ended and generation upon generation began to carry the story of Christ with them everywhere they went and grew the Church around the world. Dr. Bryan has been on the podcast before, where he shared about some of the things we’ll discuss today, but today we look intentionally into what life looked like for Christians in the ancient church and just how powerful the Gospel of Christ was to them in society. They lived lives ruled by polytheistic beliefs, and that meant there was a rule of demonic powers in the world as they knew it. The freedom they found in Christ’s victory over darkness was earth-shattering. Their faith and choice to be part of the church was not a cultural next step, it was a counter cultural, life altering allegiance.
Dr. Litfin also schools us on so many assumptions that are made or just what isn’t widely known about the formation of some of the pillars of the Christian faith and how they unfolded historically. Things such as establishing The Apostle’s Creed, the canon, or the 66 books of the Bible as we know it today, and how it all developed, the establishing of theology because the spiritual power had to be established in the culture of the time. It's all incredibly fascinating and there’s so much here that I think can infuse our faith with fresh fire, and encourage us as we are still fighting spiritual battles today.
I thought it was a fascinating unpacking of how the ancient church was so used to spiritual encounters, there had to be a differentiation about who we are bowing the knee to. We have bowed our knee to so many things for so long that are not the God who loves us, and yet He continues to lavish us with His love, His mercy and His patience so that not one sheep of His flock would be lost.
Dr. Litfin’s books breathe life into the power of the Gospel when Jesus originally placed His feet on the earth and what it looked like when those who had ears to hear took His last command to heart when He said to go and make disciples. YOU are one of those disciples! And this is your call as well my friend. To learn about the God that loves you. Who He is and who He has always been. And then tell everyone. Like the first person, a woman no less, who heard from Jesus’ own lips that He was indeed the Messiah who ran back to her village and proclaimed “come and meet this man, He knew my story!” This is our call too. He knows our story. It matters to Him. You matter. “Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story.”
Connecting with Dr. Bryan Litfin:
Books (Fiction, Nonfiction)
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
-First conversation with Dr. Bryan last year
-Martin Luther and The Reformation
-Christian persecution in Rome
-The conversion of Christianity by Constantine and it changing the landscape of Rome
-”The heart is an idol factory”- John Calvin
-So Shines the Night - Tracy L. Higley (the incredible novel I read about set in Ephesus with Timothy, Paul and the early church
-Jackie Hill Perry - the patience of God
-Thor (not Chris Hemsorth)
-Hercules
-The Apostle’s Creed
-Gnosticism
-The Council of Nicaea
-The Holocaust Museum train car
-Gnostic Gospels
-The Book of Enoch
-Dr. Michael Heiser, our episode
-Francis Chan Forgotten God
-The Davinci Code
-The Confessions of Saint Augustine
-On the Incarnation- Saint Athanasius
-Christian martyrs (a witness)- revered women
-”The Chosen”
-Saint Peter’s Basilica
-The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
-Wisdom from the Ancients
Scripture References:
-Book of Acts (you know I love Bible Project videos! Acts gets a part 1 and part 2)
-Philippians (video)
-Galatians (video)
-Philemon (BP video)
Revelation 1:9-John was sent to Patmos (the book of Revelation)
Ephesians 6:12-The powers and principalities
Acts 19-Paul casting out demons in Ephesus
Romans 6:1-11, 2 Timothy 2:26, Psalm 124:7 -He broke the power of the evil one and freed me from his snare
-Romans 10:9- declare Jesus is Lord
Exodus 34:6-7, Lamentations 3:21-23, Psalm 86:15, Ephesians 2:4-5- God’s mercy and faithfulness (among many, many others)
Judges 4-Deborah
-Scripture talks about elders
-Examples of Women with important roles in the church: (and various scriptures!) Priscila, women that ministered and funded Jesus’ ministry- Mark 15:37-41, Mary Magdalene and the others with her announcing Jesus’ resurrection (John 20:11-18), Lydia (Acts 16)
-John 15:9-27, (esp 15:13) Matthew 25:40-45 -This is how you love one another and this is how you treat one another
-Isaiah 55:11, Philippians 1:15-18, 1 Peter 1:3-5 -The gospel is still real
-Matthew 28:16-20-The great commission is still the call for ever believer
-Matthew 16:18-Peter is the rock the church would be built on
-John 4- story of the woman at the well
-Psalm 107:2- “Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story”
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today we are continuing to talk about living lives of Kingdom influence, discipleship and working out what it looks like to live out our faith with two incredible women, Amy Davison and Hillary Morgan Ferrer of Mama Bear Apologetics.
Hillary is the founder of Mama Bear Apologetics. What is apologetics exactly? Hillary will talk about that with us in this conversation, but essentially it is making a case for why we believe our faith is true. Does the Bible stand up to scrutiny? How does what we believe coincide with how we live? We’ll break that down, define what it means to have a worldview, how that plays out in our postmodern culture, and more. Hillary’s hope is that Mom is the apologist for every home, and she feels called to equip women to bring conversations that develop a worldview and help their kids process their questions, safely process their doubts, and learn how to look for answers. Amy was on the path of pursuing masters in theology and apologetics and encountered Hillary’s work with MBA and reached out because she wanted to be a part of the work, and wa-lah! Their amazing ministry partnership and friendship was born :)
These women are passionate about equipping families to know how to engage their world through the lens of their faith. We’ll tackle especially what our kids are encountering in the world they live in. Amy says, “Every facet of media is communicating a worldview.” We want to be able to equip ourselves and our kids with how to filter and process what they are seeing. They also want to press into places where the Bible and God’s call to live a certain way has been weaponized, and bring into the Light what is true and what has just been perceived to be true. The heart of MBA isn’t to do more shouting though, but to equip us to work through our own beliefs, and then follow God’s call to love our neighbors where they are.
We are not called to disparage or as Hillary says “be the playground morality police,” but we’re called to live counter culturally in a postmodern, post-Christian society and love our neighbor as ourselves. This is hard and holy work, friends, but it is soooo good and I can’t wait to dive into it with you! Whether you’re a Mama or not, this episode and the work of MBA is incredible, and I know you’re going to learn and be stretched here.
The Lord can take our questions. He can stand up to our scrutiny. We see Him all throughout scripture invite questions and He meets people right where they are, because their relationship with Him matters to Him. And you matter, friend. Your story matters.
Connecting with Hillary, Amy and Mama Bear Apologetics:
Hillary Morgan-Ferrer
Amy Davison
Books (the most recent one is Mama Bear Apologetics: Guide to Sexuality)
Podcast
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
Resources:
Apologetics for Women (several interesting articles and resources here, here and here)
Woman Hillary mentioned who shares her testimony on the MBA podcast (Part 1 and Part 2)
First Mamabear book: Mamabear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies
Southwestern Theological Seminary's Stand Firm Conference
Lindsey Medenwaldt, (Love her talking about what turned her on to apologetics here)
My episode with John Basie where we talk about living in a post Christian society
“Ji-Young” An Asian-American puppet premiered on Sesame Street (TOTAL SIDEBAR, but this is the sweetest quote from this article! “What's in a name? Well, for Ji-Young, the newest muppet resident of "Sesame Street," her name is a sign she was meant to live there. ‘So, in Korean traditionally the two syllables they each mean something different and Ji means, like, smart or wise. And Young means, like, brave or courageous and strong," Ji-Young explained during a recent interview. "But we were looking it up and guess what? Ji also means sesame.’" Cue me crying.)
The scientific revolution
Abolition of Man- CS Lewis
The Women’s March (in modern history, and 2017)
A modern retelling of Little Women (the OG by Louisa May Alcott) the one my daughter was reading
Deep Roots Bible curriculum
Ontological value
The Chronicles of Narnia- CS Lewis
Elizabeth Urbanowicz worldview program
Pew Research
The Power to Decide campaign parents, do you think your kids are listening
“Henry Danger”
“You Can’t Do That on Television”
“Sponge Bob”
“The Simpsons”
“Everybody Loves Raymond”
Tabula Rasa
MBA conversation with Monica Cline who used to work for Planned Parenthood
Dorena Williamson- her books, our 3 episodes with her (Episode 10, 11, and 110)
Our series on dealing with doubt with Patrick Prill, Tyler Staton, and Mark Clark
Scripture References:
Exodus 4:14-31- Aaron and Moses being brought together by God
Psalm 127:4- We’re called to be warriors
Genesis 1:27- We’re made in God’s image
Psalm 139:14- We’re made perfectly and wonderfully
Romans 2:12-16- For God has written the Law on our hearts
Mark 2:13-17- Calling of Levi and “eating with sinners”, John 4- Samaritan Woman, Mark 5-sitting with Legion after he was healed, healing a girl and the bleeding woman-just to name a few) -Jesus was with people as they were
John 14:6- Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life
1 Corinthians 5- Paul talking about its not his business to judge those outside (This is a very specific and intense situation of sexual immorality within the church at Corinth and Paul’s like, “hey guys… let’s not focus on what the Corinithains are doing. Live like you belong to Jesus and let’s talk about THAT. Particularly vs 9-13 focus on this. Also, verses 9-10 makes me giggle.)
Romans 3:23- Everyone is born in sin
Colossians 1:4-17, 1 Peter 1:13, Hebrews 10:23- The hope we have in Christ
Philippians 4:13- We can do all things through Christ
Isaiah 30:21- He is the voice behind us and says this is the way walk in it
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share my conversation with you with the wise and gracious John Basie. John is presently the Director of Impact 360 Institute’s Masters program. The heart of the Impact 360 Institute is to “cultivate leaders who follow Jesus.” John and the rest of the staff are passionate about discipleship and asking questions about what it looks like to be an apprentice of Jesus and becoming someone who is seeking to be like Jesus. Discipling Gen Z is the specific focus at the institute as well as with the book John edited and wrote in partnership with many other contributors called Know Be Live: A 360 Degree Approach Discipleship in a Post-Christian Era, as they are the next generation of leaders in this world and in the Kingdom of God. However, the gift of this book’s message is something we all truly need to turn our hearts to.
The book examines that we are all discipled by something or someone. What are the forces that have discipled the next generation, and who are we allowing to continue to disciple us? He also walks us through what it means to say that we live in a “post-Christian culture,” and with that what do we do about it? How do we engage the world in this state? We’re called to pivot our methods, not diminish the message. This next generation is living bombarded by confusion and loud voices, we’re called to disciple and care for them because they are the future, and being willing to engage them where they are, for who they are and what they are wrestling with.
And how do we do that? We live out what John calls “the Great Commandment Mandate:” to love God, and from that love, love people. As we grow in our knowledge of God, and become who He has made us to be, and putting legs on it, with a heart to serve others. This is such a powerful word, and I’m so excited to share it with you.
Additionally, we’re going to talk more about so many things John mentioned in this episode over these next few weeks about what the Church looked like when it began, about the call of the great commission to go and share the Gospel has not changed, but the methods often need to. How do we engage discipleship and conversations that happen all around us and truly apply this pattern of know, be and live. I think this is going to be really helpful for a lot of us who feel the intensity of the pivot in the world, but want to actually press into application in their lives, relationships and conversations. We can do this, friends. With God’s help. He holds our hope. And He freely lavishes it on you because you matter to Him. You matter. And your story matters. Thanks for hanging out with me and I’ll see you next time.
Connecting with John and the Impact 360 Institute:
The book: Know, Be, Live: A 360 Degree Approach to Discipleship in a Post-Christian Era
Audiobook
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Young Life
Dallas Willard “The Gospels of Sin Management” from The Divine Conspiracy
The Billy Graham Library
See the full interview I mentioned with Billy Graham here
Article about the disciples potentially were teenagers
Obergefell v. Hodges decision that legalized gay marriage
Russell Moore- “Christianity is not the same thing as ‘almost Christianity.’”
Willow Creek’s study of church growth didn’t have discipleship impact
Lee Strobel- The Case for Christ author (can also see his story in the movie!)
Kyle Strobel
Bill Hybels
Ravi Zacharias
Biola University
Augustine
Jonathon Morrow (his twitter and his book Welcome to College: A Christ Followers’ Guide for the Journey)
Scripture References:
Matthew 6:5- Don’t be like those pray to hear yourself
Romans 3:23-27, Romans 8:26- We are sinners who still struggle with sin
God’s mercy
1 Timothy 4:12- Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young
Titus 2- You’re not too old to impact lives
Deuteronomy 7:7, Ephesians 1:4-5- God chose you because He loves you
Mark 2:13-17- Jesus called Levi and then said let’s go hang out with your friends
Genesis 1:27- We are image bearers
Genesis 2:15-17- God gives Adam a job
Matthew 22:36-40- The Greatest Commandment
Luke 6:45- Out of the heart the mouth speaks
John 4:1-42- Jesus’ encounter with the woman at the well
Luke 1:39-45- Elizabeth announces Jesus’ Mary’s womb
John 4:28-30, 39-42- The woman at the well going and telling about the Messiah
Luke 24:1-12, John 20- The women who came to the tomb going and telling the disciples Jesus is risen
John 14:15-17, John 15:26-27, 2 Timothy 1:7- We need the Holy Spirit to empower us
John 15- He is the Vine and we are the Branches
Acts 15- The fracturing over circumcision at the council at Jerusalem
Luke 10:27- Loving God with all your mind
Romans 12:2- Being transformed by the renewal of your mind
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Happy New Years Eve, y’all! I am thrilled to share my conversation with the absolutely fantastic JL Gerhardt with you because it feels like a powerful word to walk into this new year with. JL is a writer, storyteller, and teacher who really loves the Lord and helping others fall in love with the Him too. She shares with me her story of learning about God’s love through stories, and experiencing the power of His faithfulness and learning to walk with Him in the dark, the weird, and the beautiful parts of life. One thing that I really treasure about JL is that she is unabashedly authentic and honest, even about the hard things. She sums up how she shares, and why she is willing to go so deep and wide with people in this way: “If I don’t tell them the truth about the pain, then they may not believe me about the Good News.” I just love that.
Our conversation in this episode dives into practical ideas of how to really fall in love with God and encounter Him in a more powerful way in these coming days, how and why that could feel weird for people, and what it might actually look like in the life of a believer. We unpack what it means to look at scripture in various seasons of life and how it impacts our vision of God and the circumstances we are living in, and just how relatable the people of scripture are to us in broken and our mess, and in that we get to see the insane kindness and mercy of God. JL also brings a really powerful word about the love of God and the Greatest Commandment, and how much we have to get the loving God and loving others thing in the proper order, or we’re pouring out from an empty and ill equipped cup.
You guys are just going to love JL, her books, especially the new one Look to Love: A Better Way to Read the Bible, her work with her husband Justin on his podcast “Holy Ghost Stories” and I hope all of it points you to the heart of God, in His word, by His Spirit. As Paul shares in Ephesians, “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:17-19)
No matter where this finds you, here at the end of the year, or the beginning of a new one: you matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with JL:
Newest Book: Look to Love: A Better Way to Read the Bible
Newsletter (like seriously I REALLY love it)
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
-Swallowed Up by JL Gerhardt
-The Body Keeps the Score
-Think Good: How to Get Rid of Anxiety, Guilt, Despair & the Like to Finally Find Peace of Mind by JL Gerhardt
-Crazy Love - Francis Chan
-Sacred Romance: Drawing Closer to the Heart of God by Brent Curtis and John Eldridge
-Love Does by Bob Goff
-Big love for young Leo DiCaprio and “Romeo + Juliet”
-Brene Brown- empathy and listening to stories
-Her husband’s AMAZING- hands down my favorite podcast find this year- podcast Holy Ghost Stories with Justin Gerhardt
-Amanda Bible Williams
-”Holy Ghost Stories” Season 2, episode 10: The Giver and the Taker (the one JL wrote about Eve)
Scripture References:
Matthew 17:1-13- The transfiguration with Elijah and Moses
1 Kings 19:1-18- Elijah in the cave wanting to die
Exodus 17 (vs4) Exodus 32- (to name a couple) Moses freaking out “please do something with these people”
Exodus 17:8-16- Moses can’t even hold his own arms up
Numbers 20:1-13-Moses striking a stone that cost him the promise land
Numbers 27:12-23- Moses getting only a glimpse of the promised land
He keeps His promises (tons of verses!)
Deuteronomy 31:6- He will never leave you or forsake you
Ruth 1:16-17-He will be your God
The book of Psalms
Matthew 22:36-40, Matthew 22:37, Mark 12:30- The greatest command: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
Acts 17:28, Colossians 1:17- God holds all things together, lives and moves and has its being
1 Peter 5:7- God cares about us
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18- Pray without ceasing
1 Timothy 1:17- All glory and honor to God
John 14:15- If you love me you will obey My commands
Psalm 42:7- Deep calls to deep
Acts 7:55-56,Romans 8:34,Ephesians 1:20,Colossians 3:1,Hebrews 1:3,Hebrews 8:1,Hebrews 10:12,Hebrews 12:2,1 Peter 3:22,Revelation 3:21,Matthew 22:44,Acts 2:33- Heaven is the place where He is
Revelation 21:4- Heaven is the place where there is no pain and no tears of pain
1 Corinthians 13 - love of God
Matthew 12:34, Matthew 12:39, Matthew 23:37-39, Luke 11:29, Luke 19:41-44- You wicked generation! Jesus callin’ people out because they knew better
Matthew 6:21- Where your treasure is, your heart will be also
Romans 12:2- Being transformed by the renewal of your mind
2 Corinthians 4:18, Hebrews 12:2- Fix your eyes
Psalm 27:13- What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living
Ephesians 3:17-19
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the absolute pleasure of sharing my conversation with the wonderful Beth Wayland. Beth has been in relational ministry for a very long time first with Campus Crusade for Christ, which is now called CRU and for the last five years she has been working with a ministry she founded called WITH where she ministers to those working in churches, para church ministries and more. Beth is a woman who is deeply passionate about caring for people’s hearts where they are, and especially pressing into places where the pain is intense, relationships may be struggling, and people may not totally know where they belong in the Christian space. From that same space, Beth is both honest (and hilarious) in sharing insights from her journey as a single woman in her 40’s, as well as walking out her experience of finding a place in the Church again after some deep hurt.
Beth is the perfect person to speak into the darkest week of the year, but also herald the process of the Light coming. Jesus came to practice the ministry of presence in each of our unique seasons, and we need to look at how Jesus was with people in tumultuous seasons, including His own birth in Bethlehem. When we look. When we practice healthy curiosity, the results can be truly breathtaking, and life changing. She also provides some incredible questions for us to ponder where we are in our thought process, our pain, and even some practical things that she’s worked through in her relationship with the Lord and with others that I really believe can minister to many in this season.
Friend, I hope as you walk into your Christmas weekend, that you take a deep breath. Wherever you are, you are not alone. Whether for the first time, or for the 50th time, I hope that you are able to take a moment to consider the incredible audacity of God becoming limited and small and vulnerable, the God man. It just overwhelms me with awe and gratitude when I think about Christ coming to be with us down here… meeting messy people where they are, getting to the core of people’s broken hearts… what a wild and loving God who would do such a thing.
And that is why we celebrate Christmas. He came down to become like you, to show you compassion and empathy, to show you how to love others, no matter how different you are. And then, he paid the ultimate price for you. He took on sin and death, and won. By His death that He chose, His burial that entombed the curse that had held the Earth in its grip for so long, and then He was resurrected, totally 100% alive, and through His sacrifice, all of it, we too now get to be 100% alive. The book of Hebrews tells us that Jesus is our great High Priest who can sympathize with our weaknesses, our struggles and our sufferings. He knows that life is hard. Jesus said “in this world you will have trouble, but take heart for He has overcome the world.” The Light of the world came to overpower the world of darkness. And He has, friend. Take heart. And Merry Christmas. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Beth:
Website
*Check out her Events page to see information about her Soul Care Retreat and her Rest in the Wrestle Retreat
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
-”curse of the bambino”
-Jackie Hill Perry’s post on singleness
-Dr. Larry Crabb
-Campus Crusade (now CRU)
-”Is He Worthy?” - Andrew Peterson
-Fleming Rutledge- “Advent begins in the dark”
-”shalom”- wholeness, salvation
-The Samaritan community that still lives in Jerusalem
-Tara Leigh Cobble’s Bible Recap book and podcast
-Mount Gerizim, not Mount Moriah :)
-Twelve Extraordinary Women by John MacArthur
-David Whyte- honesty is a fear of facing what’s inside of us
-C.S Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien’s friendship
-Biola seminary program
Scripture References:
Ephesians 6:12-We are not at war with flesh and blood
Lamentations 3:19-25, James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 1:6-Seeing hope and suffering in the same verses
Mark 4:38-the disciples asking do you even care if we drown
John 20:19-29-the disciples are hiding
John 20:19-21-first thing that Jesus says to them is “peace”
Luke 10:25-37 -The Good Samaritan story
2 Chronicles 10-13-The fractured kingdom of Israel, where it starts
Acts 1:8-The great commission and Samaria
Jeremiah 21-27-They all go into exile ultimately
Zechariah 14:4-Where we believe Jesus will return (on the Mount of Olives)
John 4-The Samaritan Woman / Women at the Well
Matthew 22:36-40-, Luke 10:25-37-The greatest commandment
Hosea 2:14 - “I will lure her into the dessert and speak tenderly to her there.”
Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1- -The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness
Psalm 139:23-24-search me and know me God
The book of Psalms (video from Bible Project)
Philippians 4:8-Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely
Jeremiah 31:31-34,Ezekiel 36:24-28-We have been given a new covenant heart
1 John 4:19, Galatians 5:22-23 -We have been given a capacity to love
Acts 2 - the Holy Spirit comes
The Book of Acts (also, feel free to enjoy this Bible Project video)
John 21:20-22 -Peter asking about John, while Jesus is literally telling him He’ll be the head of the Church
Hebrews 4:14-16- Jesus is our great High Priest who can sympathize with our weaknesses
John 16:33 -Jesus said “in this world you will have trouble, but take heart for He has overcome the world.”
John 1:5-The Light of the world came to overpower the world of darkness.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share my conversation with incredibly sweet Denisse Copeland. Denisse is a wife, a Mom, and an author of Set Apart: Stop Comparing, Own Your Giftedness, and Rest in Jesus. She was born and raised in Puerto Rico and at the age of 16 she and her sister moved to the U.S. with essentially no English, and with no sense of belonging along with a gigantic amount of culture shock. Denisse struggled to find her place, and eventually began looking for it in toxic relationships, partying, and more. One night though, in her desperation and broken heartedness, Denisse cried out to God and He began to make Himself known to her. She found that through the gift of Jesus’ love for her and His desire to have a relationship with her life would never be the same,and now she spends her days sharing that same truth to other women around the world through her ministry Set Apart Daughters.
This episode is one for those of us who struggle to believe that God really loves us, no matter who we are, where we’ve been or what we’ve done. Or for the one who is struggling to believe you do truly have a purpose in life. Denisse encourages us to remember who Jesus has been to us, and look at the gift of love that came down to be with us and sent the Spirit to dwell within our very skin, and made you on purpose, for a purpose.
While we spend the first half of this conversation about having a right vision of he Lord, or of yourself, then in the second half, we will think through how to practice God’s presence with others. However, with Christmas right around the corner, we talk about how to honor people, no matter our relationship status with them, practice boundaries, and also be led by the Spirit in order to love God and love people in a Spirit-led manner for your heart, and those you encounter. I hope this episode encourages you and equips you as you walk out your days.
There is so much left in your story friend. You have a purpose. And you matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Denisse:
Podcast
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
-Francis Chan
-“This Little Light of Mine”
-Boundaries : When to Say Yes, How to Say No to take Control of Your Life
-The meme with the sheep (you’re welcome)
-The shepherds of Christmas possibly were shepherds that watched over the passover lambs
-Hear more from street chaplain Lindsey Krinks about the power of “seeing” people experiencing homelessness in our conversation here and her incredible book Praying with Our Feet: Pursuing Justice and Healing on the Streets.
-Sermon on “love” from Fellowship Bible Church Murfreesboro, TN by Monty Waldron
Scripture References:
Psalm 34:8-Taste and see that the Lord is good
1 Peter 2:9- He calls us out of the darkness and into the Light
John 8:12- He is the Light of the World
Matthew 5:14- A city on a hill cannot be hidden
John 4- The Samaritan Woman
Matthew 8:27- The disciples, who is this man?
John 15- Abiding in Jesus
Galatians 1:10, Colossians 3:23-24- Seeking only God’s approval
Matthew 14:13-21- The Lord will provide with what you have
Luke 9- When He sent the 12 out with very little, but He provided
Deuteronomy 29:5- Israel’s clothes or shoes didn’t wear out, the Lord provided
Luke 2:1-20- The shepherds running to find Jesus
Matthew 12:21- Jesus came to bring hope
John 3:16- Love came down
Matthew 1:23- Emmanuel, God with us
John 14:15-31, Galatians 2:20-Christ is in me (through the Holy Spirit)
Exodus 20:12, Ephesians 6:1-8- Honoring your family, no matter
John 13:35-They will know you by your love
1 John 3:18- Don’t just love with your words, but by your actions
Philippians 4:8-9- Whatever is true, noble, lovely… think about these things
Romans 5:10, Colossians 1:21-23, You were once enemies of God
John 10:10-The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy, but He came to have life to the full
John 10:1-18- the father of lies being your father, My sheep know my voice
Ephesians 5:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:5- Now we are children of the Light/Day
2 Corinthians 3:18 -Being transformed into the image of Christ
Ephesians 4:20-24- Shedding the old skin
Luke 2:4-7- There was no room for Mary and Joseph
Luke 2:8-20-The angels of Christmas (with the shepherds)
Luke 10:38-42- Mary and Martha
Genesis 16:13- Hagar-you are the God who sees me
Luke 1:37 Ephesians 3:20- The Lord can do anything
Matthew 11:15- He who would have ears to hear, let him hear
Acts 2- The spoke in languages the crowd could understand (via tongues and the tongues of fire)
Deuteronomy 14:2, Ephesians 1:4-8- You are set apart
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, we are going to talk more about unpacking the gift of Emmanuel, God with us, with one of my absolute favorite people, Dorena Williamson. Exactly one hundred episodes ago, Dorena became a part of the simply stories life. She’s a children’s book author, a writer, a pastor’s wife and incredible preacher herself whose passion for God’s people and pursuing Biblically diverse unity in the body of Christ has impacted so many people, including myself, and my family. Her books provide verbiage for examining the language we use about our fellow image bearers and modeling those things to our children so that we can better love and serve like Jesus. We talk about what that looks like in this season, the incredible sacrifice of Christ’s coming at Christmas, and so much more.
Looking back on what all you’ll get to hear in this episode, I just am personally remembering these few takeaways from this conversation:
-The call to portray a gospel-centered view of others when we give and serve others around the holidays. That we don’t place ourselves higher than others, we just learn how to see and engage felt needs in the communities where we live, and love and serve them like a true neighbor. One major way we can do this is by carefully choosing our words and offering a perspective for our children that shows care for others; those that we are serving are or who we may see that are struggling are also part of the body of Christ.
-Pressing into uncomfortable conversations with the children in our lives about what they are inevitably going to encounter or have already encountered with a Gospel centered perspective. Dorena reminds us so beautifully “we are the people of God, we can do this,” And whether its about how we treat others, skin color, sex, friends who have different abilities or a whole long list of other things happening in life, if we don’t engage with our children about these things, something or someone will. The Lord will equip us, and He will meet us in it.
-We break down a good bit of the conversation with Jesus around the story of the Good Samaritan and the heart behind the question “who is my neighbor?” I’m still processing who are my neighbors because the Lord has put them in my path, not because they’re the most comfortable people I feel prepared to connect with, but because the Lord saw fit to place them and me for such a time as this. Will I say yes?
This is such a rich conversation, and I cannot wait for you to hear it. I hope and pray that wherever you are, you find new ways to experience Emmanuel, God with us. I pray that we all choose to press into His presence, and choose to grow because of the light He shines in the dark. God’s not finished with any of us. You matter, friend. And your story matters.
Connecting with Dorena:
Books: Colorfull, Thoughtfull, Gracefull, The Celebration Place (Her newest Crowned with Glory coming in 2022!) Here’s a link pre-order The Story of Juneteenth!
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
-Mr. Randall (aka Randall Goodgame from “Slugs and Bugs”) and Dorena on this episode of S&B and his episode with me
-My episode with Dr. Chris Williamson (her husband) from last Christmas (Episode 64)
-The first time that Dorena and I hung out was episode 10 and 11
-Dr. Chris’ rap group (I just love this)
-Their church Strong Tower Bible Church in Franklin, TN
-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
-Memes of the worship hands
-Michelle Reyes, our episode 104 and our instagram conversation talking about having a multicultural Christmas
-The Red Road
-Adam (my brother in law) and I chatting about Indigenous Peoples history and current issues on instagram live
-Fuller Story historic markers in TN, and the U.S. Colored Troop soldier statue
-What happened in Charlottesville, VA
-”Glory”
-The origin of the USCT after the Emancipation Proclamation
-Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies (the first one), the newest one is Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality: Empowering Your Kids to Understand and Live Out God’s Design
-Juneteenth (just made a federal holiday!)
Scripture References:
Isaiah 43:1-7-God created us uniquely to express His glory
Genesis 1:28-31-We are all made in God’s image
Eph 2:14-Eph 2:15-Jesus broke down dividing walls
John 14:16, Acts 2-We were given the Holy Spirit
Matthew 4:18-22,Mark 1:16-20,Luke 5:1-11, John 1:35-51-God raised up leaders (calling of the disciples and starting the church)
Matthew 6:10-Experiencing the Kingdom of God on Earth as it is in Heaven
Hebrews 13:8-Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever
Jesus died and rose from the grave (lots of verses)
Matthew 1-2; Luke 1-2-The Christmas story
Genesis 38-Tamar
Joshua 2, 6:16-19,6:23 -Rahab
2 Samuel 11-David and Bathsheeba
Ruth
Matthew 1-Jesus’ lineage
Luke 2:41-52 Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3; John 7:5; John 7:10;-struggles with Jesus’ earthly parents and siblings
1 Corinthians 15:7 Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19 -redemption because his brothers James (actually named Jacob… more on that here) and Jude (author of the book of Jude)
John 19:25-27-Jesus cared for his mother from the cross
Acts 1 and 2 - birth of the Church and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit
Acts 2:44-47 -how they broke bread and they cared for each other / they sold their possessions and shared with those who didn’t have
Acts 6:1-7-the widows that were being passed over
Matthew 16:24-26-deny ourselves and take up the cross and follow Jesus
Luke 10:25-37-”but who is my neighbor?” (which is part of the conversation with the love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength and The Good Samaritan)
Psalm 139:23-24-search me and know my heart
John 16:33- in this world you WILL have trouble
Matthew 5:27-28-You haven’t murdered, but have you hated? You haven’t committed adultery, but have you known lust?
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, I’m chatting with Allison Hottinger and Lisa Kalberer who are the two sisters that created the Giving Manger. The giving manger is an Advent activity for anyone who is looking for a way to connect kindness, generosity and giving with Christmas and the Gospel, and creates space for people young and old to intentionally experience the beauty and the gift of serving one another right where they are. We’ll unpack the heart of where this idea came from, how it works, and how it has impacted their lives all throughout this episode.
It’s been really interesting as the Lord has laid out this semester of the podcast, to see the consistent themes that come up. Simple kindness serving as a way to share Jesus with the world, breathe hope into the dark places around us, and to breed much needed compassion in all of our hearts keeps coming up again and again and again. So what does it look like to see Emmanuel, God with us in these days? I think kindness, acts of service, and intentionally teaching them to the little people in our lives is a really really good place to start. I don’t want this to be something that wears you out even more this Christmas season. I’m praying that this lands on a discerning spirit for what’s best for you and your home, but its never a bad time to intentionally practice loving like Jesus. It doesn’t have to be Pinterest perfect, or instagrammable, just... start small. This is an invitation to encounter God by emulating His heart right where you are. I think it will breathe life into your weariness more than you could ever realize. I’m right there with you, friend. Remember, Christ came down to be with you as you are, where you are. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Allison and Lisa and the Giving Manger:
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Ann Voskamp’s Advent book, Unwrapping the Greatest Gift
Kindness prompts from GM
Dorena Williamson (our episodes, Part 1 and 2, tune in next week for volume 3!)
Becky Keife’s episode and her book The Simple Difference
Service Project Opportunities from the Giving Manger website
Scripture References:
Matthew 1:18-24, Matthew 2, Luke 1-2- The Nativity story
Matthew 2:11- The wise men brought gifts to Jesus
Matthew 25:40 - what you’ve done to the least of these, you’ve done to Me
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble
Psalm 139:23-24- Search me and know my heart
Galatians 5:22-23- Fruit of the Spirit
Acts 20:35- The joy of giving over receiving
Lamentations 3:22, Hebrews 13:8- God’s love never changes
Mark 12:41-44-The woman giving her only coin in the Temple
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I am sharing my conversation with the absolutely wonderful Becky Keife. Becky is wife, a Mom to 3 boys, an author and the community manager of the online (in)courage community. Today, Becky and I are talking about the topic of her latest book The Simple Difference: How Every Small Kindness Makes a Big Impact. Kindness is something we desperately need and is a powerful gift that is underutilized and underestimated, and Becky lays out beautifully in her book and in this conversation the power of it, and how it ultimately reflects the heart of God.
The idea of this book came from a small act of kindness years ago, but this book was written while watching the LACK of kindness in the world, the challenge of being kind quarantined at home with her family, and its just really beautiful and authentic. God knows we’re going to struggle with this. He knows the world is broken, and I especially wanted to share this now because so many people are smack in the middle of navigating the holidays and in the current environment of the world and even in the Church, it feels really really difficult to just even know how to people, and for many, what to make of God in the midst of it. So we’re going to talk about that.
We also share some thoughts and suggestions for how to go into the holidays with a heart that asks questions first such as can I give this image bearer the dignity of compassion and kindness regardless of how we agree or disagree? On the other hand, we also want to hold proper space for asking good questions about necessary boundaries because those are real and important and healthy where appropriate.
This is hard and holy work, y’all. I know the weariness is palpable in so many that I know, including myself. I hope this ministers to you, encourages you, challenges you, and equips you right where you are today. I really believe, the Lord is making Himself known in so many dark places, and as we transition into a season of the darkest part of the year, and we usher in space for Immanuel, God with us, I just wonder how we could powerfully proclaim His with-ness on this Earth with acts of compassion and kindness? No matter how big, or how small, I hope that wherever you try this out in your life, that is transforms YOU and makes the Lord feel closer and kinder in your own life. Because we all need that. We need to encounter God’s kindness, and to see His presence in our lives and in the lives of those around us because it has the power to transform all of us. He’s not finished here, friends. This is not how the story ends. Just remember: you matter, your story matters.
Connecting with Becky:
Books
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
(in)courage
Dayspring
Lisa Jo Baker
Courageous Kindness: Live the Simple Difference Right Where You Are (bible study Becky wrote to accompany The Simple Difference:How Every Small Kindness Makes a Big Impact.)
Great article from Bible Study tool on : Neighbor was a more general term for person. Neighbor and non neighbor would be synonymous with Jew and Gentile (non-Jew)
Who are the Samaritans?
(in)courage walking through kindness
Scripture References:
-Psalm 100:5, Galatians 5:22-23, Titus 3:4-6 (to name a few)- Our God is kind
-Psalm 25:3, 2 Timothy 1:7- He does not speak to us through shame
-Hebrews 12:6, Revelation 3:19 (to name a couple!)- He disciplines, corrects and encourages us to repentance
-Genesis 16:13- The first person who ever names Hagar and calls Him “El Roi”- “The God who sees me” Full story is Genesis 16 and also Genesis 21:8-20-- I mixed these 2 stories together when I talked about it. So sorry!
-Romans 2:4- The kindness of God leads us to repentance
-Luke 10:25-37- The Good Samaritan
-Matthew 22:36-40- Second greatest commandment- love your neighbor
-Leviticus 26:1, Deuteronomy 12:4, and then THIS is a list of so many of the times that share a loaded history of trying to get the Jews to stop worshiping idols of other cultures
-Hagar (see above), Rahab, Ruth, A Cannanite woman, the Samaritan woman, An Ethiopian Eunuch, THE EARLY CHURCH- (etc, etc) -We see God fold in people from other cultures
-1 Kings 12- The division of Northern and Southern Kingdom
-Matthew 9:10-17,Mark 2:15-22,Luke 5:29-39- Jesus eats with “sinners”
-Matthew 9:35-38, John 21:15-25, Acts 1:8, Acts 2, Acts 4:23-37- God invites us to show His care out of the overflow of the Holy Spirit
-Romans 12:18-Inasmuch as it depends on you live peaceably with everyone
-Genesis 1:27- We are made in God’s image
-Isaiah 6, 2 Corinthians 5:20, 1 Thessalonians 2:4, - Christ’s ambassadors
-Matthew 5:13-16-We are Christ’s Light bearers
-Luke 16:10- Being faithful with little
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the absolute pleasure of sharing with you my conversation that I got to have with the wonderful Kayla Craig. Kayla is the author and creator of Liturgies for Parents, as well as her recent book To Light the Way: A Collection of Prayers and Liturgies for Parents. Today, Kayla shares the introduction of liturgical prayers into her faith life as she was up to her eyes in a situation where one of her children’s lives was hanging in the balance. Someone gave her a book of prayers that helped anchor her in that season when she was exhausted, scared, wrestling and desperately needed the Lord, but didn’t know how to find the words to pray. The prayers she found in that book of those who had been heartbroken and in desperate need of hope from the Father before, gave her the words she needed right when she needed them.
From that experience, she began to pour out her heart and write real life prayers, for real life people walking through the good, bad and the ugly of being a broken human raising broken humans. Kayla invites us to soak in the deep love of God, and to see it in all things because His presence is in all things. Kayla also shares what her experience of being a parent of a blended family with a medically fragile daughter, as well as her black, brown and white siblings, and how her faith has been pushed to parent by faith, and to show that faith to her kids.
As you walk into your Thanksgiving week, I hope this episode encourages you and helps you to know that no matter what you are walking in to this holiday season, you’ll know how much God loves you, is near to you, and that you are not alone. I pray wherever this episode finds you friend, that you remember 3 things: The Lord will complete the work He has begun in you. It is never too late for that journey to begin in you. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Kayla:
Book : To Light the Way: A Collection of Prayers and Liturgies for Parents
Her instagram
Liturgies for Parents Instagram
Podcast
Podcast Instagram
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
Smad on “Gilmore Girls”
Every Moment Holy by Douglas McKelvey
The Book of Common Prayer
Colorfull- Dorena Williamson
Thoughtfull - Dorena Williamson
Gracefull - Dorena Williamson
My episode with Dorena Williamson part 1 and part 2
G-Tube
Norman Rockwell’s Thanksgiving painting “Freedom from Want”
Plumline- the standard for measuring the temple
John Pavlovitz (their episode)
Father Greg Boyle (their episode)
Lisa Sharon Harper (their episode)
Latasha Morrison (their episode)
Her prayer for Afghanistan
Scripture References:
Matthew 17:20- Faith of a mustard seed
Numbers 16- Aaron walked and interceded between the living and the dead
2 Chronicles 20:12- “We don’t know what to do, but our eyes are on You”
God is still sovereign (a great list and commentary on this :))
Matthew 6:9-13-The Lord’s prayer
Exodus 17:8-16-Friends that hold your arms up (from Moses’ story)
Romans 8:26-27-The Holy Spirit prays for us
Mark 12:30-31- Love your neighbor
Galatians 5:22-23- Fruits of the Spirit
Isaiah 53:4-Christ took on our sufferings
Hebrews 4:15- We have a High Priest who sympathizes
Luke 13:22-30-What does it mean for us to live where the first is last?
Luke 24:5-7-Why do you look for the living among the dead?
Luke 10:25-37-Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I am sitting down with the incredible Kat Armas. Kat is a Cuban-American author and podcaster who is passionate about elevating the voices of women of color, asking big questions and wrestling with American culture to have a more clear view of God and how He makes Himself known through people and their experiences. She invites readers into the wrestle of our ideas about wisdom, or ideas we have developed about what makes someone a “theologian,” and perhaps how we limit who is influential in our faith development in beautiful book Abuelita Faith: What Women on the Margins Teach Us About Wisdom, Persistence and Strength. After being raised in Miami, Florida, surrounded by Cuban culture, and then moving to predominantly white evangelical world in seminary, Kat struggled to find her footing as a woman in male-dominated space, and as a woman of color, raised by women, and called by God to use her gifts for His glory.
We’ll talk about things like: What do you do when your life doesn’t pan out into what may be described as a typical “American” family or faith? How do you really wrestle with the Christianity that has been passed down to you when that’s its history? We’ll define some buzzword terms and try to take the sting out of them that can keep us from actually having productive conversations about them like patriarchal vs. matriarchal society, a colonized Jesus vs. Jesus in the context of the Bible. Decolonizing, Deconstruction, etc.
We’re going deep, friends. This is an opportunity for you to sit at a table where you may not be the most comfortable, but where there is such beauty to behold, things to learn about a culture unique from your own, and a fuller picture of how God makes Himself known in other communities in the world, and how He may have something to share specifically with you about who YOU were uniquely made to be in our homes, in our faith families and the body of Christ as a whole.
Reading Kat’s book, and spending time with her has really stretched me. One thing that encourages me so much is that God is there in the midst of our complicated and messy stories of being a human. Jesus meets ALL of us exactly where we are, Living in the middle place, where so much of what we have known and seen, where we’re from, and being willing to process a more robust view of God, and seeing Him through the eyes of our friends and neighbors in scripture has just made God all the more powerful, merciful and beautiful to me. It makes the call to go and share the Gospel with ALL nations so much more powerful and dare I say possible? When we are willing to learn about what life may look like for various nations, tribes, tongues and cultures unique from mine, then there is compassion to come together as we are, where we are, and there we can talk about Jesus. There, we can see how much all our stories matter. Your story matters, friend. You matter.
Connecting with Kat:
Book
Podcast - “The Protagonistas”
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
-Dr. Michelle Reyes
- the idea that white people do or don’t have a culture
-”Machismo” - (literally defined as sexism / dictionary defines it as “strong or aggressive masculine pride”)
-Martin Luther King Jr. - discussing the concept of “class” in America
-Patriarchy- “rules of the father”
-Dr. Miguel De La Torre, The Jesus of “los humildes” (the humble)
-un baile divino- “a divine dance” (where we dance in the middle_
-“El mundo zurdo” - the left-handed world (on the other hand)
-Rome conquered Greece (for the record lol)
-Willie James Jennings- After Whiteness: An Education in Belogning
-Jemar Tisby
-The AND Campaign
-What is systemic racism? (What is redlining? Addressed in the video and also here)
-What’s happening in Canada unveiling the mass graves at residential schools (See our insta live about this and listen to my episode with Jane Kirkpatrick as well)
-Holocaust History (just scratchin the surface here)
-The mass exodus from the western Church // (Also an interesting article specifically about single women leaving the Church)
-Barbara Brown Taylor - The Preaching Life
-The book of Habbakuk is all a minor prophet wrestling with God
-The Color of Compromise: The Truth About the American Church’s Complicity in Racism- Jemar Tisby
-Blessing and baptisms for enslaved people during slavery, was different for them than white people because it defined your freedom and salvation under your master, not just Christ
-Episode where we discuss cultural paradigms
-The mantilla
-The exilic Cuban community
-What happened with Fidel Castro
-”subiendo” - survival day to day
-John MacAruthur and “go home” -- Just a little editor thought drop here. I am not a” throw the baby out with the bathwater” person. I think this was a really unfortunate moment in JM’s ministry. The Lord can use anything for good, and I’ve seen Him do it. What happened that day through his comments is still hurtful on so many levels to me personally and so many women that I know and love in this ministry life, and had truly astounding ripple effects I am still feeling in my own life and faith community. I left it as part of the conversation with Kat because I think it's important to hear the hurts of people, but I also don’t mean to leave it in there to act as a “cancelling” of someone who I do believe is passionate about God’s Word, he’s just also human, and God is God in his life, and is still bringing the work in him to completion. Additionally, I don’t know who Kat’s hermeneutics professor was that said what he said to her, but I pray the Lord meets him and shows him the gift that the daughters of Eve offer to the Kingdom of God no matter where God leads them and regardless of their marital status. We’re all being stretched. Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father and says “I will complete the work I began in them.” Further up, and further in.-xo, Em
*UPDATED NEWS ON THE CUBAN CRISIS AND WAYS TO SUPPORT CUBAN PEOPLE DIRECTLY:
-Monday the 15th- there was a worldwide march for Cuban freedom.-N15 // NBC’s aritcle-- You can also see a lot more current updates from the instagram accounts and Twitter accounts posted below. Its honestly challenging to get updated news accounts at the moment.
-As things stand as the date of publishing this podcast, Wednesday 11/17
-NYT Article from Sunday 11/14about the food shortage, internet censoring and more that has sparked the huge planned protest for 11/15.
-Washington Post article about the lengths the Cuban government are going to in order to discourage participation in the 11/15 demonstration and the role of U.S. politics and current policies happening on the hill affecting the Cuban people.
-Marissa Daniela- a Cuban creator who is passionate about connecting what’s happening in Cuba to the world and to the Cuban diaspora.
-Recent footage in Cuba
-The #freecuba hashtag from Twitter.
-The #N15Cuba hashtag from Twitter
-SOSCuba
-Support the search for the hundreds of missing people
-Human rights violations in Cuba
Scripture References:
Genesis 16, Genesis 38, Exodus 1:15-21, Joshua 2, Judges 4, Ruth and Naomi, 2 Samuel 11-12, Luke 18:1-8, Luke 8:3, Acts 16 (JUST TO NAME A FEW!!!!) - Women using the wisdom they gained from survival and God blessing it, using it,
Jesus reflects the humble -- link to 100 verses about this
Luke 2:1-20-Jesus was born in a stable/cave, etc.
Matthew 2-His parents were young people fleeing their land
Revelation 19:11-Jesus in Revelation- the rider in white who is faithful and true
Jesus appears in the Old Testament in so many places (Awesome scripture list and commentary)
God really cares about the righteousness of his kids (Big list!)
Book of Ezekiel - (Watch this super helpful Bible Project video about this) Babylon is coming and making it really ugly, God meets them in exile
The book of Esther happens in exile (hear us talk about it and read the book aloud on the podcast)
Mark 3:13-19,Matthew 10:1-4,Luke 6:12-16- -Jesus’ disciples were a diverse group of people
Ruth and Naomi,-Ruth and Naomi
Genesis 38-Tamar
Genealogy of Jesus with the women, (links to all of them in the top reference)-The women in the genealogy of Jesus and their complicated stories of survival
Matthew 7:24-26-Built on rock or on sand?
Psalm 103:6, Micah 6:8, Hosea 12:6, Psalm 37:27-40, Amos 5 -God is passionate about justice
Deuteronomy 15:7-11, Deuteronomy 24:17-21, Psalm 82:3, Isaiah 1:17, Luke 14:12-14 (just as a few examples) -God is passionate about caring for women, orphans and those in the margins
Acts 15: the council of Jerusalem (is circumcision necessary, do you have to stop being a Jew, etc.)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I am chatting with much beloved fiction author Regina Scott. Regina is the author of more than FIFTY books, and she has lived such a cool life. She’s a wife and a mother, she’s a scientist, she’s an author, she’s a woman with a killer costume collection, but most of all she is someone whose kindness and sense of wonder about the world is contagious.
During our conversation, Regina shares her fascinating story with us and how it has shaped her vision of the world, and the worlds she creates in her books. We also do some major history nerding out, particularly about women’s history on the West Coast and pursuing the right to vote. You’ll get a kick out of some of the crazy reasons society believed women shouldn’t vote, and the unique ways women went about showing that they indeed could do many things others believed they couldn't do. She also shares all kinds of super fascinating history that she has come across in her research for her historical fiction works, especially about the early development of National Parks in the U.S.. We discuss how God uses creation, history, and anything and everything to speak to us and how we can encounter Him uniquely and intentionally because He is in all things.
Regina is just so lovely. She instantly feels like a warm friend, who loves stories, history and has such a sweet sense of wonder about her, so I know you guys are just going to love hanging out with her and learning from her. Maybe you’ll learn something you didn’t know, or maybe you’ll be encouraged to not give up on the dream that’s still in your heart. Maybe you need a push to pursue some wonder in your days. Wherever this finds you, I hope you know how much you matter. You are here on this earth on purpose, and as long as you’re breathing, your story isn’t over. You matter, friend. Your story matters.
Connecting with Regina:
Website (where she does most of her communicating and has the free resources and stories!)
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
The Unflappable Miss Fairchild
A View Most Glorious
Elizabeth Cady Stanton and gathering attention for the right to vote
Mt. Rainier
Fay Fuller - the 1st woman to climb Mt. Rainier in 1890
The group of women who climbed together in 1910
Women got the right to vote federally in 1920
Historic arguments about why women shouldn’t have been allowed to vote because they couldn’t handle it (eye roll)
God revealing Himself in Creation
The Panic of 1893
“Indian Henry”
Yosemite
Yellowstone
The Alpine Meadows
Smoky Mountain fire
The Grand Canyon
A Distance Too Grand
Nothing Short of Wondrous
How going outside can help your mental and physical health
Star Trek :)
Scripture References:
Genesis 3- the origin of tension between men and women
Psalm 139:14- God made you uniquely
Jeremiah 1:5, Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28, Psalm 33:11 God has a purpose for you
1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12:3-8- God gives everyone spiritual gifts
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I am chatting with speaker and author Michelle Reyes. Michelle’s ministry lives at the intersection of faith, culture, and justice. She is the Vice President and co-founder of the Asian-American Christian Collaborative, and she and her husband, Aaron, planted a church in East Austin, TX where she serves as the scholar in residence. Michelle and Aaron lead their church body to serve the vulnerable in their community as the hands and feet of Jesus and share the hope of Christ wherever they go. Her book Becoming All Things: How Small Changes Lead to Lasting Connections Across Cultures is an incredible deep dive into the role of diversity in the Bible and how it was celebrated in the early church.
During our conversation today, Michelle unpacks for us what the 1st century Church looked like when Paul was addressing becoming all things to all people uniquely for who they are for the sake of the Gospel, but not to compromise the message of the Gospel, but to recognize and respect that no two people are the same no matter their ethnicity, cultural identity, and celebrate the unique design of each person made in the image of God.
Michelle’s voice is so valued in my life. She is always honest, always points to Jesus, and is always holding space for whoever has ears to hear to deep dive in scripture and to hear the stories in real life from other cultural perspectives. One thing she shares in this conversation that I think is so powerful is this: “Unity is not about conformity, unity is learning to make space for all of our differences and embrace them.” It's about removing divisions and hostilities between peoples, and that when we do that work, it's going to be uncomfortable because people are people, but “the pursuit of unity demands that we say ‘how much cultural discomfort am I willing to forbear for the sake of the Gospel?’”
This is such an incredible conversation, friends. Come dive in deep with us! The Lord isn’t finished with any of us, and He has so much more to show us when we celebrate the story He is telling in each unique representation of His creativity in creation. And that means you too. YOU matter, your neighbor matters, and your story matters.
Connecting with Michelle:
Asian American Christian Collaborative (AACC)
Book
Book on Audible (which is how I read it! So good.)
Quick links to some of the resources she offers that were mentioned
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
-Forced laborers who built the railroad in Uganda
-Genocide in Uganda under President
-German/Protestant reformation and Martin Luther
-Hope Community Church
-Vida House
-Hidden Children of the Holocaust
-The internment camp in New York for Jewish refugees during WWII
-The Jewish peoples of the 1st century
-Who are the Pharisees?
-Gamaliel (Paul’s mentor)
-Who are the Sadducees?
-Who were the Jewish Zealots?
-Who are the Samaritans? (This stems from the division of the Northern and Southern Kingdoms and a very small portion of them still live in Israel today. See this recent article).
-The Jewish Diaspora
-Eric Metaxas and white Jesus
-”that” picture of Jesus, which is actually a painting by Warner Sallman called “Head of Christ”
-An article about how Jesus began to be seen as white and European in art
-A really great article about white privilege in the Church by Jemar Tisby
-George Floyd’s murder
-Murder of 6 Asian- American women in Atlanta
-Upholding the orthodoxy
Scripture References:
Psalm 107:2 -Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story
1 Corinthians 9:19-23
1 Corinthians 9:20- To the Jews I became like a Jew
Genesis 1:27- We are all made in the image of God
Galatians 3:26-29 - there is neither Jew nor Greek, etc.
Genesis 11:1-9- The tower of Babel
Acts 2:1-31- Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 2- Paul would never distort the Gospel or appease people
Matthew 8, Matthew 9:10-17,Mark 2:15-22,Luke 5:29-39, Luke 19:1-10, Matthew 26:6–13; Mark 14:3–9; Luke 7:36–50; John 12:1–8, John 13- Jesus adapted Himself in so many situations, but didn’t compromise the truth
1 Corinthians 6:12- I may be free to do anything, but I must not become a slave to anything
Matthew 10:2-4-The general makeup of Jesus’ disciples was culturally diverse
John 13:35 - they will know we are Christians by our love
James 1:19- be slow to speak, quick to listen
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast we have speaker, author, mentor, and spiritual support leader for the YouVersion Bible app, Cindy Beall. She is also a woman who has been through incredible seasons of heartbreak after her husband revealed his unfaithfulness to her with multiple women, he was deep into an addiction to pornography, and one of the women he had slept with was pregnant. Cindy shares with us with such beautiful honesty where God met her in her heartbreak, and what the journey looked like when she felt called to stay with her husband as God restored her his’s life, her life, and their fractured family. Ten years later, Cindy wrote a book called Healing Your Marriage When I Trust is Broken: Finding Forgiveness and Restoration, and now ten years after its first release, and 20 years after that heartbreaking season of their lives, the book is being re-released with updated insights from its original publication in order to counsel and care for those who are living in similar seasons of heartbreak.
Not everyone’s story is like Cindy’s, and we discuss that at length, but everyone will experience some type of betrayal and suffering, and I hope and pray that this message from Cindy can infuse hope into your soul that the Lord is near to you. We also talk about the powerful impact of porn and pornography addiction for men and for women, and how the human brain and body can so easily become entangled by it, as well as what it's like to hear from God, the power of the Word, prayer, living in community and how the Lord can be close to the brokenhearted.
Listen, friend, I just want to reiterate something Cindy says in her powerful book and it's this: “I can’t promise you that God will restore to you what has been lost, but please know He will restore you.” Don’t lose heart, friends. Keep going. Ask for help. Cry out to the Lord. Take a nap. Make the call. Whatever your next right step is, the Lord can and will meet you in it. Further up and further in; that’s where we draw closer to Him. You matter, friend. Your story matters.
Connecting with Cindy:
20th Anniversary of Healing Your Marriage When I Trust is Broken: Finding Forgiveness and Restoration
Website
Episode Sponsor: His Kids Company
Use the code SIMPLY20 for 20% off your purchase!
Shop!
References:
LifeChurch in Oklahoma
Creators of the YouVersion Bible App
The Bible Recap
Tara Leigh Cobble’s episode 60
Suicidal Ideation
Craig Groeschel
Chronicles of Narnia: The Last Battle
Kristin Schmucker with Daily Grace Co.
Hunter Beless with “Journeywomen” Podcast
Research on the effects of pornography
Connecting with her YouVersion Team
Resources to Help with Porn Addiction:
Covenant Eyes
XXX Church
Family Life
Scripture References:
Romans 10:9-10 -It is with your heart that you believe, and with your mouth you profess
Luke 1:37, Luke 21:33- The Word of God will never fail
Habakkuk 2:3- the vision yet for the appointed time
Galatians 6:9- don’t grow weary in doing goods
Psalm 107:2- Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story
Joel 2:25 - “He will restore the years the locusts have eaten”
Job 42:7-17- where everything was reversed and restored
Psalm 23:3-He will restore the soul
Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 - You are who you are because of who God says you are.
2 Corinthians 12:9-His grace is sufficient, His power is made perfect in my weakness
2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (Message translation)- My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness.
Hebrews 12:1- Throw off everything hinders you
Deuteronomy 6:4-7,Matthew 22:37-40,Mark 12:30-31,Luke 10:27- Love the Lord your God, with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
Galatians 5- We feed our flesh or we feed our spirit
Psalm 34:18- He is close to the brokenhearted
John 10:10- The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy
Ephesians 6:10-18- Armor up! (Armor of God)
Matthew 9:35-38- The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast, we have a much beloved returning guest, Jane Kirkpatrick. Jane was my guest on episode 53. Her books explore women in history that may not be more readily featured in the average history book. Her most recent book The Healing of Natalie Curtis, is based on a woman who left New York City after a successful professional music career, but experienced a meltdown, and headed west in pursuit of healing her body and soul. What Natalie Curtis found there was a people group that used music in every part of their life, and it spoke to her weary soul… but she soon learned, sharing their music was illegal because of something called the Code of Offenses. These laws which were established in 1883 were designed to erase, silence and assimilate to the point of destruction Indigenous Peoples' practices and any part of their way of life. Natalie ultimately received permission from the U.S. government to record some of their songs and practices so that they would not be lost forever.
Jane shares a fictionalized account of Natalie’s life and experiences, as well as chronicling much of the often untold or ignored experience of Indigenous Peoples, including the atrocities surrounding boarding schools, where the literal motto was “kill the Indian, save the man.” Mixed with some of her own personal experiences with the Indigenous Peoples in her life from when she worked with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, this book and our conversation is incredibly eye opening about this complicated and painful part of our American history that is still carrying many lingering effects today. Jane and I discuss questions such as what do we do with all of this presently, especially as white Christians, and how do we better engage the ministry of presence and share the gift of empathy. These are deep and often uncomfortable places to dive into, friends, but these stories matter, and the stories of the past and the present of all God’s image bearers matters.
This week in our kitchen I wrote down the verse from Matthew 5 that says: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Then I asked the question of myself and the kids “How can I be the light of Christ this week?” In that same vein, I know that learning about the dark things people have done in Jesus’ name can be really difficult. But I really believe that when we learn about people’s experiences, it can help us shine a brighter light for Christ because we can share about who God truly is and how He intersects every type of pain on Earth, and every single story can find hope in Jesus. There is so much to learn, not just about this, but in so many areas of life. So we keep telling our stories, we keep listening to these stories, and we remind each other that they matter. You matter. And your story matters.
Connecting with Jane:
Books
Most recent book: The Healing of Natalie Curtis
Videos of her Teaching
Website
References:
Jane’s first visit on the podcast, episode 53
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
Natalie Curtis
Blackfoot Nation
The Indian Code of Offenses
Cherokee Nation
Trail of Tears
Abraham Lincoln’s autopsy (Natalie’s father was Army Surgeon Edward Curtis)
The Snake Dance
Stacey Abrams
The book I shared the story from is Our Time is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America, the story of the Peltiers
Residential Schools // Boarding Schools -- This article is from the NY Times BEFORE the mass grave findings truly began. It estimates in the hundreds… we know now its in the thousands
Natalie’s book she wrote (the real Natalie): The Indians' book; an offering by the American Indians of Indian lore, musical and narrative, to form a record of the songs and legends of their race
Rwanda and South African Apartheid
The findings of the mass graves from the residential schools in Canada (and they’re just getting started, that doesn’t even count what hasn’t happened in the U.S.) : Just in Canada, the latest count of recovered bodies: 6,509
The Secretary of Interior: Deb Haaland
Upworthy
The Good News Movement
Qualla Boundary
A Tiny Toe-Dip into Resources and Ways you can learn about the history of the Indigenous Peoples and Residential Schools in particular:
Film & TV:
-
“Unseen Tears”
-
“We Were Children”
-
“Unspoken: America’s Native American Boarding Schools”
-
“Our Spirits Don't Speak English”
-
“Dawnland”
Articles:
Boarding School Healing(dot)org
Indigineous Peoples’ Day
NABS
Scientific American
BBC
New York Times
CBC
*If you’d ever like to find out if you are living on tribal land and which nation it belonged to go here.
Other Books for Adults and Kids:
-Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing, Dehumanizing, Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery- Mark Charles and Soong-Chan Rah
-Native: Identity, Belonging, and Rediscovering God- Kaitlin B. Curtice
- Kids
-
- We are the Water Protectors- Written by Carole Lindstrom and illustrated by Michaela Goade
- Stolen Words - Written by Melanie Florence and illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard
- Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story- Written by Kevin Noble Maillard and illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
- When We Were Alone - Written by David Alexander Robertson and illustrated by Julie Flett
IP Instagram Accounts to Follow for Learning:
-- Let me say that there are a lot of Indigineous Peoples that really, really, really struggle with Christianity because of their history and intergenerational trauma from the methods being used, namely the Doctrine of Discovery and the abuses of Residential Schools, to assimilate them into white culture in the name of Jesus. With the exception of Red Road, most of these accounts do not encounter the world from a Biblical worldview. However. I have learned a lot about their history, their present, and what it looks like when they encounter the world, particularly white Christians and it is very humbling, eye opening, and it has pushed me to try and navigate this conversation differently. Xo- Em
Red Road Official (Also featured on Annie F Downs’ podcast this week!)
Native American Indian Association of Tennessee
National Museum of the American Indian
James Jones -He uses his platform to share his own experience, the significance and history of various tribal dances, and more.
The Indigineous Foundation- Shares a lot about the experience of women and children.
Neon Moon Hi*Voltage Saloon- A local to TN business that is the first IP owned coffee house in the area. They support products made by other IP, particularly coffee.
Scripture References:
Matthew 4:1-11, Matthew 12,Matthew 23,Matthew 21:12-13, Mark 11:15-18, -moments where Jesus confronted people
Luke 19 ,Matthew 9:10-17,Mark 2:15-22,Luke 5:29-39-Jesus came alongside the every day people He encountered
Matthew 5:14-16-The Light inside of us
Mark 12:30-Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and strength
Mark 12:31-Love your neighbor as yourself
Ephesians 6:12-we have one enemy who seeks to destroy
Matthew 5:14-16- You are the light of the world
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today we are doing something a little different in order to raise an Ebenezer because of what God has done over the last 100 episodes. One of my dearest friends and I sat down at her kitchen table and just… talked. As someone who has walked with me through all of the life that’s happened since we began the podcast, April McKinney was the perfect person to talk about where we’ve been and where we’re going.
We talk about things like the effect of covid on us personally, the world, our communities, the Church, and what that has taught us, and I answer some questions friends and listeners have sent in, and man, they did not hold back! All of the stories we’ve encountered on the podcast have revealed in some measure how the stories of those around us can inform our compassion, broaden our perspective, and give us a more intentional glimpse into God’s vision of His upside down Kingdom if we let them.
Our longing for resolution, the need for perseverance, and living in a season where we are all desperately seeking hope has postured us to either give into the fight or flight that wrecks our struggle for control or it helps us see how much we need to surrender to the One that holds all things together. The digging deeper into our faith, into the Word, seeking repentance, holding on to a teachable spirit, and learning more about who God is so we can trust Him more is hard, holy, and necessary work.
Thank you for all the time you’ve spent with me over the last 3 seasons and all the episodes that have led us here, friend. I’m excited about what’s coming next and where God is leading, and how He’s growing me as well. If there’s an episode you’ve really liked or maybe learned something from the guest, I’d love to hear about it! Feel free to send me a message any time, or share about it through a review! I’m grateful for all of these stories and I want you to know you matter, friend. Your story matters.
References:
-my Dad on the podcast episode 12
-”The Morning Show”
-Ashley Abercrombie - episode 2 and episode 96
The Promised Land
The Babylonian Captivity
The last time April was on the podcast episode 49
Jackie Hill Perry
“Is He Worthy” - Andrew Peterson
“No One’s Ever Cared For Me Like Jesus” -
What is an “Ebenezer”
“Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”
Dorena Williamson - Episodes 10 and 11
Dr. Michael Heiser - Episode 41
Todd Nettleton- VOM Radio- Episode 71
Tessa Afshar - Episode 94
Marian Jordan Ellis - Episode 100
Kayla Craig aka Liturgies for Parents (episode coming soon!) - her amazing new book “To Light Their Way”
Jennifer Greenberg (abuse survivor)- Episode 4
20,000 Words with April McKinney
“Colorfull” by Dorena Williamson
Dr. Chris Williamson- Episode 64
Lindsey Krinks- Episode 87 / IGTV Discussion
Kristi McLelland
Rachelle Dekker - Episode 56
Sarah and Beth of Pantsuit Politics- Episode 6
“Every story whispers His name” - Jesus Storybook Bible - Sally Lloyd Jones
Scripture References:
The Book of Ruth
The Book of Esther
Hebrews 4:12- The Bible is alive and active
Philippians 4:8- Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely
Romans 5:3-5-Perseverance that produces hope
John 11- Jesus wept outside of Lazarus’ tomb
Hebrews 4:15- High Priest who can sympathize
Matthew 27:46- Jesus feeling Fatherless on the cross
Matthew 12:22-32, Luke 11:14-23, Mark 11:27-12:17, John 8:1-11 (just to name a few)- Jesus knows what it looks like for people to struggle with religious leaders
Mark 12:13-17- Jesus knows what it looks like for people to struggle with the government (also, GREAT article here)
John 3:1-9, Matthew 11, Mark 4:35-41 , Mark 10:17-27, Jesus knows what it looks like for people to question everything
Matthew 8, Matthew 9:36, Matthew 9:20-22,Mark 5:25-34,Luke 8:43-48 -Jesus knows what it looks like for people to long for resolution to their pain
Isaiah 53- Jesus wasn’t the type of Messiah people were looking for
1 Samuel 2:2 (to start, and then here’s a whole list!) God is holy
2 Corinthians 5:21- There is no sin in God (great article here)
Psalm 34:18 - God is close to the brokenhearted
Genesis 35, 1 Samuel 7:12, Joshua 4- Ebenezer examples
Joel 2:25-32, Isaiah 30:18-26, Romans 8:18-24- God’s longing to restore
Matthew 11:28-30 / 1 Peter 5:7- God cares about what hurts us
Romans 12:15- Mourn with those who mourn
Revelation 21:4- Heaven is the place that does not have pain
John 2:23-25- Jesus doesn’t reveal who He is bc He knew their hearts
Luke 2:21-38- Simeon coming to the Temple (not when he was born but when he came to be circumcised- sorry!)
Deuteronomy 18:11 / Numbers 18:21- The Levites were not given land, their inheritance was serving the Lord. Their provision came from the offerings of the people
Exodus 16- The manna that each family receives is unique
Matthew 25:14-30- The Parable of the Talents
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today is our 100th episode!!!!! How in the world did that happen?!?! I can hardly believe it. My guest today feels like such a perfect person to celebrate the great things God has done with. I’m chatting today with speaker, author, and powerhouse Bible Study teacher, Marian Jordan Ellis. Marian’s ministry and podcast lives under the umbrella of This Redeemed Life. That’s the banner over her life, and today she shares with us how far God has brought her from a story story immersed in trauma, chasing after the darkness, trying to drown her emptiness in success, sex, money, and lifestyle that looked amazing to the world, but left her feeling empty al the time. After a desperate prayer one night in a bar, she was radically transformed and redeemed by Christ, and now is called to share that life changing gift with women around the world.
I hope that today’s conversation leaves you hungry and thirsty for more of Jesus. I know that we feel surrounded by a lot of hard and confusing things right now, but God’s ability to transform lives has not changed. The lies that we believe about our bodies, our pasts, our identities, our failures, whatever it is we have allowed to define us and declare our worth is not up for debate in Jesus’ eyes. You are His beloved one that He treasures. You are His masterpiece. There is no place you’ve gone too that’s too far gone for Him.
Take it from a woman who used to believe her life meant nothing and could never be used by God, looked for love in toxic places, you matter to Him. This, wherever you are today, this is not how the story ends, friend. And if you are living in a place that testifies God’s redemption in your life, praise Him! Tell Him how grateful you are again today and then tell someone what God has done for you. You have no idea who may need to hear that because their hope is gone and the Holy Spirit may use your story to breathe life into their hope again.
This is why we do this, friends. These are why the redeemed of the Lord are called to tell their story. It's an incredibly beautiful gift to share this space with y’all and raise Ebenezers with people like Marian, The truth is there are no simple stories. But God can and will use ANY story to simply make Himself known to His creation over and over and over again. Thank you for being here with me. Thank you for YOUR story. Thank you for sharing these stories here on the podcast. Thank you to everyone who has come and shared their story so far, and the many more to come. You matter, and your story matters. For His glory.
Connecting with Marian:
Bible Studies and Books
Podcast
This Redeemed Life
Episode Sponsor: His Kids Company
Use the Code: SIMPLY20 for 20% off
Shop Here
Follow them on: Facebook, Instagram
References:
“Sex and the City”
“Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”- U2There is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of each man which cannot be satisfied by any created thing but only by God the Creator, made know through Jesus Christ.”- Blaise Pascal
“Reckless Love”
C.S. Lewis quote about God making His home in us
Shalom
Spiritual Gift Inventory
The Great Awakening
The London Bombings
Her “For His Glory” Bible Study
Wilderness Skills for Women
Acts of the Apostles
“Clean” by Natalie Grant
Scripture References:
Proverbs 14:12- There’s a way that seems right to man that, but it leads to death
Jeremiah 2:13, 17:13, Zechariah 14:8-9, John 4:7-15, 7:3-8 , Revelation 21:6-8- Living water
2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalm 65:3, Isaiah 43:25, Ephesians 2:8, Hebrews 8:12 , 1 John 2:2 He forgave me
Matthew 11: 28-30, Mark 2:17, John 13:34, Colossians 1:11-14- He healed me
John 4- The woman at the well
Psalm 34:8- Taste and see that He is good
Matthew 18:12- Leave the 99
Gomer in Hosea
John 13
John 1:14- The Word became flesh
Matthew 9:35-38- The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few
2 Corinthians 5:11-21 - Ambassadors of Christ
Ruth 1 - Ruth was from Moab
John 8:32- You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free
Romans 12:2- Be transformed by the renewal of your mind
John 8:44, John 10:10,Luke 22:31,1 Peter 5:8 - The father of lies vs. the voice of Truth
The book of Ephesians
Ephesians 1:1-18
Ephesians 2:10- You’re God’s masterpiece
John 8:1-11- The adulterous woman
Matthew 4:1-11- Jesus in the wilderness
Job 23:10, Proverbs 17:3, Psalm 66:10, Isaiah 48:10, Zechariah 13:9, 1 Peter 1:7, The Refiner’s Fire
Psalm 37
Psalm 34:18- God is close to the brokenhearted and near to those who are crushed in Spirit
Philippians 1:6- This is not how the story ends
Psalm 107:2-The redeemed of the Lord tell their story
Matthew 16:18-19, Revelation 19-22- The Church is not going anywhere
Isaiah 14:27, Matthew 19:26- Nothing and no one can stop the Lord
Joel 2:25-32- He will restore the years the locusts have eaten
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast is author, teacher and creative Daniel Bowman Jr. Dan recently released his incredible book detailing his story of discovering he is autistic as an adult. On the Spectrum: Autism, Faith & the Gifts of Neurodiversity. gives an inside look at Dan’s struggle as a neurodiverse person living in a neurotypical world, and the constant fight of trying to force his mind and his body to work in a way that it is not wired to. The world often frames people on the spectrum as a problem to be fixed instead of a person to be understood, and in our conversation, as well as his book, Dan shares what this journey has been like for him and also how God has shown him the gifts that his uniqueness offers in his life through the creative arts, how he teaches and more.
All of us, neurotypical or neurodiverse are perfectly and wonderfully made, on purpose by God, and when we live fully in who we are and who we were created to be we can draw nearer to Him and invite others to do likewise alongside us. I really love Dan’s perspectives on life, and he’s the professor we all want because he loves to teach us not only ways to dive deep in the learning process, but wants to push us to be the best version of ourselves as we learn.
I love this beautiful summation from his book: “The last thing anyone on the spectrum needs is a limited-and limiting- range of images in the public’s awareness about what it means to be autistic. While I celebrate any austic person who has earned acclaim, I also see an urgent need to move beyond a handful of iconic narratives. So let us continue to add our voices, perspectives, and unique stories. Let us give one another the gift of our diversity, and in doing so, reveal our shared dignity.” Amen and amen.
You matter, friend. Your story matters. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story.
Connecting with Dan:
Book
Website
Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Taylor University
Middlemarch - George Elliot
The Animal Family - Randall Jarrell
List of Autistic traits (a generally more compassionate list, vs. one like this)
ADHD
Tourettes
Comorbidities
Bi-polar
“Atypical” (show on Netflix)
“Temple Grandin”
#ownvoices
Chinua Achebe - Things Fall Apart
Onondaga Nation
Lacrosse Team
The mass graves at former residential schools (up to over 6,000 bodies found now)
“Hotel Rwanda”
Don Cheadle
“Just Mercy” and Bryan Stevenson
“Roots”
“Schindler’s List”
Russ Ramsey’s book The Passion of the King of Glory
Enneagram
The Relief Journal
Scripture References:
Full list of Jesus teaching through story aka His parables
John 4- The woman at the well
Psalm 139:14- We are uniquely and wonderfully made
Acts 15- (pretty much the whole book of Acts) The early Church where Gentiles and Jews were learning how to follow Christ together
2 Corinthians 12:8-10- God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness
John 13:35 / 1 John 4:7-12- 1 John 4:19, We’re called to love everyone
Matthew 22:36-40 / Galatians 5:14- The law can be summed up in Love God and love your neighbor
Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, Luke 7: 36-50, John 12:1-8- The woman who anoints Jesus’ feet
Mark 16 (This contains the Great Commission, but I mean to say Mark 14 on the podcast. Whoops!)
Revelation 7:9-10- Every tribe, nation, tongue, will say Jesus is Lord
Exodus 7:7- How old Moses was when he began to walk in His calling
John 2:13-16- Turn over tables in Jesus’ name
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast is the incredible and much beloved author Jody Hedlund. Jody is the author of a vast array of books ranging in topics, locations, historical people, and places in time. One of her latest novels engages the mystery of the miracles that took place in Canterbury England during the Middle Ages. Come Back to Me is full of early church history, mixed with a little bit of fantasy, the Tree of Life from the Garden of Eden and Revelation, and sifting through what's fact and fiction is absolutely fascinating. Jody is spectacularly gifted at using stories to capture the attention of our hearts, and highlighting where God has moved in the past to help us see where He is moving now.
This is one of those episodes where you I got to unpack all the things that just bring me a lot of joy: the power of the Gospel, the power of stories, what history teaches us (and how much I still don’t know about history) and how allllll of that applies to everyday life. So much of the Church’s history carries deep wounds, but the Gospel survives throughout history even when broken people twist it to their own advantage, because the gift of Christ cannot be tarnished and His Word cannot be stopped. (All the praise hands!)
Jody is just a fascinating woman of faith, and she brings such fascinating insight into how stories hold space for conversations in everyday life. As a Mom of multiple teens and a youth small group leader, she offers poignant perspective about conversations with the next generation about hard things. They are growing up under tremendous pressure, and confusion about who they are, what constitutes a healthy relationship just to name a few things. The importance of knowing God’s Word, and developing a relationship with the Lord so that Spirit can lead you in times of plenty and times of famine is imperative in the lives of all people. If we don’t know how to find and drink from the water of life, we’ll end up digging our own cisterns and that does not lead to the abundant life Christ died to give us. (Jeremiah 2:13, John 10:10)
I hope and pray that we will seek the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul and strength so that those things can be so real in us, it overflows onto others, our neighbors, of all ages, and all struggles. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story. Tell of what God has done in your life. Tell of where you’ve struggled, wrestled and questioned, and then share where God met you in it. It means more than you will ever know. Because you matter friend, your story matters.
Connecting with Jody:
-Books
-Jody’s Reader Room
-Website
Episode Sponsor: His Kids Company
Use the Code: SIMPLY20 for 20% off
Shop Here
Follow them on: Facebook, Instagram
Resources:
-”Talking to Jesus”- Maverick City Music featuring Brandon Lake
-John Bunyan- her book The Preacher’s Bride
-Bio-fiction
-Erin Bartels and the “Michigan Mitten”
-Bride ships (not exclusive to this area, but here’s a historical idea) - her books
-Orphan Trains- her books
-Her Young Adult fiction, Fairest Maiden Series and Lost Princesses, etc.
-Martin Luther // her book: Luther and Katharina
-John Newton // her book: Newton and Polly
-Heidi Chivaroli (one of my favorite dual timeline authors)
-The Middle Ages
-”Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” (my personal favorite version of the options out there. The Disney version not withstanding)
-”Outlander”
-Holy Water, St. Thomas ampullas and then the pilgrim ones (I think and details of their history)
-Canterbury Cathedral (this also shares a lot about Thomas) and the “miracle windows”
-realistic visions with the Holy Water from the life of Christ
-”life giving” water research, legends about fountain of youth, etc.
-Wallsingham miracles / archives
-Canterbury miracles
-Hundred Years War between England and France
-Peasants Revolt against the nobility and the clergy / Wat Tyler’s Rebellion
-The Crusades
-King Richard I ( the Lionheart )
-the other King Richard II (a TWEEN King. Crazy)
-Dr. Bryan Litfin (our episode, his books, and his study of the Early Church)
-the Christian persecution by Rome
-Constantine and his conversion to Christianity
-John Wycliffe, the translator of the Bible from Latin to English
-first 3 YA books with Zondervan’s study guides, here is one of them for An Uncertain Choice
-Purity Culture issues (an example)- ( Additionally Tiffany Bluhm and I talk about this at length in our conversation Episode 79. Her book Prey Tell also talks about this as well.)
-Never Leave Me- pre-order here
-Her new YA series, Knights of the Brethren books 1 and 2 releases November and December
-Cowboy for Keeps, released in January, and the second one The Heart of a Cowboy comes out October 2nd!
Scripture References:
Genesis 2:9, Genesis 3:22-24-“The Tree of Life” from the Garden of Eden
Genesis 2:8-17, Genesis 3-“The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil” in the Garden of Eden, and the fall
1 Thessalonians 4:17, 1 John 2:17 -Living forever redeemed with Him
Revelations 22:1-3-Revelation speaks of a tree of life in Heaven
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 and 11:18, Psalm 119:11, Colossians 3:16-Hiding God’s word in your heart
Proverbs 3:5-6, Phillippians 4:8, James 1:5 -being able to distinguish what’s true
John 8:31-32-the truth will set you free
Ephesians 4:1-live life worthy of your calling
Isaiah 30:21-following the voice of the Spirit
Acts 9 / Acts 22:6-21 -Saul/Paul on the road to Damascus and his conversion
Ephesians 6:17-the Word is our sword
John 14:26-The Holy Spirit would come and remind us of what Jesus said
Hebrews 4:12-the Word of God is alive
Ecclesiastes 1:9-there is nothing new under the sun
Genesis 1:27, Ephesians 2:10, Psalm 18:19, Psalm 147:11, Isaiah 62:3-5, Zephaniah 3:17, -we are special to God
Joel 2:13,Hosea 6:6, Ezekiel 36:26,Psalm 51 -God does not promise blessing for good behavior, He is after our hearts
-we persevere (a great list of verses from an interesting source lol)
Lamentations 3:22-23, Psalm 33:4 -we can trust Him
Isaiah 55:8-9,-His ways are higher than ours
Hebrews 11:1-Faith comes down to believing that He is doing something we can’t see
John 16:33-In this world we will have trouble
Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:26, 1 Corinthians 2:11, -God knows what each person needs to hear
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast we have Dr. Tiffany Tajiri who is a veteran of the Air Force, an Army and Air Force psychologist, and the current Chief of the largest behavioral health clinic at Fort Bliss in El Paso, TX. She and her team work with active duty armed forces, veterans and their families to help them prepare for the missions and deployments and cope with the trauma of their experiences and how they impact them spiritually, emotionally and how that manifests in their bodies and reaches into every part of their lives and relationships.
Dr. Tiffany is passionate about helping others find healing and she does so in this fascinating space where science and faith cooperate because the Creator is the Author of both. She shares with us today incredibly insightful science of how the brain, mind, soul all work together and how God wired us to heal. Then, she reminds us how scripture is layered with verbiage that talks about God’s word and the body. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength.” (Matthew 22:37) “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2 - just to name a couple.) God knows our bodies! He made them! He also knows that what we will endure on Earth takes an incredible toll on our bodies, our minds, hearts and our faith, and so we need His word hidden within us so that when the lies of the enemy come, we have an answer,, a sword to wield to defend ourselves and to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
This conversation and the topics Dr. Tiffany and I cover are not exclusive to veterans, but I do believe it felt important to share this episode this week because we just experienced the 20th anniversary of 9/11, the affects of the exit from Afghanistan is ongoing, and there’s just A LOT that continues to come to the surface for the armed forces community, for veterans and for those who fight their own battles with trauma of all types. We need tools to know how to respond to the war we are in that is not of flesh and blood, but also to serve those who give their all on all different types of front lines. This is swimming in the deep end of the pool friends, but it's not a place the Lord is unfamiliar with, and wherever He is, that’s where we want to be.
The presence of God is so close to you, even in this very moment. The only thing that will fill the void created by pain and trauma is Jesus, y’all. Mental Illness, depression and anxiety, suicidal ideation, these are all VERY real things that attack our body and every part of our existence. When you are sick, you get medicine, you get help. While you are healing your body and addressing the neurons in your brain, your soul and your mind still needs to be addressed and filled with what is true to address the cracks in the foundation of what your life is built on. The Spirit can lead you to that place, and be near to You in the journey of healing your whole self. I love that Dr. Tiffany shared with us that both the physical and the mental/spiritual elements of who we are matter and all of it deserves the attention of healing.
You matter, friend. Your story matters.
Connecting with Dr. Tiffany:
Book // Peace After Combat : Healing the Spiritual and Psychological Wounds of War
Website
YouTube
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
Branches of the Armed Forces
Moral injury
Neuroplasticity
Rhythms of Restoration
Bilateral stimulation
Butterfly hug tap// video
REM sleep
Dr. Kelly Cole’s study
Robert Bannister
Scripture References:
Isaiah 43:19 - Makes a way in the wasteland
Luke 10:27- Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength
John 13:35- Seeing others through their love
Psalm 119:105- A light to our path
Romans 8:37-39- Nothing height nor depth
1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Ephesians 4:30, Revelation 12:11- Bought and sealed by the blood of the Lamb
John 14:27, John 16:33, Philippians 4:7- The peace of Christ
Isaiah 43:1-I have called you by name you are mine
James 1:17- Every perfect thing is from above
John 10:10- The thief comes to steal and destroy
Genesis 2:18 / Jeremiah 31:3- God created us to be in relationship and to know love (this is a really insightful article about being made for relationship)
God gave us free will (Lots of verses)
Hebrews 5:7-8-Jesus had a choice, but He submitted to the will of the Father (also in Luke 22 below)
Luke 22:42- Lord if you’ll take this cup from me
John 10:10 / 2 Corinthians 5:15 / Romans 5:8- Jesus died that we may have life
Romans 8:1-17- Living by the flesh vs. living by the Spirit
Exodus 20-The 10 Commandments
Genesis 1:27- We are made in the image of God
Matthew 28:19, Luke 3:22- God is the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit
Psalm 23:4- Though I walk through the shadow of the valley of death
2 Corinthians 3:18- Take us from blessing to blessing, glory to glory
Deuteronomy 30:19- I put before you blessing or cursing, life or death
Romans 12:2- Be transformed by the renewal of your mind
John 15- I am the True Vine, you are the branches
Jeremiah 17:5-9 - the tree that plants itself deep down into the water
Ephesians 1:7-10- The Lord is the author of redemption
Lamentations 3:22-23- The Lord’s mercies are new every morning
Matthew 11:20-30- Unforced rhythms of grace
Ephesians 3:20- More than you can ever ask or imagine
James 1:12- Given everyone the crown of life who endures
The eyes of Christ like fire or diamonds
2 Timothy 4:7-8-I have run the race
Matthew 19:14- Let the little children come to me
Psalms 46:10- Be still and know that He is God
You are worthy of love (so many verses!)
Galatians 3:26 / 2 Corinthians 6:18 / 1 John 3:1 -You are a son or a daughter of God
John 15:13- There is no greater love than this than one who lays down their life for a friend
1 Peter 2:19-25 / Hebrews 2:9-14- Jesus suffered
Proverbs 18:21 / James 3:1-12- Our words hold the power of life and death
Ephesians 6:11- Stand firm against the devil
Philippians 4:8- Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely…
Matthew 5:13-16- Being salt and light
Ephesians 6:12- We are not at war with flesh and blood
Ephesians 2
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Ashley Abercrombie is back on the podcast!!. Every time I encounter Ashley, whether that’s online, reading her books or Bible studies, I end up shoutin’ like I’m at a big tent revival. Y’all, this woman passionately cares about the Kingdom of God, the body of Christ, and encouraging us to know and serve God and His Church as our fullest selves and learning how to love one another better. Her most recent book, Love is the Resistance: Learn to Disagree, Resolve the Conflicts You've Been Avoiding, and Create Real Change is such an important word for this season in time.
As the sons and daughters of God, we are a people of hope. However, a lot of the Church is not currently known by their love, their mercy, or their welcome. But Jesus is the epitome of all of those things. As His kids, we have to evaluate what we are presenting about the Gospel. When people are able to encounter God, that’s where life change can happen. I hope and pray that we are willing to dive in here. Our world is hungry for what the Savior provides, and our souls are weary and need to be refreshed too.
We give a healthy dose of time to look at the story of Jonah and where we find ourselves in it. From that posture, we ask questions like “what is the difference between standing up for God’s word, and doing so at the expense of His creation?” Truth telling is not about yelling at or shaming people. How do we practice mercy, empathy and compassion, but also figure out how to process and place boundaries. Do we evaluate the words we use in the name of Jesus? Are we willing to ask God to search us out and know us and show us what we He sees in us? Who do we label and treat as an enemy? We also discuss how healthy conflict is a skill we have to learn, and it can be learned even if we’ve never seen it modeled to us in our personal lives or families of origin.
Listen friends, I want you to hear me when I say this, even though I say it a lot, it's so so true. You matter. Your story matters. Don’t grow weary of doing good, and remember that this, all the “this” that surrounds us right now, is not how the story ends. Let’s press in, and see where the Lord may call us to grow and learn today as we strive to live like people of hope.
Connecting with Ashley:
Ashley’s Books
Ashley’s podcast she co-hosts with Tiffany Bluhm
Bible Study course for Love is the Resistance
Website
YouVersion Bible Studies
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Link to shop
SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase
References:
Ashley’s first book Rise of the Truth Teller
My first conversation with Ashley, episode 2 of the podcast
Tiffany Bluhm - episode 51 and 79 where we chat, and our video chat on my youtube page
“The World Turned Upside Down”
Ahmaud Arberry
Breonna Taylor
George Floyd
Time’s Up Movement
Me Too Movement
Disciple means “learner”
The Sanhedrin
The original 12 disciples: a hodge podge crew
“The Chosen”
A dude being swallowed by a whale REALLY recently
The Bible Recap
The Bible Project’s video on Jonah
Walter Brueggeman, his interview with Krista Tippett (On Being Podcast) Phyllis Trible “womb like mother love”
Healthy Differentiation (a great resource for this I Think You’re Wrong, But I’m Listening: A Guide to Grace-Filled Political Conversations by Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland)
Healthy Boundaries (great resource for this: Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to say No and Take Control of Your Life by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. Charles Townsend
If God is Good: Faith in the Middle of Suffering and Evil by Randy Alcorn :: A great resource for struggling with bad things happening and God’s goodness
Indigenous People and their grief in unearthing their buried past
Sabbath is a big deal
Mentor Monday on Ashley’s instagram!
My conversation (episode 57) with Ashley Elizabeth Graham Johnson
Latin of “scrutiny”
Scripture References:
John 14:6, John 1- The truth comes from Christ
John 8:31-32- That truth sets us free
Ephesians 5:17-21, Hebrews 10:24-25- Speaking life and love over people
Matthew 11:15- Let he who has ears to hear
Matthew 5:6- Hunger and thirst for righteousness
Matthew 4:18-23, Matthew 8:27,Mark 4:33-34, -The disciples were drawn to Jesus
Mark 6:7-13- 12 men turned the world upside down bc they said ‘yes’ to Jesus
Matthew 15:7-9 (and then the bombs of Matthew 5:17-19 and Luke 4:16-30) Jesus knew the Law- sooo many examples, but here’s just one
Not all priests in leadership were bad : Nicodemus- John 3 // Gamaliel- Acts 5
Ecclesiastes 1:9- There is nothing new under the sun
God is sovereign (a whole list for you )
2 Chronicles 7:14- God has called His people back again and again - again, so many examples, but here’s one to start with
Romans 5:5- Hope does not put us to shame
Romans 5:3-5- Suffering produces perseverance → character→ hope
Mark 12:29-31- Neighborly love
Matthew 5:43-48- Love our enemies
Jonah
Joel 2- God historically, even when carrying out major judgement, gives space for the opportunity to repent (Jonah’s story + this one scripture are just 2 of MANY examples)
Jonah 3:3- 3 days to walk through the town
Matthew 12:40- 3 days in the whale, 3 days in the grave for Jesus
Jonah chapter 4
Exodus 34:6-7, Psalm 145:8-9, Psalm 86:15- God has mercy for you (scratches the surface of scriptures on mercy)
God can take your anger- see practically the entire book of Psalms and the book of Habakkuk
Acts 9:1- Uttered murderous threats under his breath
Ezekiel 33:10-12, John 11:38-44- God hates death too
Psalm 34:18, Matthew 5:4- He mourns with those who mourn
Exodus 14:14, Zephaniah 3:17, Romans 8:31-39- He is God who battles evil (there were so many passages that could talk about this, but I narrowed it down to a few)
Romans 6:23- The wages of sin is death
2 Corinthians 5:15, Romans 5:8 - Jesus died and rose again to save those who could not save themselves
Acts 8:26-40- Philip encounters the Ethiopian eunuch
The Lord the loves you- a whole list of good scriptures about it :)
1 Peter 5:8, Ephesians 6:10-18-We have one enemy, an enemy of our soul
Deuteronomy 12:3, Judges 6 (Gideon had to tear down the idols of his father before he could walk in the calling the Lord gave him. I love his whole story in this chapter though) Psalm 96:5, Isaiah 44:9-20, Ezekiel 14:3- Lord, where have I built idols?
Psalm 16:5-6- The Lord has drawn lines for me in pleasant places
2 Timothy 2:1-3- Live a peaceful and quiet life
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I am chatting with author, speaker, filmmaker, artist, musician, and just an all around renaissance woman, Rebecca Friedlander. During our conversation, Rebecca shares about waiting on the Lord in wilderness seasons and what it looks like to cultivate an intimate relationship with the Lord and then be willing to move when He says “move.” Her latest book The Divine Adventure: Spiritual Practices for a Modern-Day Disciple dives into this, and also looks at what spiritual practices or disciplines even are and how they move us into a place of preparation in order to embrace the divine adventure God has for our life. When we pursue God in an intentional way, we heighten our awareness of the activity of God all around us, and we begin to draw our attention away from working for the approval of people, and instead living from a place of knowing just how loved we are by Him.
Rebecca is such a soothing and lovely person, with such a beautiful heart. I hope that you enjoy our conversation and maybe feel intrigued to dive into your own divine adventure. I love how Rebecca points out that we need hope that walking with the Lord is practical in how to meet the genuine needs that exist in our heart. It can be hard, but not because He isn’t available to us. He helps us interact with the world around us. And I just want to say, if a relationship with God has a funky taste in your mouth right now due to how some Christians behave, don’t bank all your assumptions about who God is based on human behavior. Look to His word. Seek Him out He will make Himself known to you. Ultimately, we all have a desire to live a life that matters, to love well and walk in truth, and Jesus is the hope that anchors all of these things together. If you’re looking for ways to figure out what that might look like, we have other episodes in this podcast that speak to how to get started, but I also will say Rebecca’s book may be a great place for you to start as well. You can find ways to connect with all those resources in our show notes or over on my blog!
By the way, on the other end of the conversation, Rebecca has a masters in Celtic History and she shares with me some of the incredible things she’s learned from Early Church history and what can we learn from them, and it's fascinating. Y’all know I love to nerd out!! You guys are going to love Rebecca and I hope this conversation encourages you right where you are today. This journey matters, friend. Don’t lose heart. You matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Rebecca:
Website
YouTube
Today’s Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree with Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Deadwood, TX
Her latest book: The Divine Adventure: Spiritual Practices for a Modern-Day Disciple
The Bible Recap (book and podcast) with Tara Leigh Cobble
This is the God of covenant (a great resource to see how God made promises in the very beginning He keeps today)
“Radical Makeovers”
Celebration of Disciplines (the book I mentioned that I studied that was very good, but is definitely was a challenge)
The early Celtic saints
“Celtic Pilgrimage”
“Thin Places”
Saint Patrick’s story
A thin place
Bryan Litfin (My episode with him)
Constantine’s conversion
The early church’s model that appears more catholic
Mass-persecution of Christians
Red Martyrs, Green Martyrs, White Martyrs
The sanctity of cemeteries in the Early Church // the Roman catacombs
“Fairies”
Saint Patrick’s writings
The early celtic church’s prayer book
Saint Nicholas’ history
Podcast Episodes on where to start with faith. Honestly we talk about this a lot in so many of our episodes, but it's more poignant in these!
Episode 2 with Ashley Abercrombie
Episode 17 with Hope and Christine of At His Feet Studies
Episode 47 with Jessica Hottle
Episode 48 with Shari Rigby
Episode 50 with Phil Herndon
Episode 82 with Tyler Staton
Episode 84 with Elizabeth Wyndham
Episode 94 with Tessa Afshar
Scripture References:
Jeremiah 18- The potter and the clay
Isaiah 40:30-31/Psalm 27:14- Wait on the Lord
Exodus 40:36, Acts 1:8- God is always moving
Genesis 1:2- He is the Spirit that hovered over the face of the waters when creating
John 13:23- John the Beloved leaning on the Lord
Hosea 2:14- I will allure to the dessert and speak tenderly to her there
Fasting (a big list of verses!)
Spiritual Disciplines (list of verses)
John 1:10-13, John 6:40, 1 John 3:1,1 John 4:19, James 4:8, Revelation 3:20- God wants to be in relationship with us
John 3:16, Romans 5:8, Ephesians 2:4-5, 1 Peter 3:18-22- God of the universe gave up everything for us
Ephesians 2:8-9, Titus 2:11,Titus 3:3-7, Romans 6:1-23, Receive the gift of grace
1 Corinthians 12:27- The body of Christ
Matthew 16:18- The gates of hell will not be able to withstand it
John 14:16, Acts 1-2- When Jesus handed the Spirit out (after His ascension)
Acts 13:4- When the Holy Spirit began to go across the globe
1 Samuel 15:11-35 ICB-Stories of kings or leaders in the old testament allowing idol worship “just in case” (there are SO many, this is just one)
Philippians 1:21- To live is Christ and to die is gain
God is who He says He is (a list :))
2 Corinthians 4:16-18, Hebrews 10:23- The hope we need in Christ
Acts 2
2 Kings 21, 2 Kings 22-23- (insert name here) king followed the way of the Lord, but his son… etc (SO many kings did this, but here’s an example of an evil King, whose son was good)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast we have fiction and non-fiction author, speaker and just incredible woman of deep faith, Tessa Afshar. Tessa grew up in a nominally Muslim family in the Middle East, and after her family’s fracturing, she moved to England where she lost her culture, her language, everything she knew and experienced a total identity shift. Then, as a young adult, she found herself broken-hearted, divorced, and confused about what was next for her life. and Jesus met her in a dream and began to woo her to Him. During our conversation Tessa shares her incredible journey with us, as well as where God has led her in her calling, and how He makes Himself known to her even still.
Tessa also offers a beautiful and unique perspective on the fracturing in the Church in the west, and especially how it plays out on screens whether that’s live news or newsfeeds. No matter what we are seeing, and no matter how we feel, as followers of Jesus, we are not in control of others, but we can control our response to them and to the Savior. Tessa gives a powerful reminder that the measure of the Church is the person behind the scenes that never makes it on the news. Being genuine and honest, carrying out small acts of kindness and faithfulness in Jesus’ name will still change the world for the Gospel. These things matter to Him, and it matters to every person you encounter who is desperately looking for a place to be loved and to belong.
Tessa is one of those people that her love of the Word and her love of the Lord can set a fire in your bones, and this conversation today, is a such a time as this moment. If you need a reminder about who Jesus really is, the power, the love, and the peace only He can give, this episode is for you. If you have had things happen, experienced loss or heartbreak in your life or maybe you’re there right now and you need to be reminded of who God is, and how valuable you are to the One who made you, this is an episode for you. I hope this lands on you like a balm to wound because it most certainly did for me. Take heart, friends. You matter, and your story matters.
Connecting with Tessa:
Her books
Website
References:
-The 5 tenets of Islam
-Episode of the podcast where we discuss cultural paradigms
-The Qur’an, written only in Arabic
-Leo Tolstoy
-Her story based on the book of Ruth, Pearl in the Sand
-Jane Austen
-Charlotte Bronte
-Kingdom of Kush // Modern day Sudan, south of Egypt
-Francine Rivers’ and the Lineage of Grace series
-Our reading of Ruth and discussion about it on the podcast to celebrate Pentecost
-Jesus is the son of David, He is the promised One.
-Tessa’s Bible study The Way Home: God’s Invitation to New Beginnings // Here is a link to the video introduction to it as well
-A link to her YouVersion Bible study on Priscilla and Aquila “Cultivating a Forever Faith”
Scripture References:
Job 11:7-9, Psalm 147:5, Isaiah 40:28- God has no limit
Luke 1:37- Nothing is impossible with God
Matthew 19:26- Everything will be possible with God
Romans 8:1,Psalm 103:12- Shame is not of the Lord
Hebrews 12:2-, 1 John 3:1, John 15:13- Romantic love is not the love that saves you
Isaiah 53:2- Jesus’ appearance was unremarkable
Matthew 16- Jesus is not who people thought He should be
Romans 4:21, Hebrews 10:23, more here - Whatever He promised He meant to keep
Matthew 4:19, John 12:26- Follow me
John 14:27- A peace only Jesus gives
Romans 6:23, 1 Peter 2:24- We can’t pay the price for our sin
Psalm 119:11- Have the word hidden in your heart
Acts 2:42-47- Being the Church: living open hearted, proclaiming who He is
1 Peter 4:8-9- Hospitality from the Church
Ephesians 6:18, James 5:13-20, Philippians 1:3-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18- Prayers from the saints
Nehemiah 8:10- Let the joy of the Lord be your strength
Isaiah 14:27- Nothing can stop the Lord
Matthew 16:18- Nothing can stand against the Church
Matthew 5:16- Let your light shine before men
Romans 5:5-11- Your hope will not be put to shame
Psalm 71:14, Romans 8:31-39- There is a hope that brings life
Psalm 33:18-22- An act of obedience
Joshua 2- Rahab living in the wall
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24- He prepares you for your calling
Philippians 4:11-13- Contentment in every circumstance
Psalm 27:14, Isaiah 40:31- Wait on the Lord
I am who God says I am
Colossians 2:6-23- The fullness of life in Christ
Revelation 21:4- Only in Heaven is there only love and no more tears
John 16:33, 2 Corinthians 4:8-12, Hebrews 10:23- You will have trouble and storms, but there is hope
Jeremiah 29:11- There is a tomorrow and a restoration
Matthew 1:1-16- Christ’s lineage
The book of Judges
The book of Ruth starts with a famine, but the last word is the name David. That person is an answer to the famine,
John 6:35- Jesus is the bread of life
Philippians 1:6- This is not how the story ends, God is not finished
Acts 18:2-11, 1 Corinthians 16:19, 2 Timothy 4:19- Priscilla and Aquila
2 Chronicles 20:12- We don’t know what to do, but our eyes are on you.
Psalm 112:7- // AMP translation I used- He will have no fear of bad news, his heart is steadfast trusting the Lord
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today we have on children’s minister, author, and founder of Little Shoots, Deep Roots, Christie Thomas. Christie is a woman who is passionate about equipping families to engage their hearts with the Gospel. Her children’s books give amazing verbiage for how to deal with big issues in the lives of children, which is so helpful in general, but especially now living in a season that is full of such uncertainty that our children experience in their worlds too. Christie’s latest book is a Mother Son Prayer Journal. As a mother of several young boys, Christie shares about the challenge of raising young men to be God chasers who practice repentance, humility, strength, respect for others, how to go to God with the good things and the bad things, and remembering God is the One who is faithful and who holds all things together.
Christie’s method in all she does in her ministry and her writing is to take things back to small steps that sow Truth. In a world where we as adults are often trying to find quick ways to handle more, this is such a good reminder to slow down, and focus on the small, but mighty. While we’re doing that, we can more clearly see it's God that holds all things together and we can point the kids in our lives to do the same. One of my biggest takeaways from talking with Christie was just how much little habits make a huge difference in so many aspects of life, but especially in parenting and communicating about the Gospel.
We also dive into how men and women can partner in spiritually leading and nurturing a home. Christie points out that as Christians we are called to make disciples. As followers of Christ and parents; that includes our children. We discuss what discipleship from both parents may look like in a manner that honors God, and compliments how every parent and every partnership is uniquely and wonderfully made.
I hope this will be an encouraging episode for those of us out there trying to figure out how to respond to the world around us as adults, let alone how to communicate about it with littles, but ultimately I hope this helps point you to Jesus, and remind you He is trustworthy no matter where you are. You matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Christie:
Instagram // LSDR Instagram
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Use the code SIMPLY15 at check out for 15% off your purchase
Store (Affiliate link)
References:
Little Shoots, Deep Roots
Wise for Salvation
Quinn’s Promise Rock
Quinn Says Goodbye
Momma Son Prayer Journal
The Bible Recap - Book and Podcast
John Mark’s mother’s home is the house where people were gathered when people were praying for Peter, also possibly where the last supper was held
Building Faith at Home
The original form of Proverbs 31 is an acrostic poem
Erin Moon’s response to the funky woman tweet
The Bible Binge
How you can start little from her website
“Raise A Hallelujah” - Bethel
“I Thank God” Maverick City Music
Trillia Newbell’s childrens’ books: God’s Very Good Idea and Creative God, Colorful Us
Dorena Williamson’s books: Colorfull, Thoughtfull, Gracefull, Pre-Orders!: The Celebration Place and Crowned with Glory
The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross - Carl Laferton
Phil Vischer videos
VeggieTales
Right Now Media
When a student followed a rabbi, they followed them so closely
“The Chosen”
Scripture:
Colossians 1:17- God holds all things together
Job 1:21- God gives and takes away
John 11:38-44- Jesus at Lazarus’ tomb
Luke 18:18-30, 1 Corinthians 13:12-, Ephesians 2:6-9, 1 Timothy 6:18-19- The kingdom is only partly here
Psalm 27:13-14, Job 13:15, Daniel 3:17-18, Romans 8:28 -When everything hurts God is still good
Isaiah 41:10, Hebrews 13:5-6, Psalm 23-God is still near
Psalm 34:10, Matthew 7:11, Luke 12:24, John 14:26, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Corinthians 9:8, Philippians 4:19- God is still providing
John 16:33, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Psalm 23 -God comforts us
Psalm 30:1-5, Psalm 30:11-12- Joy does come in the mourning
Isaiah 40:11- carries a lamb on his shoulders
1 and 2 Samuel - life of David (Bible Project’s video on these books are super helpful)
1 and 2 Chronicles - life of David (Bible Project’s video on these books are super helpful)
The Psalms (Bible Project)
1 Samuel 17- David & Goliath
Amos (Bible Project again ;))
1 Chronicles 13- David tries to go get the ark and it doesn't go well
1 Samuel 18-30- especially 27-29- David the land pirate (bad news bears)
1 Samuel 13:14,Acts 13:22 - God calls David to be a man after His own heart
Proverbs 22:6, Romans 10:14-15, Titus 2:3, I have to learn to help them recognize His voice
1 Corinthians 11:3-16, Ephesians 5:21-33- The man is head of the household
Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:15, Acts 1:8, 2 Timothy 2:2- We’re called to make disciples
2 Timothy 1:5- Lois and Eunice and Timothy
Acts 12:1-17- Peter escapes prison and comes to believers praying
1 Kings 11:1-2- Do not marry a Moabite woman. Don’t marry an Ammonite woman
Proverbs 31:10-31
Romans 16:7 Junia (also an interesting fact, some scholars believe she’s Joanna, also mentioned in Luke 8:1-3)
Judges 4- Deborah
Romans 16:1-2-Phoebe
Numbers 6:24-26- The Lord bless you and keep you, etc
Psalm 118:24- This is the day the Lord has made
Galatians 5:22-23-Fruit of the Spirit
John 15- Abiding in the Vine
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast, we have book editor, author, professional encourager and just all around amazing human, Amanda Cleary Eastep. I got to meet Amanda several years ago at a writing conference when she was part of a panel representing Moody Publishing. During this conversation she shares what it's like to be a book editor at Moody Publishers, as well as a middle-grade books author, which means she writes books for kids ages 8-12, and we look at what draws us as people to stories that captivate children and adults alike with their unique humor, whimsy, wonder, fun and freedom.
We talk quite a bit about the concept of the moral imagination, and how stories can touch parts of us and unlock parts of our imagination and our faith, how we engage good and evil and more. The master of this process is Jesus Himself. His stories affect us emotionally, intellectually, and hold space for us to place ourselves in a story and decide who we will be because of it.
Amanda is such a kind and wise woman who is still figuring out how to surrender her life and her dreams to Jesus, and I loved getting to hear how modeling honesty, humility, and just imperfectly but persistently expressing love to the kids in your life matters more than we know. As a Mom, step-Mom, working Mom, and all the things, I love Amanda’s reminder that kids may bear witness to some of your greatest failures, but they also can have a front row seat to grace and redemption in your life and that’s a story they need to know.
I also appreciate how Amanda brought up how to engage kids who are NOT readers with stories whether that’s about discussing movies, stories of people in your family or historical stories from where you’re from or somewhere they’re not, we are surrounded by stories that can engage the hearts and faith of kids.
We also round out this episode with my daughter coming on, again, to interview “Ms. Amanda,” and it's sweet and hilarious to hear our girl’s insights. Amanda very patiently talked with NB and me about her real life experiences with tornados, feelings and faith and it's just the sweetest.
I hope you’ll love this episode, here is my conversation with Amanda Cleary Eastep.
Episode Partner: Armor Up, Warrior Princess
Connecting with Amanda:
-The Tree Street Kid series
References:
-Ann Swindell and the Writing with Grace Conference
-Moody Publishers
-Maggie Combs - Motherhood Without All the Rules
- A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle
-Founders week at Moody Bible College
-Jamie Janosz and ”Today in the Word”
-Roseanna M. White, our conversation, her book we mention Dreams of Savannah
-Trillia Newbill
-The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis
-The new edition of Little Pilgrim’s Progress (illustrated edition and its GORGEOUS)
-Tending the Heart of Virtue: How Classic Stories Awaken a Child's Moral Imagination
by Vigen Guroian
-Dr. Russell Moore- not just instructing a child about morals, but engaging their imagination and giving them a vision of something better
-Frederick Buechner- described it “story has value in itself”
-Marvel series
-Harry Potter series
-Dorena Williamson’s conversation with me part 1 and 2
-The Last Battle by C.S. Lewis
-Trillia’s books for kids
-15 beats method from Save the Cat Writes a Novel
-”Bueller, Bueller” Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
-Our conversation with Mr. Randall Goodgame
-Star Wars Battlefront 2
-bomb shelter
-The “Twister” cow moment
-”Food, FOOOOOOD” from “Twister”
-the Dinner at “Aunt Meg’s” house from “Twister”
-”While You Were Sleeping”
-The Hunt for Fang
-The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis
-the audible presentation of Jack vs. the Tornado
-Zach Cantrell // other books he’s narrated
-The science and history facts printables from Jack vs. The Tornado
-The Flying Flamingo Sisters book
-”Life Lessons for Anxious Kids” devotional
Scripture
Hebrews 10:24-25/ 1 Thessalonians 5:11-spurring one another on
Romans 12:21-overcome evil with evil but overcome evil with good
Luke 15:11-32-The prodigal son parable
Genesis 1 - “in the beginning…”
The book of Revelation
Revelation 19:7-10-a literal or metaphorical feast
Isaiah 65:17-19-the new heavens and the new Earth
John 15:4-7 / Colossians 1:27-28-the best thing in me is Christ in me
Galatians 5:22-23-the fruit of the Spirit
Psalm 91:4 -we are sheltered by God
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Hi friends! I’m so excited to be back with you for season THREE of the podcast! I cannot believe we are 2 years and 3 seasons in, but man the Lord is wild, isn’t He? To start off this season, we have the absolutely wonderful and wildly talented Randall Goodgame. Mr. Randall is a little bit of a celebrity around my house because of how much my children love his music and his show, “Slugs and Bugs”. If you’ve never heard of it, the show itself is a lot like a Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood type environment where Mr. Randall and his real life friends and family, Andrew Peterson, Dr. Russell Moore, Scott Hamilton, Ellie Holcomb, Sissy Goff, Dorena Williamson and many, many more visit him and his puppet friends, the slugs and bugs at their workshop where they learn life lessons, talk about the mysteries of the Gospel, and how God can make Himself known in any of it as we all grow up together. The songs they share on the show and from the albums are saturated in God’s Word which makes scripture memorization so accessible even for the youngest of children, as well as ways to help talk about hard and big topics happening in the world, mixed in with a whole lot of silliness too.
In our conversation today, we get to hear about how Randall’s struggle to engage conversations about the Gospel with his own children birthed in him a pursuit to use humor, story and song to engage them, and ultimately engage His own heart about these important things because it's worth the work. This conversation isn’t just for parents or people with kids in their lives, we talk about how people who do not have kids in their lives can still impact those around them, and encourage ALL of us to press into the truth of Christ as we navigate hard things.
When I was praying and thinking about how to start this season off, it just kept coming to me how important it was to engage the future of the Kingdom of God. I feel like there are so many of us that feel like we have to just get through the young years of kids, whether in passing in other environments or in our own homes, and then when they’re older we can attempt to navigate big things with them. But the truth is, our kids haven’t been hidden from big things. Life happens to them, just like it does to us. This pandemic has happened to them, as it's happening to us. Not to mention, how we engage our own hearts, pours out onto those we encounter and so it just felt so important to me, especially for the many kids that are getting ready to go back to school, to talk about these things, and present people and ideas to our simply stories family so that we might feel more equipped to press in where it feels awkward or hard. When we can break that down to a child’s level, you might be surprised how much that impacts how you interact with adults as well.
Jesus said to come to Him with faith like a child. Whether there are children in your life or not, you are HIS child. For those who have said yes to Jesus, you are a son or a daughter of the Most High God. You are perfectly and wonderfully made to display His creativity, and His love to the world. No matter where you’ve been, or what you’re going through now, that gift to you cannot be taken away. What might it be like to ask your heart how to approach the Lord, let alone your neighbors like a child? I think that’s probably going to provide a unique answer for everyone, but I think it's an interesting question to contemplate. You have a good Father who loves to engage with you. Even if it feels like there is nothing delightful in your life, He wants to hear about it. Maybe start right there. It matters to Him because your story matters to Him. You matter.
References:
“Catapultanaugahikawallawallarickitikianapoodloodlakastanvilletown” song
“Fruits of the Spirit” - Slugs and Bugs
Right Now Media
Andrew Peterson
Slugs and Bugs Lullabies album
VeggieTales
One of their songs from VT
Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood
Mr. Andrew with the Christmas songs we like is his “Behold the Lamb of God” album
“Operation No More Tears” - Sally Lloyd Jones
“Tell it to Jesus”- Slugs and Bugs
Sissy Goff on “Slugs and Bugs” about technology is called “Modern Kid” I was only able to find it on Amazon Prime!
Sissy Goff’s books Raising Worry Free Girls and Braver, Stronger, Smarter
Dorena Williamson’s episode of “Slugs and Bugs”
Dorena’s 2 episodes with us, Part 1 and Part 2
Dorena’s books: Colorfull, Thoughtfull, and Gracefull
“Under Where” from “Slugs and Bugs”
“Ninja”- from “Slugs and Bugs”
“Sweet Baby Boy” from “Slugs and Bugs”
“Bring Me A Heifer”- from “Sing the Bible Volume 4” from Slugs and Bugs
The WingFeather Saga by Andrew Peterson
“Bears Have No Cares” - Slugs and Bugs
“Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” - Mary Poppins
DC Superhero Girls
Dragon Girl : The Secret Valley
Dragon Kingdom of Wrenley
Dog Man Series
Phoebe and The Unicorn Series
Narwhal Unicorn of the Sea Series
Cat Kid Comic Club Series
“Star Wars” (mostly “Jedi Academy” comics at our house currently)
“Pangolins” - Slugs and Bugs
“Under Where” live with Mr. Randall and someone who is not Andrew Peterson but we thought he was live on a church tour :)
Scripture References:
Galatians 5:22-23-Fruits of the Spirit
2 Chronicles 20:12- We don’t know what to do, but our eyes on You
He wants to help us be like Him (a list of verses!)
1 Thessalonians 5:10- He came so that we could live life with Him
Scripture tells us how we are to be to each other (a list of verses!)
Psalm 139:14- We are uniquely and wonderfully made
Ephesians 4- We are called to live in unity
Galatians 6:2- We are called to bear one another’s burdens
Matthew 16:24-26- Pick up a cross and follow Him
Micah 6:8- Walk humbly
Matthew 20:16- The first shall be last
Philippians 2:3-Value others above yourselves
John 10:10 / John 14:6- The Gospel is the way to life
Matthew 18:3/Matthew 19:14 /Mark 10:13-16/ Luke 18:17/ Romans 8:16-18, Galatians 4:6-10, 1 John 3:1- Children are the picture of how the Lord sees us (this is a whole other thought to flesh out some time. So much of the Old Testament uses this verbiage about being God’s children, His sheep, His prized possession like a Father. Here’s an article where TGC discusses God the Father a bit)
Philippians 1:6- The Lord isn’t finished with any of us
1 Corinthians 6:12- I am free to do anything, but I must not become a slave to anything
Hebrews 12:1-3- Removing stumbling blocks
Psalm 139:23-Search me and know me
Psalm 16:6- The boundary lines fall for me in pleasant places
John 2:1-11- Water into wine
Genesis 15:9- The story of bring me a heifer and Abram’s promise
Zephaniah 3:17
Connecting with Randall:
Slugs and Bugs
Watch Slugs and Bugs Season 1 and/or Season 2 on Amazon Prime
YouTube
Spotify
Today is the very last episode of season 2 of the podcast!! And man, is this one incredible episode for us to put a period on the sentence of this season. I’m chatting today with author and pastor Michael Sherrard. Michael and I have a power packed conversation that springs off the heart of his two books Relational Apologetics: Defending the Christian Faith with Holiness, Respect, and Truth and Why You Matter: How Your Quest for Meaning is Meaningless Without God. Michael breaks down for us why there is so much meaning behind knowing the heart of who God is, which impacts knowing our own selves and enhances our ability to love our neighbor and carry the Light for the Gospel in a way that fights against the darkness. We also tackle what so many of us wrestle with when we experience hardship, betrayal or suffering, how the Lord can and will make Himself known in it, and as Michael says “understanding why we matter is an anchor that will help us when we experience the waves of hardship.”
This message is more timely than I can even begin to convey, and even though we recorded it back in the winter, I knew in the marrow of my bones, it was a conversation to save for right now. I don’t know where you are, but I feel like we are in a season where the Lord is asking His people to trim the lamps and keep them burning. I know so many who are weary. I know so many who are frustrated with fellow believers or people who they think are the source of all wrong. Take it all to the Lord. Let Him refine your heart, let Him reveal to you what He sees, then ask Him to show you the stories you need to know Him AND His creation better.
I think one of my favorite (of the many) profound points Michael made in this conversation was this one: If we want to share the Truth of the Gospel with people, we have to be equipped with a language that can meet them where they are and the very real things they are struggling with. “We can’t give textbook answers, when people don’t hold textbook beliefs.” Why relationships matter, loving our neighbor is really all about and how we have a call to love the people we don’t agree with.
I pray that as you go into wherever you are, you can courageously pray for the Lord to light this kind of fire in you, or to help you tenderly breathe life back into the dwindling embers of the fire you once had. The Lord is not through with your story and all of it matters to Him.
Connecting with Michael:
Why You Matter
Relational Apologetics
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopeful
Store Link
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
References:
Crosspoint in Georgia
Reasonable Faith -William Lane Craig
Apologetics- apologia
The Bible Recap
Dominion-Tom Holland- his commentary on how Jesus’s teaching changed the world
Scripture References:
1 Peter 3:15 - always be able to give a defense for the hope within you
Acts 15:2 / Acts 17:2 / “Argue, reason, explain,” in the book of Acts
Ephesians 4:1-6-the Word says to pursue unity, come around one another and bear one another’s burdens
Acts 15-the council at Jerusalem what to do about the Gentiles / How do we practice Judaism, argument over circumcision, etc.
Luke 5:17-39- Paralytic man coming through the roof
Ephesians 4:15-Love their neighbor with gentleness and respect and conversation
Luke 24:13-29- The 2 men on the road to Emmaus
Hebrews 10:24-25- Spur one another on
Luke 22- Jesus knew betrayal
Hebrews 4:15- We have a high priest who can sympathize
2 Timothy 4:16-18- Paul saying “I’ve been left I”m not alone”
God is good
God is loving
2 Timothy 4:8- “I received my crown of righteousness”
Isaiah 40:31- “They that wait upon the Lord”
Romans 8:28 / Psalm 57:2- Our lives have purpose
Genesis 1:1-2 / John 1:1-5- God chose to create
Genesis 1:26-31- We are significant because we are made in God’s image
Leviticus 25-27- Leviticus where so much is taken care of if you keep your promise, but if you break it then… and yet there’s always a way back
Genesis 15:1-15- The covenant where the splitting of animals happens
Matthew 26:36-46- Jesus lonely in the garden
John 14:15-31 // Acts 2:1-41- The Holy Spirit came and now we will never be alone ever again
Matthew 5:43-48- Love your enemies
Psalm 57:4 (one of MANY)- Psalms and David talking about being surrounded by enemies
John 13:35- The world will know Him by our love
Matthew 27:11-26- The leaders of the Law inciting people to murder
Luke 22:54; Matthew 26:57; Mark 14:53; and John 18:12- Sneaking around at night with an illegal trial
John 3:1-21 - Nicodemus approaching to Jesus
Psalm 139:23- Search me and know me, God
Matthew 5:3-8- Message translation of the Beatitudes from the outro
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share with y’all a really incredible conversation with my friends Brett and Jana Aplin. Brett and Jana are the dynamic duo that make up Aplins in the Alps, and they share the super sweet story behind their God dreams, and also their passion for travel and the international church.
This episode unpacks the power of the Gospel in the lives of those who say yes to Jesus. Bret and Jana’s story is such a powerful picture of the Spirit of God at work around the world in these days following Pentecost and celebrating the birth of the Church. Brett and Jana’s story is such an inspiring, powerful, and encouraging picture of the Spirit of God at work around the world in these days following Pentecost and celebrating the birth of the Church.
Since our chat a few weeks ago, they are now indeed in Switzerland, sharing their adventures on their instagram page, and they launched their YouTube page! You can find links to connect with them, and even find ways to support them in the show notes. And they can always use prayer!!
While you’re praying for them, I wonder if you would be bold enough to ask the Lord where He might be leading you? Could He be prompting you to find ways to press in to where you are, or might He be calling you to go somewhere and be present there? I love how they point out in this conversation that there’s so much beauty in both the commission to “go and tell”, and also the invitation to “come and see.” The Lord will make Himself known in your story, just as He has in theirs.
Connecting with Brett & Jana:
YouTube
Support Brett & Jana while they travel!
Today’s Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree with Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Zeta Tau Alpha
Alpha Delta Pi (OBIC, y’all!)
Switzerland
Tour de France
Rick Steves
The Death of Princess Diana
Rick Steves’ books
Buckingham Palace (and the changing of the guard)
Anthony Edwards (Goose in “Top Gun” and Dr. Green on “ER”)
Hyde Park
Winston Churchill’s War Rooms in London
Rome International Church
International Baptist Convention
Our reading of Ruth from last year (Episode 38)
Festival of Weeks (now called Shavuot)
Passover
International Baptist Church in Paris, France (Emmanuel International Church)
Montenegro
French Alps
CRU (Campus Crusade for Christ)
Pastor Mark Clark’s conversation on the podcast (Episode 83)
Gospel Fluency- Jeff Vanderstelt
Risen Motherhood- the podcast, and their book
Sound of Music house in Austria- Schloss Leopoldskron
Scripture References:
Matthew 4:18-22/ John 21:2-8 - The disciples were not all fishermen (Only John, James, Peter and Andrew POSSIBLY Thomas, Nathaniel and Philip because they were helping fish when Jesus appears to them on the beach)
Luke 6:12-16 /Luke 5:27-32- Simon the Zealot (zealous to overthrow the government) and Matthew (or Levi) the Tax Collector for Rome
Acts 1-2- Pentecost : Jesus gathered people at the Mount of Olives and ascended into Heaven AND when the tongues of fire came down upon His followers (men AND women- see vs. ___ )
Zechariah 14:4- Mount of Olives- where Jesus will appear again
Luke 22:39-46- Where He prayed His guts out for us
Matthew 28:19–20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8- Go and make disciples of all nations Samaria, etc
Matthew 27:62-66-Jesus was crucified over Passover
Acts 17 - when people are on the perimeter of the synagogue “God-fearing Greeks”
Galatians 5:1-25-Freedom has a purpose
Revelation 7:9- Every tribe, every nation
1 Corinthians 12:12-27- Diversity highlights the creativity of God
Romans 6:23- The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life
Ephesians 4:1- Live lives worthy of your calling
Colossians 3:17-Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord
Genesis 1:27 / Romans 8:29- You are an image bearer of the Living God
Psalm 107:2- Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story
Luke 15:3–7- Leaving the 99 to find the 1
Luke 23:39–43- The sinner on the cross next to Him
Romans 5:8 / 1 John 4:10-/ John 3:16- He died for us because He loves us (you! Yes, you!)
John 15:5- We are completely dependent on Him
James 5:16- Prayer is so powerful
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18- Pray without ceasing
Acts 10:9-16- Peter having the vision on the roof
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I’m chatting with the wise and incredibly kind Christina Suzann Nelson. Christina is an incredible author, and through connecting with her and learning about some of the story behind her most recent book,The Way it Should Be I got to hear her heart and got a glimpse of journey as an adoptive and foster parent. In honor of Foster Care Awareness Month, and because I think there is such a need for more stories like Christina and her families story to be told, she shares with us all about their journey of becoming the parents of 6 children, and seeing the Lord make Himself known in their story. Then, she shares how all of that translated into a heart that longed for hope filled stories to be written and how she began her journey as an author writing books that hold space for faith deepening, developing languages of compassion, and giving opportunities to process things in life such as addiction, broken hearts, disease, messy families, but remind us that God can and does still bring beauty from the ashes.
Christina is so kind and so warm and honest, and I just think you’re going to love hearing from her. It’s an amazing gift to believe in the possibility of life change, cultivating hearts of compassion, and watching God at work, and her stories and even our time together today, cultivate such a beautiful space to process all of those things, and more.
I know so many people that are walking through situations that we touched on today, and praying through what God would have them do next. Whether that’s caretaking, adopting, fostering, or even figuring out how to love a family member or friend who has been overtaken by addiction, or overwhelmed by the world they’re living in and you don’t know how to respond to them, The Lord is near. I do not in any way say that lightly. I have been in some of those pits, and I know the pain. This is not how the story ends and there is so much hope and even joy still to be found.
If you are interested in fostering or adopting or learning more about any of it, I’ve included some resources in the show notes for you. As with many scary things, I just want to remind you of something I heard a long time ago that always encourages me when I stare at my empty hands and seemingly impossible situations: the Lord does not call the equipped, He equips the called.
Connecting with Christina:
Her books
Website
Today’s Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree with Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
References:
Praying with Our Feet
Lindsey Krinks and Open Table Nashville
My conversation with Lindsey (it's just one episode back!)
Jane Kirkpatrick
Something Worth Doing
My episode with Jane Kirkpatrick (Episode 53)
Rajneesh in Oregon
“Wild, Wild Country”
A Land of Sheltered Promise
My conversation with Shawn Smucker where we discuss the philosopher who shares findings of how the brain processes history and story.
The Giver
Parkinson’s Disease
Foster Care Resources:
ACES Training (This is where one of my best friends who is a foster mother said to start.)
Trauma Informed Training for Foster Care Families
Therapeutic Interventions
Youth Villages
National Foster Parent Association
Scripture References:
Isaiah 30:21- Responding to the prompting of the Lord
Romans 3- We live in a broken sin-wrecked world
2 Corinthians 10:5- Take every thought captive
Romans 5:3-5-Fighting with hope and persevere
Psalm 139:7-13- The Lord will meet us anywhere we are
Ephesians 1, Isaiah 43:19- There is nothing and no one beyond redemption of the Lord (and practically the whole Bible is the story echoing this very truth.)
Psalm 25:1-3, Romans 5:3-11, Romans 10:13, Colossians 1:27- There is hope for everyone
1 Timothy 4:12-16 // Titus 2:3-5- One generation of women pouring into another and you’re never too young or too old to be used by the Lord (not to mention, David and Esther were incredibly young in their “giant” moments, Moses and Noah were incredibly old. Just to name a few)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I’m honored to share my conversation with the incredible Lindsey Krink. Lindsey is a street chaplain, author, housing rights advocate and the co-founder of Open Table Nashville, an interfaith outreach non-profit serving the homeless community. Her beautiful and poignant book Praying With Our Feet: Pursuing Justice and Healing on the Streets shares her faith journey and personal evolution as she began to see the Gospel come alive under bridges, and the words of the Old Testament prophets make themselves known in tent cities, and in the shivering shoulders of those caring for one another trying to survive on the fringes of society.
In this powerful episode, Lindsey shares with us a little bit about the stigmas and assumptions that are made about people experiencing homelessness, as well as some of the stories she has seen and experienced, and where she has seen God’s heart for people come alive on the fringes with the least of these.
There are so many narratives that surround lives that we don’t fully understand, and Lindsey brings the practical and the prayer provoking of how we can intersect this particular crisis that affects so many. From how we can better treat fellow image bearers with dignity to practical ideas for what to keep in your car, and how to get involved in your own neighborhood, there is so much packed into this episode. Lindsey’s heart is for us all to take the opportunity to examine our call from Christ to love our neighbor, to nurture a fire in our belly and in our bones to light up the world for justice and love in Jesus’ name. As we talk about often on this podcast, there is no limit to what the Lord can do with a heart surrendered to Him. I hope and pray that this episode presents good questions for you to consider, and also presents opportunities for you to engage God’s creation in a more full and compassionate way, however God may lead you to do so in your own season, place and time. You matter. Your neighbor, houseless or homed, matters. Your story matters.
Connecting with Lindsey Krinks (and Open Table Nashville):
-Her book: Praying With Our Feet: Pursuing Justice and Healing on the Streets
-Instagram for Open Table
-Facebook for Open Table
-Where to Turn Nashville Help Guide
-Open Table Nashville // their amazon wishlist // how to volunteer with them
-”The Contributor” her husband’s newspaper that provides jobs (and dignity) for neighbors experiencing homelessness
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Store Link
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
References:
“Reckless Love”
“Beautiful, Scandalous Night”
Civil Rights Movement
Nashville lunch counter sit ins
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel
Frederick Douglas
St. Teresa of Avila (being the hands and feet of Jesus -- see the whole essay at the end!)
Dr. Cornel West “Justice is what love looks like in public.”
The enneagram
Community Resource Center
Bombing in Nashville Christmas Day 2020
Tornado in Nashville March 2020
Eviction moratorium, but still an eviction crisis
The Village at Glencliff- Micro-homes in partnership with Glencliff UMC
Room in the Inn
Greenhouse Ministries
Last Call 4 Grace
Journey Home
GraceFull:Growing a Heart That Cares for Our Neighbors by Dorena Williamson
ColorFull: Celebrating the Colors God Gave Us by Dorena Williamson
ThoughtFull: Discovering the Unique Gifts in Each of Us by Dorena Williamson
(you can hear more from Dorena during our conversation in episode 11 and 12 of the podcast)
Safe Haven Family Shelters
A fantastic article about Lindsey and her book from the “Nashville Scene”
Scripture References:
Mark 12:31 -Loving our neighbors (along with 100 others)
Deuteronomy 10:18, Deuteronomy 14:28-29, Isaiah 1:17, James 1:27- (It was Deuteronomy not Numbers, sorry!)- sharing about social justice and provision for widows
Psalm 33:5 (one of MANY) God has a significant heart for justice -- scriptural deep dive here
Psalm 90:12-Grant me a heart of wisdom and teach me to number my days
Acts 2-5 (and most of the book really!) - the Church’s development
1 Corinthians 12-We each have spiritual gifts
Luke 10:25-37-The Good Samaritan
Amos 5:24-Let justice roll down like a mighty river
Isaiah 58:6-The kind of fasting I want for you is justice
Isaiah 58:7-Pay your workers and don’t turn away from your own flesh and blood
Matthew 6:10-On Earth as it is in Heaven
Acts 17:26-28, Galatians 5:13, Hebrews 10:23-25 -the Lord made us to dwell with Him and in a way that points each other to Him and then serve one another
Acts 2:42-46- they constantly provided for one another
-Mark 5 // Mark 1:41 -”Lord if you are willing” -- indignant -- moved from the very gut in compassion and pity and hated that this was happening to him - (Greek wording explained here)
Matthew 9:36-Moved with compassion like sheep without a shepherd
Proverbs 19:17, 1 John 3:17-18 ,Psalm 82:3, James 2:15-16 -serve the poor
Psalm 42:7- deep calls to deep
Christ has no body but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks
Compassion on this world,
Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good,
Yours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world.
Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,
Yours are the eyes, you are his body.
Christ has no body now but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks
compassion on this world.
Christ has no body now on earth but yours.
— St. Teresa of Ávila
“The kingdom of God is not just somewhere we go when we die, it's something we bring about in the here and now by the way we live together.”- Lindsey Krinks
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast I am chatting with Roseanna M. White, who is not only one of my favorite christian fiction authors, but she has a heart for stories that share little known parts of history, and remind us about how we grow as people and in our faith. In this episode you’re going to get a mixture of some of my favorite things: faith building stories, thoughts on cultivating compassion for other people, fun history lessons and lots of moments of hope.
One of the most powerful take-aways from this conversation to me was this: History happens in the everyday decisions. That is something Roseanna echoes in her stories, but also how she encourages us all to engage our lives. You may not feel like what you do or the decisions you make matter very much, but as my friends at the Daily Grace Co always say “today matters for eternity” Whether that’s the work you do, the forgiveness you give, the compassion you show your children, or the efforts you make to listen to someone’s story that you don’t understand, all of those things matter. Ebenezer moments in people’s lives where the Lord makes Himself known, and sometimes even changes the course of a story, happen every day, when someone chooses to press in where its hard, or says yes when it may not make sense. The Lord is the God of our end.
So whether you are new to Roseanna’s work, or you’re as excited as I was to get to know her a little better, or if you’re a history nerd that wants to hear some incredible things about America’s first spy ring, or WWI Codebreakers, or you just love to hear a good, hope filled conversation, there is something in this conversation for you.
By the way, Roseanna’s latest book was released just this week!! You can hear about its unique story of mystery, treasure, and caribbean-esque English isles too. I just got my copy, I can’t wait to dive in!
Connecting with Roseanna:
Newsletter
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Store Link
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
References:
-Ella and Cayton’s book
-Marietta’s book (3rd in Culper Ring Series)
-Shadows over England series
-WWI
-WWII
-The Civil War
-her latest Savannah book, Dreams of Savannah, working through what’s happening to brothers and sisters of color
-her book with the Spanish flu in it, A Portrait of Loyalty
-Cindy Sproles- What Momma Left Behind
-the orphan train
-luminaries in DC for victims of covid
-NYT cover with 500,000 covid deaths
-Charles Dickens changes the world highlighting orphans, poor working conditions, social reform, etc.
-Harriet Beecher Stowe with Uncle Tom’s Cabin
-Codebreakers (Her series, and who they really were- the people of ‘room 40’)
-Ladies of the Manor (Brooke’s story, then Rowena and Ella)
-Cotswolds
-Cornwall
-Love Finds You in Annapolis
-Brad Meltzer’s “Decoded” (Here is the actual episode!)
-George Washington and the Culper Ring (From Mount Vernon) The Culper Spy Ring (History Channel)
-Abraham Woodhull (and also this one) and Robert Townsend (The linked NYT article about Robert is really good!)
-The brothers Jay (James and John Jay) invented invisible ink - (Letters from John Jay to Washington)
-Benedict Arnold
-Congressman Benjamin Talmedge
-War of 1812
-Knights of the Golden Circle, precursor to the KKK (also, another REALLY good book involving this group All Through the Night by Tara Johnson)
-finding confederate gold
-systemic racism- a really good video that explains it powerfully
-Reconstruction (we also talk about this a good bit in my conversation with Beth White in episode 39)
-White Citizens Council
-The Great Migration
-Cities of primarily Black citizens that were firebombed by soldiers in the 1920’s
-”Digging out Roots” - Roseanna’s blog post
-Puritan Prayers: The Valley of Vision and Piercing Heaven
-”God of my end”
-A Stray Drop of Blood
-Secrets of the Isles- The Nature of a Lady
-The Isles of Scilly
-Seeing the Story
Scripture References:
Mark 12:31-called to love our neighbors
Matthew 5:43-48 -love our enemies
1 Samuel 8-17 // 1 Samuel 18-24 // 1 Samuel 25-31 -King Saul
Psalm 139:14 -who God says you are
Judges 6 -Gideon, in a winepress
Judges 6:24-31-tear down the altars to the false gods your father has built
Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son), Matthew 13:44 (Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl), Matthew 7:1-5 (The Lamp) -Examples of Jesus’ parables, here’s a more consolidated list
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast I am diving deep with Kat Harris. Kat (aka the Refined Woman) shares her story of moving from photographer and fashion blogger, to coach and author, podcaster, and communicator tackling huge issues like singleness and sensuality, sex and dating and Christianity, and pursuing the heart of God as a woman who ultimately wants to honor Him with her life. Kat brings such powerful, honest and raw perspective in this conversation and in her book that just released last week Sexless in the City: A Sometimes Sassy, Sometimes Painful, Always Honest Look at Dating, Desire and Sex
We talk about the narratives that have permeated the church over the last decades, the confusion for women in particular that’s come from them, and her desire for there to be conversation that creates a culture of honor between men and women, without casting shame or judgement on either party, while also not casting all responsibility for purity for all people entirely on the shoulders of women… I mean. We just deep dive and its powerful. She shares about how the rules of purity culture created an environment of “rules without vision”, and that the Bible actually has A LOT to say about sex and relationships if we are willing to dive in and hear God’s perspective on it (which Kat is 100% down for and does beautifully in her book.)
I also want to thank some of my precious single friends who provided some questions for me to ask Kat in regards to navigating dating as a Believer in a world of apps, hookup culture and more. I can’t wait for y’all to hear what all she had to say, and her powerful questions for married friends and how we can better support, love, and encourage our single friends.
Wherever this episode found you today, friend, I hope that you know how loved you are. We have a God who cares about you as a whole person, and He has good for you. Christ came so that we may have life and life to the full. That doesn’t have conditions based on your relationship status. Whether you are single, dating, married, divorced: you matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Kat:
Podcast- “The Refined Collective”
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Store Link
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Resources:
-The Refined Woman
-Usher’s wedding (2008)
-Nikon
-Her book Sexless in the City: A Sometimes Sassy, Sometimes Painful, Always Honest Look at Dating, Desire and Sex
-Purity culture
-True Love Waits
-I Kissed Dating Goodbye
-Joshua Harris leaving the church
-Peggy Orenstein (writer for New York Times, Girls and Sex)
-Deborah Hirsch
-Coldplay
-Bethel Worship
-Maverick City Worship
-Tim Keller
-enneagram 2
Scripture References:
Matthew 21:12-13,Mark 11:15-18, Ephesians 4:26- Jesus was angry and didn’t sin
Jeremiah 17:9-The heart is deceitful above all else
Romans 3:22, 1 Corinthians 1:30, 2 Corinthians 5:21- The only thing that makes us pure/whole is God
Genesis 1:26
Song of Songs
Ephesians 4:1-Live a life worthy of your calling
2 Corinthians 12:7-9- The thorn in your flesh
Ephesians 5
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I am chatting with one of my good friends Elizabeth Wyndham, but to pretty much everyone else, she’s ELiz. So, as we are rounding out our 4 part Seeker series as we intentionally look at the questions and doubts people have about following God, I really wanted to spend time chatting with ELiz for a few different reasons. She has spent a lot of time as a student of the Middle East, and she lived there as a student in 2011. Eliz also is a woman of deep faith, and her love for the Lord and His Word is so beautiful to me, but she went through an experience of needing to make her faith her own and she spent a lot of time asking questions, listening and learning until as she says she found that :“Christianity was the only religion I couldn’t disprove” And she shares that process with us, and also how searching for Christ and how He intersected with the world when He was on Earth continues to inform her faith and how she interacts with others still today.
So through her knowledge of cultures and their paradigms, her immersive experiences, her heart for the Word of God, and the Gospel, I asked Eliz to come on the podcast and take me to school and ohhh boy did she. This one is a little longer than our average episode, but I know for a fact that there is a word for someone in this episode today. Whether it's about learning things you didn’t know before in regards to the world Jesus walked around in, how things are for Christians in other countries, bringing the Word of God even more fully alive, or an encouragement to you to dive deeper into your own faith journey, there’s something for everyone in this conversation. I hope it meets you where you are.
Sponsor Info: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit RealtyFacebook
Instagram
YouTube
Website
References:
MP Seminars
Ride a camel to Petra
Jordan
Egypt
The Arab Spring
Syrian Civil War
Egypt’s military dictator was kicked out
Tahrir Square
Geography of Northern Africa, the Middle East and South Africa
“The Prince of Egypt”
Sinai peninsula
Turkey is the bridge between the Middle East and Europe
Chinatown in Egypt
“My Shot”- Hamilton
Garbage City
“Dhimmi/Dhimmis” 2nd class citizenship in Egypt //definition
City of the Dead
Caste system
Train cars for women
Islamic view of women
“Shame is only shame if its known” (why women don’t share about sexual assault in the Middle East)
Early Christianity in ancient Rome, it was a known as the religion for women
Infanticide was common in ancient Rome, especially for girls
Hand of Fatima
Folk Islam
Muslim people who dream about Jesus
Our episode with Patrick Prill
Latasha Morrison and de-centering
The 3D Gospel by Jason Georges (contains the culture test)
Roland Mueller, Honor & Shame // The Messenger, The Message and the Community
Kenneth Bailey Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes
Michael Heiser - his books and his episode with me, also listen to his podcast
Mark Clark’s The Problem of Jesus: Answering a Skeptic's Challenges to the Scandal of Jesus, and also my conversation with him
Bridges small group study- how to connect and ask good questions with Musilm people
J.D. Greear
Carl Medearis
Nonie Darwish- Wholly Different: Why I Chose Biblical Values Over Islamic Values
Scripture References:
Exodus 14- The Exodus story from Egypt
Matthew 2- Jesus went there for a time when He was a baby
John 4- Samaritan Women
Luke 8- Unclean woman (issue of blood)
Leviticus 15:19- A menstruating woman would defile who she touched
Ephesians 3:14-20, Romans 8:15, Romans 9:25-26, Galatians 3:26-27, 1 John 3:1- Adopted into the Family of God (sons and daughters of God)
Luke 24- “His resurrection was announced to the people whose testimony only counted for half” (the women)
Luke 8:26-39- living among the tombs, Legion, filled with demons and Jesus
Mark 5:1-20- Legion couldn’t be bound
2 Timothy 2:11-13- more info and multiple Biblical references here: Jesus binds Satan with His death, He conquered Satan, He is King and we will rule with Him
Revelation 20- Demons will ultimately go to the eternal abyss
Ephesians 6:12- We are not at war with flesh and blood
Ephesians 2:6-7- Jesus is in Heavenly Places
Matthew 3:2,Matthew 4:17,Mark 1:15- The Kingdom of God is at hand
Romans 8:17- Co-heirs with Christ
Hebrews 4:12- The Word of God is alive and active
1 Corinthians 9:19-23- give up some to save many
1 Corinthians 6:12- Must not become a slave to anything
1 Peter 2:7-9- A rock of offense
Mark 2:13-17- Jesus eating with sinners
John 13:35- They will know Me by your love
1 Corinthians 13- If I speak without love, I’m a clanging gong
Exodus 16:4- Mana in the desert for each day in the portion needed
Matthew 6:5-15- Give us this day our daily bread
Acts 2- Tongue of fire from the Holy Spirit
Hebrews 12:2- Jesus went to the cross despising its shame and now is seated at the right hand of the Father
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories PodcastInstagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Pastor and author Mark Clark joins me on the podcast today for a timely and powerful conversation. Mark founded the Village Church in Vancouver back in 2010, and he shares today his powerful story of transformation from growing up as a skeptic to finding Christ and ultimately being called to ministry.
Mark said something in our conversation that led to one fascinating part of this conversation. He said, as a Canadian, when he speaks in America, he often says “I come to you from the future,” and he unpacks what it looks like to live and pastor in post-Christian culture. He shares that there is a call to re-introduce Jesus to a culture who thinks they know what Jesus is about, but ultimately have made much of their decisions about Him based on the culture they find themselves in, the environment they’ve known or the broken choices of broken people in the Church. We talk about how many people wrestle with what they’ve seen and they walk away from faith all together, but how we can meet people where they are by reminding them who Christ truly is.
Mark has also written a book called The Problem of Jesus: Answering a Skeptic’s Challenges to the Scandal of Jesus. His book attempts to clear away much of what hinders us from looking DIRECTLY at Jesus because of all the chaos around us. He says to “Let the work of Jesus scandalize you, instead of allowing us to be scandalized by those in the Church.” He presents so many facets of Jesus, historically, culturally, and how His life turned the world upside down in the context of ancient Israel, but how that same power still changes lives today. The more clearly we see who Jesus is in scripture, the more clearly we can see Him now.
There is just so much to unpack here, and I think it's just a conversation that is right on time. Jesus knows the questions we have. He knows the brokenness we are surrounded by. He can take it, and He wants us to take these things to Him.
Connecting with Mark:
Book
Instagram
Twitter
Website
Connecting with Village Church
Recommended Bible Study Resource:
Daily Grace Co.
Podcast
References:
-Augustine- “For now, treat the Scriptures of God as the face of God; melt in its presence” (Sermones 22, 7).
-C.S. Lewis-
-The Problem of God: Answering a Skeptic’s Challenges to Christianity (Mark’s first book)
-The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble
-”If God had perceived that our greatest need was economic, He would have sent an economist. If he had perceived that our greatest need was entertainment, he would have sent us a comedian or an artist. If God had perceived that our greatest need was political stability, he would have sent us a politician. If he had perceived that our greatest need was health, he would have sent us a doctor. But he perceived that our greatest need involved our sin, our alienation from him, our profound rebellion, our death, and he sent us a Savior.” —D. A. Carson, A Call to Spiritual Reformation: Priorities from Paul and His Prayers (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1992), 109.
**To hear from someone who has walked through a process of “deconstruction” and came out truly loving Jesus even more, listen to my conversation with Bunmi Laditan. (Not that she’d recommend her methods… but just a story that ultimately God made Himself known to her on her windy path).
Scripture References:
Genesis 5:32-10:1- Noah
Abraham
1 Corinthians 6:19- You are tabernacling with the Lord
Ecclesiastes 1:9- There is nothing new under the sun
Matthew 23
Joshua 5:13-6:27- Joshua (the fall of Jericho and the opportunity for repentance, Rahab, and etc.)
Matthew 5:44- “Love your enemy”
1 Corinthians 7- Husband and wife- one marriage
Matthew 3:2,Matthew 4:17,Mark 1:15- the Kingdom of God is at hand
Matthew 6:21- Where your treasure is, there your heart is
Luke 24:1-12-Jesus rose from the dead
1 Corinthians 16:22-23
Gospel of Mark
Gospel of John
Book of Ephesians
Deuteronomy 4:29; Proverbs 8:17; Jeremiah 29:13; Matthew 7:7; Luke 11:9; Acts 17:24-28- If you seek Me you will find Me
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Suffering is part of life this side of Heaven. Walking with Christ is not about trying to will your emotions out of the equation, but to reconcile your experience with what God says is true. I love how Tyler defines doubt, he says: “Doubt is an event in the world that conflicts with the story that you believe.” That will happen. It is inevitable. Jesus makes space for ALL of it. And while so much of the Church has struggled, we don’t have to tear it all down and walk away from faith in the process, we can press in and learn how to reconstruct what has been broken and walk in the deep places that call us even deeper intimacy with Christ.
Several weeks ago when Tyler and I chatted, he was still praying through a big leap of faith and just about a month ago, he announced that he is stepping down at Oaks Church in Brooklyn and is currently transitioning into a position at Bridgetown Church in Portland, Oregon, to take over John Mark Comer’s position as lead pastor. Man, what an incredible and challenging season for them as they boldly follow God’s call! You can hear his heartfelt announcement on his Instagram page, and also, if you hop over to John Mark’s Instagram page you can hear really great conversations between them as well about all the themes of Tyler’s incredible book. I just think its fascinating to see this unfold for him, his family as the Lord asked him to share a book about diving deep with Him, and He called Him even deeper. Won’t He do it. Be sure to check out our conversation, follow him online and if you think of it, pray for him and his sweet family in this season of transition.
I hope that no matter where you are today, you hear this conversation and you are encouraged and reminded that the Lord cares about you. That He wants to meet you in your story because it matters to Him. Your story matters. You matter. And even if you have struggled with faith communities in the past, it doesn’t mean there’s no place for you or your story. Don’t lose heart, dear one. The Lord is with you.
Connecting with Tyler:
Website
Church he’s transitioning to in Portland, Oregon: Bridgetown Church
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Store Link
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
References:
-Oaks Church in Brooklyn, NY
-Todd Nettleton from Voice of the Martyrs sharing on the podcast
-The Problem of Pain == Mere Christianity
-A Grief Observed - personally facing suffering and hardship in a world where we believe incredible things about God which are true but we are experiencing things that hinder me from feeling and believing
-Niki Gumbdon- founded Alpha :: Previous generations asked: “Is it true? Now, it’s is it real?”.
-baby boomers
-Vietnam War
-Cold War
-The Great Depression
-Ravi Zacharias scandal
-The Wounded Healer - Henry Nouwen
-Walter Brueggemann
-David Benner for a story to provide meaning have to make suffering sufferable
-Victor Frankl (psychologist and concentration camp survivor) what gives our lives meaning is our experiences of suffering
-Monastic communities putting graveyards next to places of worship : “What you are, I used to be, what I am you will be.”
-John Mark Comer
Scripture References:
Acts 2:36-47-When there was a struggle in the culture, the early Church engaged how to be the hands and feet of Jesus
The minor prophets:: (Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi)
Micah 6:8--when you cannot worship through normal means, worship through justice.
Book of Amos
Book of Isaiah
John 6:1-14 -loaves and fish
1 Corinthians 12:12-31-learning to be the body of Christ
John 11:16-Thomas’ faith (Thomas is ready to die with Jesus)
Luke 24, John 20:24-31-Thomas’ moment of doubt
Luke 24:13-35-road to Emmaus
Matthew 28:16-20-the great commission
Luke 22:54-62 -Peter-denied Jesus
John 21:1-20-Then Peter receives grace
Acts 2:14-36-Peter leads Pentecost
Psalm 42:7-deep calls to deep
Ephesians 5-stay awake to what matters in life
Psalm 23-the valley of the shadow
Psalm 12-13, 44, 86, etc. -Psalms of Lament
Proverbs 27:1,James 4:13-14 -we’re only promised today
-Jeremiah and Isaiah -surrounded by so much challenge, but were so awake to the presence of God
Jeremiah 31:3, Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 4 (and 3!) - (and many more verses) life is about intimacy with God
1 Corinthians 2:9-10, Revelation 21:3-4 -Heaven is unbroken intimacy with God
Psalm 16:11, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 5:1-20, James 4:8, 1 John 1:9 -life is about becoming more like Jesus and doing the stuff He did in the world
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, we’re starting a 4 week mini-series that intentionally looks at the role of questions and faith, and the art of wrestling, seeking, and the answers found in Christ. Today, I’m chatting with author Patrick Prill who has recently released a book called Things Atheists Say That Simply Make No Sense, and it examines many of the popular, and particularly scientific claims made by notable modern atheists and agnostics.
During our conversation, Patrick and I unpack the various scientific and non spiritual schools of thought, as well as the understandable and heartbreaking questions many wrestle with about God’s goodness and suffering, and then how all of it stands up to the nuances of who God is, and seeking His heart in the midst of all the broken. This conversation is a powerful learning opportunity, a rallying cry for those who confess to know Christ, and a call to take all that we see, hear, and seek to the foot of the cross. I hope you lean into this conversation, no matter where you are in your faith. You and your questions are welcome here.
This Easter season is one like no other. We are well into a year of a global pandemic, and people are HURTING. There is suffering, tension, questions and accusations overflowing from every direction, and honestly, there is much about where we are that mirrors where Christ put on skin and came to Earth. And yet He came anyway. He chose to die anyway. And He chose to rise again. He can take our questions, because ultimately He is the answer.
Wherever you are this holy week, I hope and pray that you know how much you matter to the Lord. He came for you. He died for you. He rose from the dead for you. And if you choose Him too, He will give you more than you could ever ask for or imagine, even if and when you continue to wrestle on this side of Heaven. He is risen, friend. He is risen indeed. You matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Patrick:
Book
Podcast Partner: Daily Grace Co.
Podcast
Store (Affiliate link that supports the podcast. Thank you!)
References:
Bowden Wyatt
Dallas Theological
Texas Christian
Richard Dawkins
Agnostic
Stephen Hawking
If the Earth is off a degree….
Scientific materialism
Determinism
Edward Hubble the universe is expanding
-”Contact”- her moment of knowing we’re not alone
-The Bible Recap
-Friedrich Nietzsche
-Holocaust
-Spiritual Gifts test :)
-My church’s sermon series on spiritual gifts
-Maundy Thursday
-30 years old is when Jewish Priests began to serve and it began with ceremonial washing
Scripture References:
-1 Peter 2 - “We’re all supposed to be in the game (called to minister)
-2 Timothy 1:14- Guard the deposit entrusted to you
-1 Peter 4:10- we’re called to use our gifts
-the Romans road
-Romans 3:22-24- there is sin and we need a Savior
-Exodus 9 - Pharaoh's hard heart, warnings given when the plagues were coming
-Galatians 5:13 / Joshua 24:15 / Mark 8:34 / Philippians 1:21- we have been given choices
-Mark 4:35-41- crying out to God in the storm “don’t you care if we die?”
-Luke 15:11-32- The prodigal son parable
-Mark 16:15- we are invited to share the Gospel
-2 Timothy 3:16-17-we are equipped with resources to share the Gospel
-1 Timothy 2 Matthew 5:44- , pray for EVERYONE
-Proverbs 3:3-4-be faithful with those who are around you
-Luke 16:10- he who is faithful in little, is faithful in much
-Ephesians 4:1- live a life worthy of your calling
-Mark 12:30-31-love the Lord your God, and love your neighbor as yourself
-Matthew 26:17-29,Mark 14:12-25,Luke 22:7-30,John 13:18-30,John 13:1-17,John 13:31-35 - the last supper
-Matthew 26:36-43- Jesus goes and prays His guts out and His friends left Him
-Luke 13:33; Matthew 16:21; Matthew 17:22; Mark 8:31-Jesus made the call- 3 days from now, I’m going to rise from the dead
-John 6:38/John 10:10- Jesus came down to get us
-Ephesians 4:22-25- We receive citizenship in Heaven
-1 Corinthians 1:30 / We receive His righteousness
-Acts 2:38-39-We receive the Holy Spirit
-John 16:33- in this world you will have trouble
-Isaiah 53- He was the suffering servant
-Hebrews 4:15- He is a High Priest that can sympathize
-Luke 9:58- the Son of Man had no place to lay his head
-Mark 3:31-34-struggle between Him and His earthly brothers and sisters
-Luke 22 - one of His closest friends is the one who sold Him out
-Matthew 3:13-17-Jesus’ baptism
-Matthew 3:16/Acts 10:38- the Holy Spirit anointed Jesus
-Matthew 4:1/Luke 4:1- the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness
-Galatians 5:22-23- the fruits of the Spirit
-Romans 5:5- processing things through a lens of hope
-Exodus 13:21- led by the literal presence of God by fire and dust
-Acts 1- the followers come down from the Mount of Olives with an huge mission
-Acts 2:14-36-120 witnesses listening to Peter’s sermon
-1 Corinthians 15:6 - Jesus appeared to 500 people after His resurrection
-Romans 1:14-17-the power of salvation to those who believe
-1 John 3:16, John 15:13- they laid down their lives for each other
-Acts 2:4- the tongue of fire falls on men and women to speak another language
-Genesis 11:1-9-pre- tower of Babel
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I have the absolute pleasure of sharing my conversation with the remarkable Linda Evans Shepherd. Linda is an award winning author, and speaker, and she’s one fierce prayer warrior and the word of God just flows out of her in the most beautiful way. Linda has been through several Job like seasons in her life which have brought her to her knees during some dark nights of the soul. In those seasons, Linda was asking God a lot of the questions many of us have been asking during this insane year: Where is He? Does He love me? Does He care about me? She shares with us what she has learned about the power of prayer from her own experiences, and she goes deep and wide in how the Lord can and will meet us where we are because He met her too.
Her most recent book is called Praying through Every Emotion and that's exactly what it is. It's a book comprised of prayers that speak directly to the heart of the matter, no matter where they fall on the emotional spectrum. The everyday ones like joy, sadness, anger, annoyance, etc. all the way to the hard ones like bitterness, depression or suicidal ideation. This conversation was just so powerful because Linda’s story is powerful, and the activity of God in her life is powerful. But she also shares how accessible God is to ANYONE. If you need some breath in your deflated faith, or a reminder of how to pray, or just a powerful word spoken over your day, this episode is for you.
There is something about spending time with some\one who has been to hell and back and their love for Jesus and their walk with them has only deepened that just feels like balm to a weary soul. I cannot suggest her book enough, it's a beautiful tool for such a time as this. Listen, friend. No matter where you are today, I want you to know that this is not how the story ends. There is still hope. God is still moving, He is still faithful, no matter how dark it feels. Don’t give up. You matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Linda:
Website
*Linda’s special offer of extra prayers that didn’t make it into her book!!
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Link to purchase (If you use this link it helps support the podcast, thank you!)
Scripture References:
The book of Job- his losses, his wife says to curse God and die, his friends mock Him
Job 13:15- Even if He slay me, yet I will trust in Him
John 15:12- To love and be loved
Philippians 4:7- Peace that passes understanding
Lamentations 3:21-23- God is faithful (and a ton more!)
Mark 4:13-20-Parable of farmer and good seeds and soil
Matthew 13- The cares of this world choke the seedlings so they can’t bear fruit
Galatians 5:22-23-Fruits of the Spirit
Luke 3:21-22, Matthew 3:16-17- When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended on Him
Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13- He then goes to wilderness to experience temptation
Matthew 26:36-56, Luke 22:39-46 - Jesus wept in the garden of Gethsemane
John 11- Jesus wept for Lazarus
Psalm 34:18,Hebrews 4:15, Romans 8:26 -Jesus is with us and experiences our pain with us (we have a High Priest who can sympathize, He prays for us in groanings we cannot even understand)
Romans 14:8-9- Asking Jesus to become Lord of our life
1 John 1:9- Asking Jesus to forgive us of our sins
John 15:4-11, John 16:12-15, Galatians 5:16-16, We begin a process of yielding to Him and the work of the Spirit in our lives
1 Peter 5:7- Yielding our cares to God
Psalm 46:10- Be still
Praying the Living Word to a Living God
Ephesians 6:10-18- Armor of God
Ephesians 4:22-24- Put on the righteousness of God
Judges 7, 2 Chronicles 20- God wiping out armies with no human help
2 Corinthians 12:7-10-Thorn in my flesh
Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 18:21-22- We forgive as an act of obedience
Romans 8:28- work together for the good of those who love Him
Genesis 50:20- End of Joseph’s story, what the enemy meant for evil, God used for good
Romans 8:37- We are more than conquerors in Christ
Psalm 51:10- Create in me a clean heart oh God
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18-Pray without ceasing
Matthew 25- The 10 Bridesmaids story
2 Timothy 3:1-4:5- Form of godliness, but denying His power (in the last days)
Genesis 22:14, Ezekiel 34:26-29, Psalm 104:27-28, Psalm 145:16,-God is our provider
Luke 11:1-13- Teach us how to pray
Ephesians 3:20- More than you could ask for or imagine
John 10:10- Jesus came that we would have life and life to the full
Isaiah 41:13, Psalm 46:1, Psalm 121:1 - We have help
Psalm 62:8, Psalm 91- We have a refuge
References:
Praying Through Every Emotion
Co-dependency is an addiction
Andrew Murray prayer- Moody Bible Institute “more Holy Spirit”
“God of my end” - Puritan prayers
Roseanna M. White books where the characters pray this prayer (also 3 of my favorite Christian fiction books EVER)
The Autobiography of George Mueller
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, my girl, Tiffany Bluhm is back on the podcast! Tiffany’s heart lives at the intersection of justice, women and faith, and her newest book Prey Tell: Why We Silence Women Who Tell the Truth and How Everyone Can Speak Up shines a light on issues women face, burdens women bear, fears women live with, dealing with secrets that lurk in dark places until exposed in detrimental ways, and what we, as people of faith, can do about it.
As a recovering people pleaser, this is a vulnerable moment for me. Talking about the big issues women are facing in sacred and secular spaces, examining narratives that have done more harm than good, its murky water. But this is important. Jesus asked big questions to reveal hearts and draw us closer to Him. As a woman, made in the image of God, who has struggled with confusing narratives, and is raising both a young lady and a young man, these things need to be brought out into the Light. I want to be willing to navigate murky waters so that we can seek God’s heart and His wisdom here, do something with the questions in front of us, and make an impact for the present, and the next generation of image bearers, and Tiffany holds this space beautifully.
Tiffany’s perspective about responding to news of a scandal in faith based spaces was really powerful. She said: Love is not divorced from justice. We have to look at this issue holistically. What does it look like to move forward as Christians in the midst of the carnage from a spiritual leader’s fall? She mentioned great things like examining the differences in loyalty to conviction, and loyalty to a person or separating the message from the messenger. Just because broken people make broken choices doesn’t get to take the power of the Gospel in your life. And it also doesn’t mean that they won’t ever be used by God again! But there are consequences to our actions. This is super hard, and uncomfortable, but that doesn’t make it less important.
Praise God He isn’t finished with any of us. Thanks for hanging in there with me in the deep end today, friend. You matter. Your story truly matters. See you next time.
Connecting with Tiffany:
Podcast : Why Tho
YouTube
Latest book: Prey Tell: Why We Silence Women Who Tell the Truth and How Everyone Can Speak Up
References:
First time Tiffany was on the podcast
Our video conversation on my YouTube channel
YouVersion Bible Studies (one of the many! Search Tiffany’s name on the app to find more!)
First 2 books and Bible Studies: She Dreams and Never Alone
Kat Harris
Article I mentioned about evangelical view of sex https://religionnews.com/2021/02/18/ravi-zacharias-carl-lentz-is-the-evangelical-view-of-sex-at-the-root-of-our-sex-scandals/
Ravi Zacharias scandal / I’m going to post two articles here, and then one for the following individuals. You are welcome to do your own research. xo
Bill Hybels
Willow Creek’s history
Carl Lentz
John Crist- interestingly enough… it took quite a bit of digging to get an article on this very recent event. All I can could initially find was recent material since he’s come back online, and his apology. Here is an article about what happened. Which. Is… interesting.
Andy Savage
The arrest of a 95 year old man who worked at a concentration camp
“Case for Christ” (book and movie) by Lee Strobel -- which are VERY good by the way
Scripture Resources:
John 10:10 - Abundant life that Jesus came and died for
Genesis 3- Eve’s failure
Genesis 1
Psalm 121:1 - I lift up my eyes to the hills where does my help come from
Genesis 3:17-19- Adam and Eve’s curses from the garden
Hosea 1 -Gomer
2 Samuel 11- David and Bathsheeba
Genesis 16- Abraham and Sarah and Hagar
Genesis 12:10-20, Genesis 20- Sarah and Abraham - lying TWICE
1 Corinthians 11:3-16 / Ephesians 5:21-33 / (the biggie) 1 Timothy 2:11-15 - Paul’s often cited passages about women (there are several that are addressing specific church and cultural issues, especially in Ephesus and Corinth)
Acts 2 / Acts 16 / Acts 18 / Acts 21:7-9/ Romans 16:3/ 2 Timothy 1:1-5 - Paul also fiercely encouraged and supported women
Luke 8:1-3 / John 4 / Luke 7:36-50 / Luke 4:38-40 / John 19:25-29 / Luke 23:28 / Luke 7:11-17 / - (see also below with bleeding woman, adulterous woman and moooooore. Do the research :) ) - Jesus’s life and His encounters with women
1 Kings 18-19 / Revelation 2:20- Jezebel
Jeremiah 29:11 / Romans 8:28- God has made us for good purposes
Ephesians 4:1- Live a life worthy of their calling
Galatians 6:7-9-God wants there to be redemption, but there’s also consequences.
2 Samuel 13-24-David’s family is torn apart, his kingdom is torn apart, their son dies, and he doesn’t get to build the Temple.
Matthew 1:6- Bathsheeba is in the line of Christ
1 Chronicles 28:6- Solomon, their son, goes on to be King and build the Temple
2 Samuel 12- Nathan the prophet calling out David
Mark 5:1-20-The demoniac
Mark 8:22-26- The blind man
John 8:1-11-The adulterous woman
Matthew 9:20-22- The woman with the issue of blood
Psalm 27:13-14-I still know God is good
1 Peter 5:8 (many verses here)- Satan’s agenda to sow discord between us
Genesis 3:8-13-Blame shifting in the garden
Ephesians 5:14- Wake up, o sleeper
Matthew 5:44 / Romans 14:6-12- Praying for those who disagree with you
Matthew 21:12-13- Jesus flipping tables
Romans 10:11- The language of shame is not of the Lord
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast I am chatting with the wonderful and beloved fiction novelist, Suzanne Woods Fisher. Suzanne is such a kind and genuine person, and she has a passion for getting to the heart of those who may be misunderstood, and parts of history that may not get as much press. During our conversation, she shares her story of how she came into the writing world to become the beloved author of many (as in over THIRTY) books, as well as what draws her into a story.
Her most recent book The Moonlight School shares a fictionalized account of the formidable Cora Wilson Stewart, who launched a grassroots movement to help those who didn’t have easy access to education and to combat illiteracy. The story is incredible, the book itself is such a fascinating read, and it just feels right for this episode to land right in the middle of Women’s History Month!
Suzanne is most well known for her many Amish fiction books, and she shared with me how her heart for story intersected with her family as Grandfather was “raised plain.” He lived in an German Baptist community (a cousin of the Amish tradition, if you will,) where Suzanne was given accessibility to the people and strives to take readers “beyond the bonnets, beards and buggies.” She also provides some interesting insight into why people may be so drawn to stories of Amish in the fiction world, or to their way of living and simple faith that is much stronger than it may appear.
Be sure and follow her, and pick up a copy of her beautiful book The Moonlight School, and find ways to listen to our conversation below.
Today’s Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree with Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
Home buyer guide: http://bit.ly/buyersguidecrabtreehomes
Seller guide: http://bit.ly/sellerguidecrabtreehomes
Website
YouTube
Connecting with Suzanne:
Her books
Her most recent book: The Moonlight School
References:
Young Life
CRU (Campus Crusade for Christ)
Pioneer Woman Magazine
Magnolia Journal
Wired Magazine
Southern Living Magazine
Country Living Magazine
Martha Stewart Magazine
Highlights Magazine
The Amish
German Baptist
Amish Peace:Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World
Middle Easterners are a communal culture
Amish “Churches” are autonomous
Supreme court in 1972 about the Amish and Education // Wisconsin v. Yoder
LMU- Lincoln Memorial University
Hun-Dutch
Fonde, KY // Bell County
Scotch-Irish
Coal Mining Shutdowns
Christy- Catherine Marshall
Cumberland Gap
Cora Wilson Stewart
Illiteracy Rates in the United States
Appalachia Service Project
Dolly Parton (the one and only)
Imagination Library Program :: Books from Birth
Sevierville // Dollywood
Dolly’s generosity to the people after the Gatlinburg
Organizations that Promote Literacy
The Little Engine That Could
Look Out, Kindergarten, Here I Come
How to start a Little Free Library
Birding
The story of cardinals
Cape Cod
Jane Kirkpatrick (her books on historic women) and our episode
Laura Frantz (our episode!)
Francine Rivers
Scripture References:
Acts 2:42-47-The original design of the church was communal
Jeremiah 29:11 / Ephesians 4:1 / Matthew 25:21- God has uniquely equipped you to engage what’s in front of you
Psalm 139:14- You are uniquely and wonderfully made
Psalm 107:2- Your story matters, why not share it?
Isaiah 40:6-8 / Isaiah 55:11 - God’s Word changes lives forever
Genesis 1, Psalm 33:9-He spoke the world into being
Genesis 11:1-9- The tower of Babel
Acts 2:3- The Holy Spirit brings the fire of tongues
Isaiah 40:31- They that wait upon the Lord
Matthew 5:15 / John 12:35-36- Hold the Light
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I get to share my conversation with the absolutely delightful Eryn Eddy. Eryn is a speaker, an author, a professional encourager, and is also the founder of So Worth Loving, which is a fashion brand and also an online community whose mission is to remind people of their value, and that they are indeed so worth loving! Eryn recently released her first book So Worth Loving: How Discovering Your True Value Changes Everything, and it is a beautiful book that shares Eryn’s story of living through her broken heart after divorce, wrestling with God and in the process experiencing getting to know who He really is and his overwhelming and restorative love for her.
We talk about the struggle of quick fixes, instant gratification, satisfying legitimate needs illegitimately in different seasons ranging from rock bottom, to the places where we hide at the top. It all comes down to asking ourselves questions like: are we living a life that was not what you wanted for your life? Do you believe that you are loved by the Lord? What is it that you are seeking for it to define you life? Maybe there are places in your life where you feel so broken and depleted from this wilderness season, and you need spiritual intervention to even begin to pursue wholeness? I love how Eryn says: “The beauty in the breakdown was finally seeing that the life I was living was a lie, and I had the opportunity to put things back together with Truth.”
Ultimately, no matter how far our hearts wander, we are ultimately still seeking Him, and the life that can only be found in Him, whether we realize it or not. And guess what? No matter what, it is always a life available to you because the truth is: you are so worth loving. When you can come to a place of believing this, not because of what you’d done or haven’t done, but simply because the Lord wants you? That’s a life changer. That’s how much you matter. And your story matters. You’re so worth loving.
PS: I serendipitously got to be the one who showed Eryn the physical copy of her book for the first time, and I’m so honored, but also don’t mind our excited freak out mid conversation. Glory :)
Connecting with Eryn:
Book
Website
So Worth Loving Store
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Our official link for shopping with Hopefuel (thank you for supporting them AND the podcast!)
Resources:
“You were not your idea”- Beth Moore
Beth Moore
Sharp Top Cove
Y.E.C.
Centrifuge
Purity Culture
With
“Gilmore Girls” Sookie and Smad
“Jingle Jangle”
“Make it Work Again” song from “Jingle Jangle”
Enneagram 2
Enneagram 7
Co-dependency
My-Space
God Hears Her Podcast
Elisa Morgan
MOPS
Our Daily Bread
Scripture References:
Ezekiel 37:26-28 / Jeremiah 32:38-40 / Leviticus 26:11-13- We were made to be with Him
1 John 4:19- We were made to know His love
Luke 4:1-13-Jesus’ temptation and conversation between Himself and Satan
Luke 2:36-49 / Matthew 14:22-33 / John 6:16-26 - Jesus appears in places
Angels come
Matthew 3:13-17-His baptism from John the Baptist
Colossians 1:16-17 / Acts 17:28 / Proverbs 16:9-God is sovereign
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began
Numbers 23:19 / Titus 1:2 / Hebrews 6:18 - God does not lie
Isaiah 55:9- His thoughts are higher than ours
Philippians 2:10-11-For God’s glory (his holiness)
Jeremiah 29:11 - “I know the thoughts that You think towards me”
1 Peter 5:7- Cast all your anxieties on Him, He cares about your feelings
Ezekiel 36:26- Replace the heart of stone for a heart of flesh
1 Peter 3:22 / Proverbs 16-18 - He gets the last word
Nameless women in the NT: (just a few) - John 4 - Woman at the Well, John 8:1-11- Woman Caught in Adultery, Luke 7:36-50- Woman who Anointed Jesus’ Feet
Colossians 3:12 / 1 John 4:7-8 / 1 John 3:1-2- You are beloved
2 Timothy 3:17- You are equipped
2 Timothy 1:14- You are entrusted
Isaiah 43:1- I have called you by name you are mine
2 Corinthians 5:17- You are a new creation in Christ
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today on the podcast, I’m excited to introduce you guys to debut author Jennifer Deibel. My conversation with Jennifer is a fun merging of a lot of things I love: history, learning about other cultures, the beauty of redemption, and the power of how we tell a story. Jennifer also shares her story of becoming an author, living in Ireland with her family and she shows off her amazing Irish Gaelic skills. Her beautiful book A Dance in Donegal, is a story that walks a character through incredible trials of faith, suffering, and reveals the layers of how one can receive love and experience redemption.
I hope that you love getting to know Jennifer in this episode, hearing the really cool facts about Ireland, the British Isles, their language, and some of the layers of what makes up the identity of a people. Most of all, I hope that you walk away feeling encouraged in some way. Whether that’s the push towards perseverance to walk out your God dream, or if it's the reminder that there is no one and no situation that is beyond the redemption of the Lord, He cares about you, what’s happening to you, and has plans for hope and a future for you. Take heart, dear ones.
Be sure and follow Jennifer, check out her beautiful book A Dance in Donegal and keep your eyes peeled for her 2022 release!
Connecting with Jennifer:
Her book : A Dance in Donegal
Website // Subscribe to her “Newsies”
Sponsor for this Episode: Crabtree Homes by Exit Realty
Website
Youtube Channel
References:
The Better Mom Blog
Ruth Schwenk
Donegal
The thank you’s in Irish gaelic: “go raibh mile maith agat” and the big one is “go raibh maith agaibh”
Wales/Welsh language
Republic of Ireland
Galway
Lit Fuse
“Brigadoon”
Gene Kelly
Battle of Culloden
Northern Ireland
Cromwell, banished them to hell or Connacht
Highlanders vs Lowlanders
6 Cornish languages
Hermione
Jaime Jo Wright
Courtney Walsh
Julie Klassen
Jocelyn Green
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
The “Redeeming Love” film
The Light at Wyndcliff - Sarah Ladd
“Mulan”
Anna & Elsa in “Frozen”
“Moana”
“Brave”
The Irish Potato Famine, “the soupers” (Christians who would only feed the hungry if they converted”
Cliffs of Insanity/Cliffs of Moher
“Knock on wood” - fairy trees
St. Brigid’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day
Richard Joyce: family who created the claddagh ring
The Irish War for Independence
Scripture References:
Ezekiel 36:26 / Luke 23:39-43 / Ephesians 1:7 / Psalm 103 - No one and nothing are unredeemable by the Lord
John 15:13- There is no greater love than the one who lays down His life
Psalm 40 /Psalm 63:3-4 / -Jesus is the lover of my soul
Revelation 19:7- I am His Bride
1 John 1:9 / Psalm 37:23-24 / We make mistakes, and we receive forgiveness
Romans 8:14 / Romans 8:26 / John 15:26- We are led by the Holy Spirit
Psalm 121: 7-8 / Psalm 34:22 / John 10:10 / John 14:3 - He’s come to redeem me, now and forevermore
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, I have the absolute pleasure of getting to share my conversation with the one and only Bunmi Laditan. Some of you may know Bunmi as the author, blogger and social media Honest Toddler personality. And while Bunmi has some HILARIOUS truths to share about children, surviving raising them, and parenthood, this season Bunmi is walking in now looks a little bit different. Her latest book, Dear God: Honest Prayers to a God who Listens, are beautiful heart cries from a woman who has been to hell and back trying to find what she truly believes in.
Bunmi shared with me her spiritual journey of completely running away from who she thought God was, and discovering He is more amazing and real than she could have ever dreamed. We talk (and laugh A LOT) about motherhood, mental health, the powerlessness of success, the dark places we can go looking for something to believe in, and so much more.
Her fire for the Gospel and the beauty of who Jesus really is just warmed me to my core. For those who have searched so many places for answers, who just keep waiting for the hard to relent, who have wounds from religion, or trauma from humans, who have fumbled through any kind of darkness, this conversation is for you. Bunmi is the most relatable human I’ve talked to in a hot minute when it comes to all things being a parent, combining your mental and spiritual health and clinging to Jesus because we are just a wreck without Him, and I pray this conversation meets you where you are.
Dear one: There is a Father in Heaven who loves you, He’s not ignoring you, your pain, your question, and your confusion matters to Him. He can handle it all. He is not like the people who have skewed your perception of Him. Ask your questions, friend. He is a good Father, searching the horizon for you.
Connecting with Bunmi:
Books
Website
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Our official link for shopping with Hopefuel (thank you for supporting them AND the podcast!)
References:
Wood science
The Honest Toddler
Happiest Baby on the Block
The Beyonce’ Meme
Confessions of a Domestic Failure
Dear God: Honest Prayers to a God Who Listens
Berkley/Oakland Area late 80’s-early 90’s
Orthodox Judaism
Reformed Judaism
Shabbat
Messianic Synagogues
Paganism
Wicca
Naturalism
Channeling
"We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience." - Pierre Teilhard de Chardin
Dr. Michael Heiser- Demons, Unseen Realm, The Gospel in Stranger Things, our conversation
The book of Enoch
The Torah
Islam says He is “Isa”
Judaisim’s view of Jesus
History of Moab and the Moabites
My conversation with Ally Fallon, and how the body processes trauma
Sissy Goff and Dave Thomas’ podcast “Raising Boys and Girls”
Raising Worry Free Girls- Sissy Goff
Wild Things- Dave Thomas
Maverick City Music - “To You”
“ruach ha-kodesh” - Holy Spirit in Hebrew
Scripture References:
James 1:6-8-we are double sided in our sin
Leviticus 19:31, Isaiah 8:19, Deuteronomy 18:9-14- divination and don’t mess with it
Ephesians 6:12-spiritual warfare
Ephesians 1--principals and authorities and principalities
-Genesis 6
Matthew 22:37-love the Lord with all your heart,mind, soul, and strength
2 Corinthians 10:5-take every thought captive
Luke 15:11-32-Prodigal Son
The book of Acts-how the early Church began, caught between two worlds of loving and observing Judaism and absolutely knowing and loving Jesus. Learning to live according to grace and not be controlled by the Law because Jesus came to fulfill the Law
Luke 9:58-foxes have dens, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head
John 15:4-11-abide in Me
1 John 3:1-There is a loving Father in Heaven who loves you
Psalm 121:1-2-God is not asleep
1 Peter 5:7 -God cares about You
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, Romans 8:28-Everything has a purpose
Isaiah 61:3-He gives beauty for ashes
Matthew 26:46, John 14:15-17-We don’t have to do hard things alone
Matthew 1, Jeremiah 23:5, Micah 5:2- Jesus is from the line of a MESSY man named David
Book of Ruth (also, our conversation on her story, a reading of the book here!)
Ephesians 6:10-18-Armor of God- the offensive and defensive weapon in the word of God
Jeremiah 1:5, Psalm 139-I knew you before you were in your Mother’s womb
Jeremiah 29:11-I have plans for you not to harm you
Psalm 121-I lift my eyes up to the hills where does my help come from?
Matthew 18:21-22-How many times do I forgive? Seventy times seven
-He came to give us abundant life
Psalm 98-Mountains will bow down, the seas will roar
Psalm 24-Everything responds to the Lord, the Earth is the Lord’s and all that is in
Psalm 22:3-He inhabit the praise of His people
Matthew 6:10-On Earth as it is in Heaven
John 3:34-The Holy Spirit has no bounds
1 Corinthians 1:27-confound the wise
Ephesians 2:10-you are a wholly loved masterpiece
-Psalm 40:1-4
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today we have on the powerhouse author, speaker and writing coach Ally Fallon. Ally shares what her and her family’s covid experience has been like, bringing a baby into the world, living in California with the wildfires AND a pandemic and where her heart has been pulled in that season.
When Ally and I had this conversation back in the first of December, I felt like we were having a strategy session for how to approach 2021. So. Much. has happened since that day, including Ally and her family moving across the country, releasing her new book The Power of Writing it Down, but obviously so much has happened within the American climate, and as a globe we continue to walk out the pandemic, work through the vaccination journey, variants, and just… honestly grappling with the fact that we’ve been at this for a year now.
With all that being said, I feel like this conversation is really timely for a couple of reasons:
- We spend the first half of the conversation talking about how we have changed, for better or for worse, and how we have a choice to do something with that change as we fight forward.
- We spend the second half of this conversation talking through one big shift that took place in both of us this year, and that’s how we engage the conversation of race, what it looks like to lament and learn, and process what it looks like to be a white ally for our Black brothers and sisters.
Because Alli is a coach, her new book, and pieces of its insights that she shares today are packed with practical takeaways for how to actually bring about life and thought change. It's TRULY fascinating, and I love that she walks us through how to apply that process in this episode. I love her encouragement, her honestly, and also her practical way of trying to invite people into a journey of hard work, by pulling back the layers and start small. There is such potential for resurrected life no matter where you are. No matter your heartbreak, your grief, the good you’ve seen, the hard you’ve been in, ALL of it carries possibility for transformation and being more alive on the other side of this season than you were going in it.
Connecting with Ally:
Her Books
Her most recent release: The Power of Writing it Down
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Our official link for shopping with Hopefuel (thank you for supporting them AND the podcast!)
References:
California fires 2020
“Is He Worthy” by Andrew Peterson
Indestructible by Ally Fallon
George Floyd
Ahmaud Arbery
Fighting Forward- Hannah Brencher (you can also hear our conversation here)
Enneagram 2
“Jingle, Jangle”
Cognitive behavior therapy
Ta-Nehisi Coates
White Fragility: Why Its So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism by Robin DiAngelo
I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown
How to Be Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi
Stamped From the Beginning : The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America by Ibram X. Kendi
Be the Bridge: Pursuing God’s Heart for Racial Reconciliation by Latasha Morrson
Be The Bridge program
Colorfull, Thoughtfull, and Gracefull - Dorena Williamson
Anti-Racist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry (and illustrated by Vashti Harrison!)
“Hair Love” the short film and their Oscar acceptance speech
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants : Robin Wall Kimmerer
Onondaga Nation
Jane Kirkpatrick’s new book :: There’s not a release date on this yet, but you can hear Jane discuss it on our podcast episode as well as other Native American relations, struggles, and etc.
Native American Boarding Schools
Columbus and our whitewashed perception of his “discovery”
The complicated process of voting as a Native American in the U.S. and also here, and here
Find Your Voice :: Grow Write
Additional Resources:
I wrote a blog this summer that features voices that I would strongly recommend following to learn from, more books (may I particularly point to Jemar Tisby’s book The Color of Compromise and the corresponding Bible Study), and resources to work through the conversation of race, the Church, and how white people can see more clearly.
Scripture References:
Genesis 2:4- 3:24- We were made for life in the garden
Ephesians 5:8-17-“Wake up, oh sleeper”
1 John 1:9, Acts 3:19, James 4:8, Joel 2:13, Revelation 3:19- Repentance
Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 , Acts 10: in particular, and then verses on unity AND diversity
Acts 8, 9, -Paul going from someone who protected Judaism at all costs, to experiencing deep change, and becoming a champion of the Gospel
Romans 12:2- The transforming by the renewal of your mind
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today is such a fun moment for me on the podcast because I got to have on one of my precious friends Kelsey Chapman. Kelsey is an entrepreneur, podcast host, dream coach and as of February 9th, an author!!! Many years ago, I had the honor and blessing of being Kelsey’s Young Life leader when she was in high school. We talk in our conversation about our story of how we got to know one another, but what it was like for me to be a mentor in her life and what it was like for Kelsey on the receiving end and how important mentorship became to her and her journey. Her book is called What They Taught Me, and she dives into the various lessons she has learned from mentors from over the years and why this kind of role is so important to have present in your life, but it may not look like what you expect it to.
It was such a surreal moment to spend time with Kelsey knowing we’re launching her book, not just hanging out because that’s what we do, but it was also that too lol. But I hope that this conversation was an encouragement to you as you try to navigate relational connection. The need you feel for it is real.
Mentorship, formal or informal, is sacred work that gets overlooked, and ultimately, it's just being present in someone’s life where they are, as they are. Is that something that you need in your life? If so, what might it look like for you to pursue it? And in that same vein, is there someone in your life that you can tell needs someone to love on them? What might that look like? One thing that could help either way is picking up a copy of Kelsey’s book. What They Taught Me. She does such a great job laying out the various types of mentor relationships, and she even shares some instances were the relationship kind of went sideways! And the way the Lord uses all of it. I’m so stinking proud of her so I’m going to obviously promote it like crazy, BUT I also truly hope that her work opens up opportunities and maybe takes down some walls for people who have been hesitant to pursue a mentor, or answer the call to mentor someone else.
So check out Kelsey’s book, follow her on all the socials and we’d love to hear if you decide to take a step towards developing mentor relationships in your life! It's worth it to have people come alongside you in your life, and it will be worth so much for you to do the same with someone else. It matters. You matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Kelsey:
Podcast
Website and Book Info
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Our official link for shopping with Hopefuel (thank you for supporting them AND the podcast!)
*Other podcast episodes where she’s shared her business journey
Pep Talks for Side Hustles
Surviving Sarah
Wit & Wire
Your Content Empire
References:
Young Life
Codependent No More
What They Taught Me: Recognizing the Mentors Who Will Take You From Dream to Done
Be the Bridge
Latasha Morrison’s book Be The Bridge: Pursuing God’s Heart for Racial Reconciliation
“Just Mercy”- the movie and the book by Bryan Stevenson
Radiant Community
Dream to Done Course
Chili’s molten lava cake
Enneagram 7
“PIVOT!” for our “Friends” lovers
“Peripety”
Beth Moore’s “Esther” study
Scripture References:
Matthew 28:16-20- The Great Commission
Luke 19:1-10 -Zacchaeus
John 14- The Holy Spirit can uniquely equip
John 8:2-11- We see Jesus on the steps of the synagogue
Matthew 5-7- We see Jesus on a hillside
Mark 4- We see Jesus on a boat
Mark 5:21-43, John 4, John 8:26-39 and Mark 5:1-20- (to name a few) - We see Jesus investing in the lives of people, and listening to stories
Psalm 90:12- Grant to me a heart of wisdom
Esther 2- Esther becomes queen, her such a time as this moment (Esther 4:14)
1 Corinthians 12- The body of Christ needs all its parts
Jeremiah 29:13- When you seek Him you will find Him.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today I’m chatting with author, TED speaker, and educator Hannah Brencher. Hannah is passionate about working through the dark woods of anxiety and depression and fighting forward towards the light, and that is what her latest book Fighting Forward Your Nitty-Gritty Guide to Beating the Lies That Hold You Back is all about.
We talk today about her journey of saying yes to Jesus and still struggling with mental health and how that may look in the life of a believer. We also talk about spiritual oppression and warfare, the funky things good-intentioned Christians say or do that doesn’t really help with this struggle, and how we could respond differently and more intentionally when we’re struggling and when we’re walking with others that are struggling. I mean. We go deep and wide, and I loved chatting with her and I’m so grateful for her voice.
Mental health work is not one size fits all, it's as unique as you are. And while prayer is part of the remedy, depression is a disease that needs healing in the physical and the spiritual places. So what might it look like for you to fight forward? Is it helpful for you to look back on what’s happened this last year and see where things have been transformed for the better? What does the counterfeit voice in your life sound like? These are some of the questions we discuss and her book talks about and more.
I love that Hannah said: “Depression is not who I am, but it is what I face” and that can be true for so many other things people are struggling with currently. Whatever that looks like for you, it's not who you are, it's what you are facing. And the Lord is with you in it. He doesn’t ask for perfection, He just asks us not to give up. This is not how your story ends. You matter. Your story matters.
Connecting with Hannah:
Website
Books
More Love Letters Campaign
Hannah’s Ted Talk
Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Our official link for shopping with Hopefuel (thank you for supporting them AND the podcast!)
References:
Hannah’s most recent book Fighting Forward: Your Nitty-Gritty Guide to Beating the Lies That Hold You Back
Serotonin levels and depression
The effect of vitamin D levels and depression
“Inside Out”
“Hope is a song in a weary throat.”- Rev Pauli Murray
To Write Love On Her Arms
I’ll hold you in the light- Quaker Tradition
For more mental health insights, see my episode with licensed therapist Lauren Ruth Martin, LPC-MHSP, and also take a listen to her podcast, A Novel Life!
Scripture References:
Colossians 1:17- It's not on me to hold it all together
Genesis 2-3- We weren’t made to know death
Revelation 22:1-3-One day we’ll be in another garden
2 Corinthians 10:5- Take thoughts captive
Hebrews 12:1-3- Throw off everything that hinders you
2 Corinthians 12- Thorn in my flesh
Luke 10:27- Love the Lord your God with all your heart mind, soul and strength
1 Timothy 4:14, 1 Corinthians 12- Called to share our gifts
Ephesians 6:10-18,and a lot more great verses this article: Spiritual warfare
The book of Jeremiah
Matthew 28:19, Jude 20-21 - The Trinity has 3 people in it
Matthew 1-2, Luke 1-2 -Christmas story in scripture
Ezekiel 37:1-14- Ezekiel seeing the valley of the dry bones
Psalm 121:8, Hebrews 13:8- God can see here, now and forevermore
1 Corinthians 9:24, Philippians 3:14, 2 Timothy 4:7-8- We’ve got one race
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Today, I’m chatting with Todd Nettleton of Voice of the Martyrs. Todd is the host of Voice of the Martyrs radio, which shares stories of persecuted Christians all around the world. 2020 marked 20 years since VOM released their book Jesus Freaks: Stories of Those Who Stood for Jesus, the Ultimate Jesus Freaks. This modern book of martyrs pays tribute to the persecution and sacrifices that our brothers and sisters in Christ have faced and made for centuries, and now they are releasing an updated version! Todd also shares his story of growing up as the son of missionaries in New Guinea, and how God used that opportunity to shape him for his role at Voice of the Martyrs.
You guys the work of VOM is absolutely incredible, and Todd shares how it got started, the work they continue to do now, and that they share these stories of facing persecution around the world in order to garner sympathy, but to share how God is moving in and through what they are experiencing.It shows how sold out for Jesus these true Jesus freaks are, where they are willing to carry their cross and follow Christ because God has used persecution, isolation and suffering to grow the Church and reconcile broken things and people to Himself.
We also wade some murky waters about how Americans in particular view persecution, how it is different than experiencing suffering, and how unfortunately blind we can be to the activity of God because so much of our needs are accessible and easily addressable. No part of that is to shame anyone, but I think there is much for each of us to learn from our brothers and sisters that don’t get the opportunity to live in such a way, and how their love for God and their faith can and should impact the way we live.And y’all, be sure and MAKE IT TO THE END for a job dropping story. Shew. It's so powerful.
Listen, I know that these first days of 2021 have been more loaded than Todd or I could have ever dreamed possible when we talked in October, but do you know who knew? God knew. No matter where you, what you’re experiencing, you are a part of the family of God. Keep the eternal perspective, God is always working, and sometimes we see Him most powerfully when it seems like things are falling apart. And. The more outside forces push us, the more we we turn to Christ and cling to Him, and that is the most precious gift of all. You matter, friend. Your story matters.
Sponsor Info: Tony Crabtree Homes with Exit RealtyFacebook
Instagram
YouTube
Website
Connecting with Todd and VOMInstagram
Facebook
VOM Radio
The new Jesus Freaks book
Free magazine sign up!
Resources:-The Voice of the Martyrs’ Jesus Freaks book (the first one!)
-”Jesus Freaks” by D.C. Talk
-Papua, New Guinea
-Jesus Film Project
-leper colony in Senegal
-the founders of VOM - Pastor Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand
-Sissy Goff and her drama meter
-The Islamic Republic of Iran and the growth of the Church
-Dr. Michael Heiser’s episode with us
-Hannelie Groenewald, the loss of her family
-Pastor Wang Yi in prison in China
-VOM’s prayer resources
-VOM’s app
-VOM’s prayer calendar
-Write letters to those imprisoned for Christ
-Tom Doyle on VOM talking about Muslims having dreams about Jesus
-Muslims have dreams of Jesus
-Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
-Jim and Elisabeth Elliot
-Open Doors USA
Scripture References:
Psalm 91:14-16-He is there to grab onto Him and He wants us to
Luke 10:27-love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength
John 15:18-25-the world hates me, so they will hate you
John 16:33-but take heart I have overcome the world
Isaiah 53:3-Christ was acquainted with shame
Matthew 16:18-the gates of hell will not withstand the Church
Isaiah 14:27-nothing and no one can stop the Lord
Romans 5:3-5-the good that God can bring during trials
Revelation 19:16 -He is the King of Kings and the Lord or Lords
John 14:15-21:25- Jesus is in His Father, the world is evil and needs a Helper
Acts 11:19-26--they fled Jerusalem and went to Antioch
James 1:2- consider it joy brothers when you endure trials
1 Peter 5:8-the Lion seeks to devour
Matthew 13:42, John 10:10, and more -Jesus talks about Hell and spiritual darkness
Luke 22:31-We are sifted like wheat
1 Corinthians 15:23--Jesus is coming back
Ephesians 4:7 / 2 Corinthians 9:8-God gives us the grace we need when we need it
2 Timothy 1:7-we are not called to live in a spirit of fear
Matthew 6:34-we take each day as its own
Isaiah 61:3-beauty from the ashes
Phillippians 3:10-the fellowship of Christ’s suffering
Hebrews 13:3-remember those in bonds as though we are in bondage with them
Philippians 3:8, Jude 1:25, Revelation 5:13, -Jesus is worth every sacrifice
Ephesians 6:16-lock shields of faith
Ephesians 6:11-stand firm
Hebrews 12:2-we have a call to fix our eyes on Jesus
Romans 12:2-our minds are transformed
Philippians 3:14-Jesus had his eyes fixed on the prize
John 1:1-”In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God”
John 1:14-I Am the Word made flesh
Romans 8:3-4-”He is the fulfillment of the Law”
A LOT of Acts, one example- Acts 17-Paul would come to the Jewish people first
Psalm 107:2-”let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story”
Genesis 37 -Joseph's story
Luke 12:35-Keep your lamps trimmed and burning
--
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
H.R. Hutzel and I had this conversation months ago, but felt the Lord’s leading for it to air now. Supernatural fantasy author Heather Hutzel, is a woman who loves the Lord, His word, and invites others into the greatest story ever told through her unique and powerful storytelling. Heather and I talk about how we process the world around us, the spiritual warfare happening, all the time and our role in our stories.
In Heather’s novels, she asks the question: would it look like to package the Gospel inside of a story that sweeps the reader into an epic tale of identity, purpose, gifting and our role in the battle between good and evil? How do we as people of the here and now, but also of the Kingdom to come, define “good” and how does the Lord define “good?” When that comes to light, it asks more questions like: Who is our real enemy? What does it look like to fight a supernatural entity instead of one another? And honestly, that’s what we’re living right now. We kind of joke around here about what sort of plot twist might happen next, but the gift of the Gospel is that it is 100% true and no plot twist changes its life saving power. We serve an incredible and unconquerable King, and each of us have a role to play here. Can He win this war without us? He already has. But He invites us into His family, and gives us a unique opportunity to be part of His amazing work in this world, and hope for the future.
This conversation brings up unique and timely questions like: How do we view the activity of God? Do we process life from an eternal perspective? Are we fighting with flesh and blood instead of the real enemy? Where is God calling me in this place where I am right now to pursue HIM, and what is my role in the Kingdom of God on earth as it is in Heaven? So much to think about.
Wherever you are today friend, no matter how chaotic it all feels, don’t lose hope. This is not how it all ends, and He will NEVER leave us in it. You matter. Your story matters.
You can connect with Heather, on her website, where you can download chapter samples and even an entire book for free!
Sponsor: Hope Fueled
See their website for products and ordering here.
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
References:
-The audio book of Anointed : BethEl Book 1
-Anointed : BethEl Book 1
-Chronicles of Narnia audiobook from the C.S. Lewis Foundation
-Dr. Mike Heiser (our episode and his books)
-Dr. Heiser’s book on the Gospel in “Stranger Things”
-Harry Potter
-Hunger Games
-Shawn Smucker - (our episode, and his books)
-“Yahweh”- the Lord
-Lord of the Rings
-Witness :: BethEl Book 2
-Dr. Bryan Litfin’s book The Conqueror - our conversation on the podcast
-Rachelle Dekker’s Nine - our conversation on the podcast
-“Moana” - the moment where Tafiti gives her her heart back
-the tribal greetings of placing foreheads together is called the 'Hongi.” It is a traditional Maori greeting in New Zealand used by the Maori people.
-The Pilgrim’s Progress
-do not bear the Lord’s name in vain- Heiser’s thought
-Jehovah’s Witness beliefs
-Phil Herndon and my’s conversation where we talk about how the Bible means what it means
-The Shack by Wiliam Paul Young
Scripture References:
Revelation 1:8 and 22:13 -The Alpha the Omega, the beginning and the end
1 Corinthians 12 -spiritual giftings
-Joshua 24:14-15-the point of knowing whom you serve
-Ephesians 6:12-we’re not at war with flesh and blood
-Psalm 130:6-the longing for the Lord
-2 Corinthians 5:2- the longing for Heaven
-Matthew 6:10-His kingdom come // on earth as it is in Heaven
-Romans 12:5-, Galatians 6:10, 1 John 3:1-2, Ephesians 2:19 - we are all part of the family of God
-1 Corinthians 12:27- we need every part of the body of Christ
-Revelation 7:9-17- every tribe and nation
-1 Corinthians 13:12- we now see in a mirror
-Mark 4:35-41-the storm has been calmed
-there are a lot of things about unity in scripture
-Mark 12:17- give to Caesars what is Caesar's
-Luke 10:27-love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself
-John 16:12-15-letting the Holy Spirit do its work
-1 Corinthians 8- if something is going to trip up another believer don’t push it
-Hebrews 12:1-3-throw off everything that hinders
-Exodus 20:7- do not take the Lord’s name in vain
-Ephesians 5:15- be careful then how you live, not as unwise, but as wise
-John 17, particularly 17:6- the name/glory of God is revealed in Jesus
-Jesus’ “I Am” statements - the bread of life (John 6:25-29), the resurrection and the life (John 11:25), the way, truth and the life (John 14:6), the true vine (John 15:1), the good shepherd (John 10:11-18), the door/gate (John 10:9), the Light of the world (John 8:12)
-Matthew 13:55, Isaiah 53:2- Jesus was not who people expected Him to be
-Genesis 1:27- We’re made in the image of God
-1 John 4:7-21- God is love
-Matthew 28:16-20-The Great Commission
-Ephesians 2:10-wholly loved masterpieces
-2 Corinthians 4:7-9-a jar of clay
-Philippians 1:6, Isaiah 30:18 (MSG)- He is not finished with us
Connecting with Heather:
H.R. Hutzel Books
Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Friends, it's wild to bring this episode to you today, because my guest Dr. Bryan Litfin and I recorded it months ago, but I was certain, even then, that it would need to be released today. When I was working on it, I knew it was timely, but today, as I bring it to you, I am so sure we need to talk about where we’ve been to speak to where we are. Dr. Bryan is a specialist in Church history. He’s a theologian, a professor at Moody Bible Institute, as well as an editor and copywriter for Moody Publishers, AND he’s an author of some scholarly non-fiction books as well as historical fiction books. The history of the Church as a follower of Christ, is our family legacy and it has informed our present and has much to teach us, warn us, and encourage us. Especially today when there are people who have chosen to wave the banner of Christ over their own agenda. When we look back on what has happened, not just in scripture, but for hundreds of years after until present day, we see the activity of God, the preservation of His Church, and the sin, the attempted destruction, the repentance, the renewal and restoration of His people over and over and over again. Not because of them, but because of the power of Christ and the Light of the Gospel inside of them.
Today, I want to invite you to sit down with a couple of friends who have lived a LOT of life together as we talk about life in the year of our Lord 2020. One of my dearest friends Lauren Venable is with me today, and she has such a beautiful gift of encouragement, a love for God’s Word, fiery red-headed passion for life and you’re just going to love her.
There’s a LOT of loud laughing, and a lot of looking back on what we’ve been through, and what we’ve learned, and even though we may come out of this year with a limp, we can keep moving forward with hope. My greatest wish is that wherever this episode of the podcast finds you, I hope that you can feel encouraged, and that you would take this moment to look up and feel that you are alive.
In this conversation Lauren asks a poignant question: are we living like we still have some story in us? It doesn’t matter where you ponder that from. Your couch, the ER waiting room, your car, the bathroom floor, do we believe that the story isn't over? I know that there will still be low points. I know that there are low MONTHS, but dear one, the Lord is not unfamiliar with this kind of experience, and that is why He came to be our peace no matter what is happening all around us.
Even if it feels broken, let out your hallelujah that by His help you’ve come this far.
Happy New Year, friends. You matter. Your story matters.
*References:
-the Nashville Christmas Day bombing
-whipped coffee recipe
-enneagram 2
-Hannah Brencher : Fighting Forward
-Eryn Eddy : So Worth Loving
-Alli Worthing: Standing Strong
-The stages of grief
-Tyra Banks “We were rooting for you!”
-How to smize with Tyra Banks (pandemic edition)
-Alli Worthington (my conversation with her) and her book Standing Strong
-Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith- my conversation with her and her fantastic book Sacred Rest
-The Bible Handbook from Daily Grace Co
- “Is he safe? Of course he isn’t safe, but He’s good. He’s the King I tell ya.” -CS Lewis
-The Chronicles of Narnia- CS Lewis
-Advent in Narnia - Heidi Haverkamp
-Quaker tradition of “I will hold you in the light.”
*Scripture References:
-Genesis 32:22-32- Jacob wrestled with God and walked away with a limp
-Philippians 4:6- Do not be anxious about anything
-1 Corinthians 15:58- nothing is wasted
-the 12 tribes of Israel from Jacob (the younger brother who lies, steals, and acts like an idiot). The whole story of Jacob’s life starts in Genesis 25:19 and goes allll the way until Genesis 50. Starting at chapter 37, his sons take the stage, but he’s still there. (25 chapters of Jacob.)
-2 Samuel 11- King David
-The book of Ruth -- (also, here’s our conversation about it AND a reading of it :))
-Genesis 5:32-10:1- Noah
-Luke 22:54-62, Matthew 14:22-33, John 18:10, Acts 10- Peter’s mess (to name a few)
-Acts 7:54-8:2, and Acts 9 - Paul’s mess
-Revelation 21:4- In Heaven there will be no more death, sickness, tears, etc.
-Matthew 6:9-13- The Lord’s prayer says “on earth as it is in Heaven”
-Psalm 130:6- more than watchmen wait for the morning
-Psalm 34:18- The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
-2 Corinthians 10:5- take every thought captive
-Matthew 5:6, John 4:14, John 7:37-38, John 6:25-59, -What do I hunger and thirst for?
-Revelation 19:6-10- You have a seat at the feast of the Lamb
-Proverbs 31 woman (Proverbs 31:10-31 -- this is actually an acrostic blessing, but that’s another podcast for another day)
-Psalm 27:13- Let me see the good in the land of the living
-Matthew 28:19-20, Ephesians 4:1- We are called to go and do and be
-2 Corinthians 12:7-10-thorn in our flesh
-2 Corinthians 4:7-10 (AMP) and (TPT) - jars of clay
-John 16:33-In this world you will have trouble
-Isaiah 40:3, Luke 1:17- John the Baptist heralding the coming of Christ
-Colossians 1:17-He still holds all things together
-Romans 8:31-39, 2 Timothy 1:10, Isaiah 25:8, Hebrews 2:14-15, - We are not defeated in death
-James 1:2-3-Count it all joy
-But I will look to the Lord, I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me. Micah 7:7
-For He has rescued us and has drawn us to Himself from the dominion of darkness and has transferred us to the Kingdom is His beloved Son. Colossians 1:13
-Since then you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God’s. Colossians 3:1
-But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith, and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. - Jude 1:20-24
-Psalm 46:10 - Be still and know that I am God (the whole Psalm for context)
-Ephesians 3:14-19 (what I read in the outro, the NLT)
*More Scriptures I’ve treasured:
-Jeremiah 10:10,12
-Psalm 61 and 63
Connecting with Lauren:
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
Merry Christmas Eve, friends! Today, one of my dearest friends in the whole world, Katie Covert and I invite you to open your eyes and hearts to a fresh perspective into the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and all the incredible events surrounding Jesus’ birth. We are women who value a God of the details, and Katie shares powerful and beautiful insight into the history, as well as just humanizing the story of Jesus’ arrival. This was, from all human perspectives, a mess made for Lifetime. Unplanned teenage pregnancy, talk of divorce, risk of the death penalty, a murder plot and more. But some of the messiest pieces of this narrative are the parts that mark the fulfillment of God’s promises. Prophecy after prophecy is fulfilled in bursting technicolor, but like much with the Lord, hearing about the activity of God, and living in the thick of it are two completely different things.
And if that’s not a picture of how to approach the end of this insane year, I don’t know what is. We are a people in desperate need of faith like Mary’s: unreasonable, audacious, and completely trusting that the God of the universe will keep His Word, and how it plays out in the middle is worth it in the end. But it is also OK that many of us (Katie and I included) to be in spaces of “if this is how God’s faithfulness feels, if being favored puts me in a situation that could get me killed, how do we hold on to our faith that He will be good and trustworthy no matter how it plays out?”
Life is messy, that’s not fatalistic, it's just true. The world is broken, and Jesus was born into a messy slice of broken. But God’s faithfulness, His kindness, His provision and His very presence was magnified the deeper they pressed into the mess. God is large enough to oversee the supremacy of time and prophecy fulfilled and small enough to care about the minute details of long broken hearts and barren wombs. This story carries His magnitude and His intentionality. What a word of hope to a weary world.
Slight sidebar, we also make a case for the first person to have a filling of the Holy Spirit and speaking from its source in the New Testament being a woman. Which is fascinating. Women carried and proclaimed His presence into the world, and then declared His risen return. “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
After this year, none of us are the same, but that doesn’t mean that God has changed, and there is so much more for us to see so that we can trust Him more. Merry Christmas, friend. You matter. Your story matters.
*Our Advent series intro music is by Chris & Stephanie Teauge of Out of the Dust. We’re so grateful for their generosity in allowing us to share their song “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Listen on Spotify to the rest of this song and the remainder of their Christmas EP here.
*Outro music is from audionautix.com
Connect with Katie::
Katie’s Blog
LW Instagram
Armor Up, Warrior Princess
AUWP Instagram
Little Women at Cedar Run
References:
Frontier Ranch
Gilmore Girls
“God means what He says even when it feels like bad news.”- Beth Moore
Enneagram 5
Giddy Up, Eunice- Sophie Hudson
Family arrangement for marriage / Jewish betrothal and contract
Divorce during betrothal would have implied adultery = stoning
Kataluma - potentially a guestroom with the animals, or a cave under a house
Swaddling clothes for lambs // Tower of the Flock and Here
Say Something- Lorelai watching herself on “Gilmore Girls”
“Is He Worthy”- Andrew Peterson
Tony Evans quote “faith is acting like God is telling the Truth”
Beth Moore talk at the Passion Conference on risking it all for the Gospel
God say something! (Love Andrew Peterson’s song “Deliver Us” to echo this)
Scripture References:
Titus 2
Judges 6:36-40- Put out a fleece for the Lord
Luke 2:19 // Luke 2:51- But Mary treasured up all these things
Isaiah 7:14- Prophecy:: a virgin would give birth to a Savior
Psalm 132: 11 / 2 Samuel 7:12-16 / 1 Chronicles 17:13- Prophecy :: He would be descendant of David
Isaiah 40:3-5 / Malachi 3:1 - Prophecy :: That there would be a forerunner
Isaiah 9:1-7 / Luke 1:26-36 / Luke 1:47-55- Prophecy :: That He would be called the Son of God
Micah 5:2- Prophecy :: That it would all happen in Bethlehem
Luke 1:26-38- The angel’s conversation with Mary
Luke 1:34-38-Mary’s response
Luke 1:5-25- Zechariah’s encounter with an angel
Judges 6- Gideon
Joshua 3:1-5:12- Going into the Promised Land
Luke 1:37 - “The word of God will never fail”
Joshua 21:45 / Jeremiah 1:12 / Lamentations 2:17 - God keeps His promises
Luke 1:26-66 - Elizabeth and Mary
Luke 1:7- Elizabeth had been barren
Psalm 16:6- The boundary stones have fallen for me in pleasant places
Colossians 3:15- Let peace hold you together
Exodus 20:21- The people stood far off while Moses drew near to the darkness
Matthew 2:1-12-The wise men come
Matthew 2:13-18- Joseph’s response to the angel and going to Egypt
Matthew 2:19-23- Joseph’s response to the angel and leaving Egypt
Philippians 1:6- God will complete the work He began
Genesis 29: Leah and Rachel
Genesis 35- Where Rachel dies, at Tower of Migdal Eder
Micah 4:8- “As for you, watchtower of the flock, stronghold of Daughter Zion, the former dominion will be restored to you; kingship will come to Daughter Jerusalem.”
Matthew 1- Lineage of Jacob, Rachel, Boaz, Ruth and David
Luke 2:12- Jesus was a spotless lamb, laying in a manger
Luke 2:8-20-The shepherds in the fields the angels appeared to
John 10:11-18 / Psalm 23 - The Good Shepherd
Isaiah 61:1-3-For His glory and our good
Matthew 1- The way His lineage of generations went back in certain numerical portions
1 John 4:9-He sent His Son
Psalm 27:13-14-What would have become of me had I not believed
Romans 8:22- The groaning and the longing is part of the birth
Psalm 130:6- More than watchmen wait for the morning
Luke 2:22-38- Anna and Simeon
Ruth and Boaz (here’s an episode where we share more about them!)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
In this episode, we’re continuing our journey of unpacking the lives of the people in the Christmas story, and I’m talking with my friend, fellow word lover and podcaster, David Wilkinson. David and I just dive head first into what the Bible shares with us about Joseph, his radical obedience, and mind blowing faith, but we also talk through how it all potentially could have gone down, based on cultural context and just being a human, and a new Dad. There were so many potential ripple effects of his and Mary’s choice to believe God, but the Light of the World came into a chaotic world and that is really good and encouraging news for us. When we miss how crazy and chaotic that moment of His entrance was, we miss how relatable this story is. Jesus didn’t just come to bring relief to a dry and weary land, He came to conquer the grip of death on it and redeem us once and for all.
Friends, I want to tell you something. I don’t want to beat a dead horse, but I want you to know that I know this year has been hard. Maybe it was hard before the pandemic even began, and you know I can feel that. But I want you to hear me, as risky as it is to believe that there is goodness and peace to be found here. It is possible in Christ.
Maybe your vision of Him has been shaken.
Maybe you’ve never really thought about Him being hard to follow before.
Maybe you’ve never wanted to follow Him before, but you’ve got nothing left to lose.
He. Is. Worth. It. The people in this story, which isn’t just a story, it's our HISTORY. It's just as true as the events we read about in history books. The risks they took, had life altering choices involved. Life and death decisions on the line. And it wasn’t all tied in a bow, but the presence of God broke into their chaos and His peace, His presence, His joy was the gift. Don’t shy away from the hard stuff, look for the activity of God in it. You are not too much for Him. Take heart and remember He can see past the shadows of this chaotic season.
*Our Advent series intro music is by Chris & Stephanie Teauge of Out of the Dust. We’re so grateful for their generosity in allowing us to share their song “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Listen on Spotify to the rest of this song and the remainder of their Christmas EP here.
*Sponsor and Outro music is from audionautix.com
*This episode was sponsored by : Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Listeners can go to www.crabtreehomestn.com to connect with Tony, and also connect with him for advice and current trends on his social media:
Facebook.com/tonycrabtreehomes
instagram.com/tonycrabtreehomes
youtube.com/c/tonyteaches
*References:
-our reading of Ruth episode
-our reading of Esther episode
-Fellowship Bible Church
-wassail (what is it exactly?) lol :: Wikipedia says “Wassail is a beverage of hot mulled cider, drunk traditionally as an integral part of wassailing, a Medieval Christmastide English drinking ritual intended to ensure a good cider apple harvest the following year.”
-Word Biblical Commentary :: If you are divorced within the betrothal, the automatic assumption was adulterer. Adultery’s punishment was stoning
-After Dumbledore’s fall, and Professor McGonogall raises her light and the others follow
-Francine Rivers’ The Lineage of Grace series // Mary’s is called Unafraid
-Being a righteous man is not just about following the letter of the Law, its also about being a man of mercy and compassion. (From Bible Readers’ Companion)
*Scripture References:
Luke 1 - Zechariah’s story
Hebrews 6:18, 13:8- God is still who He says He is
Matthew 1 -Joseph’s story is mostly found here
-- angelic dream #1 (Matthew 1:20-23)
--angelic dream #2 (Matthew 2:13-15)
--angelic dream #3 (Matthew 2:19-21)
--”is warned in a dream”- doesn’t specifically say from an angel, but Divine intervention/direction was involved! (Matthew 2:22-23)
Luke 1:26-38- Mary’s angelic encounter
Matthew 1:1-17-Joseph’s lineage
Matthew 1:24-25 - Joseph takes Mary home
Luke 2:1-7 - they are still only betrothed
John 10:10 / Hebrews 10:23/ Hebrew 12:12-13-Life with Christ is worth holding on to
Luke 1:45 - Blessed is she who believes the Lord will fulfill his promises to her.
Luke 2:25-35-Simeon tells Mary He will pierce her soul (and reveal many hearts)
Psalm 127:3 - Children are an inheritance from the Lord
Hebrews 12:2- For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross
Matthew 2:1-18- The Magi come to Herod, and then he fixes his eyes killing children
John 8:12- He is the Light of the World
Isaiah 9:2 / John 1:5 / 2 Corinthians 4:6- He is the Light that pierced the darkness
John 1:14 /John 1:51/ John 10:30- He came fully God, and fully man
Psalm 16:11 / John 16:33 / John 3:16 / John 15:9-17 His presence brings joy, hope, peace, love
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began
Luke 19:10 / Colossians 1:13-14- He came to restore
Romans 8:31-39-We are more than conquerors in Christ
1 Corinthians 15:58- Nothing is wasted
Luke 2:8-20-The angels appear to the shepherds
Luke 2: 25-38-They receive the word from Simeon and Anna at the Temple
Exodus 4:10- Moses wasn’t a good speaker
Judges 6:15- Gideon was the least in his family and his tribe
Matthew 5:13-18 / John 15:5 -Submitting to the fact that the light doesn’t come from us
Revelation 1:12-20 Lampstands of the churches holds the Light
2 Corinthians 5:20- We are the ambassadors of Christ
1 Corinthians 12 / Romans 11:29-31-He is using our gifts
2 Corinthians 12:9- His power is made perfect in His weakness
2 Corinthians 4:5-13- Jars of Clay
Isaiah 53:3- Jesus was the man of sorrows
John 11:30-44-Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus
Hebrews 4:15- He is able to sympathize with us
1 Corinthians 13:12- We now only see in a mirror dimly
Matthew 13:55 / Mark 6:3 Our King is a son of a carpenter
John 2: 1-11- Jesus’ miracle at the wedding at Cana
John 19:25-27 - Jesus’ care for his Mother while on the cross
Mark 3:20-35 / John 7:1-13- confrontation with Jesus’ siblings
Matthew 1:19- It says he was a righteous man
John 14:27- Jesus’ peace
Connecting with David:
Mana Media
Dad Matters Podcast
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Today on the podcast, we’re continuing our Advent series of walking through some prominent people in the Christmas story today by chatting with one of my dearest friends Alicia Perry about Elizabeth. We talk all about friendship, motherhood, the activity of God, living with disappointment, about the hope that God has not forgotten you, and what we glean about all those things from the story of Elizabeth and so much more.
You know, it's funny, when I felt God lead me to ask Alicia to come on the podcast and talk about Elizabeth, and this is true about every person I approached for this Advent series, I didn’t totally know why and then He began to just unfold it all in the sweetest way. In this case, I realized as I was talking with Alicia that we essentially are like an Elizabeth and a Mary in our own way. I am in no way the mother of the savior, but I am a younger woman who was given a relationship with a woman who further along in life to learn about God, about marriage, and Motherhood from and we have overflowed onto one another over and over again.
In my Advent study I’m doing from At His Feet Studies, there was a section that said this: “We see God answer individual and corporate prayers of his people through the baby in Elizabeth’s womb. What does this tell us about God’s care and use of details in our stories for His glory?” and I just couldn’t help but think about the overflow. The answer to Elizabeth’s prayer impacted her, her marriage, her family, her community, and ultimately a nation all the way to you and I and the Church as we know it today. How incredible is that? That is the God we serve. That is a God who cares about His people individually, as a family of His children. What a gift.
We have all walked through fire this last year in some form or another, and the activity of God in our lives, the exercising of our faith and how we share all of that with the people in our lives matters. It builds us up and helps us persevere. So, whether you are dealing with disappointment, or feeling forgotten, or suddenly faced with something new and overwhelming and you have many questions for God, keep going, friend. He hears you, and He has not forgotten you. You matter, your story matters.
*Our Advent series intro music is by Chris & Stephanie Teauge of Out of the Dust. We’re so grateful for their generosity in allowing us to share their song “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Listen on Spotify to the rest of this song and the remainder of their Christmas EP here.
*Sponsor and Outro music is from audionautix.com
*This episode was sponsored by : Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Listeners can go to www.crabtreehomestn.com to connect with Tony, and also connect with him for advice and current trends on his social media:
Facebook.com/tonycrabtreehomes
instagram.com/tonycrabtreehomes
youtube.com/c/tonyteaches
References:
-Juvenile Type 1 Diabetes
-The Levites and how they were separated
-Gluten Free Great Value “Black and White” cookies (see also vanilla creme, which are currently in the cookie jar on our counter lol)- (not sponsored, just SOOOOOO good!)
-Gluten Free Red Lobster biscuit mix (not sponsored, just also SOOOOOO good!)
-Elizabeth means “oath of God”
-Conversation about Zechariah with Dr. Chris Williamson
-Mary’s age
-Israel in exile and then brought back (also see the books of Ezra and Nehemiah)
-the ark of God never returned to the Holy of Holies after the Babylonian invasion/captivity
Scripture References:
Luke 1- - Elizabeth and Zechariah, Mary
Hebrews 2:5-18-Jesus was fully God and fully human
Luke 1:15-John the Baptist was full of the Holy Spirit from birth
Luke 1:41-45 -Elizabeth’s declaration upon Mary’s arrival
Romans 8:26 / Romans 15:14-asking the Spirit to help her understand the words (Romans)
Genesis 16:1-15-There was surrogacy in the Old Testament
Luke 1:18-25-Zechariah and his questions for the angel
Luke 1:26-38-Mary and her questions for the angel
Psalm 16:5-6-the boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places
Galatians 4:4-7-the fullness of time (Galatians)
Jeremiah 29:11-despite who we believe we are, God has something for us
Matthew 18:21-23-forgiveness when its hard
1 Thessalonians 5:11-encourage one another
Romans 8:11 / Ezekiel 36:27 / 1 Corinthians 3:16-The Holy Spirit dwells inside each of us
Luke 1:24-25-Elizabeth and her processing for 5 months of seclusion
Luke 1:37-for nothing will be impossible for God
1 Chronicles 24 / Numbers 3-The descendants of Aaron and their responsibilities
1 Peter 2:9-A holy priesthood
Luke 1:14-17-John the Baptist spent his whole life filled with the Holy Spirit
Matthew 18:11/ Matthew 20:28-Jesus was the Son of Man
Joel 2:25-the Lord will restore the years the locusts have eaten
1 Corinthians 2:13-the Holy Spirit ushers in wisdom and truth
1 Corinthians 15:58 / Ephesians 6:11 -standing firm and confident in the Lord
Romans 12:6 / 1 Corinthians 12 -leaning into the gifts He has given us
2 Corinthians 3:18-working on being made more like Him
The Perry Family has made a few appearances on the podcast! Kevin and Karleigh helped me with the reading of Esther, and Kevin and I also got to talk about the history of Pentecost before our reading of Ruth.
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Today we are kicking off our Advent series with Dr. Chris Williamson who is a local Pastor of Strong Tower Bible Church in Franlkin, TN. Pastor Chris is just the best, he’s wise, he’s profound, he’s hilarious, and he just tells it like it is and y’all, we are going to CHURCH today. We talk about the double edge sword of this Christmas story, where there’s a romance to the story we like to stick to, the cuteness of Christ and the holy Hallmark, as Pastor Chris says, but there is also suffering in this story. And while that can sometimes be disconcerting, I think this year, more than ever before, I find that so comforting. That our Savior entered the atmosphere in a season of simultaneous joy and pain.
We spend time unpacking what we know from the Word and what we can just imagine because of the context and from being human what it must have been like during those days where a messenger of Light burst onto a dormant scene while Zechariah was going on about his daily life, and God met him in the mundane, and then it all broke loose. But no matter how chaotic any of it appeared to be then, or how chaotic it is now, God’s will cannot be thwarted. It is not in jeopardy. The Savior is still coming, praise God, He will come again.
This is such a unique Advent season and we have a unique opportunity to respond to it as we long for the Light after such a dark year, during the darkest part of the year, we must fight for this hope, and we hope that this conversation can help hold the Light for y’all today. Wherever you are. However your day looks. I hope that every time you see a light turn on, you remember that His Light never fades, and He will fan even the smallest spark in you. You matter, friend. You are seen, you are known and you are so loved. Your story matters.
*Our Advent series intro music is by Chris & Stephanie Teauge of Out of the Dust. We’re so grateful for their generosity in allowing us to share their song “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Listen on Spotify to the rest of this song and the remainder of their Christmas EP here.
*Instrumental filler/outro music is from audionautix.com
*Episode Sponsor: Hopefuel
-Facebook
-Instagram
-Shop here (this is our link that supports the podcast, thank you!)
-Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
The reading I shared in the outro is from Every Moment Holy: Volume 1* by Douglas McKelvey
References & Resources:
-Dorena Williamson -- Part 1 and Part 2 episode of the SSP and her books: Colorfull, Thoughtfull, Gracefull
-What is a tract :: Here are some examples of what they are
-Run DMC
-LL Cool J
-Grand Master Flash
-Beastie Boys
-The Fat Boys
-What is a concordance :: Here’s an example of one I use
-Chris’ rap group Transformation Crusade
-DCTalk - Toby Mac
-”Hee Haw”
-Minnie Pearl and Roy Clark
-Experiencing God- Richard Blackaby
-Strong Tower Bible Church in Franklin, TN
-Tiffany Bluhm and Ashley Abercrombie
-Tribe of Levi - descendants of Aaron- Priests
- casting the lots for the priestly duties
-Warren Wiersbe- God has a way of showing up in the mundane, none of us can steer a parked car, we can only steer a car that’s moving.
-Solomon’s temple destroyed
-Rudolph and the Reindeer and the Island of the Misfit Toys
-Harold Wilmington
-John Rankin- the light in the window for slaves crossing from Kentucky to Ohio
-Mailing a hug
-Jesus Storybook Bible version of the Christmas story (you can hear it again here)
-My Advent conversation with my Dad
Scripture:Matthew 4:19-Jesus told them they need to be fishers of men
Exodus 30-Zachariah’s role as a priest to light the incense
Malachi 4 - is the last book of the Old Testament and the last word from God for 400 years
1 Corinthians 12:12-16:41-Biblical Diversity
Ephesians 4:32-have compassion and understanding
Psalm 66:10-He’s always refining us
Psalm 66:2 //Psalm 115:1 -He makes us better for His sake
Matthew 6:10-On Earth as it is in Heaven
1 Corinthians 12:12-27-The body of Christ needs all its parts
Romans 12:6-8-We all have gifts God has given us
Colossians 1:16 // Romans 11:33-God is sovereign
Psalm 47:8-God is on His throne
Matthew 20:16 -The last will be first and the first will be last
Ecclesiastes 12:14 / Romans 2:2 / James 2:13 / Revelation 20:12 - God is a judge, there is a judgement and will judge those who mistreat His creation
Deuteronomy 32:4 /Job 34:12/ Psalm 9:7-8/ Psalm 99:4 /Isaiah 30:18 / Isaiah 61:8 / -He’s a God of justice
Ephesians 6:10-18-Armor of God (Breastplate of righteousness and Shoes of Peace)
Amos 6:1-At ease in Zion
Luke 2:8-20-the angels came and sang “glory in the highest”
Matthew 2:16-18-Herod goes on a killing spree (and Jeremiah 31:15 about Rachel weeping)
Ephesians 6:12-We are not war with flesh and blood
Luke 1:5-25-Zachariah and Elizabeth were childless and yet righteous
Psalm 23-He can lead through the valley of the shadow and still have goodness and mercy follow me all the days of my life
Isaiah 9:6 / Ephesians 2:13-18-He’s the prince of Peace
Luke 12:49-56-The Gospel will divide families
Revelation 5-He is the Lamb AND the Lion
Matthew 2-the wise men bringing their best gifts
Revelation 1:16-Jesus in revelation brings a double edge sword out of his mouth
Hebrews 4:12-Scripture is a double edged sword
John 1:14-He is the Word made flesh
Galatians 4:4-7-At the fullness of time, God sent His Son
Exodus 3-out tending sheep, and then a burning bush -- also where Moses argues with the Lord
1 Samuel 17:34-50-killing a lion and a bear while tending sheep, and then kills Goliath
Romans 12:1-be a living sacrifice
Mark 3:35 / Luke 10:27 -do the known will of God
Luke 16:10-be faithful with little and you will become faithful with much
Exodus 30:7-8-incense offered in the morning and evening
2 Corinthians 2:15-a sweet smelling sacrifice
Judges 6-Gideon and his multiple chances
Luke 1:22-Zechariah comes out mute and gesturing
Genesis 12 and etc-Abraham and Sarah
Luke 1:63-65- “The name will be John” and then he gets to praise God
Luke 1:26-38-The angel comes to Mary when Elizabeth is 6 months along, fresh out of her seclusion
Luke 1:15 / Luke 1:39-56 -John the Baptist is full of the Spirit in the womb and that overflows to Elizabeth and THAT overflows to Mary
Luke 1:64-80-Zechariah’s praise to God when he could speak again
Mathew 2:13-Angel tells them to flee to Egypt, and again to go home after Herod dies (Matthew 2:19-23)
Romans 5:5-Our hope will not be put to shame
1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11-The Savior has come and is coming again
Isaiah 61:3-There’s beauty still coming from the ashes
Haggai 2 -The Jews came back to rebuild the temple (Zerubabel’s temple). The Jews who knew the old temple, cried when they saw the new because they thought it wasn’t beautiful. The Jews who were born in captivity cried because they had never seen something so beautiful. A greater glory is going to be on this shanty of a temple (built out of rubble)
2 Chronicles 7:14 // Judges 6:25-29 -Heal our land -- we have to take down some idols
Psalm 46:10-Be still and know who God is
John 8:12-Light of the World
Matthew 2:9-Follow the star
-Revelation 1 - the lampstands, are just the bearers of the light, they don’t create the light, and we are called to bear the Light
John 1:8-John was not the light, but called to bear witness to the Light
Matthew 5:16-Let your light shine before men
Connecting with Pastor Chris:
Facebook
Instagram
Strong Tower Bible Church
Twitter
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Happy Thanksgiving week, friends!! Today on the podcast, we have the wonderful and wise, Karen Ehman. Karen is a seasoned author of many books, and Bible Studies. She’s also a speaker and writer for Proverbs 31 Ministries, among others, as well as a wife, a mother, and the list goes on and on of the hats she wears. Karen loves to use her words to tell other people about Jesus and to encourage women to work through their priorities so that their lives can reflect the Gospel.
Her latest book, Reach Out, Gather In, is all about hospitality, and I thought not only is this message from her perfectly timed going into the holidays, it's perfectly timed because I think we all need a refresher on what it means to be hospitable toward one another. We talk about how things look different, but the heart can still be the same during this covid version of the holiday as well as how Jesus modeled hospitality and more.
This conversation carries so many great reminders and insights that can be tucked into our hearts as we walk into this loaded holiday season. I think my favorites were about processing what it means to entertain people, and to show them hospitality. And then, I want to be a better “noticer.” When my daughter and I pray on the way to school, one thing we say is that we ask God to give us eyes to see one another the way He sees them. I pray that no matter what you are walking into this Thanksgiving, or any other average day, you are able to do that for someone else AND that someone else can do that for you too. They matter, you matter. All our stories matter.
Episode Partner:
Armor Up, Warrior Princess
Jamie Ivey’s Episode featuring them on her gift guide!
References:
-Proverbs 31 Ministries (Karen’s page)
-First Five App (from Proverbs 31 Ministries)
-Keep It Shut
-Her study of Philippians :: What Matters Most
-Reach Out, Gather In: 40 Days to Opening Your Heart and Home
-Make Their Day: 101 Simple, Powerful Ways to Love Others Well -her February release!
-white chocolate covered oreos (you’re welcome)
-When Making Others Happy is Making You Miserable: How to Break the Habit of People Pleasing and Live Your Life -her August release!!!
Local Ways (for Tennesseeans) to Partner with Ministries/Meet Needs
Homeless Shelter in Murfreesboro
Last Call 4 Grace - Ministry to Homeless and Disadvantaged in Murfreesboro
Women’s Shelter in Murfreesboro
ASP- Appalachia Service Project
Men of Valor
International Ways to Partner with Ministries/Meet Needs
-Food for the Hungry :: Donate wells
-Other donations or Christmas gifts that can be given to help others around the globe through Compassion International (this is one thing we love to do every year!)
-Writing letters to Christians persecuted for their faith through Open Doors
-Prayer Partners with Voice of the Martyrs or send Christmas Care Packs
-Hannah Brencher’s The World Needs More Love Letters
Scripture References:
John 1:8 -Bear the light of Christ
John 13:34-35 /1 John 4:19 -we model the heart of Christ with how we love and how we treat everyone
Acts 28 -Paul shipwrecked on Malta and the locals showed him hospitality
(LOTS of Scriptures!) -Hospitality is a spiritual gift
Luke 10:38-42-Mary and Martha
Romans 12:13- “Practice hospitality”
Colossians 3:12 - Putting on compassion and putting on kindness
Matthew 9:36 // Psalm 86:15- Seeing people the way He sees them
Psalm 16:6- The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places
1 Corinthians 12- Spiritual Gifts
Matthew 6:11- daily bread
Mark 12:31- Love your neighbor as yourself
Galatians 6:2- Bear one another’s burdens
Connecting with Karen:
Books
Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today I am chatting with a brand new author, Amanda Cox who wrote one of my favorite books I’ve read this year, The Edge of Belonging. Amanda is a wife, and a Mom, with years of walking in ministry and counseling under her belt. In the last few years of her life as she stepped into her Motherhood role and pulled back from other things, she began to wrestle with who she was, and where she belonged. She, like many of us, best processes her relationship with God through her writing and as she poured her heart out onto the page stories began to emerge.
In this conversation we talk about what God did with those stories, the wild journey of how she ultimately got published, and how we find our identity in Christ alone. This is such an insightful conversation that I think really speaks to this global season of identity crisis and change, and can provide a sweet word of encouragement to those of us trying to take a grip with weary hands.
Everyone I know is trying to figure out a whole new sense of self in this extremely different world. But God has not changed. His call for us to go and tell His story and to live in our giftings, that hasn’t changed either. We belong to Him, and we are His children. That is a beautiful truth to cling to, and when we walk in light of it that’s where we can learn to believe it.
I hope you guys will connect with Amanda and PLEASE do yourself a favor and get a copy of The Edge of Belonging and give it as a gift to anyone and everyone. It's such a fantastic story, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Sponsor Info:
This episode is sponsored by: Hopeful
Follow them on Instagram
Shop their products here (this is an affiliate link and it helps support the podcast, thank you!)
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
References:
Interview with Billy Graham
Young Life
Conversation on SSP with Counselor Phil Herndon
Hopefuel and the Hope Planner
“Trolls 2” soundtrack
Scripture References:
1 John 4:4- You belong
Psalm 139:14 / 1 Peter 4:10-11 He made you to do these things uniquely and your voice matters
John 3:30 -Your purpose isn't to glorify yourself, its to glorify God
Psalm 115:1- Abiding with Christ
Hebrews 12:1- Surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses
How the Church began in the book of Acts
Ephesians 5: How do we speak life to one another
Proverbs 31
Philippians 2:17- Pour yourself out like a drink offering
Psalm 119:133-Order our steps in Your Word
Matthew 6:11-Give us this day our daily bread
James 1:17-Every perfect gift is from above
1 Corinthians 12- Types of spiritual gifts
Matthew 8:3- Jesus touching those who had not been touched
Mark 5:34- Calling an outcasted woman daughter
Isaiah 6:8- Here I am, Lord
John 16:33-In this world you will have trouble
John 15:5- Apart from Me you can do nothing
Zephaniah 3:17- He will quiet you with His love
Mark 4:35-41- He can calm the storm
Ruth 4:18-22/Matthew 1:5- Boaz is Rahab’s son
Connecting with Amanda:
Her book
Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast, I have one incredible episode for you as I am chatting with author, speaker, teacher and host of the Bible Recap Podcast, Tara Leigh Cobble. Tara Leigh is a woman whose love for the Lord and His Word are contagious. Her podcast, and new Bible Recap book that came out just last week, are specifically designed to help others unpack the entire narrative of the Bible and bring it to life.
Tara Leigh shares with me the story of how her relationship with scripture was stripped down to a realization of using it to get what she wanted from God and finding things that we had to do instead of learning about Him and moving into a real relationship with Him. When Tara Leigh began to read the WHOLE Bible, she began to see things she never saw before and that was hard to stomach sometimes, and then she was encouraged to keep going and press through to the other side. To unpack the hard parts of scripture and that the Lord would meet her there. And that’s what she did, and now what she spends her life doing with others.
Y’all, I know everyone listening to this is full of feelings. If you listen to this episode on the back end of 2020, or some other time, there is just a lot happening in the world, and there is never a bad time to learn about who God is and how to learn about unpacking the word of God so we can overflow with hope. This is a life giving practice no matter where you are, and for where we sit right now, this is just.. Right on time. We need to be sure we are aligning our hearts with Christ above all else, and this conversation is like a mini-master class on how to truly dwell in the Word of God. What a great way to search and find evidence and encouragement that God is not finished with your life, and that He will do what He says. He will complete the work He began in you. He will never leave us or forsake us.
No matter where you are today, friend: hopeful or restless, encouraged or anxious, know that you are seen, known, and loved, and you matter. Your story matters.
This Episode is Sponsored by: Hopefuel
Check them out here. (This link is an affiliate link that helps support the podcast. Thank you!)
Use the code SIMPLY15 for 15% off your purchase!
Follow them on Instagram.
Resources:
Pat Summitt
Phillip Fulmer
Dallas Cowboys
D-Group
The Bible Recap
The Bible Recap Book
The episode I mention about praying within the Trinity of the Bible Recap (Luke 11)
Jones Literary
Daily Grace Co.
Purity Culture
The God Shot
The valley of our sin and the mountain of His grace
Hannah Anderson’s book Humble Roots: How Humility Grounds and Nourishes Your Soul
Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
Carson Newman University
Mulan “dishonor” moment
Ali Worthington’s episode on the SSP
In case anyone needed a definition of anthropomorphic (like I did) -- having human characteristics.
Definition of Holiness -- set apart
Scripture References:
Daniel 2:44- God’s Kingdom will stand
Matthew 6:9-13-Jesus modeled how we pray
Hebrews 4:12- Scripture is a double edged sword
Psalm 37:4- Delight yourself in the Lord
Romans 8:37-39 /Psalm 107:1-3- God’s love for you isn’t going anywhere
Matthew 7:11 / James 1:17- God is a protective Father who wants good things for His children
Genesis 1:26-2:1- We are called to reflect God’s image
Psalm 62:8- He’s trustworthy
Psalm 33:4- He’s faithful
Genesis 2:4-3:24 - Adam and Eve
1 John 3:4-18- We have a nature that pursues lawlessness
Psalm 16:5-6-The boundary lines have fallen for us in pleasant places
James 4:8 / Matthew 1:23- The God of the universe draws near to you
Psalm 19- The God of the universe wants to be known by you
Revelation 3:20 / 1 Peter 5:7- The God of the universe wants to spend time with you and likes you
James 1:17- Every good and perfect gift is from above
Philippians 1:6- He completes the work
Philippians 2:13- To will and to work according to His good pleasure
Ephesians 6:12- We are not at war with flesh and blood
Lamentations 3:22-23-His mercies are new every morning
Isaiah 40:31- They that wait upon the Lord
Job 42:2- My work will not thwarted
Isaiah 55:11- My word will not return to me void
Jeremiah 29:11- i know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you
Psalm 138:8- He doesn’t abandon the work of His hands
Habakkuk 1:13- God can’t be in the presence of sin
Job 1:6- Satan comes into the throne room
Romans 5:1-2- He imparts holiness to us and He declares us righteous
1 Corinthians 1:30- He declares us holy because of Christ
Exodus 40:34-38- Sets up camp in the wilderness
Galatians 3:13-15-Jesus paid for our sins
Ephesians 1:5- That’s how we are adopted into the family of God
Matthew 8:3- When Jesus touched the leper
Exodus 34- Moses’ moment with the Lord
1 Kings 19:11-13-Elijah- and the Lord passes by
Exodus 33:20- No one can see God and live (which is why He’s covered)
2 Corinthians 5:21- Jesus took on sin
Isaiah 6- Isaiah falling face down
Daniel 8:17-- Daniel falling face down
Matthew 21:2-13 // Mark 11:15-18- He will turn over the tables to get near us
Connecting with TLC!
Other Tara Leigh books
Podcast
YouTube
Website
DGroups
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today I am chatting with the absolutely wonderful Nicole Zasowski. Nicole is a family and marriage therapist who wrote a book this year called From Lost to Found: Giving Up What You Think You Want for What Will Set You Free. In her book, she shares about her struggle with perfectionism, and living a performance based life, and it's all on my shoulders faith and entered a season of loss and change that stripped her of the empty things she had placed her hope in.
Nicole specifically struggled with the incredibly hard road of multiple miscarriages and infertility before experiencing the miracle births of her two boys, and she candidly shares about that unique grief experience and how the Lord met her in it.
From Lost to Found, as well as this conversation, is a message of hope that redemption is possible even if it feels like everything is ruined. As I prayed about where this conversation should fall in this season, even before Nicole and I talked, I just felt so clearly that the Lord wanted our conversation to fall this week following the Election in the U.S. This episode is an attempt to lay a balm on weary souls as we move forward no matter what happens next.
Nicole and I have both known unique, but soul crushing grief and loss. We know that the weight of brokenness can be so stifling, but we also know that our Creator stepped down from Heaven and took on skin, and died and rose again so that we would NEVER have to be alone in our grief ever again, and that we would have a Hope that cannot be taken. No matter where this finds you today, this is not how the story ends. I hope you can feel encouraged today, friend. Find ways to listen at the linkinbio
This episode is sponsored by: Hopefuel
Connect with them on Instagram, find their products here, and you can get 15% off your purchase by using the code SIMPLY15
Resources:
CS Lewis: we are far too easily pleased
Balanced translocation
IVF
IVF loss (a unique grief)
“Is He Worthy”- Andrew Peterson
*For more resources on miscarriage and child loss, see The Joyful Mourning
Scripture References:
Ecclesiastes 3 /Galatians 6:7 - Seasons of sowing and reaping
Galatians 2:20 / Acts 14:21-22 / 2 Corinthians 4 / Romans 8:18-27- Suffering is part of life with Christ
Isaiah 61:3- Beauty from ashes
Psalm 100:5- He is still good
Esther 4:14- For such a time as this
2 Corinthians 12:7-9- Paul and the thorn in his flesh
Hebrews 10:23- Tethered to the hope of Christ
Galatians 6:17/ Luke 24:39/ John 20:20 Christ still bore scars
2 Corinthians 12:9- His power is made known in our weakness
Psalm 107:2- The redeemed tell their story
John 11- Weeping at Lazarus’ tomb
Revelation 22:1-5- We were made for garden life
Revelation 21:5- The Lord longs to restore, but it will not be until the moment He declares “now’ I will make all things new
John 11:35- Jesus wept
Matthew 27:32-56 / Luke 24- The miracle of Jesus’ death and resurrection
Hebrews 2:5-18 / John 1:14- Jesus was fully God and fully man
Matthew 27:46 - He felt the separation from His Father
John 3:16-18 /1 John 4:7-21- He loves us so much
John 14:16 / John 16:7-He wanted to send us the Counselor
Romans 8:23 -The groaning as they waited on the Messiah
John 17:13/ John 15:11- Jesus came to say you have peace and joy now
Matthew 18:12- Leave the 99 to go after the 1
1 John 3:3- He is the one who holds our hope
Ecclesiastes 1:9 - There’s nothing new under the sun
Psalm 139:23-Search me, and try me, God
Psalm 47:8 / Daniel 7:9-10 The Lord is still on His throne
Hebrew 13:8 / James 1:17- God’s character is the same today, yesterday, and forever
Hebrews 1:12- His living Word, it is alive and active
Revelation 22: 1-7- What is dark today won’t be dark forever
2 Corinthians 4 /Matthew 5:14-16- The Light inside of us we will carry it forward
Isaiah 14:27- Nothing and no one can stop the Lord
Psalm 103 :: scripture at the end from the Passion Tranlation
Connecting with Nicole:
Her book
Her website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast you get to hear from the hilarious and incredibly profound Pastor Nick Person. Nick is a Father, a husband, and a teaching pastor at New Vision Baptist Church in our local community. He is a man who loves the Lord and the Word of God, and in this episode, there is so much meat, that I would definitely call it a note taker of equal amounts of challenge and encouragement.
Nick shares an incredible word about the ministry of being a husband and a Father, and then he also unpacks what that role looks like as the head of a bi-racial family during a time of racial unrest. We also talk about the painful, but somewhat necessary refinement that 2020 has brought, and the Gospel-centered call for reconciliation and pursuing unity as the body of Christ no matter what we look like, how we vote, or anything that makes us different because we are all made by the Father, saved by the Son and filled with the Holy Spirit.
This is one power packed conversation, y’all, and listen if you don’t have time to hear it all, fast forward if you have to and get to the last 10 or 15 minutes where Nick talks about what is true about God, and true about you and I no matter what happens on Election Day. Then, Nick leaves us all with a blessing and a prayerful petition for the hearts of those chasing after God’s Kingdom.
Nick says,“you don’t have to think like me, and vote like me to sit at the table of the King with me.” And I want to sit at the table with you, friend. This conversation is an incredibly profound Gospel-centered perspective about how to walk in these coming days leading to the election, but even more so in the after, and I’m honored and humbled to share it with you.
*This episode was sponsored by : Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
- Listeners can go to www.crabtreehomestn.com or http://bit.ly/mulitpleoffers to receive the free e-book "7 Tips to Beating Out Multiple-Offers on the Home of Your Dreams"
Facebook.com/tonycrabtreehomes
instagram.com/tonycrabtreehomes
youtube.com/c/tonyteaches
References:
-PCA
-New Vision Baptist Church (I LOVE this church. It feels like a second home to us, as we have tons of friends that attend there, but their preschool program has marked our children forever, and we love them so much!)
-Video about systemic racism
-Civil Rights Movement
-Ahmad Arbury
-George Floyd
-MLK’s Letters from Birmingham Jail :: -”I long for the days when the Church would be a thermostat that would set the temperature of society, instead of being a thermometer that records what society is.”
-Be the Bridge- Latasha Morrison
-Breonna Taylor
-injustice anywhere, messes with justice everywhere (MLK)
-Phil Herndon’s episode
- “check your heart” (not bc I support Crist, for the record, but because this is funny annnnd true)
-Jesus Storybook Bible --God’s great rescue plan
-Our Advent series with my Daddy reading the Christmas story
-”Reckless Love”
Scripture References:
Psalm 33:18-22-obedience to the Spirit
Hebrews 12:1-2-fix your eyes on Jesus
Ephesians 2:14-18-reconciled one to another
Ephesians 1:11-14-carrying the hope of glory
2 Corinthians 4:7-9 -being jars of clay
Matthew 6:10-on Earth as it is in Heaven
2 Corinthians 5:18-I have been reconciled to the King
John 8:1-11 (just as one example)-Jesus kind of bothered everyone (called the sinners to more, called the religious out to walk the talk)
James 1:19-quick to listen and slow to speak
Mark 12:30-31-love the Lord your God, THEN love your neighbor as yourself
1 Corinthians 12:12-31- unity in the Body of Christ
John 12:42-There were Pharisees that followed Christ
Romans 14:11 / Philippians 2:10-11 -every knee will bow and every tongue will confess
Colossians 3:12-17 Therefore as God’s chosen people clothes yourselves with…
2 Timothy 3:10-17-apprenticeship to Christ
2 Corinthians 5:20-ambassadors of Christ
Acts 11:19 / Acts 17:6 -the church started with people scattered under persecution, and yet the world was changed
John 14-God is a triune God
Hebrews 10:25-it is good to gather together
Mark 2-the guys tearing the roof off to get their friend to Jesus
-the AMP translation of Colossians 3:12-16 :: patience --“which has the power to endure whatever injustice or unpleasantness comes, with good temper”
1 Corinthians 12-we all have gifting
Romans 12:15-18-weep with those who weep
2 Corinthians 2:15-gives off the aroma of Christ
John 11-Mary, Martha and Lazarus
John 11:25-He is the resurrection and the life
Genesis 11:7-confuse your tongue like Babel
1 Corinthians 1:10- be united in mind and thought
1 Corinthians 1:10-31 :: one of you says I’ll follow this person, and I’ll follow this person and the rest of the letter is about following Christ
Acts 15:36-41 -Paul, Barnabas, and Mark and their disagreement
Matthew 18:15-17-When in conflict, go to your brother
Hebrews 13:14-This world is not our home
2 Timothy 4:11-Mark comes to Paul in prison near the end of his life
Ephesians 6:16-when the arrows come
John 6:29-called to believe in the One He sent
Psalm 139:14-perfectly and wonderfully made
Ephesians 6:11-stand firm against the schemes of the Devil
Psalm 139:23-search me and try me, Lord
Matthew 2-the wise men followed the Star to Herod’s palace first. They weren’t lost, they followed the light to where they were led.
Hebrews 10:23 - hold steadfast
Romans 5:8 /1 John 3:2 / 1 John 4:9-11we are loved by the King
Matthew 28:6 / Luke 24:5-the tomb is empty
Ephesians 2 / Romans 6:23-our biggest need, our debt, has been paid in full and there is no balance
1 Peter 5:7/ John 3:16 -Jesus is fond of you
Philippians 2:1-11-Jesus left His crown in Heaven and came to get His hands dirty so we could be made clean
Luke 15:11-32-We have a Father who comes running
Hebrews 13:8-He’s the same yesterday, today and forever
Exodus 3:14-He is the “I Am”
John 14:26-God gave us a Helper in Holy Spirit
Proverbs 9:10-the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
Acts 2:21-all who call on Him will be saved
John 15:15-We can call Him friend
Connecting with Nick Person:
Hear him preach
Visit his church, New Vision Baptist
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Hey friends, these next couple of weeks, we’re going to have some very intentional conversations around current events. I don’t want to do that in order to be trendy or because I want to tell you what to do or think. I want to press into these tough conversations and hear from people’s experiences, and see what they can share with us about who God is, who He’ll always be, and what is true about us, and our call as His children, no matter what.
So today, we are chatting with a woman who I have looked up to for a very long time, Ashley Elizabeth Graham Johnson, but most of us in the Middle Tennessee world in particular, know her as AE Graham. AE is a woman of deep faith, but also a great affection, and yet tempered, perspective about democracy, and uses words with more intention and beauty than pretty much anyone I personally know. AE worked as a speech writer at the White House under President George W. Bush, and has worked with other political figures on capitol Hill, and local politics as well. She lives her life from a passionate, but grace filled posture, and she shares from that place, alongside her own experiences in government, and invites others into it on social media, and I am always so grateful for it.
AE and I spend a lot of time today talking about what it looks like to be a good citizen of this country, but more importantly to find our identity as children of God, citizens of the Kingdom of God, and Gosepl-minded neighbors to those around us. As someone who has worked in various political roles, AE offers some really interesting insights into what it means to engage where we are as a people. We also discuss, as two women raised Southern Baptist, the confusing struggle of our faith being tied to our patriotism, and that is not an act of worship, nor does it affect your identity in Christ, to exercise your right to vote as the Holy Spirit leads you to vote.
In general, conversations about politics stretch me. But you know what? Right now, it's too important to not talk about, not because I want to get up on a soapbox and add to this current cacophony, but because I want to get down to the heart of the matter about what we are still called to do to further the Gospel of Christ, no matter what happens on America’s upcoming election day. I want to talk about it, because I’m more concerned about our hearts in this story than anything else.
I hope and I pray, friends, that this episode is encouraging and also thought provoking for you, it certainly was and continues to be for me. Though there may be a crazy chapter in our story unfolding, His story isn’t over, and it is no more chaotic to Him than it was to speak to a storm and say “ssshhhh.”
*This episode was sponsored by : Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty
- Listeners can go to www.crabtreehomestn.com or http://bit.ly/mulitpleoffers to receive the free e-book "7 Tips to Beating Out Multiple-Offers on the Home of Your Dreams"
Facebook.com/tonycrabtreehomes
instagram.com/tonycrabtreehomes
youtube.com/c/tonyteaches
Reference:
SGA at MTSU
43- President George W. Bush
41-President George Bush and Mrs. Barbara Bush
Frederick Douglas
16- Abraham Lincoln
Killed in action letters
“Hamilton”- “The Room Where it Happens”
Catholic Church- their own nation state
The Greatest Generation
Pope John Paul II “we must call out was is good and what is evil”
Via media- all things in moderation, both virtue and vice
“The Star Spangled Banner”
Lauren Ruth Martin - A Novel Life (podcast) and Novel Counseling (you can find our episode here!)
Beth Moore’s sharing on these topics
“King Ralph”
Red-lining
MTSU
NASA
Pantsuit Politics Podcast (also can hear my conversation with them on episode six of the SSP)
I Think You’re Wrong, But I’m Listening: A Grace-Filled Guide to Political Conversations
Howard Baker: “You come to the table knowing you could be wrong.”
Voting Particular Resources:
-Register to Vote
-If you don’t know where to start, start with what you don’t believe so you can see how what you believe is being portrayed.
-Press Releases from candidates
-Subscribe to their newsletters
-Be cautious/wary of things that include fundraising links.
-DON’T GET ALL YOUR INFORMATION FROM SOCIAL MEDIA
-Em would also recommend the episode of the Podcast “Why Tho” :: Faith and Politics : Why Being Pro- Birth is Not Enough Tho. You can also hear deeper conversations with the co-hosts of that podcast and me on episode two of the SSP with Ash Abercrombie and episode 51 with Tiffany Bluhm.
Scripture:
Genesis 1 // John 1: God spoke things into being
Nameless women in scripture (to name a few) :: John 8:1-11 (Adulterous Woman), John 4:1-42 (Woman at the Well or Samaritan Woman), Mark 5:25-34 (Woman with the Issue of Blood), Luke 7:11-17 (the Widow of Nain), etc etc
1 Corinthians 8:3 - You are known by the Lord
Mark 12:31- Love our neighbor
Genesis 1:27-We were made with the DNA of God
Revelation 3:16 - Lukewarm and spit out
Mark 12:17- Give to Caesar what is Caesar's
1 Peter 2:18 // Colossians 3:23-24- Honor leaders/masters
John 17:21 // Ephesians 4:1-3- Praying for the universality of the church (unity in the body)-- not the same thing as universalism
Luke 10:27 - Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength
1 Corinthians 12:12-27 // John 1:12- We are all part of the body of Christ, the family of God, you are a child of God
1 Corinthians 6:19 // John 14:26- We have the Holy Spirit dwelling inside of us
Judges 21:25 - “there was no ruler in Israel and everyone did what was right in their own eyes.”
Book of Ruth
Isaiah 61:1 // Jeremiah 32:17 // Colossians 1:16 // God is sovereign
John 7:17 // Galatians 5:13- God has given us free will
Proverbs 21:1- The heart of the King sits in the hand of God
John 14:6- Jesus Christ is Truth
Proverbs 9:10 // James 3:13-18- Seek the Lord for wisdom
Connecting with AE Graham Johnson:
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast we have the incredible Rachelle Dekker. Rachelle is an award winning author of suspense and science fiction novels, and also is the daughter of author Ted Dekker. Her most recent novel Nine is a heart pounding journey of exploring identity, grappling with hope, and longing for redemption even if you’re not sure it's possible. We talk about how the themes from this book echo loud and clear across hearts beating around the world, because
in order to see light clearly, the dark has to be pretty dark. And yet, Christ is the Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. Rachelle is a woman who LOVES the Lord and I loved getting to talk with her about who He is, the Light of the Gospel, and the power that holds no matter what.
Rachelle and I also talk a lot about what it was like to grow up as a child in love with stories, and the tension of living with, and loving, a parent who longed to protect his child from his calling, because he was, and still is, a pioneer of a genre. In that, he has faced much adversity, and parents like to protect their children from pain. And yet, Rachelle shares his calling. Listening to the beauty of the Lord’s work in Rachelle and Ted’s life through her journey of carving her own path, discovering her voice, and proving it was where God was leading her too, even to the point where they could co-author books together, was a truly beautiful story to unpack with her.
Additionally, Rachelle and I are kindred spirits who truly believe music helps inform life (aka there’s a playlist for this episode). Also, if you grew up with some early 90’s Christian music you’re gonna love this. (I made some playlists for y’all!) Oh man, y’all, this is SUCH a good episode. Whether that’s processing where we find our identity, being attentive to what battles we are fighting and who exactly we are fighting with, to processing what we hear God calling us to no matter what anyone else says, I hope this ministers to you wherever you are today, and I hope that you remember that no matter how dark it is, we can ALWAYS look for the Light.
*Playlist for this Episode annnnnd an homage to 90’s Christian music!
--
This episode is sponsored by: Hopefuel
Connect with them on Instagram, find their products here, and you can get 15% off your purchase by using the code SIMPLY15
--
References:
Trevecca University
The Hardy Boys
Nancy Drew
The Chronicles of Narnia
The Boxcar Children
The Magician’s Nephew
Ted Dekker
Avalon
Crystal Lewis
Jackie Velasquez
Stacie Orrico
Natalie Grant
Point of Grace
Twila Paris
Cademon’s Call
“Adonai” by Avalon
Selah
“The Blessing”- Symphonic version
Rebecca St James
“Iris” and “Baby’s Black Balloon” - Goo Goo Dolls
“City of Angels” soundtrack
“Uninvited” by Alanis Morissette
My Spotify playlists
Hans Zimmer
Nickel Creek
Goat Rodeo Sessions
John Williams
Puccini
Girl Behind the Red Rope
“The Hunger Games” soundtrack
“The Chronicles of Narnia” soundtrack
“The Prince of Egypt” soundtrack
“When You Believe”- Whitney and Maria
Whitney Houston
“The Bodyguard” soundtrack
“The Preacher’s Wife” soundtrack
“Vision Of Love” - Mariah Carey
C.S. Lewis
Frank Peretti
The SEER Trilogy
Anything you give your attention, your time to, is an idol ---> Great study on this Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller
Jackie Hill Perry’s Bible Study on the book of Jude“Agape” love
Keep the Tiny Humans alive mug from Target
The exciting news about what’s next for Ted and Rachelle will be announced VERY soon! Be sure you’re following them on social media!
The letter from a Mother that gave the women right to vote (at least in Tennessee)
Scripture References:
John 12:35-36 // 1 John 1:5 - In his light there is no darkness
Ephesians 6:12 - We are not at war with flesh and blood
1 Peter 5:8 - We have something like a lion seeking to devour
Ephesians 6:10-18- We have an enemy of our soul
1 Peter 1:13-Hope still exists
1 Timothy 1:15- Redemption is still possible (chief of sinners)
2 Corinthians 5:17- We can be made new right now
Called to our true identity in Christ (great article walking through several scriptures on this from Thomas Nelson)
Isaiah 54:17- Nothing that comes against me will stand
John 9:1-12- Healing the blind with the mud on his eyes
1 Corinthians 15:55- Death, where is your sting?
Lamentations 3:23- His mercies are new every morning, great is HIS faithfulness
Ephesians 14:12- Israelites and their weird amnesia about Egypt
Matthew 7:13-14- The call is one of narrow path
James 4:7-10-The call is one of surrender
Ephesians 1:5-We are trying to adopt the character of Christ
Hebrews 12:1-3-Throw off our hindrances
Romans 8:13- Die to the flesh and live by the Spirit
Luke 10:27- Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
Psalm 139:14- He made us uniquely
Ephesians 4:8, 1 Corinthians 12- He made us with gifts
Mark 12:30-31- Love your neighbor as yourself and love our God above all else
2 Timothy 1:7- Not give in to fear
Jude 1:1- We are KEPT
Numbers 6:24-26- The Lord bless you and keep you
Romans 8:31-39- We are more than conquerors in Christ
Philippians 1:6- Our Father is not finished
Hebrews 13:5- He will not leave us
Romans 8:28-He works all things for good
Galatians 6:7- What you sow you will reap
John 18:36, Ephesians 2:19- We are citizens of the Kingdom of God
Matthew 28:16-20, Mark 16:15- We are called to go and tell
Colossians 3:16- Sing songs of truth to each other
Connecting with Rachelle:
Website
Books
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast we have the wise and wonderful, Alli Worthington. Alli is a speaker, an author, a fellow podcaster, as well as a wife and Mom of FIVE boys (she gives me a little pep talk about raising my one because, Jesus, take the wheel lol). Her most recent book Standing Strong: A Woman's Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence is probably my favorite non-fiction book I’ve read this year. It's a powerful word about leaning in to who the Lord is, and standing strong in HIM. That does NOT mean depending on something else we need to muster up to make it through, it's about truly living the lives He made us for by His strength.
Alli and I also talk about how being a hard worker, and a purposeful steward of what has been entrusted to us, is different from the break neck hustle of living out of our own limited supply that was never created to carry such things outside of God’s endless portion of provision. We dive deep into that as well as how covid has changed so much, but also how nothing about God’s plans for us has changed.
If you need to hear a powerful word of empowerment in who you still are despite how this all feels, encouragement about who God is, no matter how it all looks right now, then this episode is for you. Find ways to connect with Alli, access to all the scripture and references we make in the episode below.
This episode is sponsored by: Hopefuel
Connect with them on Instagram, find their products here, and you can get 15% off your purchase by using the code SIMPLY15
Reference and Resources:
-Called Creatives
-Lisa Whittle
-Alli’s latest book Standing Strong: A Woman's Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence
-Discipleship Focus :: Dollywood and Silver Dollar City
-Discovery Study
-Redeeming Love
-Emily P. Freeman’s The Next Right Thing
-Take Alli’s quiz to find your superpower! (Aka the great gift God has given you) :: Text Superpower 55444
-Spiritual Gift episodes (Shari Rigby, Phil Herndon)
Scripture References:
Isaiah 40:28-31, Isaiah 41:10-13, Philippians 4:13- He is the source of our strength
Romans 11:33, Job 28:28, Proverbs 2:6, Daniel 2:20 -He is the source of our wisdom
Joshua 1:9-11, John 14:27 -the source of courage
Romans 11:36, Ephesians 6:10, 2 Timothy 1:7 -the source of power
2 Corinthians 4:7-11- jars of clay
Psalm 34:18-God is close to the brokenhearted
Psalm 13-How long, oh Lord?
Genesis 5:32-10:1-Noah’s story
Matthew 28:19-20 -Called to go and tell and make disciples
John 3:16, 1 John 4:9-God sent His son
Psalm 139:14-He made me on purpose
Habakkuk 2:14, Exodus 33:12-23, Ephesians 4:10 -He wants to show me His glory
Isaiah 54:5, Psalm 69:6, 1 Corinthians 4:14, 2 Corinthians 10:8, Joel 2:26 -God doesn’t shame us
Luke 10:27-Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength and love your neighbor as yourself
Jeremiah 17:9-the heart is deceitful above all else
-Jesus had feelings (anger, sad, smad (aka sad and mad) compassion, etc. just as small examples!)
-The book of Psalms
Hebrews 12:2-Fix our eyes on Him
Romans 8:28-He will use all things for our good and for His glory
Jeremiah 1:12, Isaiah 55:11, 1 Corinthians 15:58-nothing is wasted
Isaiah 61:3-beauty from ashes
Isaiah 43:16-19-He makes a way where there is no way // See I am doing a new thing, now it springs up
Psalm 16:6-the boundary lines have fallen for us in pleasant places
John 16:33 / Psalm 31:24-take heart
Romans 5:3-5, James 1:1-13-we grow through suffering
Hebrews 12:12-He will strengthen us
Jeremiah 29:11-He has great plans for our lives
Psalm 94:14, Deuteronomy 31:6 -God does not abandon His children
Hebrews 10:23-He is faithful
Joshua 23:14, 1 Kings 8:56, Ezekiel 12:28, Philippians 1:6, Luke 1:45 -He will fulfill the promises He’s made to us
Matthew 14:13-21-He broke the bread and fed the hungry with one little lunch
Connecting with Alli:
Her Podcast
Her books:: Fierce Faith, Breaking Busy, The Year of Living Happy
Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast we have the absolutely lovely Joanna Politano. Joanna is a fiction author who writes stories full of characters wrestling with hard things with humor and heart, but she shares in this conversation that her novels are an outpouring of her asking God questions about things she’s processing in her own life and they wrestle it out together through the stories.
Her latest book The Love Note carries so many themes of unpacking people and their stories and why they do what they do as well as wrestling with calling, relational reconciliation, processing disappointment, and knowing your significance is ultimately found in a relationship with the Lord.
Joanna is not only a masterful storyteller, but I love hearing how she talks about the Lord. It's a clear and genuine outpouring of her heart. People like Joanna and how they speak about God, have always pushed me to want to know Him more. During our talk, we dive into what it may look like to hear from God, and how to grow a relationship with Him, and get into the Word, in the middle of a very full life. These show notes are full of resources that we mention (and some extras!) that I hope help point you to places to get you into the Word and take the hard, and the good to Him.
We (and by the we, I mean me) also go off on a history nerd bunny trail towards the end, but it’s relevant. I swear 😂 Be sure and connect with Joanna online, and check out her books, and you can pre-order her most recent book, The Love Note, and you can find links for all of that below!
Resources and References:
The Love Note
Victoria Holt
Dorothy Eden
Jane Austen
Charles Dickens
Anne Bronte
Jane Eyre- Charlotte Bronte
Wuthering Heights- Emily Bronte
Prayers of Jane Austen
The evolution to women becoming nurses/doctors
Kristy Cambron- Verse Mapping
BSF
Risen Motherhood and their free printables
Beth Moore
Priscilla Shirer
Jackie Hill Perry’s Jude Study
CBS
History of asylums and wrongful commuting
History’s cool kids
Black coffee with white friends
1st African American published poet :: Phyllis Wheatley
Whitney Plantation
Scripture References:
Proverbs 3:9-give Him the first fruits
Book of Psalms
Gospel of Luke
Wilderness life (Books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, and the first part of Joshua)
Psalm 30:1-5- But the Lord gives us joy
Book of Isaiah
1 Corinthians 12/Psalm 139:14- We are wired and gifted uniquely
James 1:1-13-God can use trials and experiences to draw us to Him
Lamentations 3:22-23- New mercies every morning
2 Corinthians 4:7-11- Jars of Clay and being perplexed, the power of the Gospel
Proverbs 9:10--seeking and fearing the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
Additional Bible Study Resources: (Blog forthcoming!)
-“The longing to be known is a gift that can only be met satisfactorily in Christ.”-
-At His Feet Studies (we also have a great conversation about how to get into the Word on your own here)
-Daily Grace Co (affiliate link)
-She Reads Truth
-Well Watered Women
Connecting with Joanna:
Website
Her books!
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog (you can also email me via my site!)
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today you guys are in for such a treat because our guest is the fantastic and beloved Jane Kirkpatrick. Jane is a master storyteller of 35 books, both fiction and non-fiction specializing in finding people, particularly women, in history we may not ordinarily get to hear about, and bringing their extraordinary lives into full color.
Jane is a wealth of heart and knowledge, and she is definitely my people, because she loves Jesus, history, storytelling, bunny trails, and this episode is full of ALL those things. We talk about everything from the people she has written about, how God confirmed her calling as a writer later in life, how life is a constant process of adaptation to new seasons and new normals and wrestling out how every person must decide will we process that through a filter of hope or hopelessness. We also discuss her latest novel Something Worth Doing based on the life of suffragist and spitfire, Abigail Duniway who fought for women’s rights for 40 years, was an entrepreneur, a writer, a mother of 6, and a caretaker of a beloved husband.
Buckle up, y’all. This episode is full of heart and history you may have never heard of, and serves as a reminder that God is not finished with our story, no matter how things may seem. The samy is true for you, friend. Your story matters.
References and Resources:
-the message on Jane’s website
-Israel in exile (an encyclopedic look, Biblical study of it and the difference between the exile and the diaspora)
-Paul Tillich: human beings have to encounter 3 things to be fully human, living with uncertainty, we don’t control anything but our response, that we are mortal
-Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, Ma Anand Sheelah and Rajneesh Compound (I REALLY don’t want to draw traffic to this horribly toxic and false religion’s actual website, because sadly it is still active and deceiving people around the globe. These are links from local Oregonian newspapers about the compound Jane and I discuss and the history of the Bhagwan. Which you can also hear/learn about just by watching the documentary listed further down.)
-a child in the Rajneesh Compound
-A Land of Sheltered Promise
-the Young Life camp there: Washington Family Ranch
-the Holocaust
-“Wild, Wild, Country”- Documentary about the Bhagwan and the Rajneesh
-the word parable meaning, a story that comes alongside — we’re allowed to enter it from wherever we are
-greek word for comfort, άνεση = to come along to the side
-“Women’s history must be invented; both uncovered and made up.” - Virginia Woolf
-Promises of Hope - A Devotional for Care Givers
-Her memoir
-Notable Oregonians
-Abigail Duniway and “The Farmer’s Wife”
-100 Years of Women’s Suffrage
-Structuring Your Novel
- What’s my intention?
- What do I feel deeply about? / What’s the attitude?
- What’s my purpose in writing this book? / How do I hope a reader might be changed.
-Ben Duniway’s Obituary
-Abigail Duniway’s Obituary
-Natalie Curtis and The Indian’s Book
-The Code of Indian Offenses :: Read more here, here, and here.
-The nation I spoke of in Syracuse is the Onondaga Nation
-Read more here and here about the whitewashing and assimilation of the Native Americans
-St. Louis World’s Fair // Louisiana Purchase Exposition
-Genocide- the first time that word is truly used
-“race suicide” - people being asked to give up themselves by denying who they were
- Silent Words (I misquoted the children’s book title, but this link is to a novel that’s a story of a young Native American boy’s journey. The book I meant is this one: Stolen Words)
-Wounded Knee
-Cherokee Dakota
-Tear Soup
- “Hope is an orientation of the spirit. … but the absolute conviction that something is worth doing regardless of how it turns out.” Disturbing the Peace
-Her latest novel (about Abigail and Ben) Something Worth Doing
Scripture References:
Books of Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy and Numbers :: Israel’s wilderness journey
Joshua 1is where it begins, and then read through the book of Joshua here :: the second generation wilderness and their journey into the promised land
Acts-the early church
2 Corinthians 12:7-10- thorn in our flesh
Joshua 24:15 - Whom do we serve? // We will ultimately worship something or someone
Isaiah 19:21 - The Lord will make Himself known
1 Corinthians 12, Epheisans 4, Colossians 3-Biblical unity
(A study of Deuteronomy) Israel before they go to the promise land, they sit down and tell their stories of God’s faithfulness
Deuteronomy 11:18- Put these on your forehead
1 Thessalonians 4:13- We are not without hope
Connecting with Jane:
-Getting access to her newsletter “Story Sparks”
-BookPub
-Good Reads
-Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
On today’s episode, I have the absolute pleasure of hosting the incredibly wise Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith. Dr. Saundra is an internal medicine physician, an author, and a speaker who specializes in the mind, body, spirit connection. Her most recent book, 'Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity', is an incredible resource that shares various perspectives on the 7 types of rest we need and how rest deficits affect the whole functioning person. It's a hearty dose of cool science and how God made us, with beautiful spiritual application.
This episode feels so timely, because if there is one word I have heard come out of the mouths of people I love lately it is this: “I am so weary.” Is that you? Do you feel emotionally, spiritually or emotionally weary? Maybe even fighting off the burn out? Dr. Saundra and I talk about how we (especially as women) struggle with this area so much because of how much we wrestle with control, and she gifts us some practical ways to assess and deal with restoring your fullest self so you can live in the abundant life of Christ.
No matter how weary you are, friend, you can find rest for your soul in Jesus. Whether that’s the weariness of isolation, or being hustled by the hustle, and everything in between, God cares about you, mind, body, heart, and spirit. If we don’t address these things and ask Him to show us where we have depleted our resources and need sacred rest, then how can we engage the work we were made for? Take it a little bit at a time, friend. Dr. Saundra is testifying where God intervened in her story, and is sharing what He showed her with you. There are great resources here, friends, to press into this area. It matters because you matter. Your story matters.
I want to ask you guys for some grace on the front end because we struggled with some sound issues in this episode. It was nuts, the internet would not do its thing, and it only happened when she and I were trying to talk. Not today, Satan, not. Today. We have persevered, and I cannot wait for y’all to hear this conversation.
Resources and References:
-lists of attributes of God
-meditating is Biblical
-His Kids Company alphabet place mat
-The Body Keeps the Score
-Boundaries
-sermon from my church (Fellowship Bible Church) on 9/13 about how we will face trials, but God is faithful
-J.I. Packer Knowing God
-Sing! Conference with Keith and Kristyn Getty
-Joni Eareckson Tada
-”Crown Him with Many Crowns”
-Dr. Saundra’s Rest Quiz
Scripture References:
Luke 10:27 -love the Lord your God
2 Corinthians 10:5-taking your thought captive
Colossians 1:16, 1:17/ Ephesians 1:11-God is sovereign (here is an article with more scriptures and insights)
Joshua 1:8/ Psalm 119:78-meditating on God’s word
Matthew 17 -the transfiguration
John 15-Jesus had the 12 disciples as close friends (more thoughts on that)
Luke 5:16-Jesus gets away to be with the Father
John 15:5-abiding
John 6:29 / John 13:1 -Jesus is trustworthy (more thoughts on that) - I especially love the AMP of John 6:29
Isaiah 30:15- quietness is your strength
Psalm 37:4 -Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart
Psalm 112:7-hearts steadfast trusting in Him
John 16:33 -in this world you will have trouble
Isaiah 53:3 -Jesus was a man of sorrows
Acts 10-Peter’s revelation about human beings different than him
Acts 12:1-2-Herod executes James
Acts 12:1-19 -Peter’s kidnapping and miraculous escape
John 10:10-abundant life
Job 35:16 -cannot pour out of emptiness
Psalm 16:11 / John 7:37-38 -living out of the overflow of the Spirit
John 10:10- Satan comes to steal, kill and destroy
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 / John 14:16-Jesus as a comforter
Mark 10:13-16-Children came to Him
John 8:1-11/ John 4 / Luke 7:36-50 / -nameless women who came to Him (interesting reading about the woman with the issue of blood and the 3 Gospel accounts that tell her story)
John 14 / Acts 1:1-11 / Acts 2 -Jesus ascended and sent His Holy Spirit
Malachi 3:6 / Psalm 102:27 / Isaiah 4:28 / Psalm 18:31 / Hebrews 6:13-20 / Hebrews 13:8 -God cannot change (For more on this, this is a great article from Blue Letter Bible and also Jen Wilkin’s book None Like Him: 10 Reasons Why God is Different Than Us (and why that’s a good thing). Chapter 6 is power packed about immutability (the word that means “unchanging over time or unable to be changed”)
Matthew 10:31 / 2 Corinthians 3:18 /Psalm 139:14 / Psalm 45:11-I don’t have to prove my worth
Romans 5:8 -my worth was solidified on the cross
The Process Dr. Saundra leads you through in her book about each type of rest:
R- Recognize your current risk
E- Evaluate your position
S-Science and the research related to the type of rest needed
T- Today’s application
Connecting with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
Her other books
Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Y’all are in for such a treat because today I am chatting with the fiery and fabulous Tiffany Bluhm. Tiffany has worked in various ministry roles for a long time. She’s been a pastor, working in local and global outreach, with victims of human trafficking, the homeless population, and those who are incarcerated. These days, Tiffany is a podcaster, speaker, writer, and author who passionately loves the Lord and encouraging others, especially women, to step up and take their place wherever and however they’ve been gifted.
This episode covers so much ground. We talk about everything from how to practically think through a calling or a passion you don’t quite know what to do with, facing the dark parts of your story, racial reconciliation, unpacking the concept of de-centering, and processing how 2020 may not be the dumpster fire we thought it was, but maybe it is the year of the Refiner’s Fire.
As a woman of color, who grew up in a primarily white world, Tiffany shares how to be better neighbors to one another in the gift of our unique makeup, and humanizing other people’s experiences. Bridges are built when we listen to one another’s stories. While we are walking out this wild season, would we be willing to ask the Lord to search our hearts? Would we be willing to examine our hearts with the One who made it and ask where we maybe have allowed lies about ourselves, or our neighbors to affect how we interact in the world? Will we be willing to open our hands to see what the Lord may have for us in how He made us, and how He made for us to work together in His Kingdom? These are important questions that need honest examination from all of us, over and over again.
I’ve put all the ways you can connect with Tiffany, her books, her podcast with Ash Abercrombie, and more in the show notes!
Resources:
-Tiffany’s podcast with Ash Abercrombie Why Tho
-My episode with Ash Abercrombie
-Cordila Jochim - our episode (part 1 and 2) and connecting with Cor
-Traumatic brain injury and future casting
-Moses
-Julia Child
-Ruby Bridges
-Epstein
-Weinstein
-Nassar
-Hybels
-Crist
-The #MeeToo movement
-De-Centering- “The person telling the story has the most power. To de-center is to look at another’s experience and realize that you do not play a key role in the story. You sit and humbly listen to their story without making the story about you.” (You can read more about this via Latasha Morrison’s Be the Bridge book and program)
-pass the mic campaign
-will we follow Him in the wilderness or will we try to hightail it back to Egypt (looking at their story in the book of Numbers)
Scripture References:
2 Timothy 1:6 / 1 Timothy 4:14 / 1 Corinthians 12- The calling and gifting put inside you
John 10:10- Jesus came to give us life to the full
Jeremiah 29:11- For the plans I have for you
Psalm 37:4- Delight yourselves in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart
Luke 10:27- Love the Lord with all your heart mind, soul, and strength
Matthew 7:15-20- You will know it by the fruit
Galatians 5:22-23-Fruits of the Spirit
Psalm 51:10- Create in me a clean heart, and restore a right spirit within me
Daniel 3:26-27 - you will not smell like smoke
Hosea 2:14- lure her to the desert and speak tender to her there
Psalm 139:23-24- search me and know my heart; if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting
Episode Partner: Armor Up, Warrior Princess
Follow them on Instagram!
For questions about the boxes, ordering, and etc, email them at armorupwarriorprincess@gmail.com
Connecting with Tiffany:
Tiffany’s books, Bible studies
Prey Tell: Why we silence women who tell the truth (Comes out in March 2021)
Why Tho Podcast
Her newsletter (which is so good!)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
As I have been praying for direction from God on this season of the podcast, I kept coming back to the heart of the matter: we as the people of God need to remember who we are and whose we are. When we can live from that knowledge, we can press in to the places where we have been placed and live out what we were created to do. As I’ve asked the Lord to show me who would be able to speak into these places with power, authority, honesty, and humility, one of the names that kept coming up for me over and over again is today’s guest: Phil Herndon.
Phil is a counselor that has dedicated his career to shepherding people who are battling anxiety and various types of addiction. He has such a powerful gift of taking big ideas about God, the needs of humanity, the mind, and body and breaking them down into bites that can not only be understood but consumed for soul nourishment. That is exactly what happens in this episode today. During this conversation, we break down what tends to drive the human heart, as well as how it works in the brain, and the assurance that God made us this way on purpose! We then wade through the deep waters of the various spiritual gifts and how we are each uniquely wired to reflect these gifts in our spheres of influence.
I hope and pray that you’ll stick with us all the way to the end on this one. Even though it's a little long, its power packed around every corner. Phil just has so much wisdom and insight to share, I just couldn’t condense it down! Join us on the deep dive, take notes on what stands out to you, and let’s lay our hearts before our Creator, and ask Him to show us how to be who He made us to be.
We need you, friend. We need your gifting. Come alive to His story. It matters. You matter.
*References:
-Fellowship Bible Church Rutherford County is the church we attend together :)
**Phil just recently preached a POWERFUL word about The Sheep and the Shepherd in Chaotic Times. I’ve linked it here!
-limbic brain
-AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)
-Southwestern Seminary
-LPC compatible (licensed professional counselor)
-homiletics
-Chip Dodd - His book The Voice of the Heart (which we mention!) is a game. changer.
-Stephen James - He has other works, but if you are a person with a little boy in your life, PLEASE get a copy of his book Wild Things. Its about raising boys. Lord, help us all. lol
-Young Life
-thinking brain
-”E.T. phone home”
-Aslan’s quote: “Aslan" said Lucy "you're bigger". "That is because you are older, little one" answered he. "Not because you are?" "I am not. But every year you grow, you will find me bigger.” ― C.S. Lewis, Prince Caspian
-codependency
-the written Law
-the Jewish oral law/Torah
-Corinth
-DTS- Dallas Theological Seminary
-Carson Newman
-exceptions to the draft for the Vietnam War
-SHAPE test (spiritual gifts test)
-Christine Caine’s A21 Campaign
-ecclesia- The Greek word for an assembly, especially the popular assembly of ancient Athens. // A community or a church.
-Heilsgeschichte -- German word for history, story. Literally means “salvation story” and “History as continued divine action on, for and with people”
-Raising the little light :: scene from Harry Potter
-The Body Keeps The Score
*Scripture References:
Isaiah 14:27 / Job 42:2 -My ways are not thwarted
Isaiah 41:10 / Isaiah 43:2 / Psalm 40:17/ 1 Peter 5:6-7-God cares for you
Jeremiah 29:11 / Psalm 57:2- -I’m made for something else
John 10:27- the sheep know my voice
Psalm 139:14- fearfully and wonderfully made
Ecclesiastes 3:11-God has placed eternity in the hearts of men
Matthew 19:14-Let the little children come to me
Galatians 5:19-21-list of what we fall into
Galatians 2:11-14-Paul corrects Peter about codependency (his relationship with the Jews: be one guy)
1 Corinthians 12:12-31-the diversity of the body of Christ
-Psalm 139
-1 Corinthians 12- y’all are a MESS and also spiritual gifts :)
-accept each other because God made you and brought you together
Romans 12:3-8-with another set of gift
Ephesians 2:8 -You were saved by the same grace
John 10:10- He came that we would have life and life to the full
John 1:5 / Luke 1:76-79-hold a light against a dark background of the world
Matthew 5:29- gouge out your eye (deal with your sin)
Ephesians 6:12- we are not at war with flesh and blood
Luke 18:27- what is impossible for the Lord
Acts 2- Pentecost in Acts and the tongues of fire
1 Peter 2:5- we are an altar of living stones
Jeremiah 20:9 -If I don’t speak it burns in my bones
Psalm 23- The Lord is my shepherd
Hebrews 12:1-2- the course set out for her
Genesis 3-brokenness part of the world
1 Peter 1:20 / Ephesians 1:4 /His redemptive plan has always been part of the plan
John 14:27- Jesus never promised the absence of fear, He promised the absence of anxiety when we lean into Him
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 / Psalm 51:17 / Psalm 33:18-22 / 2 Chronicles 7:14 / / Deuteronomy 28:9/ Proverbs 3:5 / 2 Timothy 3:14-15- we can control how we respond to the Father
James 3 / Romans 12:2 / Romans 12:18/ Psalm 133:1 / Colossians 3:14 - we can control how we respond to people
*Full list of Spiritual Gifts (from 1 Corinthians, Romans, Ephesians, and 1 Peter)
Encouragement (sometimes called exhortation)
Giving
Leadership
Mercy
Prophecy
Service (or serving)
Teaching
Apostleship
Pastoring
Evangelism
Administration
Discernment
Healing
Interpretation of Languages (often called Tongues)
Languages (Tongues)
Wisdom
Faith
Knowledge
Miracles
Connecting with Phil:
Sage Hill Counseling Facebook
Email Phil
Listen Phil’s latest sermon here.(His actual message starts about 47 minutes in to the service)
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
It's a good day to start Season Two of the Simply Stories Podcast!!! Before we dive into this season, I really wanted to take a moment with someone who has been in the trenches with me from the very beginning of this experience, to look back and also press in. My darling friend, April McKinney, and I spend some time in today’s episode talking about where we both have been the last couple of years, and the stories of God’s presence in our lives. Even before covid-19 invaded all of our worlds, April and I both have walked through seasons of shadow, and faith stretching. In this heart to heart coffee talk, so to speak, we invite you to pull up a chair and just listen to the testimony of two friends who love each other and love the Lord.
During this chat, we also talk about current events and how we wrestle those out before God, and with the people around us. We discuss how to be led by love and hope, #momlife things, and how God’s Word and His presence shores us up to face the next day. It was also really important to me to leave you guys feeling encouraged as we all navigate this wild wilderness season.
We may be walking in unfamiliar territory, but we are still being led by the glory of God’s presence. We MUST call to mind who He always has been, and who He always will be. And so. We end this episode with scriptures that have meant a lot to us, as well as a blessing over all of us, written by my dear friend, Katie Covert.
I’m so grateful for another season in the Simply Stories world. Thank you for being here. Let’s do this.
Resources:
-April’s cookbook The Outdoor Table
-Paula Deen
-Marco Polo
-"Hope is a song in a weary throat," proclaimed the Rev. Pauli Murray
-Congressman John Lewis
-Ravi Zacharias
-J.I. Packer
-”Is He Worthy”- Andrew Peterson
Dr Saundra Dalton-Smith and the 7 types of rest
Armor Up, Warrior Princess
Jerry Falwell Jr. and Liberty University
-what happened at Willow Creek
Scripture References:
Hebrews 12:1 / Romans 5:3-4 / 1 Peter 5:10- Building a stamina of endurance
Psalm 77:11- Remembering God’s deliverance from before
Psalm 107:2- Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story
Malachi 3:6 // Hebrews 13:8- God has not changed
Psalm 42:1- As the deer pants for the water
Romans 5:8 / Revelation 1:5- He loves us, chose to die for us, and washes us clean
Romans 15:13 / 1 Peter 1:3-4- Hope is not lost for anyone
Psalm 3:8 /Exodus 14:13-15 The salvation of the Lord
Hebrews 10:23 / Psalm 9:10- He is trustworthy
Jeremiah 29:11- The plans I have for you, to prosper you and not to harm you, but for hope and a future
John 10:11- He is a trustworthy shepherd
Psalm 23- He walks with me through they Valley of the Shadow
Matthew 5:46-48 -” If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?”
Ephesians 2:2-5- We are born sinful
Romans 6:23- The wages of sin is death, the gift of God is eternal life
1 John 4:19- We love because He first He loved us
Genesis 3:19- To dust we return
Psalm 73:26- My flesh and my heart may fail
Proverbs 16:18- Pride goes before the fall
2 Corinthians 1:3 / Psalm 34:18- God comforts
1 Corinthians 6:12- We will serve anything we give our hearts to
Matthew 22:37- Love the Lord with your all your heart, soul, mind and strength
John 12:12-19- Jesus’ triumphal entry and looking for a Messiah
Romans 11- Open the door for Gentiles, to graft in to the body of Christ
John 4:14- Drink from the Water of Life
2 Thessalonians 3:3 / 2 Timothy 2:13 / Deuteronomy 7:9 (among many others): He is faithful
Genesis 50:20 - What the enemy uses for evil, the Lord turns for good
Story of Joseph
Genesis 37: Joseph’s Dream
Genesis 39: Potiphar’s Wife
Genesis 39:19-23- Joseph in prison
Acts 16:16-40-Paul in prison
-Barnabus -- I MISPOKE! Silas in prison. Barnabus, sadly, was definitely persecuted, but in other ways.
-Matthew 11:2-6-John the Baptist- reaching out to Jesus,
-Matthew 14- John the Baptist being beheaded
-Genesis 44- Hiding the cup in Benjamin’s bag
-Esther 4:14- Mordechai in Esther, if you don’t do this, the Lord will raise up deliverance
Scriptures Read at the end of the episode:
Psalm 23- NLT
1 Peter 1:3-4 - NIV
Isaiah 40:28-31-NIV
Romans 8:9-17 -The Message
Connect with April:
20,000 Words Podcast
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today is the final episode of our very first season! I can hardly believe it! The Lord is so funny, because as you may or may not remember, the very first episode was my interview with the absolutely amazing Shari Rigby, and she is back for our season finale episode today!
In our first conversation, we talked about her experience acting in the movie, “Overcomer,” and how powerful the message of that movie on identity created such a timely ripple effect in her, and since then,she has written a powerful book called Consider the Lilies: Get Rooted in Your Destiny By Discovering God’s Plan. Shari is back today to tell us about this journey and the heart of her book. Shari is a woman who overflows with zeal and love for the Lord and His word. Shari shares about the pursuit of overcoming confusion and moving to clarity through diving into God’s word. We discuss battling for our identity by being grounded in who God says we are, instead of who the world says we are, because the world’s defining identifying factors are insatiable. When we know Whose we are, we can press into what we were made for. We also discuss a concept she unpacks in her book, where we look to scripture to differentiate purpose, calling, gifts and talents.
Every single time I listen to this conversation, I feel so much more full than how I started. There is a campaign against you, and the Kingdom of God, to maim our identity, distract us from our purpose, make us doubt our calling, keep us from cultivating our talents, and to keep us in the dark about the gifts God gives us by His Spirit, as well as the weapons He provides for us to do all the fighting with.I feel like this conversation is the pep talk we need for where we are in 2020, but honestly, whenever you hear this, it's a pep talk for the ages.
The Lord is not finished with us, friends. Not even a little bit. Let’s take heart, and press in to the Holy Ground where He has placed us for such a time as this. It matters, dear one. You matter. Your story matters.
Shari has also set us up SO well for season 2 and I can’t wait to tell you more about that! Next week, we’ll kick off season 2 with a special guest and me looking back at what God has done, and looking forward to where He’s leading us next, so be sure you are subscribed and you don’t miss out!
Episode Partner: Armor Up, Warrior Princess
Follow them on Instagram!
For questions about the boxes, ordering, and etc, email them at armorupwarriorprincess@gmail.com
References:
First Episode of the Podcast with Shari!
“Overcomer” movie
The Kendricks
Women in my World
Shari’s book: Consider the Lilies: Get Rooted in Your Destiny By Discovering God’s Plan
Endometriosis
“October Baby”
King David and his many talents - shepherd // warrior // leader // prophet // lyricist // musician (see more on this in my blog on further study from this episode)
King Solomon
Carson Newman
Pastor Mark Martin
Steve Berger- Grace Chapel in Leiper’s Fork
The Spiritual Gifts assessment
Scripture References:
Joshua 5:6- Israel in the desert
Psalm 107:2- Let the redeemed of the Lord say so
Isaiah 61:3- I turn those ashes into garland
Psalm 57:2 / 2 Timothy 1:9 - God created purposefully
Genesis 1:27- God created us in His image
1 Corinthians 12 // 1 Peter 4:11 // Romans 12:6-8 Spiritual Gifts
Psalm 139:14 - Perfectly and wonderfully made
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart for I have overcome the Lord
Jeremiah 29:11
Psalm 37:4- He will give you the desires of your heart
Mark 5:21-43 // John 19:25-27 // John 20:11-18 // Acts 10:34-35 // - Jesus has a heart and a mission for women
Acts 1:14 // Acts 2:1-4 // Acts 2:16-18 // Acts 2:43-47 // Romans 16:7 - Luke includes women, receiving the spirit and etc (these are just a few places in Acts! Keep digging and reading!- Also see my blog about women leaders in the church for the going deeper on this episode!)
Matthew 16;24- Denying yourself and pick up your cross
Luke 16:10- when we’ve been faithful with little is faithful in much
Psalm 51:17- A broken and contrite heart
Romans 8:28 // 1 Corinthians 10:31- Do it for His glory and our good
Numbers 13-14 Joshua and Caleb only ones who would be willing to go in
Joshua 2, (shout out to my girl, Rahab) 3 and 4- then they waited until they could go in
1 Peter 1:3-4- We have been given an inheritance
Psalm 18:30- They trusted He would keep His word
Ephesians 3:20- Will give you more than could ever ask or imagine
Proverbs 31:10-31 - Warrior women - the word “Chayil” is the word used here for valor or noble and is also translated in other places “warrior.” Read more about that here.
Acts 2:44- They had all things in common
Living in unity (a whole list of verses!!)
Matthew 22:36-40 // Luke 10:27 // Love God (Most important command) and love others (love your neighbor as yourself, the 2nd most important command)
Mark 16:15 // Matthew 28:16-20- To go and tell
Matthew 11:28-30- His yoke is light
Exodus 3 // Exodus 7:7- Moses was no spring chicken when he became a leader of God’s people
Colossians 3:17- Whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord
Galatians 5:22-23-Fruits of the Spirit
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you
Matthew 9:37- The harvest is plentiful and the workers are few
Isaiah 6:8-Here I am send me
Matthew 10:7- When you go out, let them know the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand
Ephesians 6:10-18-- The Armor of God, we are not at war with flesh and blood
Ephesisans 6:10-13-- the Message version I read in the outro
Connecting with Shari:
Website
Her other books
Consider the Lilies book
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today’s episode is with fellow podcaster, author, speaker, and just all around champion of living an abundant life, Jessica Hottle. Jessica shares with me the story that fuels her passion for women to know the truth about who God is and who He made them to be, because she grew up not knowing those truths at all. In her early adulthood, the Lord began a process of helping her understand the gift of a resurrected life that brings healing and freedom, and helped her to know her worth. She also shares how the Lord brought people along her path to speak life into her as she grew in her faith and redefined what it meant to love and be loved.
“We come to know the Father and our worth when we know what His word says,” is one thing Jess shared in this conversation that stuck with me. While that sounds like something so simple, it's the simple things we lose sight of first when we’re in crisis. And whether your life has returned to some sort of semi-normal rhythm, or whether you are still trying to find purchase in a sea of uncertainty, we are all working through the effects of covid on what we know is true about our worth, how we process hard things, and so much more. I loved how Jess talks about the power of coming to know what God says is true, and the significance in her life in pursuing relationships that get down to the heart of the matter and speak life to her heart and echo those truths. There’s so much to marinate on in this conversation, friends, and I hope it leaves you encouraged as you navigate the now, and fix your face to the future.
Scripture References:
Romans 6- You have been transformed by God’s righteousness
1 John 4:19- The Lord loves you
Ephesians Chapters 1 and 2 - The Lord wants you and made you valuable/worthy
Romans 8:19-23- He wants to redeem all the broken things
Galatians 4:4- God sent His Son to set us free
Revelation 19:9- You’re invited to a feast
Matthew 13- The parable of the seed falling on soils
Proverbs 3:5- Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Proverbs 18:21/ James 3:10- The words we speak bring life and death, blessings and curses
Genesis 3- Eve in the Garden falling for a lie
Romans 14 / a list of others: Discerning the difference between a truth and a lie
Matthew 4:1-11 / Matthew 7:15/ Jude - The enemy brings lies through deception and intimidation - a lie leads us away from love
John 10:10- the enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy
2 Timothy 1:9- Purpose, call and identity
Matthew 28:19-20- We’re called to share the Gospel
2 Corinthians 5:11-21- We’re called to be ministers of reconciliation
Ephesians 4:1- Aligning your life to the will of God
Romans 5:3-5- Perseverance not perfection
Philippians 1:9- The more His love abounds in love through the knowledge of Him
More thoughts on: We come to know the Father and our worth when we know what His word says
References:
Jess’ podcast episode where she interviews her spiritual Father, PJ, part 1 and 2.
Kelsey Chapman and her book (the launch has been pushed to early 2021! Thanks, Covid)
Gloria Furman
Revelation Wellness
Prayers for engaging our bodies (and other free printables!)
Science experiment where you yell and curse at a tree and the other gets life spoken to it
Mirror neurons
Grounding exercises
window of tolerance
Connecting with Jessica:
Website
Her Podcast
Her Books
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
On today’s episode I am chatting with a woman who wears many hats, Cindy Sproles. Cindy is an author, an editor, a ministry director, and does all of it with a faith as big as the mountain she calls home. As the faith stretching process of 2020 continues, this conversation felt like a drink of water in the wilderness. Cindy shares with us how the Lord has deepened her faith as she has worked in ministry and watched Him provide over and over again, and it was such a rich experience for me to remind me that the same God who has moved miraculously before still does just that.
Cindy’s most recent fiction work is called What Momma Left Behind takes place in the rural Appalachian Mountains which is an area near and dear to both of us, and you guys will get a kick out of how much my East Tennessee accent comes out in this episode. We talk a lot about the history and the heart of mountain people as well as the heart of her book’s story, which is actually adoption. Cindy’s powerful story shares what it was like for disease to run rampant on the mountain, which is wild because she had no idea this book was going to come out during a global pandemic, and then what happened to the children that were left behind before there were options like formal adoptions and orphanages. And while we have more systems in place now, there are so many children that are still longing to be loved and wait to be adopted.
Cindy is such a firecracker. She reminds me so much of the people I grew up around, and I just love it. Listen, friend, if you have a heart that has maybe been stirred by the concept of adoption or fostering, I’m putting some links in the show notes just for you! OR if you are interested in how you can partner with some of the other organizations mentioned in this episode like ASP, or even how to connect with Cindy as a writer, and faith encourager, I’ve put all that connection information in the show notes.
Resources:
Christian Devotions Ministry
Lighthouse Publishing
Blue Ridge Christian Writers’ Conference
Asheville Christian Writers’ Conference
Hope*Writers
Writing with Grace
The Autobiography of George Mueller
Her book What Momma Left Behind
Gatlinburg
Pigeon Forge
Townsend
Snapping and canning green beans
Springhouse
Smokehouse
Moonshine still
Fonde, KY -- This happens to be a project my sister worked on that shares the history of Fonde
Appalachian Service Project - ASP
Nashville Tornado
Cumberland Gap
Portwine Birthmark
Christy by Catherine Marshall
More information about telephones in the Smokeys
The Orphan Train
The Hope of Azure Springs - Rachel Fordham
My conversation with Rachel Fordham on adoption and foster parenting
Adoption and Foster Care resources
Scripture References:
John 2:1-11- Cupbearers who carry the water turned into wine
Psalm 23- The Lord is my shepherd
Luke 11:1-4- The Lord’s Prayer
Matthew 25:14-30- To him much is given much is required
1 Corinthians 12:12-31- The body of Christ is diverse
Psalm 121:2-4- My help comes from the Lord
Psalm 28:7- The Lord is my strength and my shield
Psalm 18:2- The Lord is my fortress
Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me
Luke 2:41-52- Mary and Joseph lost Jesus
John 10:10- Jesus came that we would have life and life to the full
Ephesians 1:5- We are adopted into the family of God
Romans 8:17 Adopted into His heirship
Ezekiel 36:26- a new heart and a new spirit
Psalm 51:10-19-Create in me a clean heart
Connecting with Cindy:
-Website
-Her books
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today I’m chatting with the wonderful Susie Finkbeiner. Susie is an incredible Christian Fiction Author, and a woman who just radiates joy, love and hope. I actually got to talk to Susie when we were all in the thick of quarantine, and it feels so timely as many cities go back to that sort of a model, but everyone I know is processing the immediate future. Whether that is school decisions, community decisions, election oriented decisions, there is a lot of tension, a struggle with holding on to hope, and how to be present for one another with feelings and fears running rampant. Friends, this episode is for you. Susie shares really beautiful insight about trusting the Lord, especially when everything feels like it's falling apart. God’s trustworthiness and His goodness is bigger than the certainty of encountering the brokenness of the world, and that is something, as we wrestle with what’s around us, that we can put our hope in. It's the only thing that won’t change.
During our chat you also get to hear more about the heart and the history of her newest book, The Stories That Bind Us. Susie shares how personal and even painful this story was for her to write, but when God asked her to write something very confronting for her, no matter how hard it felt, He met her in the Refiner’s fire. We also discuss the beauty and the mess of what it's like to be in the trenches with someone with a calling from the Lord, as well as when someone who is walking through a deep valley through hard seasons or struggling with mental health. The Lord will provide encouragement, and support. When we are going through the deep valleys of life He delights in us, and draws us closer to the body of Christ, but we also have to be willing to receive it. Even though there is wrestling, the hope we have in Jesus is kept in a place no broken person or thing can ever touch. Sharing our stories, engaging one another’s lives, praying for and bearing with one another, these are some of the life-giving ways the Lord is close to the broken-hearted and rescues those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18)
I hope that you’ll pick up a copy of The Stories That Bind Us and check out Susie online and engage her other work too! In a space that can feel like a sea of chaos, she’s such a fun light. Hang in there, friends. Just like Susie says: “our heritage is shared through our stories.” Yours matters, friends. You matter.
Resources:
The Stories that Bind Us
Detroit theme park being restored, aquarium around from the early 1900’s:: Belle Isle Aquarium (in this article, you can actually see the jade ceiling Susie mentions in our conversation)
Jocelyn Green
Laura Frantz // Laura’s posts // (and our conversation!)
My conversation with Jennifer Greenberg, and the allorgorical conversation about suicide
Mental Health resources
Sarah Sundin (and our conversation!)
Annie F. Downs
Betsie Ten Boom
Corrie Ten Boom
Human Trafficking
Christian Fiction Readers’ Summit
Baker Book House
Beth White (hear her episode, and here’s the book I was reading! That series in my top 5 fave 2020 reads)
Susie’s upcoming book, features the end of the Vietnam War, 3,000 orphans were airlifted from Saigon to the U.S., Australia, Canada for adoption. -- Called Operation Babylift
All Manner of Things by Susie
Vietnam War lasted from 1955-1975
The Vietnam War draft
Battle of Okinawa
Scripture References:
Zephaniah 3:17
Genesis 3 - The rip from the garden
Romans 8:22- We long for things to be made right
Matthew 9:36- Jesus looks at them like sheep without a shepherd
So many He healed were overwhelmed by voices that were not their own
Luke 13:10-17- The woman who was bent over and the Lord made her straight (link to the sermon from our church- if you want to get straight to the sermon, cut to around 41 minutes in.)
Psalm 46:10- Be still and know that I am God
Ephesians 5:18-21- Building one another up, singing to one another
1 Corinthians 9:24 / Philippians 3:12-17 / 2 Timothy 4:7-8- Paul says it's a race
Psalm 107 / Matthew 5:16- He uses our lives to draw people to Him
Philippians 4:6- Present your requests before God
1 Peter 5:7 - Cast all your anxieties on Him
Isaiah 41:13 / Psalm 121:1-2 / Romans 8:28- It is possible to come back from the struggle
Romans 8:37- In Christ we are more than overcomers
Genesis 1:27 / John 1:12- It's His power to give us strength to believe that we are His image bearers
Matthew 10:20 / Acts 2:1-42 / 1 Corinthians 12 -The Holy Spirit can give a unique experience to each person
Psalm 91
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart
2 Corinthians 4:18- This is not all there is
Luke 5:17-39- Be a stretcher bearer
Connecting with Susie:
Website
Her books
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast I have the fabulous Bethany Turner back for round 2!!! Bethany was one of my very first guests early in the season (episode 7, to be exact) and we got to talk about how she writes books that provide a space for pop culture and hard topics and faith to intersect with a lot of humor and heart. Bethany and I have bonded in a friendship solidified by a love for the Lord, stories and 90’s pop culture. So today, you get a little bit of all those things!
In the first half of this episode, we talk about what it's been like to be creative with how we enjoy movies and books and what not, and how we engage our creativity differently. You’ll also hear us talk about her latest book Hadley Beckett’s Next Dish, and actually we had this conversation on Hadley’s book birthday which was fun to celebrate that with her. Then, thanks to some of her readers’ question submissions, I also got a chance to get to put Bethany in the “Renowned” hot seat (for all those #hadbeck readers out there!) to hear more of Bethany’s story as an author as well as her miraculous survival story of ovarian cancer.
Then, in the second half of the episode, Bethany and I lay out our love for all things 90’s movies and television. I laughed SO HARD during this episode and it was just the kind of levity that I need during such a crazy season of time and we hope you get to enjoy that as well and maybe even pad your movie and tv viewing list as the Pandemic stretches on. There’s a lot of heart, there’s a lot of fun, and it's a good day to hang out with BT and me on Simply Stories. Thanks in advance for hanging out and laughing with us!
For the record, you can find everything we mention in this episode (all the books, all the movie references, all of it) in the show notes as well as how to keep connected with Bethany! This will definitely go down as the longest set of show notes in the history of the podcast, but WORTH. IT. I may have also snuck in some additional content in there, so happy hunting!
Resources:
-Original episode with Bethany (episode #7!)
-The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck, Wooing Cadie McCaffrey, Hadley Beckett’s Next Dish
-article on straight to streaming because of Trolls, AMC won’t do Paramount movies
-Lori Beth of Elevating Motherhood’s post
-Food Network
-The Pioneer Woman
-Gordon Ramsay
-Damaris Phillips
-”Beat Bobby Flay”
-Joanna Gaines
-Dolly Parton
-Nashville, TN - Howdy, y’all ;)
-Vanderbilt announcement about funding vaccine research, thanks, Dolly
-Pancake Pantry
-Inside the Actor’s Studio
-Robin Leach - Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous clip to hear his voice
-James Lipton
-Susie Finkbeiner -- stay tuned to hear her episode here next week! :) We love ya, Susie!
-”Out of Africa”
-”Save the Last Dance” Keri Washington (yes THAT Keri Washington)
-Ovarian Cancer
-His Kids Company placemat
-Blockbuster (MAY IT RIP!!!!)
-Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon Game
-T.G.I.F.
Our Crazy Pants 90’s Movie and TV List of References:
-”Independence Day” - Bill Pullman’s speech (Jeff Goldblum, Will Smith, Harry Connick Jr.)
-”Dave”, (Kevin Kline, Sigourney Weaver) “Air Force One,” (Harrison Ford) “The American President” (Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox, Michael Douglas, Anna Deavere Smith (who ironically is in Dave, American President AND the West Wing), Annette Benning
-”He’s got the power cause he’s in the shower” scene, “Oh no, poor Joe” scene with Anna Deavere Smith! Also… the magic trick moment is hands down one of my favorite other parts.
-
THE speech from the American President
-
“The West Wing”
-Aaron Sorkin
-”Shawshank Redemption” - Some of our favorite scenes: One, two, three, and four)
-Morgan Freeman -- THIS IS EPIC, such an interesting and FUNNY interview with Morgan Freeman about Shawshank
-Liam Neeson
-James Earl Jones
-”Field of Dreams”
-”Titanic” (“Nearer my God to Thee” scene, Victor Garber’s “I wish I’d built you a stronger ship”), Kathy Bates as Molly Brown, Tyne Daly)
- “Christy”
-Tim Daly
-Tom Hanks
-(Kirk from Gilmore Girls) - Sean Gunn
-Bonnie Hunt
-”Madame Secretary”
-”Bye Bye Birdie” TV movie (Jason Alexander, Vanessa Williams)
-”Dance With Me”
-Christine Ebersole
-”You’ve Got Mail”
-”Sleepless in Seattle”
-”Joe Verses the Volcano”
-Rosie O’Donnell in “Sleepless in Seattle”
- “Return to Me” (Minnie Driver, NOT Tim Daly,actually David Duchovny) I sadly couldn’t find the “Grace has Bob’s dead wife’s heart” scene on video but this trailer shows a lot of my other favorite moments!! -- annnd that’s technically from the year 2000. Whoops lol.
-”The Cutting Edge”
-”Nell” (Liam Neeson and Natasha Richardson and Jodie Foster)
-”Sliding Doors” (Gwyneth Paltrow)
-”Guarding Tess” (Nicholas Cage, Shirley McLane)
-”Regarding Henry” (Harrison Ford) -- the guy who plays his nurse is named Bill Nunn! See his link below
-”Sister Act” - Bill Nunn
-
“Home Alone” - (Catherine O’Hara)
-
“Groundhog Day”
-
“I Got You, Babe”- Sonny and Cher (scene for context)
-”Cool Runnings” (“feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme”)
-
“Renaissance Man” (Danny Devito, Gregory Hines, Mark Wahlberg) -- my two favorite scenes from this movie : one and two)
-
“Tap” (GAH this movie is amazing, (here’s one of my favorite scenes) but its from the 80’s so it didn’t get discussed!)
-
“While You Were Sleeping”
-”Dead Poets Society”
-”School Tides”
-”Rudy”
-”Mr. Holland’s Opus” (Richard Dreyfuss)
-”Forrest Gump” (Gary Sinse, Robin Wright)
-”Mrs. Doubtfire” (the “Matchmaker” scene and Robin Williams’ “helloooooo”)
-”Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” (Sean Connery as King Richard, Morgan Freeman, Christian Slater))
-”First Knight”
-”The Preacher’s Wife” (also, can we talk about this soundtrack!?)
-”Clueless”
-”Benny and Joon”
-”The Green Mile”
-”The Nightmare Before Christmas”
-”Tombstone”
-”Tommy Boy”
-”Pretty Woman”
-”Notting Hill”
-”Hook”
-”Romeo and Juliet”
-”The Sandlot”
-”Twister”
-”The Fifth Element”
-”Schindler’s List”
-”Fight Club”
-”Rookie of the Year”
-”Jumanji”
-”Braveheart”
-”10 Things I Hate About You”
-“Armageddon”
-”Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman”
-”Wings”
-”Saved by the Bell”
-”Buffy the Vampire Slayer”
-”Quantum Leap”
-”Daria”
-”Felicity”
-”My So Called Life”
-”Stark Trek: Deep Space 9”
-”Where in the World is Carmen San Diego”
-”Caroline in the City”
-”Step by Step”
-”Family Matters”
-”Mad About You”
-”Murphy Brown”
Connecting with Bethany:
-Facebook (be sure and check out her Friday pop culture polls)
-Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
On today’s episode, I am chatting with the absolutely lovely Valerie Fraser Luesse. Valerie is the Senior Travel Editor for Southern Living Magazine, as well as an incredible author of 3 novels. Her most recent book is called The Key to Everything, and if I’m honest with you, it was one of my favorite reads of 2020. During our chat, we talk about why the book was so impactful for me, and we learn that it is based on an incredible true story, and get to hear how special it was for Valerie to write.
The South is such a unique part of this country, for better or for worse, and I loved Valerie’s perspective on the layers and evolution of this place we both call home. In Valerie’s book, the landscape of the journey the character experiences is almost like another character in the narrative, and it's fascinating. Valerie and I discuss the power of history, the evolution of storytelling, and how it connects communities as we all learn and grow, and process who we have been and where we are from.
Valerie and I talked several months ago now, but I’m just so grateful for the sweetness and the heartfelt nature of this conversation because, gracious, I miss getting to feel that way with people in person! It always amazes me how the Lord spaces these conversations out in His perfect timing. I hope whenever you hear this, you feel like you got to hang out with two friends swapping stories today. Know that you’re loved, friend. You matter. Your story matters.
Resources:
Auburn University
Baylor University
Chip and Joanna Gaines
The Waco Siege
Ree Drummond aka the Pioneer Woman and Pawhuska, OK
Southern Living Magazine - Valerie is the Senior Travel Editor
PW’s Magazine
Magnolia Journal
Progressive Farmer Magazine
50 inspirational Bible Verses- article online SL
“Nothing beats stronger than the heart of a volunteer” - Col Jimmy Dolittle
Nashville/Cookeville/Chatt tornadoes
Her book: The Key to Everything
Eudora Welty
William Faulkner
Bryan Stevenson / “Just Mercy” - changing the narrative, changing the part we start from -- her article for Southern Living featuring him.
Charles Martin
LMU
Country Living Magazine
Fuller Story Project
Scripture References:
1 Corinthians 12- Offer up our gifts and live as the body of Christ
Luke 19- Zaccheus
Ruth- Ruth and Naomi (you can also hear this “story” on this episode of our podcast!)
Connecting with Valerie:
Articles she’s authored for Southern Living Magazine
Her Blog- “Goin Down to Mama’s”
Her other books
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Captain Jeff Morris is a veteran of the U.S. Army, an author and speaker on leadership, but also a family man, who is crazy about his wife and 4 kids. You’ll hear some fun stories of his minivan driving pandemic adventures, but you’ll also hear his heartbreaking, and raw story of loss and wrestling with God from his experiences during his two tours in Iraq. Jeff’s unit lost 6 men in 6 days, plus 2 more in later incidents, for a total of 8 losses under his command in an incredibly short period of time.
As we are experiencing in this season of time, life can change in a moment and often in a brutal way, and it can give birth to dark seasons. Jeff shares how the darkness of PTSD can slowly creep up on you until you can’t see the light anymore, but he also shares a word of encouragement for all of us walking forward into an unknown life and the life we’ve known before will never be the same, and the power of the choices we can make as we go.
Captain Morris does not hold back as he shares his experiences from his two tours in the Middle East so portions of this episode may be a little intense for young ears, but you know your people. I just want to be sure and give the heads up. His story and telling the stories of his men matters so much because their lives mattered. However, even though this story is hard, as many of our stories are hard, that does not mean that healing and joy are impossible. While we recorded this a few weeks ago, the message is timeless. I hope it meets you where you are today.
In honor of the Legion 8:
Terry Prater
Blake Harris
Emerson Brand
Jimmy Arnold
Ryan Green
Nicholas Lightner
Jimmy Coon
Caleb Christopher
Heavenly Father, we lift up these names and these families and we ask that You would be close to the broken hearted. We ask that You would be near as we wrestle with our present broken reality and would you remind us that this is not how the story ends? In Christ, we are more than conquerors and death and tyranny does not get the final say. As this country works through its continued efforts to learn about what freedom is and what it is not, would you give us wisdom? Would you raise up leaders, and would you bring stories of those who have gone before us to the surface and use them to teach us? We are a broken people, but we are not a hopeless people. You bring beauty from the ashes. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on You and remind us that every life and every story matters to You. In Your Name we pray, Amen.
References:
-Legion Rising: Surviving Combat and the Scars it Left Behind - for the record, this is not a Christian publication. It’s raw and real and his faith is part of his story, but consider this your carnage and language warning ;)
-Purple Heart
-Green Berets
-Legion 8
-EFP vs. IED :: explosively formed penetrator vs. improvised explosive device
-PTSD
-Ways to find a therapist no matter where you live in the U.S. and there’s an option to limit your search for the military.
Scripture References:
-John 20:29- Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed
-Jeremiah 29:11// Revelation 21:4- God has plans for hope and your future, not to harm you // This is not how the story ends
-Daniel 3:18- God is still good
-John 10:10- Jesus came so we would have life to the full
-Isaiah 53:3- Jesus was a man of sorrows
-Romans 8:37- we are more than conquerors through Christ
-Galatians 6:9- don’t grow weary of doing good
Connecting with Jeff:
Website
Legion 8 Facebook
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
I hope you are ready to be taken to school during today’s episode. Today I am chatting with esteemed theologian Dr. Michael Heiser. Dr. Heiser has a very long list of credentials, degrees and experiences (that he does a much better job explaining in the episode) that make him one of the foremost experts on supernatural and spiritual worldview. What does that mean exactly? Basically, Dr. Heiser specializes in the unseen. At the time of this conversation, his most recent book that we talk about at length is about finding the Gospel in the show “Stranger Things.” So, for all my friends who are fans of this show, you are going to LOVE this. If you have never seen it, don’t worry, neither have I and this still is one of the most fascinating conversations I have ever been a part of not just on the podcast, but possible my entire adult life.
Dr. Heiser is one of those people that after speaking to them you realize there is just so much more to learn about the word of God. Since I had this conversation with Dr. Heiser, he released ANOTHER book, that is called Demons: What the Bible Really Says About the Power of Darkness. A lot of what he shared today, especially in the second half of the episode, sets up the premise of this powerful book. I cannot say enough incredible things about it.
This conversation is FULL of incredible insight during a season where it can feel like the world is turned upside down. This word about who God is, and who exactly we are up against is needed and power packed. We must remember who the real enemy is and recount who God still is in the upside down.
Resources:
-”Stranger Things”
-The World Turned Upside Down: Finding the Gospel in Stranger Things
-MP Seminars
-Lexham press
-The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible
-supernatural worldview
-Finding God in Lord Lord the Rings
-Finding God in the Hobbit
-”X-Files”
-”The Wonder Years”
-“Contact”
-“Arrival”
-“Signs”
-the Borg in “Star Trek”
-Dead Sea Scrolls
-pantheons/idolatry
-”The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.”- Charles Baudelaire
-The Screwtape Letters
-muslims who dream about Jesus (this is FASCINATING)
-Chronicles of Narnia
-Pilgrim’s Progress
-book of Enoch- the 70 shepherds
-Supernatural: What the Bible Teaches About the Unseen Realm and Why It Matters
-The Facade // The Portent
-The Simply Stories episode with Davis Bunn aka Thomas Locke
-”Gladiator”
-”Lord of the Rings” (“Ride now!”) but this is the best one from Aragon (“Hold your ground! Brothers, I see in your eyes the same fear that would take the heart of me. A day may come when the courage of men fails, and we forsake our friends, and we break all bonds of fellowship, but it is not this day… This day we FIGHT.”)
-”Independence Day”- (Arguably one of the top 5 best movie speeches ever. Did I cry re-watching it to link this? Yes. Yes I did. #WhitmoreforPresident2020)
-Demons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness
Scripture References:
-Hebrews 2- Jesus enjoyed being human
-Esther (our reading of it on the podcast here!)
-Ruth “just so happened” (our reading of it on the podcast :))
-Revelation 20:7-10- we know how the Enemy’s story ends
-Ephesians 2:2- prince of darkness
-John 10:10
-1 Peter 5:8- a lion seeking to devour
-the Fall in Genesis 3
-Genesis 6:1-5-sons of God and daughters of men
-Genesis 11:1-9-the Tower of Babel
-Deuteronomy 32:8- divided up the nations
-Daniel 10: Daniel’s Prince of Persia
-Ephesians 6:12- Paul’s principalities
-Genesis 12- Abraham of Ur
-Psalm 82
-Acts 2- Pentecost
-Colossians 1
-Ephesians 6:10-18-Armor of God
-1 John 2- in the world but not of it
-Matthew 10:28- don’t fear the ones who can destroy the body
-we have the authority to oppose evil (lots of verses)
-Luke 10- Sending of the 72
-Matthew 28:16-20- the Great Commission
-Romans 11:25- the fullness of the Gentiles
-Revelation 21- humans will rule the earth in the end
-Luke 10:18- Satan fall like lightning from Heaven
-John 10- the sheep listen to a shepherd
-Ephesians 1:13- sealed by the Holy Spirit
-Daniel 10
-Ephesians 6:12- we are not at war with flesh and blood
-1 Corinthians 12:27- we are part of the body of Christ
-Deuteronomy 31:6- we don’t need to fear being lost
-Romans 8:28- God has our best interest at heart
-Romans 8:37- we are more than conquerors through Christ
-Matthew 18:20- where 2 or 3 are gathered
-Psalm 23:6- we will dwell with Him forever
-2 Corinthians 4:8-18- we are oppressed but forsaken
-Matthew 16:18- upon this rock, gates of Hell will not withstand it : the Church administering the beating
-Isaiah 14:27- who can stop the Lord
-1 Thessalonians 1:6- Paul refers to Jesus as the Lord as they Spirit
-Romans 5:3-5- // Philippians 3:14- perseverance
-Galatians 6:9- don’t grow weary of doing good
-John 16:33- He has overcome the world
Product Spotlight: Daily Grace Co.
Connecting with Dr. Heiser and his work:
Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today we have one incredible woman on with us: the one and only Dawn Barton. Dawn is a self proclaimed joyologist who believes about fighting for joy in the most unlikely places. Dawn has a Job-like story of experiences of loss piled on loss, but still has learned how to experience the miracle of joy no matter the outcome. Dawn is not a person who proclaims that life isn’t hard and you just need to be happy, she stands firm on the promises of God as we walk through seasons of unbelievable loss and grief and confusion and how He can and will make Himself known in it through joy. Her book Laughing Through The Ugly Cry: And Finding Unstoppable Joy details her life experiences and how the Lord met her in it in such an authentic and hilarious way, and she shares much of that in our conversation today as well as how we can walk out fighting for our mental health, our sanity and our joy during this unbelievable year that is 2020.
Dawn never could have imagined that her book, which released about a month ago, would come out during a time of global grief, but as my friend Katie says “aint that like the Lord.” We talk about what it looks like for people to rally around you when you are in the depths, what happens when you believe in that season you don’t have the resources, and practical thoughts about how to take care of yourself during hard seasons and crisis to make way for joy.
Radical obedience is following after God, even when it feels crazy. We get to decide what we put out during this time, and what we allow into our heart for out of the heart the mouth speaks. Fighting for joy is an act of radical obedience. Dawn isn’t encouraging us to gloss over what the Lord has for us in the low seasons, she is encouraging us to not be where we drown because we buy into the lie that joy is impossible. It's not, dear ones. Let’s take care of one another friends. The grace we could share with one another could be day/experience changing for someone that we encounter along the way. Let’s make space for the sad and the hard and the grief, and then let’s remind one another it is OK to laugh, and then do it. It's good for the soul to hold both. You matter, your story matters.
Resources:
Mental Health resource, and a way to find a counselor in your area
Mary Kay Cosmetics
My conversation with Lauren Ruth Martin, licensed therapist on Simply Stories. You can also find A LOT of additional mental health resources in the show notes of this episode
Interview with Steven Furtick and T.D. Jakes about Soar
Adjustment disorder
Scripture References:
The story of Job
Nehemiah 8:10- The joy of the Lord is your strength
Galatians 3:26- You are a child of God
Romans 12:18- You are responsible for your response
Lamentations 3:23- New mercies and new day tomorrow
John 10:10- We are called to an abundant life
Ezekiel 36:26- To transform you from a heart of stone to a heart of flesh
Isaiah 43:16-19- He makes a way
Luke 16:10- To who is faithful in little is faithful in much
Galatians 5:22- Joy is a fruit of the Spirit
Matthew 11:28-30- Come to me
Luke 11:37-54 -An example of one of Jesus’ woe to you’s (this wikipedia page lists all of them)
John 13:34-35- The command to love one another
Mark 12:31- Love your neighbor as yourself
Hebrews 12:2- For the joy set before Him
Isaiah 61:1-3- Beauty from the ashes
Psalm 30:11- Turned my mourning into joy
Connecting with Dawn:
Website
Find copies of her book Laughing Through the Ugly Cry: And Finding Unstoppable Joy
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:
Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)
Blog
*Intro and outro music by music by audionautix.com
Today I’m talking with Beth White, who is a historical fiction author, but not only that, Beth is a southern woman, a music teacher in a high school in the inner city of Mobile, Alabama with a heart to share the South’s complicated history, elevate often untold stories, and shine a light on much of what has not been popular in history books, and ultimately to remind readers that hope was real then and it still is now.
We are living in a time that is full to the brim with feelings on fire, and today’s episode is yet another moment in the story of this podcast where the Lord made it clear to me: “this person, this story, this moment.” Beth’s most recent book, Reckless Love is the 3rd book in her Daughtry House trilogy that is the story of three sisters trying to put their lives back together during Reconstruction, which is the period following the Civil War. That period of time was also a time full of feelings on fire, and honestly, there are pages from these books, that carry conversations, even though they are fictional, that echo real conversations from that period of time, and from my current social media feeds.
I have also learned lately, that MANY people in this country have very little knowledge about Black history in America beyond some key talking points. It’s so important, friends, that we dive deep, and I’m so grateful for authors like Beth who are willing to share history, even if it's woven around a fictional story. When we know the story of a person, how it laid a foundation for the present positively and negatively, it can help us develop empathy and understanding. And sometimes, using fictional characters, not unlike how Jesus used parables in the Bible, we can navigate hard and murky waters by walking through a characters’ shoes so we can then fix our eyes on our own hearts.
Beloved, we are the body of Christ, and a part of the body is suffering. It is our call to tend to it, because when one part suffers, we all suffer. (1 Corinthians 12:24-26). You know that every week, I tell you that you and your story matter, because they do. In this moment, our beautiful Black brothers and sisters need to hear from us that they matter. Does it mean anyone else matters less? No, it absolutely does not. We all need each other, but it takes work to tend to one another, especially when a part has been neglected for far too long. Let’s consider the Apostle Paul’s call to do the work. And what does that look like? Ask the Lord. He is the Great Physician. Find ways to hear this episode, connect with Beth, and connect with resources about diving in to the work of racial reconciliation at the link in bio.
Resources:
Shape notes
Francine Rivers
Catherine Marshall
Robin Jones Gunn
Romance Writers of America
9/11
MTSU
The Civil War
The Holocaust
Jim Crow
Freedmen militia
Beth’s Gulf Coast Series
Valerie Luesse’s book The Key to Everything
Chris and Dorena Williamson and their church Strong Tower Bible Church
Colorfull
My Simply Stories episode with Dorena part 1 and part 2
More to the story markers about broadening the narrative, “Fuller Story”
Reconstruction Era - Dec 8, 1863 – Mar 31, 1877
13th amendment- Abolished slavery
Emancipation Proclamation
The Great Migration
Ku Klux Klan
“Carpetbaggers”
Indentured Servitude
Sharecropping
Fisk University and the Jubliee Singers
Tamera Alexander
Freedmen’s Bureau
Freedman Schools
Belle Meade Plantation
Carnton Plantation
Belmont Mansion
List of African American political office holders during Reconstruction / Hiram Rhodes Revels was the very first African American to hold an office in the Senate in 1870
Democrats // Republican flipped at the time
1877 the first Jim Crow law was passed
WW2
South Pacific
Flight Nursing
My list of resources for how to learn and listen from leaders in the Black community
Latasha Morrison // her quote
Be the Bridge
Scripture References:
Romans 3:23- We all have sin and fall short of the glory of God
Romans 6:23-The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life
Acts 9: Road to Damascus
1 John 1:7- Live in the Light
Genesis 1:27- All people are made in the image of God
Romans 12:9-21-Learn to live in peace with one another and love one another
Ephesians 6:12- We are not at war with flesh and blood
Luke 1:37-Nothing is impossible for God
John 10:10- the thief comes to steal, klil and destroy
Ephesians 6:10-18-The Armor of God
James 1:5- Seek wisdom from the Lord
Mark 2:17- The Great Physician
Connecting with Beth:
Website
Her books
Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:
Instagram
Facebook
Blog
Sign up for our newsletter!
*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
Today’s episode is a little bit different than our regular programming around here, as we are commemorating Pentecost with a reading of the book of Ruth! In the first part of the episode, my friend, and worship pastor, Kevin Perry and I will unpack why this unique book of the Bible carries such a powerful punch, the history that makes various moments significant, and how we can see our Savior foretold in this beautiful story of redemption. Why commemorate Pentecost with a reading of this particular book? What is Pentecost anyway? We’ll absolutely address that and so much more as we celebrate the first fruits of the Church, and celebrate the way our Redeemer tells a story.
I hope you enjoy this conversation and this beautiful reading of Ruth! I want to say a HUGE thank you to our cast of characters for giving us their time and their talents: Kevin and Alicia Perry, David Wilkinson (host of the fabulous Dad Matters Podcast!), Chris and Stephanie Teauge (check out their beautiful music Out of the Dust), edited, produced and a little voice work by the best husband in the world, Andrew Humphries.
I pray this leaves you encouraged, friend. The same God who can work this kind of beauty from smoldering ashes, can and will work in your life too.
Resources:
Esther Reading on Simply Stories
Pentecost
Festival of Weeks
The Mission of the Body of Christ - Russ Ramsey
The Bible Binge Podcast: Ruth episode
“From Now On” - The Greatest Showman
Poldark
Downton Abbey
Demons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness - Dr. Michael Heiser
A Refuge Assured - Jocelyn Green
Whiskey Rebellion
Jewish Calendar for barley harvest
Kinsman redeemer
Levirate marriage
The northern kingdom
Northern Kingdom exile
Scripture References:
The book of Acts
God gives the Law through Moses
The book of Judges
Judges 21:25- In those days there was no ruler in Israel
Deuteronomy 17-34, Psalm 91- God says in Deuteronomy: famine is one of the judgement
Daniel 3:18- If not He is still good
Isaiah 61:1-3- Beauty from the ashes
Esther 4:14 - Deliverance will come from another place
Matthew 1- Rahab and Ruth part of the lineage of their Messiah
Genesis 13- Lot and Abraham
Genesis 19-Lot, Sodom and Gomorrah
Genesis 19:30-38-Lot’s daughters
Genesis 6
Ruth 1:16- your people will be my people
Deuteronomy 24:19- law written for gleaning (esp for the widows and the poor)
Judges 19 -Gross last chapter of Judges (UGH. That’s all I have to say about that. UGH.)
Joshua 2- Rahab’s story in Jericho
Genesis 38- Judah and Tamar
Mark 12:30-31- Love the Lord your God and love your neighbor as yourself
Acts 2:14-36-Peter’s first Spirit filled sermon
Micah 5
Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:
Instagram
Facebook
Blog
Sign up for our newsletter!
*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
*Edited and produced by the world’s best husband, Andrew Humphries
Today we are jumping back into my conversation with Cordila Jochim about her incredible battle with her body, mind and heart after suffering from a traumatic brain injury. For much of this story, she was not a woman of faith, but God had His hand on her anyway. In part two, Cor shares with me about her experience of being bed bound in body, and bound up in a codependent relationship. She also expresses the idea of “fifty-cent” thinking, where we accept our value to be less than others, and we interpret half living as what we deserve. After experiencing a second trimester miscarriage, a medical revelation came to fruition that ultimately saved her life. But even once the physical began to take place, Cor began to realize it wasn’t just her body that needed resurrection, but every part of her was longing for redemption and restoration.
Listen, friend. I don’t know where this conversation finds you, but the hope found in Jesus is available to you, just as it was for me and for Cor. I pray that this conversation blesses you and maybe sparks the tiniest bit of curiosity about God in a way you’ve never experienced before. Whether you’ve been a believer for most of your life, or it's something you have never been and never wanted to be, that doesn’t make you less held and valued by the One who made you, and there is always more to learn about walking with Him. Jesus came so that we would have life and life to the full. It is never too late to say to the Lord “that’s the life I want.” He’s closer than your very skin.
Catch Part 1 of our conversation, as well as find an opportunity to engage our whole conversation (with a behind the scenes look) here.
Part 2 Notes:
Definition of Codependency
Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No and Take Control of Your Life
Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself (great resource for someone who can relate)
Enneagram 2
Lumen
“Graves into Gardens” by Elevation Worship
Richard Foster’s Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth- the idea that creation is bound up because of our sin
Young Life- “you were made for this”
Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
Definition of refinement
I merged quotes: C.S. Lewis said: “You don’t have a soul. You are a soul.You have a body.” and the “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.” by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin
Billy Graham Library
Billy Graham’s interview where we talked about was actually by Greta Van Susteren in 2010. This one with Katie Couric is from 2005, and it also good :)
History of Billy Graham
Learned all about the holy vessels used for unholy things perspective from Beth Moore’s study of the book of Daniel
Scripture References:
Galatians 6:2- Called to bear one another’s burdens
John 7:37-39-Jesus is the water of life (living water)
John 1:23- Make way for the presence of the Lord (John the Baptist)
1 Peter 5:7 / Matthew 6:26- He cares for you
Jeremiah 29:11- The Lord has plans to prosper you and not to harm you
Psalm 27:13- What would have become of me had I not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord
The woman who bled for 12 years
Jairus’ daughter’s resurrection
John 11- Lazarus’ death and resurrection
1 Corinthians 13:12 -- what we see now, we see dimly
Revelation 7:9- Every tribe and nation will dwell in the house of the Lord
Romans 8:19-23- Creation groans with longing
Revelation 21:4 / Joel 2:25- The Lord longs to restore
1 Samuel 2:2- There is none holy like the Lord
Ephesians 5:26- We need to be washed
1 John 3:1- He lavishes love on us
John 10:10- He came so that we would have life and life to the full
1 Peter 4:10-11- Called to use our gifts for the glory of God
2 Timothy 1:7 - For we were not given a spirit of fear
John 6:25-29- Jesus is the bread of life
Ephesians 2 - We are inhabited by the Holy Spirit
1 John 2:1 / Romans 8:26- We have an intercessor in Heaven
Ephesians 6:10-18 / 1 Peter 5:8- There is spiritual warfare
John 14:27- He gives us peace
Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you
Matthew 11:28-30- His yoke is easy and my burden is light
Luke 10:38-42- The Mary and Martha question (from their story)
2 Kings 24:15- Nebuchadnezzar takes the people of Jerusalem captive and carries them and their vessels to Babylon
Daniel 5 - Holy vessels used for unholy things : the story of the writing on the wall
The book of Psalms -- If you need a good study as a place to start, I cannot recommend At His Feet study on the book of Psalms. So. Good. You can also hear my interview with them here as well!
Connecting with Cor:
YouTube
Website
From the Core Workshops
Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:
Instagram
Facebook
Blog
Sign up for our newsletter!
*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast I am getting to chat with the absolutely incredible Cordila Jochim. Cordila, affectionately known as Cor, is a beautiful force of a human being with a story that will blow you away. Cor experienced a traumatic brain injury as a child and it began a domino effect through her physical, emotional and spiritual well being that would ultimately leave her bed bound for a decade. Her new book From the Core: A Spiritual Journey of Losing Everything and Finding Hope is literally just that, a memoir that details her story and ultimately led her to find faith in God who redeems all broken things.
If anyone can speak powerfully into this strange season of covid19, its Cor. After spending nearly 40 years in her very own wilderness of isolation and feeling completely cut off from life on the outside, she speaks with passion and conviction about the healing and freedom that can come from a life given over to Christ. We were made for resurrected life, and it is possible no matter our circumstances. Don’t you give up on hope, friends. Hope has not given up on you.
When we started our conversation, we got hit with several technical difficulties that made us have to stop and start several times, but what ultimately came out was such a beautiful and passionate conversation about what God can do, our value, and the beauty that can come from the ashes. We went so deep and so wide, I ended up busting this guy up into two parts! So join us today for part 1 and stay tuned for part 2 Tuesday!
If you are anxious to get connected with Cor and get a glimpse into her book, she is actually reading it chapter by chapter on her youtube page! AND if you want to hear the FULL conversation with Cor and I, start to finish without having to wait for part 2, you can actually view our conversation on her youtube page as well! You’ll get some more candid moments between us and more. I kind of love that you can see that.. And I’m possibly praying through making that a thing… stay tuned on that. OH! And one more thing, y’all were the FIRST to hear about Cor’s upcoming workbook!! If you are curious about that, hop over to her website and sign up for her newsletter so that you can get those details as they come!
Resources:
Cor’s book From the Core: A Spiritual Journey of Losing Everything and Finding Hope
Pentecost
Traumatic Brain Injury
The TED Talk she references about Kids at Hope (which Cor accidentally called Kids(dot)org) Kids at Hope organization
The second assault and open head vs. closed head injury
Natasha Richardson (Liam Neeson’s wife)
Autonomic nervous system
Two episodes of this podcast discuss what happens in the mind/heart/spirit when wrestling with suicidal thoughts. The first with abuse survivor Jennifer Greenberg and the other with local therapist Lauren Martin. Stand for life, friend.
“Real World Seattle”
Andrew Peterson’s “Matthew Begats” song that sings through the lineage of Christ
Hear Cor read chapters of her book AND our conversation via video on her YouTube page
Scripture References:
Luke 22- Judas’ betrayal
Luke 22:54-62- Peter’s betrayal
John 21:15-17-Peter’s repentance
Book of Ruth
Joshua 2- Rahab
John 6:68- “Where else would we go?’
Isaiah 42:16- “I will lead the blind by ways they have not known before”
Isaiah 43:19- “I am making rivers in the wasteland”
1 Corinthians 15:58- The Lord wastes nothing
Genesis 2:15- God gave Adam and Eve a job
Connecting with Cor:
YouTube
Website
From the Core Workshops
Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:
Instagram
Facebook
Blog
Sign up for our newsletter!
*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
On this episode of the podcast, we get to hear from the always lovely and wise, Rachel Fordham. Rachel was on the podcast earlier in the season, but I wanted her to come back and share about her newest work coming out this summer, as well as her and her husband’s journey of foster parenting (let alone parenting SIX other kids!). Rachel’s honest, but hope filled perspective about the love we give and the love we receive when we offer ourselves over to be the hands and feet of Jesus is so encouraging.
Throughout our conversation, Rachel leaves us with some really great take away questions and reminders:
--We get to choose what kind of memory we want this to be, what do we want to remember?
---As we process reentry: Do we want our normal to look like it did before? What should stay from this pandemic learning experience, what should we bring back from before, and what should go altogether?
---How can we be Your hands and feet up a hurting world, Lord?
Rachel loves people with a grace and intentionality that I treasure. If you hang out around her on the internet at all, she’s so genuine with everyone and that pours out into her writing as well. She is someone that is a great and uplifting, but honest follow. So, be sure and save the date for Rachel’s newest book A Life Once Dreamed that will release on August 4th, but if you haven’t read her other two novels yet, be sure and add them to your summer reading list!
A quick PS: You are listening to two Mommas talking through things they really care about… while their kids are at home lol You’re definitely going to hear from some of our kids, and while I cut some of it out, some of it was so classic to this pandemic (and honestly cute) that I just decided to keep it real over here. Thanks in advance for the grace!
Find ways to connect with Rachel, access resources we mention in our conversation below.
Resources:
Our first convo! Episode 9 of the Simply Stories Podcast
Yours Truly Thomas - Rachel’s 2nd book
A Life Once Dreamed- Rachel’s upcoming book, releasing August 4th, 2020
The Hope of Azure Springs- Rachel’s 1st book
Orphan train
Dead Letter Office
If you want to see her baby goats go see her Instagram!!!
Syrian Refugee Crisis
Office Mom and Dads- Locations in Washington and Idaho. // Other ways to volunteer help locally in foster care
What Momma Left Behind by Cindy Sproles -- Releases June 2nd, 2020
““Pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” - CS Lewis
Passover
The Esther episode of Simply Stories Podcast
Women’s Reformatory
Gilbert Blythe and Anne of Green Gables
Rachel McRae (we love you, Rach!)
Camp Ba-Yo-Ca
Scripture References:
1 John 4:7- Beloved let us love one another
Romans 12:15- Mourn with this who mourn
Matthew 25:36-40- When I was naked you clothed me
Romans 8:14-17- God’s heart for adoption // Great article from John Piper on this
Galatians 3:26 / 1 John 3 - We are children of God
Romans 12:6-8 / 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 / 1 Peter 4:11- Spiritual gifts
1 Corinthians 6:19-20- Honor Him with our lives
Psalm 107:1 God is good no matter
John 1:5- The light shines in the darkness
Revelation 21:4- This is not how the story ends
Psalm 27:13- There is good to be seen in the land of the living
Connecting with Rachel:
-Website
-Goodreads
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories:
More episodes
Blog
Instagram (Podcast) // Instagram (Writing, Family, and other general shenangians)
Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
Today, my dear friend Lauren Ruth Martin, LPC-MHSP who is a licensed therapist here in Tennessee is on the podcast, and we are going to be hanging out in the DEEP END of the pool, my friends, but with quite a bit of humor, whit, and a whole lot of heart. We talk through many facets of mental health in general, but especially during this time and how we can respond to the feelings that threaten to overwhelm us, and to the people around us who are grieving too.
This episode is packed with practical insights about how to better people with our people during this full and confusing season as well as just general wisdom for responding to life and the role our mental health plays in our lives whether we willingly engage it or not. Exploring mental health may not always contain content we can immediately relate to because it is so layered and unique to every person, but any time I can learn more about how to have compassion on those around me, I’m here for it. I think that’s a big call on the body of Christ to learn about how to hold space for one another more intentionally instead of getting caught up in trying to fix each other or be distracted by comparing one another.
I also love that Lauren really put a name on legitimizing this experience for anyone and everyone during this pandemic. We are ALL adjusting. Let’s have grace for each other as we process and prayerfully pursue our next right steps each on our paths in this wilderness, following the same faithful pillar of dust by day and pillar of fire by night. Let’s give ourselves and each other grace, friends. Let’s remember that we are all truly in this together, and also remember that though some of this may not make sense or apply to you, it does for others, and all our hearts, stories, and experiences have value. They matter. Your neighbor matters. You matter. Every story matters.
Resources:
-Alpha Delta Pi (OBIC, y’all!)
-Novel Counseling
-”Gangsta’s Paradise”
-Chronic Suicidal Ideation -- for more practical thoughts on this as someone who survived suicidal thoughts see episode #4 of the Simply Stories Podcast with Jennifer Greenberg
-Difference between Depression and Anxiety
-Marsha Linehan
-Suicide Prevention Lifeline :: 1-800-273-8255
-To Write Love On Her Arms
-Find a Mental Health Provider via Psychology Today
-Branches Counseling in Murfreesboro, TN- I’ve been a patient there for 10 years and I cannot say enough good things about it. Xo
-”Welcome to Midnight” and “Take Back the Night”
-Humans are Complicated House Plants (see blog for image)
-Radical Openness - “how we perceive things is coming from our bias”
-mirror neurons
-Chelsea Bastocky- The Enneagram Guide- her episode with me!
-Beth McCord- Your Enneagram Coach- her episode with Tanya and I on the Emerge Podcast
-Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
- adjustment disorder: “changes to your life have an impact on your mental health”
-Lauren’s value sheets and podcast episode about this process
Scripture References:
-Exodus 3: Moses burning bush moment
-Psalm 57:2, Esther 4:14, Ecclesiastes 3:1, 1 Peter 2:9, Proverbs 19:21 - you were made on purpose and during this season on purpose
-Jeremiah 31:3, John 3:16, you are loved
-you are wanted
-John 16:33- in this world you will have trouble
-2 Corinthians 5:2-longing for Heaven
-spiritual warfare (<--- tons of scriptures on this)
-Genesis 3: Eve and Satan in the Garden of Eden
-Isaiah 46:9-11, Revelation 21:4- This is not how the story ends
-Psalm 130:6- More than watchmen wait for the morning
-1 Peter 5:8 We have an enemy who lurks
-Lamentations 3:22-23-His mercies are new every morning
-Isaiah 53:3-Jesus was the man of sorrows
-Jesus was sad and did not sin : exhibit A, exhibit B, exhibit C
-Jesus was angry and did not sin : exhibit A, exhibit B, exhibit C
-Ephesians 4:26- In your anger do not sin
-Mark 2:17- Jesus came to heal the sick
-Matthew 22:37-Love the Lord with all our heart, soul and mind
-Romans 12:2-be transformed by the renewing of your mind
-Ephesians 6:10-18-the Armor of God
-Matthew 4:17- the fruit of repentance (showing you’re trying to do things differently) - more on this in my conversation with the women of At His Feet Studies, episode #17 of the Simply Stories Podcast
Connecting with Lauren:
-Website
-Podcast
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories:
More episodes
Blog
Instagram (Podcast) // Instagram (Writing, Family, and other general shenangians)
Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
Today on the podcast is the oh so lovely, Kristen Strong. Kristen’s most recent book Back Roads to Belonging: Unexpected Paths to Finding Your Place and Your People, provides really intentional insight from her experience as a military wife and how she often had to pick up and start over with relationships and figuring out exactly where it was she belonged as they changed locations, as she entered the different seasons of motherhood and just navigated the sheer challenge that is adult friendships. Back Roads to Belonging is a great read for anyone trying to navigate meaningful relationships, but I think this conversation in tandem with pieces of her book brings some great thoughts to the forefront as we navigate how to feel a sense of belonging to the Lord and to others during this pandemic where we can’t physically be together, but we can still be part of one another’s lives.
Relationships matter, even though they are hard work. As we figure out what reentry into society and the process of discerning the next right steps looks like, remember that even if it takes work to press in and reconnect with your people, don’t give up if it feels funky or hard. Press in. Pray. There’s still room at the table, you belong, even if we’re still figuring out how to set it in this season. It matters that you are here. You matter.
Kristen and I, and mostly I, want to ask for some grace on this episode because we were battling some major technological and internet issues, but I promise it's worth sticking with us! Find ways to hear the episode, check out Kristen’s books and more below!
References:
Annie F. Downs episode with Kristen Strong
Back Roads to Belonging: Unexpected Paths to Finding Your Place and Your People
Jane Pauley
Katie Couric
Girl Meets Change: Truths to Carry you Through Life’s Transitions by Kristen Strong
“Gladiator” - “we will meet again but not yet”
None Like Him: 10 Ways God is Different From Us (and why that’s a good thing) by Jen Wilkin
Max Lucado Coronavirus Checkins
Katelyn’s episode and story of hope and surviving cancer - Part 1 and Part 2
Passover
OK to Wake Clock
“Darkness fell. His friends scattered. All hope seemed lost. But Heaven just started counting to three.” - Bob Goff
Scripture:
Job 36:22-24. "God's power is unlimited. He needs no teachers to guide or correct him. Others have praised God for what he has done, so join with them."
Psalm 16:5-6 - “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places”
Hosea 3:5- His goodness is the end
Psalm 84:11- No good thing does the Lord withhold
Proverbs 16:4-14- (MSG) Everything has a purpose
Luke 24 - The first Easter there was just scared people in a house
Hebrews 13:5- He will never leave us or forsake us
1 Peter 1:3- He died to give us hope
John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart
Exodus 12: Passover story
Esther’s story (you can also hear a reading of it on our podcast!)
Isaiah 42:16-I will lead the blind by ways they have not known before
Psalm 27:13- We land on the hope of God
Hebrews 6:19- We cling to the anchor of our soul
Connecting with Kristen:
Website
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories:
More episodes
Blog
Instagram (Podcast) // Instagram (Writing, Family, and other general shenangians)
Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
It's a really fun day over on the podcast because the fabulous Lori Beth Auldridge is on! Lori Beth is a podcaster and blogger who started her life on the mainland, but now resides on the beautiful island of Maui in Hawaii with her family and baby goats! Lori Beth is passionate about connecting Mommas and engaging motherhood from the heart of sisterhood. We talk about where this heart comes from, how we are attempting to navigate this crazy world of covid19 and walk through big feelings and confusion with our children, and how to process not just the “what ifs, but the what is.” I am so grateful for Lori Beth’s willingness to share her story of growing in her faith, how we face and process fear, and choose to be the light during the times that just feel so dang dark.
Motherhood can create bonds of shared experiences through the power of storytelling and bearing with one another in love. Or by choosing to live in silence and isolation, it can choke out the potential beauty of even the hardest parenting day and steal our joy and our potential connection with others because of assumption and comparison. Lori Beth and I talk about the importance of coming to the table with our full selves, authentically, and with open hearts as we live in the motherhood community, and I hope it is an encouragement to you. She does such a beautiful job in the Ya-Ya Mamas world and on the Elevating Motherhood podcast of asking the hard questions, but making space for Mothers in all seasons to process from their unique perspective. Be sure you are following Lori Beth and check out her podcast as well as her blog for a great source of encouragement and a wide range of topics on living this crazy Momma life.
There also happens to be a very cute special guest appearance in the first few minutes of the podcast. ;)
References:
-the island of Maui
-“opt outers”
-YMCA before and after school program
-Marriott Maui
-Ya Ya Mamas
-Elevating Motherhood
-ABLE : “Be the Light” necklace
-Jesus Calling by Sarah Young
-Right Now Media
-Trillia Newbell
-Indigenous Birthworker Movement
-De-colonizing your cuisine
-Elevation Church
-Hillsong Church
-“The Blessing” - Elevation Worship
-“Graves into Gardens”- Elevation Worship
- Article on “do not fear” being said more than any other command in scripture
Scripture References:
-Matthew 22:37: love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul
-Numbers 23:19- There are no human motives attached to the heart of God
God is the sustainer of all creation
Romans 1:19- He makes himself known in creation
Psalm 19:1-6- The heaven declares the glory of God
-Colossians 1:17- He is before all things and holds all things together
- 1 Peter 1:3-5- We can have hope in Him
-Deuteronomy 7:9- May his favor be upon a thousand generations
-Hebrews 4:16- boldly approach the throne of grace
-Matthew 26:36-46-Garden of Gethsemane
-Isaiah 43:1- Do not fear
-Isaiah 43:2- When you pass through the waters
-John 1:5- The light cannot be overcome by the dark
-Luke 6:45- Out of the mouth the heart speaks
-Ephesians 5:14- Wake up o sleeper
-Genesis 9 -Rainbow of God’s promises
Matthew 14:23-33- Jesus walks on the water
Connecting with Lori Beth:
Podcast
Blog
Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories:
More episodes
Blog
Instagram (Podcast) // Instagram (Writing, Family, and other general shenangians)
Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
Today I am talking with best-selling author, speaker, and just incredible woman of faith, Carol Kent. I loved this conversation with Carol because it felt like I got to sit and talk with a woman further along in life than me and talk about all that is going on around us right now and how it's impacting our relationships, our hearts, as well as it is impacting the hidden hurting in our society. She and her husband, Gene, along with two of their dear friends, Cindy and David Lambert have just recently released an incredibly timely book called Staying Power: Building A Stronger Marriage When Life Sends Its Worst. In this book and in our conversation today, Carol shares practical advice about how to commit to each other when life comes at you. I’m so grateful for Carol’s honest sharing of what they’ve experienced with their son’s incarceration, as well as how God has changed his life and theirs. Her practical insights about choosing to build up instead of tear down come from an authentic heart who has lived in the trenches, and we need those voices now more than ever.
This conversation also presented a beautiful opportunity for us to discuss how to encourage those around us who are experiencing this pandemic in a totally different way than we might be. Easter was just a few days ago, and I cannot help but think about all the people that encountered Jesus that day on Golgotha, the place of the skull, where He was crucified. Some were afraid, some were angry, some were in awe of Him, some just wanted to embrace the spectacle. And yet in that place, the last person He spoke to forgiveness and eternal life, was the condemned criminal beside him. Jesus modeled that in our darkest hours, we can still look for the Light, and share that Light with others.
To connect with all the different resources that Carol mentioned in our conversation, please be sure and check out our show notes or hop over to my blog. There you can also find tons of links there for you if you felt led to pursue one of the books or studies she mentioned, or ways to get involved with loving some of the least of these. All of our stories matter to the One who made us, including yours, dear one. Take heart.
Product Spotlight for this episode: Freedom : Productivity Tool
References:
Staying Power: Building A Stronger Marriage When Life Sends Its Worst
Speak Up ministry/conference
Men of Valor
“Death Was Arrested”
Dr. David Jeremiah
International BSF in Port Huron
BSF (Bible Study Fellowship)
When I Lay My Isaac Down
Speak Up for Hope
The Gavel Club
Waiting Together (for families of the incarcerated)
Praying on Facebook for the prisons and dealing with covid 19
Scripture References:
1 Peter 1:12- The angels rejoice and marvel at the work is the Gospel
Hebrews 12:1-We’re called to throw off every hindrance
Luke 4:18-/ 2 Corinthians 3:17- Rejoicing in our freedom
Psalm 46:10- Be Still : Cease Striving
Hebrews 12:2- The author and the creator
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18- Pray without ceasing
2 Corinthians 4:16-18- Don’t lose heart
Acts 16:25-40- Prison guard and the salvation of his household
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12- Two are better than one
Judges 6- Gideon and the altars of his Father
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8-There’s a time to tear down and a time to build
Esther 4:14- Such a time as this
Genesis 50:20- What the enemy means for evil, the Lord will use
1 Corinthians 15:58-He wastes nothing
Luke 23:39-43- Jesus on the cross, and when His grace for the criminal beside Him
Connecting with Carol:
Website
Other books by Carol can also be found on her website, or by this link here!
Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:
Instagram
Facebook
Blog
Sign up for our newsletter!
*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com
I love that we’re getting to hang out twice this week! It is one of the best weeks ever after all, so it deserves a little extra love, especially this year. Today is what we know as Good Friday. Because of God’s great love, His Son Jesus, who was fully God and fully man, chose to die on a cross for our sins, and that is what makes this Friday good.
We’re picking up on a conversation I was having with my precious friend Katelyn who in part 1 shared about her experiences of enduring a brutal cancer, infertility, health crisis in her first born, and how the Lord was present and made Himself known in all of her various seasons of suffering. Today, Katelyn continues on with the rest of her story, where things have still been hard in her healing, the broken hallelujahs, their journey with adopting their third baby after she had an emergency hysterectomy during her cancer battle, and the way God has woven hope within it all that speaks so poignantly to the season we are walking in around the world right now. I wish we were having coffee for this one, friends, because this part 2 is our declaration of hope to try and help beat back the darkness that threatens to overwhelm and our encouragement for all our brothers and sisters in Christ.
I hope and pray that wherever you are, you can walk awy from this conversation knowing that Sunday is coming. Whether you hear this on Easter weekend or not, the tomb is still empty and is still Good News. As my friend Katie says "In the face of your present circumstances, what is hard for you to believe is still true about God." My greatest prayer is that this conversation would open your heart to the place where you can meet with the Lord, no matter where it finds you. Look for the light, dear ones. Look for the light. You are SO loved, and you matter. Happy Easter. He. Is. Risen.
If you are looking for a place to engage Easter this weekend, there are going to be TONS of churches live streaming all around the world! You will have no shortage of options, but consider this my personal invite to hang out with me for Easter via my church’s service! Fellowship Bible Church will start its live stream at 11am(CST) on Sunday. You can watch via the website or facebook! (I’m actually leading worship so we can literally virtually hang!) :)
Resources:
None Like Him - Jen Wilkin
Tornado in Middle TN
"You Came" (Lazarus' Song)- Johnathon David & Melissa Hesler
"Glorious Day"- Kristian Stanfill
Scripture References:
John 1:5- Dark cannot put out the light
2 Corinthians 1:10- God rescues us from despair
Matthew 18:3- Childlike faith
Hebrews 2:14-15-No fear in death
Hebrews 6:19- Anchor of the soul
1 Peter 1:6- Trials for a little while
Matthew 27:51- The veil is torn
Luke 11:33- The darkness cannot hide my Light (put a lamp under a bushel)
The Easter Story
Lamentations 3:21-23- This I call to mind and therefore I dare to hope
John 16:33- Christ has overcome everything
Isaiah 41:10 / 1 Chronicles 28:20- You’re never alone
Psalm 130:6 - More than watchmen for the morning
2 Corinthians 4:8-12- Hard pressed on every side
Job 37:16- God is all knowing
The Great Physician
Hebrews 10:23- We hold fast to His word
Isaiah 63:9/ 1 Peter 2:21- He suffered too
1 Peter 5:7- Cast all your anxieties on Him
John 11:35- Jesus weeps
Matthew 5:4- Blessed are those who mourn
John 11: Lazarus’ tomb
Romans 8:19-23- All of creation groans with longing
Psalm 31:24- Take heart
Hebrews 6:10- God has not forgotten you
Psalm 139:15/Jeremiah 16:17- You are not hidden
1 Timothy 6:12- Fight the good of fight
Romans 8:26-27- the Holy Spirit groans for us
Psalm 27:13-14- believing we will see the goodness of the Lord
Connecting with Katelyn:
Blog
*Photo from Episode Graphic was taken in celebration of Luke Liles’ official adoption into their family by Adara Events and Photography
Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:
Instagram
Facebook
Blog
Sign up for our newsletter!
*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com