Exploring the Signs of Jesus' Glory in the Book of John In the podcast episode, Nicole Unice delves into the significance of Jesus's signs in John 2 and 3. These signs not only reveal Jesus' divine nature but also illustrate profound themes of hospitality, justice, and personal transformation. The First Miracle: Water into Wine The episode begins with the account of Jesus' first miracle at a wedding in Cana, where He turns water into wine. This event is significant for several reasons: Celebration and Hospitality: Weddings in Jewish culture are grand celebrations that can last several days. The absence of wine would have been a major social faux pas, reflecting poorly on the hosts. By performing this miracle, Jesus demonstrates His concern for joy and hospitality, emphasizing that He cares about the everyday moments of life, not just dire circumstances. Abundance: The miracle is characterized by abundance; Jesus doesn't just provide a little wine but an overwhelming amount, showcasing His generosity. This theme of abundance recurs throughout the Book of John, highlighting that Jesus offers more than what is necessary. Revelation of Glory: The miracle serves as the first sign through which Jesus reveals His glory. Interestingly, it is not the wedding guests who recognize this glory, but His disciples, who come to believe in Him as a result. This points to the idea that true understanding and faith often come from being close to Jesus and witnessing His works firsthand. The Cleansing of the Temple Following the wedding miracle, the narrative shifts dramatically to Jesus cleansing the temple. This event reveals another facet of Jesus' character: Righteous Anger: Jesus' actions in the temple demonstrate His passion for justice. He is angered by the exploitation of the poor, who come to the temple to make sacrifices. The money changers and sellers are taking advantage of their need, turning a sacred space into a marketplace. This act of cleansing the temple shows that Jesus is not only a figure of hospitality but also one who stands against injustice. Challenge to Religious Authority: When the religious leaders demand a sign to validate His authority, Jesus responds cryptically, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. He indicates that true worship will not be confined to a physical temple but will be found in Him. This confrontation sets the stage for ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities, illustrating that following Him may lead to challenges and opposition. The Conversation with Nicodemus The episode concludes with Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee who comes to Him at night. This dialogue introduces the concept of spiritual rebirth: Spiritual Transformation: Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be "born again" to see the Kingdom of God. This idea of spiritual rebirth is central to understanding the transformative power of faith in Christ. It emphasizes that entering into a relationship with Jesus requires a fundamental change in one's life and perspective. The Sign of the Cross: Jesus references the story of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness, drawing a parallel to His own impending crucifixion. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, so too will people find eternal life by looking to Jesus on the cross. This connection underscores the simplicity and depth of the Gospel message: belief in Jesus leads to salvation. God's Love for Humanity: The well-known verse John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God's immense love for the world and His desire for all to have eternal life through faith in His Son. This message of love and hope is a cornerstone of Christian belief. Journal your questions: Talk to God about how it feels to know the very first sign of his glory was at a party and sparked joy. Do you experience joy and hospitality in your life? How can you invite someone into that? What signs are you asking for? When have you seen God’s glory? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we dive into John 1 and discover the richness of God's relational nature as revealed in the Gospel of John.  John's Gospel emphasizes the relational aspect of God, who asks us, "What do you want?" This question serves to engage us in a personal relationship and invites us to explore our desires and needs. This theme is beautifully illustrated in the opening chapters of John, where the nature of Jesus as the Word is introduced, highlighting His divine identity and His intimate connection with humanity. Exploring the Invitation of Jesus: "What Do You Want?" In the podcast episode, the host delves into the profound question posed by Jesus: "What do you want?" This question is not just a casual inquiry; it serves as a pivotal moment in the Gospel of John, inviting listeners to reflect on their own desires and spiritual journeys. The Context of the Question The question arises in John chapter 1, where two of John the Baptist's disciples begin to follow Jesus. When they approach Him, Jesus turns and asks, "What do you want?" This moment is significant because it marks the beginning of Jesus's ministry and His first interaction with those who would become His followers. The disciples' response, "Rabbi, where are you staying?" is somewhat unexpected and highlights the often complex nature of human desire and understanding. The Relational Nature of God The host emphasizes that this question from Jesus is deeply relational. It reflects God's desire to engage with humanity on a personal level. Unlike other religions that may present a distant deity, Christianity offers a God who is intimately involved in the lives of individuals. The act of asking questions is portrayed as humble and vulnerable, showcasing God's willingness to connect with us. The Deeper Meaning Behind Our Desires As the discussion unfolds, the host encourages listeners to dig deeper into their own desires. When faced with the question "What do you want?" it is essential to consider what lies beneath the surface. For many, the immediate response may revolve around alleviating pain or changing circumstances. However, the host urges listeners to explore what these desires represent. At the core, many of our desires stem from fundamental human needs: the need to be known, loved, and to have a sense of belonging and purpose. The podcast suggests that these deeper longings are what God seeks to fulfill in our lives. The Invitation to "Come and See" Following the question, Jesus invites the disciples to "come and see." This invitation is extended to all listeners, regardless of their familiarity with the Bible or their relationship with Jesus. The host encourages everyone to explore who Jesus is and what He offers. This invitation is not merely about gaining knowledge; it is about experiencing the abundant life that Jesus promises. The host reiterates that the overarching goal of studying the Gospel of John is to understand that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing in Him, we can have life in His name. The question "What do you want?" serves as a powerful starting point for self-reflection and spiritual growth. It invites individuals to consider their deepest desires and to recognize that these longings can lead them to a more profound relationship with God. As listeners engage with the Gospel of John, they are encouraged to accept Jesus's invitation to "come and see," exploring the richness of life that He offers. This journey is not just about understanding Scripture but about experiencing the transformative power of faith in everyday life. THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Help! My Bible is Alive! Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Nicole is back! This fall, we're going to study the book of John together as we ask ourselves: what does it look like to be set free? What does it look like to be rooted and to have abundant life? This fall, we're going to talk about what Jesus did, what it means, what it means for you, and how you can experience a rooted, feet-on-the-ground firmness so that when the storms of life hit, you are not uprooted. THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Help! My Bible is Alive! Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What do you do when anxiety strikes during uncertain times? In this bonus episode of "Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast" Host Bonnie Gray explores practical ways to calm your mind and heart when faced with the unknown. Learn to anchor your soul in God’s promises and discover simple, effective strategies to reduce stress and embrace peace. "How to Study The Bible" & Nicole will be back soon! Until then, we hope you enjoy this bonus episode of "Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast". If you like what you hear, consider subscribing to "Breathe" on Apple or Spotify. To find more Christian based podcasts go to Lifeaudio.com LINKS & RESOURCES-  Subscribe to FREE weekly Breathe Newsletter: https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ -  Take a FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your wellness assessment! -  Get Bonnie's Bestseller book "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less": https://amzn.to/4azae1K- Ask Bonnie Questions at https://bit.ly/askbreathe-  Join Soul Care School: http://mysoulcareschool.com-  Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it mean to dwell? It certainly means to live, to occupy a house or apartment, but we also use the word to mean to point attention toward. If you dwell on something, you focus on it steadfastly, not wavering or casting about for something else. But why should we? Because He makes clear the path of life, helping us to know where we should step. He fills us with joy as we spend time in his presence, and who doesn't need more joy? Do you know what it means...what it feels like to dwell in the Lord's presence? Listen to today's episode from Laura Lee Groves, based on Psalm 16:11. GO DEEPER FREE RESOURCE: How to Pray God's Word for Your Children, by Brooke McGlothlin The 5-Day Praying for Girls and Boys Challenge FREE: Join the Everyday Prayers Podcast Facebook Group Hey friends- Nicole here. As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McGlothlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her’” (Luke 10:41-42). Most of my life, especially since becoming a mom, I have been in what feels like a constant rotation of busyness, overwhelm, anxiety, and frustration over all there is to do. Marthas, like myself, like to push back against the idea of resting because someone has to do it all. But the truth is that sometimes we need to slow down and sit at Jesus’ feet. ~ Amber Palmer Do you struggle to be intentional about making space to get with Jesus and receive His peace? If so, this episode of Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms is for you. Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! LINKS: Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use!  Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Visit Today's Show Notes Hey friends- Nicole here. As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McGlothlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

"...but Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way" (Daniel 1:8). Have you ever been in the middle of an ordinary situation, whether all alone or perhaps at a more social event, and sensed God's quiet voice nudging you in one way or another? Maybe a warning as simple as, do not say what you're about to say, or don't eat that. The question is, what do you do when it happens? ~ Monica Swanson Do you choose God's voice over excuses or justification? If so, this episode of Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms is for you. Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! LINKS: Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use!  Visit Today's Show Notes Hey friends- Nicole here. As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McGlothlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“Rather train yourself for godliness; For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come" (1 Timothy 4:8). Somewhere along the way, the Christian life gained a reputation for being shiny, easy, and perfect. “If you just give your life to Jesus, everything will magically fall into place,” people say. You may see someone who has peace in all situations or seems to have the perfect quiet time every single day or is always joyfully serving everyone around her, and think, "wow, it comes so easily to them. Why isn't it easy for me? I'm doing it all wrong." ~ Erin Mohring Have you wondered why things seem to come so easily to others, but not to you? If so, this episode of Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms is for you. Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! LINKS: Get the podcast devotion & prayer in written form! Visit Today's Show Notes Hey friends- Nicole here. As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McGlothlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head" (Psalm 3:3). In a time of danger, David believed in the power and desire of God to be the shield he desperately needed. The opposition said, “there is no salvation for him in God,” but God's peace proved them wrong. How have you experienced unfairness or disgrace? What would you say to God the shield if you confided your need for protection to him? What would it take for you to lay down and rest in total peace? ~Julie Sanders Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! LINKS: Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use!  Visit Today's Show Notes Hey friends- Nicole here. As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McLaughlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“For you are my rock and my fortress; And for your name's sake you lead me and guide me" (Psalm 31:3). When you are going through difficulty do you cry out to God? He promises to lead us and guide us because he is our rock, our fortress and our strength. When we are experiencing difficulty and simultaneously fully relying on God, then the difficulty doesn't stay with us. It isn't ours to fix or to handle. We take it in and pour it out on our Savior, and he takes it all on himself. ~Becky Daye Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! Visit Today's Show Notes Hey friends- Nicole here. As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McLaughlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head" (Psalm 3:3). In a time of danger, David believed in the power and desire of God to be the shield he desperately needed. The opposition said, “there is no salvation for him in God,” but God's peace proved them wrong. How have you experienced unfairness or disgrace? What would you say to God the shield if you confided your need for protection to him? What would it take for you to lay down and rest in total peace? ~Julie Sanders Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! Visit Today's Show Notes Hey friends, Nicole here - As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McLaughlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“Wisdom is good with an inheritance, an advantage to those who see the sun. For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it" (Ecclesiastes 7:11-12). The Hebrew word for wisdom is, “chokmah,” and is used 145 times in the Old Testament. It means skill in war, administration, shrewdness, prudence in religious affairs, wisdom both ethical and religious. It carries with it an implication that leads to action. Chokmah impacts our decisions and how we serve God. There is also a God-given natural flow of chokmah that brings with it profit, protection, and preservation. ~Stacey Thacker Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! LINKS: Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use!  Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Visit Today's Show Notes Hey friends- As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McLaughlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hey friends- As you know, I am taking a break for the summer to rest and recharge, calling it my monastic summer. And I hope that you're going to get some rest this summer too. It's something worth fighting for, for sure. But while I'm gone, the team at LifeAudio and I want to have something for you. So we've prepared a summer series for you that I think you're going to really enjoy. We're calling it our Summer Prayer Series, and it features prayers from another show on our network, which is called Everyday Prayers for Million Praying Moms. The host of Everyday Prayers is Brooke McLaughlin, and she is a best-selling author and speaker. Her passion is to help you discover the power of prayer to change your life. She'll be sharing prayers that anyone can pray to help give their summer a much-needed focus on God and His goodness toward all of us. So I know you're going to enjoy these episodes and take these prayers into your own quiet time so you can connect with God in a deeper way this summer. And I'll see you in the fall.  The enemy will always try to get us to believe things that aren’t true. He’s the father of lies. All he does is lie. And his mission is to destroy us. I’ve learned over the years to replace his whispers with shouts of truth, just as Jesus did when Satan tried to tempt him. Instead of being overcome with fear, we can remember that we don’t have to be strong because Christ is our strength. He can do all things so we can trust in him. ~Brooke McGlothlin Tune in now to listen to today’s entire devotion and start your day off praying God’s Word for your family! Visit Today's Show Notes  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hey friends, welcome to the final episode of our series on Joseph's story in the book of Genesis. Over the past few weeks, we've explored themes of growth, betrayal, victory, faithfulness, redemption, and God's sovereignty. If you haven't listened to the previous episodes, I encourage you to go back and catch up before diving into today's discussion on restoration and sovereignty. Before we get started, I want to thank you all for your reviews and for sharing this podcast with your friends and family. It's been a joy to be part of this growing community. I also want to let you know that I'll be taking the summer off for a restorative period and will be back in the fall, so be sure to bookmark this podcast for updates. In today's episode, we wrap up the story of Joseph. We discuss how Joseph reveals himself to his brothers, shows them grace, and makes a place for his family in Egypt during a time of famine. We delve into the emotional reunion between Joseph and his father, Jacob, and the subsequent blessings Jacob bestows upon his children before his death. A significant part of our discussion focuses on the brothers' fear of retribution from Joseph after Jacob's death. Despite Joseph's forgiveness, they still live under the guilt of their past actions. This mirrors our relationship with Christ, where we often struggle to live in the grace we've received. We explore the promises of redemption and restoration that God offers us, both in this life and in eternity. We reflect on the reality that while we may experience brokenness and suffering now, the fullness of redemption will be realized in heaven. THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, we continue our journey through the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis, as outlined in Nicole's new book and study, Not What I Signed Up For. Today, we delve into the themes of restoration and redemption in Joseph's story and how they apply to our own lives. We start by recapping Joseph's tumultuous journey, from being sold into slavery by his brothers at age 17, to rising to power as the second in command in Egypt. Despite the hardships, Joseph remained faithful to God, which eventually led to his elevation by Pharaoh after interpreting his dreams. As the famine predicted in Pharaoh's dream unfolds, Joseph's brothers come to Egypt seeking food, unaware that the powerful man they bow before is their long-lost brother. Joseph recognizes them but chooses to conceal his identity, putting them through a series of tests. This process reveals their guilt and remorse over their past actions, particularly their betrayal of Joseph. Repentance and redemption are inextricably linked. Repentance means to turn away from sin and towards a new path. Joseph's tests are not acts of revenge but a means to gauge his brothers' character and repentance. Over time, the brothers demonstrate significant personal growth and a willingness to make sacrifices for their family, contrasting sharply with their earlier selfishness and jealousy. The climax of the story occurs when Judah offers himself as a sacrifice to protect his family, prompting Joseph to reveal his identity. This revelation leads to a heartfelt reunion and the beginning of the family's redemption. Joseph's faithfulness and sacrifice not only redeem his own life, but also bring healing and restoration to his entire family. In this episode, we reflect on how God's process of redemption often involves repentance and a transformation of our beliefs, behaviors, and feelings. By trusting in God's goodness and submitting to His process, we allow Him to align our lives with His truth and love. THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, we continue our journey through the life of Joseph, focusing on the  importance of lament as a way to engage with God about pain, disappointment, and confusion. Lament is a significant concept in scripture that is not only accepted but also invited by God as a means to process the inevitable pain and loss that humans experience in a broken world. Nicole highlights that lament is a way to bring specific pain, complaints, and petitions to God, ultimately leading to a place of trust and communion with Him. 4 Steps to Lament Throughout the episode, Nicole discusses the four key steps of lament as seen in scripture: turning towards God, complaining, asking for His mercy and deliverance, and ultimately trusting in Him. She encourages listeners to be transparent with God, inviting Jesus into their sorrow and discomfort. By engaging in lament, individuals can confront their complicated emotions, such as anger, despair, and disappointment, and bring them before God for healing and comfort. Turning Towards God: The first step in the process of lament is to turn towards God. This involves actively seeking God's presence, acknowledging His sovereignty, and approaching Him with confidence. By coming before God's throne of grace, individuals can open themselves up to a conversation with the Creator of the universe, recognizing that God welcomes them into His presence. Complaining: The next step in lament is to express complaints and grievances to God. This involves naming and articulating the specific pain, confusion, and disappointment that one is experiencing. By voicing these concerns to God, individuals can release their emotions and be honest about their struggles. Asking for Help: After expressing complaints, individuals are encouraged to ask God for His mercy, deliverance, and assistance. This step involves seeking God's intervention in the situation, requesting the support and guidance needed to navigate through challenging circumstances. By asking for help, individuals demonstrate their reliance on God's strength and provision. Trusting in God: The final step in the process of lament is to trust in God. Despite the difficulties and uncertainties faced, individuals are called to rest their case with God, affirm their confidence in His unfailing love, and rejoice in His salvation. By choosing to trust in God's goodness and faithfulness, individuals can find peace and comfort in the midst of their struggles. A Psalm of Lament: Psalm 22 Nicole draws attention to Psalm 22 as an example of lament in the Bible. In it, the psalmist expresses feelings of abandonment and despair but ultimately acknowledges God's faithfulness and trustworthiness. She also highlights how Jesus himself experienced separation from God on the cross, demonstrating an understanding of human suffering and the importance of lament in connecting with God during times of distress. By practicing lament, individuals can come before God with honesty and vulnerability, seeking His presence and comfort in the midst of pain and confusion. Through lament, believers can deepen their relationship with God, finding solace and strength in His unfailing love and goodness. Ultimately, lament serves as a powerful tool for processing emotions, seeking God's intervention, and reaffirming trust in His faithfulness. Overall, the process of lament serves as a powerful tool for engaging with God during times of hardship and seeking solace, guidance, and reassurance in His presence. Through turning towards God, complaining, asking for help, and ultimately trusting in Him, individuals can experience a deeper connection with God and find strength to endure challenging circumstances. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, we're continuing our series on the life of Joseph by exploring the theme of integrity. Joseph consistently makes the right choices, even when faced with difficulties. Standing firm in doing what is right, even when it may not lead to immediate blessings, is the life of integrity we should strive for. Listen in to hear what it looks like to make tough choices and stand firm in difficult situations. Joseph is our model for seasons in our own life that feel confining. He perseveres in doing the next right thing, even when he finds himself in a place that feels not like what he signed up for. Anybody relate to that? When you're in a season that isn't what you wanted, what does it look like to do the next right thing? Here's the secret. The secret is not trying harder. It's not gripping more tightly to what you wish was true. It's not shaming yourself into being better. True love and true righteousness do not materialize by gripping for it. This kind of love and righteousness comes from fixing our eyes on Jesus. That's what gives us the ability to stand up against the forces of the world that often come against us.  Our faith is grown in difficult seasons. And in those difficult seasons, we get a very narrow focus and we focus on one day at a time. We ask God to give us the strength to show up with humility and love for the day that he has for us. Bible Verses to Meditate on the Promises of God:Romans 12 1 Chronicles 16:34Isaiah 40:29Matthew 28:20John 15:5Philippians 4:6-7 THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

we continued our series on navigating unexpected seasons in life, focusing on the biblical story of Joseph and how his experiences can inspire our faith today. We delved into Joseph's long journey of unexpected challenges, from being sold into slavery to eventually rising to a position of power in Egypt. Despite the silence he might have felt from God during his trials, Joseph's story is a powerful testament to maintaining faith in times of uncertainty. We also explored the concept of faith through the story of a woman in the New Testament who, despite suffering for 12 years, believed that touching Jesus' cloak would heal her. This story contrasts with the lack of faith seen in Jesus' own hometown, where familiarity bred contempt and limited the miracles He could perform. This episode aims to encourage you to reflect on your own faith during difficult times. Are you moving toward God or away from Him? It's normal for faith to fluctuate, but the goal is to emerge with a stronger, more resilient faith. We wrapped up by reminding everyone that God's presence is a constant, even when answers are not clear. The challenge is to seek daily sustenance from God, allowing our faith to grow step by step. THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What do we do when we find ourselves in seasons that are unexpected or uncertain? Or when we find ourselves anxious about the future or regretful about the past? How do we handle a season when we feel uncertain about where it's going and we don't know how long it's going to last? If that sounds familiar to you, my dear friend, then you are going to find comfort and encouragement and direction through the story of Joseph. Here is a truth: when we get into a place where our faith is being tested, and we feel under pressure because of some circumstance or pain in our life, we often will feel bad about ourselves. But we need to remember that the reality is, we're just learning who we really are, and God loves us in this journey. God desires to transform us in the deepest places of our hearts, our minds, and our souls so that our emotions and our thought patterns will actually be transformed by being renewed. It's a time to get honest with ourselves because when we're honest with ourselves, there is room now for growth. So today, we come to the story of Joseph, who faced incredible circumstances that he did not sign up for. We’ll see what we can learn from Joseph's faith in times when he did not know how things were going to turn out. We’ll talk about what it looks like to really give our lives over to God, even the hard circumstances or the ones that you thought were about to change, and then they didn't change. THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it mean to have faith? And what does faithfulness look like over a lifetime? And, is it okay to ask or desire to see signs or proofs of God? We’ll cover all of that in today’s episode, the second part of our two part bible study on Gideon, found in Judges 6-8. Is it okay to ask God for signs, as Gideon did? God knows we long for signs, and has answered that in the person of Jesus. It says in Scripture: You will be given a sign. This will be a sign among you. The virgin will give birth to a baby, and we will call him Jesus. The sign that we have that God can overcome and that God is the one who orders our steps, orders our days, and controls life and death is in Jesus.  Gideon's story is a powerful reminder of the human nature of faith, which can falter and require reassurance. God's responses to Gideon's requests for signs teach us about His patience and willingness to strengthen our faith, even when we doubt. When we remember what God has done for us in the past, it can strengthen our faith in him in the present and for the future. THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, we're delving into the Old Testament, specifically Judges 6 through 8, to discuss the story of Gideon. This narrative is deeply personal to me, as it reflects my own experiences and the lessons I've learned about faith. What do we do when our faith falters, when we have questions? This story has so much to teach us. The context of Judges reveals a cycle of rebellion among the Israelites, who have turned away from God and are suffering the consequences. Despite their struggles, God sends messengers and judges to guide them back, but they often ignore these figures. This backdrop sets the stage for Gideon's story, which unfolds during a particularly challenging time for Israel. Gideon, the least in his family and from the weakest clan, is found by an angel of the Lord while secretly threshing wheat to avoid it being stolen by the Midianites. The angel greets him as a "mighty warrior," which is ironic given Gideon's humble circumstances. Gideon questions why they have been abandoned by God if He is truly with them. The angel responds by encouraging Gideon to go in the strength he has, assuring him that God will be with him to defeat the Midianites. Gideon's faith is hesitant, but he engages with the angel, asking for a sign to confirm the message. After receiving a miraculous sign, Gideon is convinced and embarks on a mission to tear down an altar to a foreign god and build one for the Lord instead. Despite his fear, he follows through, and his father defends his actions when others question them. As we conclude this episode, we see Gideon's faith beginning to grow, even from a place of doubt and weakness. Next week, we'll continue with Gideon's story, discussing the significance of asking for signs and what it means for our faith. I invite you to read Judges 6, 7, and 8 to prepare for our next discussion about Gideon and the concept of laying out a fleece before God. Three questions we can always ask the Bible as we study: What is this story teaching me about people? What is this story teaching me about God? What is this story teaching me about God's interactions with people? THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

While Nicole is on a break, we're replaying some of your favorite episodes from the archives. Be sure to grab a copy of Nicole's latest book Not What I Signed Up For! This short letter is rich, deep, and will challenge how we have looked at Bible study so far. This pastoral letter, written by an older Christian, encourages us toward assurance and confidence in our faith.As we begin to open this letter, remember that this letter has a tone of fellowship, joy, and blessing. Big Overview of the Letter: Circular themes of true doctrine, obedient living, fervent devotionWalking through 1 John 1 with the Alive Method:1. What does it say?Themes of light/darkness, cleansing, sin2. What’s the back story?
Connection back to the gospel of John
Circular themes--keep a list of questions
3. What does it mean?
There is a process to forgiveness
There is a path to our righteousness
4. What does it mean for me?
The practice of confession
 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

While Nicole is on a break, we're replaying some of your favorite episodes from the archives. And be sure to grab a copy of Nicole's latest book Not What I Signed Up For! Have you ever struggled with being content? Have you ever had that little thought in your mind, “If only I had more, if I only had that thing, then I would be at peace”? Today, we’re talking about the superpower of contentment in your lives. This ancient Scripture is incredibly relevant for our age, as we wrestle with our own contentment and the American Dream culture in which we live. Truly, our whole lives are bombarded with the message that there is just one more thing around the corner, that if you experience contentment, you will get peace. But is that true? Let’s examine this in light of what the teacher of Ecclesiastes tells us about contentment. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up ForFind all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Has the true story of the cosmic reality of what Jesus has done for us on the cross and through his resurrection been lost on you? Has the story grown stale? My prayer is this passion week, you might hear something in this chapter you haven’t noticed before, and remember the joy of your salvation. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up ForFind all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble ----------- WHAT DOES IT SAY? This week, listen to Nicole read Luke 23:1-43 and perhaps read it aloud to yourself or your family. The darkness of humanity is on display. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Pilot and Herod – power players in this passage. They almost play with Jesus like he’s an object. The crowd – would have been some of the same people who were fed by him on the hillside, heard his teachings, put palm branches down for him – has now turned on him. Barabbas – an actual criminal. Jesus, the innocent one literally takes the place of the guilty one. The passion of Christ is to take the sin and guilt of the world upon himself, even for those who do not know what he is doing. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Often the temptations and trials that come to us are meant to prepare us for a future moment of greater temptation. Jesus’ temptation by Satan (that we discussed earlier in the series) prepares him for his encounter with Herod. We are a fickle kind of people. We are swayed by power and fear. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? In the darkest that the world has to offer, Jesus is still so close. He is taking the punishment for your sin, the weight of sin for you, so that we can be with him in paradise. Fall upon his mercy, even though you don’t deserve it. Jesus remembers you, you are blessed. What kind of person comes to Jesus? See 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 26 For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. 30 And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” Are you willing to accept Jesus on his terms? FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever wondered what God’s Kingdom is? Well, it’s God’s rule and reign in every aspect of life. Today, Nicole and David talk about kingdom versus empire. What is that kingdom like? And then they discuss how Jesus brings victory in the kingdom through his resurrection, and how that restores shalom.  Learn more from David and his work at Arrabon: https://arrabon.com/a-people-a-place-and-a-just-society/  Get the introduction and first chapter to Nicole's latest book here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it mean for us to be a people who reflect God's image and likeness? And what has the fall done to us? In this episode of How to Study the Bible, Nicole sits down with David Bailey, the head of Arrabon, a ministry working to build "a reconciling community." In this special episode, Nicole and David look at the big story of the Bible and zoom in on the first few chapters - God as Creator who creatively imagines and creates a flourishing world, and the fall of Adam and the ripple effects of idolatry on our lives today. Learn more from David and his work at Arrabon: https://arrabon.com/a-people-a-place-and-a-just-society/  Get the introduction and first chapter to Nicole's latest book here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Think about the last few years of your life. How would you describe them? No doubt there have been some beautiful moments, but it's almost certain that you have walked through trials that have left you thinking, This isn't what I signed up for. You're not alone - in today's episode, Nicole and Rev. Rachel discuss Nicole's new book Not What I Signed Up For. Together they chat about the events that led Nicole to write this book, as well as the process of choosing a title and subtitle. Listen as Nicole and Rachel also discuss the life of Joseph and how his story can teach us a few things about God's plan for our lives. Get the introduction and first chapter here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, Nicole and Rev Rachel are tackling your tough questions - and we mean tough! A lot of the questions we have in life are questions precisely because there is not an easy, black and white answer. So we are going to go into God's Word together to see what the BIble has to say about your questions, and we trust that you'll do the same as you bring your own questions to God and see what His Word has to say about them. Have a Bible or life question you want Nicole to tackle? Send your questions to [email protected]!  Questions we answer today: 1. How do we correctly interpret John 15:22-24? (03:39) 2. How do I care for and support a loved one struggling with depression? (10:15) 3. What does God require for salvation? (19:15) 4. What is the biblical basis for women serving as pastors? (21:11) 5. Specific Bible study recommendations that offer scholarly insights (24:35) Resources Mentioned: Study Bible links: https://amzn.to/3T1UFIT  Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life can be really hard if you are trying to figure out how to follow God in your everyday life. Whether you're raising your children, trying to show up well in your workplace or your school, people are tough and messy. And often when we face that kind of trouble or conflict, we're trying to figure out, how do I show up with love? How do I show up with energy? We can get kind of stuck in that. We can get in our own heads about who we are and what we need to be, and when are we supposed to speak up and when are we supposed to be quiet? It is really hard to know how to be confident in the places that God's called us.  In today's episode, Nicole reminds us: What insecurity is and why it's hard to shake What Philippians 2 has to say about finding real confidence and lasting peace What it means to work out our salvation with fear and trembling What God's work is in our life, and what our work is in our life (and why knowing the difference makes all the difference!) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we extend our series on "five words to live by" for one more week as we delve into the theme of "remembering" and its significance in our spiritual lives. We explore how remembering God's promises and reflecting on our past experiences with Him can reinforce our faith and identity in Christ. This act of remembrance can profoundly impact our lives, not by altering our circumstances, but by deepening our understanding of God's acceptance and goodness. The episode focuses on Psalm 107, which encapsulates various stories of redemption and the power of recalling God's faithfulness. We discuss different narratives from the Psalm, including those who felt lost, those trapped by rebellion, those suffering from the consequences of their iniquities, and those who encountered God's majesty and power through exploration and wonder. Each storyline from Psalm 107 serves as a reminder that regardless of our past, whether we've wandered, rebelled, or sought mastery over our lives, God's love and deliverance are constant. By remembering these stories, we can build our faith and practice the virtues we aspire to, such as courage, joy, and trust. RESOURCES: Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, we are exploring one of my favorite biblical narratives—the vision of the dry bones in Ezekiel 36 and 37. This story is a profound illustration of revival, where God promises to cleanse us from impurities, give us a new heart, and put a new spirit within us. We see this promise come to life in Ezekiel's vision of dry bones being reassembled and brought back to life through the breath of God. This story has connections to other parts of the Bible. We see the theme of God breathing life into humanity, from the creation of Adam to Jesus breathing the Holy Spirit onto his disciples in John 20. This act of revival is not just about being physically alive; it's about being spiritually awakened and empowered by God's Spirit. Revival is not exclusive to certain people or moments. It's available to all of us, regardless of where we are or what we're going through. God is constantly ready to breathe life into our dry bones, renewing us day by day. It's not something we can generate on our own; it's a gift from God that we receive when we surrender to Him. No matter where you are or what you're facing, God is a God of revival, and He's ready to breathe new life into you. RESOURCES: Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Welcome back to another episode of How to Study the Bible. I'm Nicole Younis, and today we're continuing our journey through Scripture, focusing on words to build our lives upon in 2024. This week, we're diving into the concept of "restore" and what it means for God to restore us. Firstly, I want to express my gratitude to all the new listeners who've joined us, especially those who've been drawn in by our 2024 series. It's heartwarming to see you exploring earlier episodes where we laid out our Bible study method. Remember, this isn't about relying solely on devotions or studies by others; it's about encountering God directly through His Word. I'm also excited to announce my upcoming book, "Not What I Signed Up For," releasing in March. We'll be delving into it in a special series on the podcast later in the spring, exploring resilient faith when life doesn't go as planned. Now, let's talk about restoration. In Isaiah 58, we find a vision of what it looks like to follow God. It's not about external actions but about aligning our hearts with God's desires—caring for the hungry, fighting oppression, and being a light in the darkness. This chapter promises that as we align with God, we'll experience personal restoration and become restorers ourselves. I've identified four types of restoration that God promises: Joy of Salvation: Psalm 51:12 encourages us to pray for the restoration of the joy of our salvation, reminding us to approach each day with a willing spirit. Restoration of Life: Psalm 71:20 and 1 Peter 5:10 assure us that despite our troubles, God will restore our lives, making us strong, firm, and steadfast. Restoration of Everything: Acts 3:21 speaks of a time when Jesus will restore everything, fulfilling the promises made through the prophets. Restoration of Fortunes: This Old Testament phrase isn't about wealth but about a fullness of life, safety, and experiencing the richness of God. As we embrace these promises, we can pray for restoration in our daily lives while holding onto the eternal hope of complete restoration in God's kingdom. This hope can indeed transform our everyday experiences, from our work life to our personal relationships. RESOURCES: Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As we celebrate our fourth anniversary, I'm reminded of how this podcast began as a small project from my book "Help My Bible is Alive." It's been a journey of finding comfort and encouragement in God's Word, and I'm grateful for the community we've built. I'm excited to announce my new book, "Not What I Signed Up For," and encourage you to check out the free download of the intro and chapter one: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupforbook Acts 4:13 shows us the courage of Peter and John, ordinary men who astonished others because they had been with Jesus. This courage is not about worldly qualifications but about the transformative relationship with Jesus. Jesus often encouraged people to take heart or have courage, usually in the context of inner transformation. In Matthew 9, He tells a paralyzed man and a woman with a bleeding issue that their faith has healed them, linking courage to forgiveness and healing. In John 16:33, Jesus promises that despite trouble in the world, we can take heart because He has overcome the world. This episode invites us to consider how courage, as an invitation for 2024, connects to Jesus' promises of healing, forgiveness, and presence. Reflect on how these promises can cultivate courage in your life and bring you closer to God's transformative power. Remember, courage comes from within, from the deep work Jesus is doing in us. It's not something we manufacture but something that grows from our relationship with Him. Take heart in knowing that you're on the right team with Jesus, who has overcome the world. RESOURCES: Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We’re continuing our word of the year series with a focus on the word JOY this week. (Be sure to listen to last week’s episode on Trust and Isaiah 40 if you missed it). This week, I want to introduce you to a study tool in the back of your Bible called the concordance. A concordance is an alphabetical index of words used in the Bible and the main Bible references where the word occurs. This week, I’m using my concordance to help me study the word joy. I loved this phrase in my concordance. It's from 1 Peter 1:6 and it says, “an inexpressible and glorious joy.” Inexpressible and glorious? That is the kind of joy that I want to find! That is the kind of joy that I want to invite all of you to find as well. I flipped back over to 1 Peter, and much to my surprise, even though this is a familiar passage, it still struck me anew when I read it. So let me read you our passage for today, and then we're going to walk through our Bible study method. This joy is intriguing because it's mentioned in the context of suffering and trials, challenging us to understand how we can experience such profound joy amidst difficulties. We start by asking, "What does it say?" and realize that to understand the passage fully, we need to consider the preceding verses. Peter is essentially pulling us into a huddle, reminding us of the living hope we have through Jesus Christ's resurrection and the inheritance that awaits us – imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. The joy mentioned is not dependent on external circumstances but is an internal energy that remains undisturbed by life's storms. It's accessible and available to us in Christ, though we may need to ask for it repeatedly. So, if you're seeking joy or it's been absent from your life, perhaps this is your word and your year to embrace it. Remember, joy is always within reach, and it's our inheritance as believers in Christ. RESOURCES: Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today’s episode, we’re going to talk about the importance of spending time at the beginning of the year reflecting on the previous year and thinking about the year to come, rather than rushing into setting New Year's resolutions. It is God who orders our steps and therefore, let’s spend time listening to what God has for us this year as we step into Bible Study. The central question posed in this episode is: What is the evidence for your trust in God? I challenge listeners to think about what external signs in their lives demonstrate their trust in God. We explore the idea that trust in God often grows through seasons of struggle and uncertainty and that these difficult times can lead to a deeper and more profound trust in Him. We dive into Isaiah 40, a chapter that doesn't explicitly mention trust but sets the stage for understanding how to trust in God. The passage begins with a message of comfort and a vision of a future where every obstacle is made straight, revealing the glory of God to all. It contrasts the greatness and power of God with the fleeting nature of human life, emphasizing God's sovereignty over creation and His tender care for us. RESOURCES: Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever chosen a word for the year? Whether you pick a word each year or never have before, I think this episode will help you order your life in the year to come. If you don't know what your word is, today might be a great day for you to hear some of the things that we are promised in Christ that you in faith can claim for yourself for 2024. Keep in mind, each of these words requires faith. Looking ahead to 2024 with these 5 words: Trust: Isaiah 40 Joy: 1 Peter 1:6-9 Courage: Acts 4:13 Restore: Isaiah 58:10-12 Revive: Ezekiel 36:25-27 RESOURCES: Nicole's newest book is called "Not What I Signed Up For" - check out more about it here: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/  Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This episode was part of our summer series on creating spiritual rhythms. If you missed the series and liked today's episode, here are the other episodes in that series: Week 2: Creating Digital Rhythms That Quiet Your Soul in an Age of Distraction Week 3: Learning to be Shaped by Scripture: Creating a Spiritual Rhythm of Bible Study Week 4: Creating Rhythms of Silence and Solitude Week 5: Finding Sabbath: How to Create a Regular Rhythm of RestWeek 6: Celebration as Spiritual Rhythm: Why Is It So Hard to Believe Our God Is a God of Celebration? The right pace creates the right perspective. The right perspective is wisdom and peace. The purpose of our series:1. Take a minute to think about the pace of your own life. What do you notice?2. What does the way you spend your time say about what you care about the most?3. Is there any aspect of your life that feels overwhelming right now? What does that look like?4. Take a minute to reflect on your life with God. How would you describe it?5. If you could change something about your schedule, what would it be? Passage: Matthew 11Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.– Jesus, Matt. 11:28-30, The Message I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing.– Jesus, John 15:5, The Message What does it say?Rest and relationship are God’s priorities-recover your life? What does that mean to you? What’s the backstory?1-3 God, my shepherd!    I don’t need a thing.You have bedded me down in lush meadows,    you find me quiet pools to drink from.True to your word,    you let me catch my breath    and send me in the right direction.Psalm 23 You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless till they find their rest in You.– St. Augustine, Confessions, 1.1.1. What does it mean?The Christian life is meant to represent the fruit of the spiritOur Christian character is based on our Christ connection What does it mean for me?personal touch RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Merry Christmas everyone! On this glorious Christmas Day we are sharing Nicole's Christmas message from last year on Mary and the visitation from Gabriel. Whether you are cleaning up wrapping paper, making a Christmas feast, or quietly taking in the day, let's ponder the miracle of Jesus' birth and the awe Mary experienced together.  WHAT DOES IT SAY? Luke 1 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? What do we know about Mary: -she knew some scripture-she was faithful-she was among the believers [not venerated, but in community] Acts 1:14  14 They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. Mary had no qualifications for being chosen. This beginning also mirrors our beginning when it comes to receiving the good news. All of the good news is contained here: You who are highly favored. In the context of the world, she is not highly favored. When we think of what makes someone highly favored, we tend to think of the examples we have in the world. But that wasn’t Mary at all.  You have found favor with God. [favor=charis=grace] -Not dependent on anything that she (or us) can do. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the Lord set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples, but it is because the Lord loves you and is keeping the oath that he swore to your fathers. (Deuteronomy 7:6–8) What was given through the Israelites is now passed to everyone: Galatians 3:14 14 He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. The Lord is with you.  Matthew 1:23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).  You aren’t alone. You aren’t isolated. God knows you. *Emmanuel But God with us, as in He comes to live inside us, giving us strength in place of weakness, courage in place of fear, and vibrant life in all those dark places that once felt dead. – Jennifer Slattery The power of being “with”. When people are hurting, we want to be with them. Waiting in hospital rooms. [Brantley/AJ] She receives two promises: highly favored, Lord with you. Crazy surprise – 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Basil Pennington: “my self-worth my value depends on what I have, what I can do, and what others think of me” My false self protects me with: I am what I do.I am what I have.I am what others think of me. My true self: I am. (I am worthy)I am the Lord’s. (I belong)I am the Lord’s servant. (I have purpose) Living in our true self is about a radical acceptance of who we are, based on what God has decided. “Some Christians base their identity on being a sinner. I think they have it wrong—or only half right. You are not simply a sinner; you are a deeply loved sinner.”  David Benner Accepting the incredible surprise of the good news means releasing control. Receiving the gift of our favor is the ability to open our hands to everything God gives, “I am the Lord’s servant, may your word be fulfilled.” Radical acceptance unlocks the joy of surprise. surprise-find-shift-change WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? What sets Mary apart is her radical acceptance to God’s invitation, and what defines us as children of God is our radical acceptance to the same invitation. Radical Acceptance: God has not given up on me, no matter how I feel. I do not need to try harder. My pain and struggle is not wasted. My false self protects me with: I am what I do.I am what I have.I am what others think of me. My true self: I am. (I am worthy)I am the Lord’s. (I belong)I am the Lord’s servant. (I have purpose) FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Welcome back to the How to Study the Bible podcast. We have something a little bit different for you today. We are in the holiday season and getting ready to round down the year. So we're going to be sharing a few different things with you. We decided to post a few of my past sermons here as much as we can as well. Today you’ll hear a sermon I preached this month at Hill City Church here in Richmond, Virginia. It's about the power of invitation and the virtue of hospitality that we receive through Jesus as we “come to the table.” Enjoy! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We're wrapping up our Bible Highlight Reel series today, as we look at the book of Isaiah and specifically, at chapters 52 and 53. In this chapter, as we are reminded of Israel's exile, that God has not abandoned them. In the midst of this, Isaiah introduces a new character to the story via prophecy: the promise of a suffering servant. In this episode, Nicole and Rachel discuss: 1. How we know that this prophecy is about Jesus2. Why this passage can be hard for us to read and really think through3. Why this is a central passage for entering into Advent (which means "waiting") Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, we're reading Isaiah 52:13 through Isaiah 53. Grab your Bible, find a quiet spot, and read along with us. This passage is one of the prophecies of Jesus in the Old Testament, where we learn about our unexpected, suffering, servant-king.  Be sure to check back in tomorrow (Tuesday) when we dive into the chapter and study this passage of Scripture together. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join us this week as we recap the Old Testament up to this point, dig deep into the book of Daniel in the Bible and study what this important book means for the history of God's plan of redemption for his people, and how we can apply what we learn to our lives today. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, we're reading Daniel chapter 2. Be sure to check back in tomorrow (Tuesday) when we dive into the chapter and study this passage of Scripture together. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today we're in week 7 of our Bible Highlight Reel series and diving deep into Psalm 1 and Matthew 5. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read along with us as we read Psalm 1, a beautiful metaphor of the path of the righteous and the path of the wicked. Then, we jump to Matthew 5 and hear Jesus' famous beatitudes. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join us today as we study 2 Samuel 7 - where David desires to build God a house, but God turns the tables and promises a house for David. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read along with us as we read 2 Samuel 7, in which God gives Nathan a dream to tell David concerning the house of the Lord and the house of David. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join us this week as we give you a big-picture summary of Exodus and talk through why these commandments are in God's top ten (and what is so important about the order of these commands). Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read along with us as we dive into the 10 Commandments, which God gives Moses on tablets of stone in Exodus 20.  Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Last week, we talked about Abraham and God's promise for a son. That son was Issac, who grew up to have twin boys, Jacob and Esau. This week, we're studying Jacob and what his wrestling match with God can teach us about our own wrestling in life.  Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read along with us as we dive into the story of Jacob in Genesis 32-33! Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today is the third deep dive in our new series called "The Old Testament Highlight Reel: Dysfunctional People and Divine Promises." Join Rev Rachel and Nicole as they look closely at Genesis 15 and unpack what the covenant God made with Abraham. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read along with us as we dive into the story of Abraham in Genesis 15! Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, we're looking at one of the major plot points of the Bible - Genesis 3 and the Fall of Man. It was great for two chapters in the bible, and then the wheels come off here. This is a crucial chapter of our Bible to study, and today we're going to get into the implications it has for us today - as well as the good news of salvation through Jesus. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read along with us as we dive into a critical plot point in the overarching story in the Bible - Genesis 3! Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today is our first deep dive in our new series called "The Old Testament Highlight Reel: Dysfunctional People and Divine Promises." We're starting at the very beginning - Genesis 1. Join Rev Rachel and Nicole as they look closely at Genesis 1 and unpack what God has for us. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hi Friends - we are doing something a little DIFFERENT in our new series called “The Old Testament Bible Highlight Reel - Dysfunctional People and Divine Promises.”  You’ll actually hear from us TWICE a week - first, on Mondays, Rachel and I are going to read a longer passage of Scripture. Today, we're reading all of Genesis 1. We encourage you to read along with us - using the reading guide that you can find at https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. Then, on Tuesdays, we’ll dive deep into the bible passage and study it up close. This week, we’re studying Genesis Chapter 1. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for our study! Tune in each week as Nicole and Rev. Rachel provide insight into the narrative of Old Testament scripture and how it fits into the big story of what God is doing in the world and how He has chosen to redeem creation. Download the FREE 9-Week Reading Plan! https://nicoleunice.com/oldtestament/. RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, Nicole is answering your questions on all things prayer! We're diving into our Bibles and wrestling with what Scripture has to say about prayer. Some of the questions we cover today: How do we wait for God successfully? How do I pray for my unbelieving child? How to pray intentionally without it being a “wish list” type of prayer? RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Intercessory prayer - or praying for or on behalf of others- is one of the greatest privileges of our Christian faith. In this episode, we're making a case for praying for others by diving into a bible study on Jesus' words on prayer throughout the gospels. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Praying For The Ones Who Bother You: Matthew 5:4443 “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’[q] and hate your enemy. 44 But I say, love your enemies![r] Pray for those who persecute you!45 In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.  Praying for Loved Ones: Matthew 6:9-13 9 “This, then, is how you should pray:“‘Our Father in heaven,hallowed be your name,10 your kingdom come,your will be done,    on earth as it is in heaven11 Give us today our daily bread.12 And forgive us our debts,    as we also have forgiven our debtors.13 And lead us not into temptation,[a]    but deliver us from the evil one.[b]’ Jesus' Prayer for His Disciples: John 17:20-23NIV Version -20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. NLT Version - 20 “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. 21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.22 “I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. 23 I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.  WHAT DOES IT MEAN?Prayer for others may be most effective in a different direction than my natural inclination.WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? 4 Steps to Pray for Others: Pray ConfidentlyPray SpecificallyPray GratefullyPray for Unity/Glory/Sovereignty Andrew Murray: "Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one’s weakness. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart." RESOURCES: Sign Up for Nicole's Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/  Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have a question about prayer that you want Nicole to answer in an upcoming episode? Send your prayer related questions to [email protected]!  This week, we are looking at one of my favorite chapters of the Bible - it is so relatable! What do we do when we're disappointed in ourselves? How do we pray? Romans 7 gives us a blueprint forward. WHAT DOES IT SAY?Romans 7 BACKSTORY? Paul (who used to be Saul) is a reformed persecutor of Christians. He had been completely wrong about who Jesus was and what the Scriptures had to say about Jesus. He lives his life after that point on mission to spread the good news of Jesus.  WHAT DOES IT MEAN? As you get closer and closer to the holiness of God and the love of Christ, you become more aware of how deeply you sin. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? God knows our sins.God forgives our sins.Life is a journey toward allowing more and more of the “life of the spirit” to reign in our hearts. Join Our Facebook Community Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodwithnicoleunice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Bible has some very clear truths about what happens when we are angry and what to do about it. In this episode, we'll study what the bible has to say about anger and how we can manage our angry feelings. 1. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Psalm 4:4 (NIV) says, "In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent."  Proverbs 14:29 (NIV) says, "Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly."  Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV) advises, "In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." 2. WHAT'S THE BACKSTORY? Tale as old as time: back in Genesis. Why do we get angry in the first place? Lots of reasons, some justified and some not. Let’s talk about what happens when we are angry: we have a physiological reaction. Fight vs. flight Anger demands an outlet, so we have to do something with it. Turn outward: blame, bitterness, cynicism Turn inward: shame, depression Either: unforgiveness Backstory: the model of Jesus 3. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Anger is not sinful but easily leads to sin. Understanding and acknowledging anger and allowing God to correct and direct us in our pain is an important step toward moving through anger into love. 4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? Remember that God can handle your emotions, even when you cannot! RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Let’s talk about sadness. It really does feel so bad, which is why we often ignore it. But sadness is as part of the human condition as breathing: Crying: One of the most noticeable physical reactions to sadness is crying. Tears are the body's natural response to emotional distress, and crying can help release built-up tension and provide a sense of relief. Changes in Facial Expression: Sadness often manifests through changes in facial expressions, such as a downturned mouth, furrowed brows, and watery or red eyes. Sluggishness and Fatigue: Sadness can lead to a feeling of physical and mental exhaustion. People may feel tired, listless, and lacking in energy when they are sad. Appetite Changes: Sadness can affect appetite in different ways. Some individuals may lose their appetite and have difficulty eating, while others may turn to comfort foods and overeat as a coping mechanism. Sleep Disturbances: Sadness can disrupt sleep patterns. Some people may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, while others may experience increased sleepiness and may oversleep. Muscle Tension and Aches: Chronic sadness or stress can lead to muscle tension and physical aches, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back. This tension can contribute to headaches and other physical discomforts. Immune System Impact: Prolonged or chronic sadness can potentially weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses. Hormonal Changes: Sadness can affect hormone levels in the body. Stress hormones like cortisol may increase, which can have various effects on the body, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Digestive Issues: Some people may experience digestive problems when they are sad, such as stomachaches, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Intense emotions like sadness can temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure. Our Bible Study Verse for Today: Psalm 13 WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? While lament often involves questioning and expressing pain, it typically concludes with a turn toward God. The psalmists and prophets ultimately acknowledge God's sovereignty and mercy, even amid their suffering. Lament is a way of bringing one's troubles before God and seeking His presence and deliverance. Lament also provides an opportunity for theological reflection and growth. It acknowledges the reality of suffering in the world and grapples with questions of God's justice, mercy, and faithfulness. These psalms of lament express raw emotions, questioning God's actions, seeking help, and ultimately turning to God for comfort and deliverance. (Cf: Psalm 22, 42:1-3) WHAT DOES IT MEAN? It’s ok to be sad, and the Bible gives us a way to enter into our sadness with hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 (NIV): "But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope." WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? What would it be like to make space for sadness…not to dwell there or get stuck there, but to allow yourself to bring the fullness of who you are before God? RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of How to Study the Bible, host Nicole highlights the power of God's Word to transcend cultural differences and unite people in their shared journey of faith. Nicole emphasizes the ever-evolving nature of studying the Bible, encouraging listeners to adopt a lifelong posture of growth and alignment with God's Word. She candidly discusses personal changes and challenges, especially during midlife, while urging the audience to embrace change as an opportunity for spiritual transformation. Nicole emphasizes the importance of confronting complicated emotions, avoiding superficiality, and bringing vulnerability to God as essential steps in the journey of faith. RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Nicole is taking time off this summer to enjoy her family and rest. In the meantime, we're re-airing one of her most popular series from the past year - enjoy! Your life is meant to change when you begin to follow Jesus. But for so many of us, that doesn’t happen. Why the disconnect? This series is all about unlocking the good life in Christ, and what it really means to be changed by him. Secrets of the Good Life Series: Week 1: The First Secret of the Good Life: Consider GodWeek 2: Confess and Receive: The Second Secret of the Good Life (Psalm 51)Week 3: How to Fight Fear: The Third Secret of the Good Life This week (week 4), we’re looking at what it means to really choose joy. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. If you want to know how to start your day out with God, here it is! “Always” – rejoicing is not limited to when everything is going well in our lives. Joy is not a feeling you have but a choice you make. “Gentleness” – the fruit of our time with God is a gentle spirit, our gentleness should be evident to other people. “Every situation” – nothing is too small “The peace of God… will guard your heart” – his peace will keep you from spiraling into anxiety, or stop you from trying to control everything WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Pastoral letters like Philippians give us a view of what’s happening in the church as more people believe and as Christianity is spreading. Pastoral letters set a direction for us. We do not need to be confused about who we are meant to become – the Word shows us. If you’re feeling down, or anxious, this is a great letter for you. The theme of joy echoes throughout Philippians, where Paul is making it clear that joy is based on trusting the sovereignty of God and is always available. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? What does it mean to choose joy? It is about rejoicing not in the circumstances but in who God is within the circumstances. Principle for the week: Joy comes from unshakable promises. Psalm 16:8: I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Isaiah 54:10: “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Romans 14:17: For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? We must separate happiness and joy. Joy comes from things that can never be taken away. Joy is a practice. Make a list! Who does God want you to become? From these verses, we would say “always rejoicing” and “gentle” – is that the intention of your lives? Year after year, are you growing in these things? Make another list – what promises of God can you rejoice in each day? What attributes of God can you rejoice in today? RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Note: Nicole is taking August off, so we're re-sharing one of her most popular series from the year - The Secrets of the Good Life. This is the third week in the series - be sure to go back and listen to the first two episodes! Have you ever wondered how your fear overlaps with other people’s fears? I think we’d find we are far more fearful that we realize. There is healthy fear, and unhealthy fear. One of the roles of Christianity is a new way to understand what fear is and how God helps us be confident even in the most trying circumstances. Today, we’re going to look at what God has given us to fight the fear in our lives. In a 2022 survey of Americans, almost 9 out of 10 reported daily anxiety about inflation, with over 60% reporting daily anxiety over everything from health to relationships to global events.  Our recent history as a culture is full of trials that tempt us toward fear, whether it presents itself as a low rumble of worry always operating in the background of our mind, or a crippling anxiety that controls our every decision. When it comes to fear, the Bible has good news and bad news for us. First, the bad news: fear is as present a reality today as it was when the Bible was written, and there is no promise that circumstances will improve in a way that would give us reason not to fear. But the good news? What God promises us is not deliverance from fearful circumstances, but deliverance from a fearful heart. In Genesis 50, Joseph’s first words for his brothers were “do not be afraid.” The good news Joseph gave to his brothers pales in comparison to the good news we find in Jesus, who repeatedly affirms that we do not need to be afraid. In Christ, we can live in uncertainty and still have peace. (For the 19-30% of Americans with an anxiety disorder, simply “trusting God” is not the answer to a complicated illness. If your anxiety interferes with your ability to lead a normal life, there are treatments that can help alongside of your spiritual practices). The secret of the good life is NOT that suffering won’t happen, but that we can be different people, people without fear, because of Christ. Verses This Week: John 14: 26-27:  But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. Deuteronomy 31:6-8: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Hebrews 13:5-7: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Practical Steps to Fight Fear: Watch out for what clutters your life. What we fear is often what we think we need to live in peace. Good things become ultimate things, Tim Keller says. When these good things become idols, we fear losing them so much we create anxiety around them. Practice contentment. This is like changing the channel in your brain and choosing to focus on what God has given you and his promises to you. Look for role models. Being in local community is so important for this reason. You need real, in the flesh human beings, who are role models for what it looks like to live out the Christian life.Remember: healthy fear is an instructor; unhealthy fear is a taskmaster. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Nicole is taking the last few weeks of summer off... in the mean time, we're running one of her most popular series. This is the second episode in the Good Life series. Enjoy! Today, we’re going to be working through Psalm 51, and we’re going to work through it as a devotional using the Alive Method. I encourage you to get out your bible and journal as you listen. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Notice what you notice. Write down what stands out to you – that is God speaking to you through his Word. That alone is a beginning of a conversation with the Spirit. In Psalm 51: David acknowledges specific sin He longs for restoration, asking for it (“grant me a willing spirit”) A willingness to talk about your sin to testify to the grace of God WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY? This is the psalm David wrote after his sin with Bathsheba (listen to our episode on this story). WHAT DOES IT MEAN? We cannot move into a place of joy and peace if we have unconfessed sin or thought patterns that do not align with the glory of God and the truth of his Word and promises to us. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? 1. Do you have a practice of regular confession? If you feel blocked or dull in your study of God’s Word, consider what you need to confess to God. What places do you live in fear, anxiety, self-pity, or self-hatred? Are you able to say, “This thought pattern in me, does not represent the glory of God.” (If you have a clinical thought pattern problem, you might need outside therapies! Or you may not have a clinical crisis but still carry stuck thought patterns). 2. After confession, we draw on God’s righteousness: A huge part of our faith is understanding that we throw ourselves onto the goodness of God, that we claim his character and his actions as the way we live and move (completely counter-cultural to the messages of today). I don’t have to claim to be righteous, I’m drawing on God’s righteousness. I need to own up to my mistakes and faulty and self-focused thinking. Two verses to memorize: Psalm 71:2: In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me; turn your ear to me and save me. 1 John 1:9: if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 3. The more we consider, confess, and spend time with Jesus, the more we love what we love and detest what he detests: As we hang out more with Jesus, we want to be more like Jesus. As we look at ourselves clearly and objectively, we are going to discover that we don’t like the ways of wickedness, bit by bit. Sure, we keep failing and falling, but our desires begin to be for what God desires. It’s hard to spend time with the creator of the universe and keep claiming that we oversee our reality and our view of the world IF we are willing to confess and receive. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Nicole is on a break for the next few weeks, so we're running some of her most popular episodes from the past year. Enjoy! What does the good life look like, according to Jesus? We have an opportunity to be a winsome follower of Jesus. If people were to see that hope in me and ask me about it, what would I say? How would I describe what the good news of Jesus is and the true, full life he offers us? The spiritual questions of this generation are centered on personal and societal pains, and how to choose joy, purpose and selflessness for the good of others. In this series, we’ll tackle these ideas and show how Jesus gives us the answers to our pressing questions about ourselves and the world. The first secret to a good life in our faith is to cultivate the posture of considering. To consider means a thoughtful engagement. It requires us to focus and pay attention. Psalm 8 – “When I consider the work of your hands.” We need to create space to be intentional about thinking. Most of us don’t make space to intentionally think, because when we do, it brings up negative feelings – anxiety, un-dealt with emotions, and places where we feel grief or loss or out of control. But when we disconnect from bad feelings, we disconnect from the good feelings of joy, hope, and love. To feel the fullness of joy, we also have to engage with the things that are difficult. Considering, then, is the first step to a more joyful life. What might this look like in our lives? Well, first, it might look like a 5-10 minute quiet walk or spending time to explore something outside of yourself and away from technological distractions. What our culture tends to do is look inside ourselves to find meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. This “Gospel according to Oprah” sounds so good but it doesn’t work. John 4:24 tells us a better way. “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” This is objective truth. Do you believe this? Your Practice For This Week: Consider – Who Is God? 1. Read how God reveals himself in creation: Job 38 2. Then, consider how God reveals himself through creation AND through his care for mankind: Isaiah 40:25-31 3. Finally, read Psalm 8:1-4, and consider how God reveals himself, is mindful of us, AND has provided dominion, glory, and honor to us. What does it mean for me? When I feel unsure about where I stand in the world or how to make my way through it, I need to practice God-centered mindfulness we are called to; not to reflect on our own problems but to consider the glory of God and then place ourselves within his glory. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the episode, Nicole emphasizes the importance of celebrating as a spiritual practice and its impact on experiencing life with freedom – celebration is God’s design for human flourishing. She explains that celebrating is not just a mindset, but also a practice. We work through a Bible study on Luke 15 to see God’s heart for celebration and why it’s a practice we ought to regularly engage in. WHAT DOES IT SAY?  Luke 15 – The Parable of the Prodigal Son The Younger Son - the son “came to his senses” – he the younger son was just released to himself. He was like released from his obligations and he found himself in this place where he's like, what am I doing? He finally names reality. The Father - runs to his son and restores his identity and honor before the son can even explain himself. We get this concept of like this guy, this kid, this young man doing everything wrong and being met with compassion and celebration. He also leaves the party to meet his older son – he gives the same care and compassion to both. The Older Son – Jesus is talking to the “older sons” – the Pharisees and Scribes. The punchline of the whole parable is the conversation with the older brother saying, look, didn't you don't can't you see we had to throw a party. This is worth celebrating and you can come to. WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY? The Old Testament deeply valued parties. If you read through the books of the law, through Leviticus, a lot of the directions are about all the parties that God wants to throw. If you look at how tithe was spent, right, you know, the 10 percent - when you give money, that was supposed to pay for three things specifically. It was supposed to support clergy and worship maintenance. You know, the workings of the temple. It was supposed to care for the poor and it was supposed to pay for all the awesome parties that they were supposed to throw in God's honor with God multiple times a year. What This Parable Teaches Us about the Spiritual Practice of Celebration What Jesus is saying is here's the Good News of God. The Father is throwing a party that will last forever. The God of the universe is throwing a divinely awesome party and he wants all his kids to be there. And that includes the selfish younger brothers and resentful older brothers. Won't you come to the party that the Father's throwing? That is how Jesus is painting the picture of what the gospel is, which means that celebration is actually fundamental to the heart of what the gospel is about, of what God has done in Jesus and what he's what he's completing through the work of Jesus on the cross and will complete in the new heaven and the new earth. You cannot take celebration out! “The more I considered Christianity, the more I found that while it had established a rule and order, the chief aim of that order was to give room for good things to run wild.” – G.K. Chesterton Celebration As a Spiritual Discipline – First, consider: Why do we struggle to believe that our God is a God of celebration? It is a form of trust to choose joy and celebrate what is good and pure in your life. It is a form of surrender to choose joy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you need refreshment? Do you need rest? Most people would say “yes.” We’re not talking entertainment or leisure here. We’re talking about deep, restorative rest. Join us this week as we work through a Bible study on the Sabbath, reading about how they worked out the Sabbath law in the Old and New Testaments, and learning how it was applied then, so we can look at how we can find deep, regular Sabbath rest today. WHAT DOES IT SAY? 23 One Sabbath day as Jesus was walking through some grainfields, his disciples began breaking off heads of grain to eat. 24 But the Pharisees said to Jesus, “Look, why are they breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath?” 25 Jesus said to them, “Haven’t you ever read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 26 He went into the house of God (during the days when Abiathar was high priest) and broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests are allowed to eat. He also gave some to his companions.” 27 Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!” - Mark 2:23-28 WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? 8 “Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 You have six days each week for your ordinary work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy. Exodus 20:8-11 Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath. - Mark 2:27 WHAT DOES IT MEAN?- The Sabbath honors God - The Sabbath is a command, but it’s not meant to create rules to break - The Sabbath is an opportunity, not an obligation WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? - From sundown to sundown - Sabbath rest from work - it’s meant to be a time of refreshment  - What does refreshment look like to you? (For me: Run, read, rest) RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the paradoxes of Jesus is that he lived a perfect life without sin and had perfect communion with his Father, yet he still needed to withdraw from ministry success and pray. This observation challenges the notion that rest and solitude are only necessary for those who are burnt out or overwhelmed. Instead, it suggests that even in the midst of busyness and productivity, intentional rest and solitude are essential for reconnecting with God and being who we are meant to be. RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the most fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith is that the Bible is God’s Word—and these words speak to us. The Scriptures spoke to generations before us, and will speak to generations after us until Christ returns. This is why we love to study the Scriptures inductively—taking into account the context of the text, making observations, drawing reasonable inferences, and applying these truths to our lives as the Holy Spirit guides us.   BEGIN WITH PRAYER  Begin in  prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to lead and guide your time today.   INTRO QUESTIONS Spend a few minutes reflecting on the past week. Think through the following questions: Were you able to spend time drafting a digital rule of life? If so, how did it go for you? What did you notice about your current digital habits? Did anything surprise you or give you pause? Was there anything you tried that you found helpful? Was there anything frustrating?   SCRIPTURE READING Read the following scripture passage: Psalm 119:9-16   APPLICATION Careful study of the Bible is essential to a healthy Christian life and community. And it is not the only way to let our lives be shaped by God’s Word and the Holy Spirit. Lectio divina, Latin for “divine reading,” is a devotional reading of Scripture that has existed for over 1,700 years. This practice emerged when literacy rates were low, and accessibility to written texts were few and far between. Communities of believers used this method to enable followers of Jesus—with or without a copy of the Bible (or an ability to read it)—to receive God’s Word and consider how to respond.   Practicing this spiritual discipline opens us up to more ways to hear from, experience, and respond to God—individually and communally. A benefit of lectio divina is that there is less temptation to read solely in order to consume information (a temptation to study inductively). In whatever way you interact with the Bible, Scripture is meant to be read with ears open to hear God’s voice through his Word and respond!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus brings quiet and stillness that's powerful and substantive. Jesus calms storms, metaphorical and spiritual and physical ones. We need his quieting power, especially in our digital lives.   What does your everyday life look like, particularly when it comes to your digital rhythms? This week, we're inviting you right into the place where it hurts and asking the question: how much are you scrolling? How much are you on your screens, any screens of any kind?   This isn’t about shame or guilt. Technology in it of itself is a bad thing. But what the digital age has done is numb us into a place of constant distraction where distraction is actually what feels like the norm.   So, you are as susceptible as anyone else to finding yourself numbed into distraction in a way that makes you continue to have a chaotic soul without the space to allow Jesus to come in and bring the kind of peace that he can. Now, it's not that Jesus can't master over anything. But Jesus is a gentleman. God is very invitational in nature. And that means that we must place ourselves in a position to hear from him.   Check out my free download to walk through these practices together:nicoleunice.com/spiritualpractices   WHAT DOES IT SAY?   Mark 4: Jesus Calms the Storm 35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Jesus brings peace out of chaos. Jesus calms storms. What storms is he trying to calm in your life? What are you avoiding right now that he wants to speak into? WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? The invitation: digital rhythm to allow silence and stillness. The place where Jesus could do the greatest work in your life, where you could experience the biggest miracles in your soul, the places of unforgiveness, the places of anxiety, a fear of lack of purpose, whatever that thing is for you right now, that thing that Jesus has command over is not commanded by your screen. And yet that's the thing we often use.  In a world of normalized digital addiction, disciples of Jesus remember the uncompromising words of Paul, “I will not be mastered by anything” (1 Cor. 6:12). Rather than allowing ourselves to circle the drain of the digital vortex, we instead “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Cor. 10:5).   RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out my free download to walk through these practices together:nicoleunice.com/spiritualpractices The right pace creates the right perspective. The right perspective is wisdom and peace. The purpose of our series:1. Take a minute to think about the pace of your own life. What do you notice?2. What does the way you spend your time say about what you care about the most?3. Is there any aspect of your life that feels overwhelming right now? What does that look like?4. Take a minute to reflect on your life with God. How would you describe it?5. If you could change something about your schedule, what would it be? Passage: Matthew 11Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.– Jesus, Matt. 11:28-30, The Message I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing.– Jesus, John 15:5, The Message What does it say?Rest and relationship are God’s priorities-recover your life? What does that mean to you? What’s the backstory?1-3 God, my shepherd!    I don’t need a thing.You have bedded me down in lush meadows,    you find me quiet pools to drink from.True to your word,    you let me catch my breath    and send me in the right direction.Psalm 23 You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless till they find their rest in You.– St. Augustine, Confessions, 1.1.1. What does it mean?The Christian life is meant to represent the fruit of the spiritOur Christian character is based on our Christ connection What does it mean for me?personal touch RESOURCES:Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive!Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.

It can be challenging to find time for rest and relaxation. We are often consumed with work, and the busyness of life makes it hard to slow down and connect with Jesus. However, it is essential to recognize that work and rest are complementary. They are not opposing forces, but rather two sides of the same coin that draw us back to the same source. In his new book, Sacred Strides, speaker, musician and coach Justin McRoberts explores the idea of work and rest and how they can be transcendent experiences that connect us with the heart of the divine. McRoberts argues that work is not the enemy, but rather, can bring us closer to God. He suggests that rest is not about divorcing ourselves from the world, but about disconnecting from the machinery that keeps us from having transcendent experiences. McRoberts' perspective is refreshing because it challenges the notion that work and rest are at odds with each other. It is not a matter of choosing one over the other, but rather finding congruence between the two. When we work from a place of rest, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from doing meaningful work. Conversely, when we rest from a place of work, we can recharge our batteries and reconnect with the divine. Work and rest are intertwined. There is a common belief that people are either good at resting or good at working, but this is a false dichotomy. Work and rest are complementary and that they are both necessary for a fulfilling life. Rest is essential for wholeness. It can be difficult to capture the balance. Many of us have been taught a narrative of being rescued from all the bad things in the world, including work. We have been conditioned by hustle culture to believe that our limitations are problematic and that we must constantly strive to do more. This narrative is not rooted in the biblical narrative of wholeness, which teaches that our limitations are actually part of what makes us human and that work can be a sacred and fulfilling practice. Rest is a necessary gift. The podcast emphasizes the importance of rest in our lives. It is not just a luxury but a necessary gift that we need to embrace to maintain our well-being. Rest is not just about taking a break from work, but it is also about finding joy in being present in the moment. It is about embracing our belovedness and allowing ourselves to be who we are. Belovedness destroys our need for success. Our belovedness annihilates the need for success. McRoberts argues that we live in a culture that glorifies success and achievement, which often leads to burnout and a sense of emptiness. He suggests that by embracing our belovedness, we can find a sense of wholeness that transcends the need for success. ABOUT JUSTIN: Justin McRoberts (born January 1, 1974) is an American author, speaker, retreat leader and songwriter from the San Francisco Bay area. McRoberts began his career writing and releasing two albums with 5 Minute Walk before the label disbanded in 2001. Since then, He has released eleven studio projects, several EPs, and three books. Check Out Justin’s New Book: Sacred Strides: The Journey to Belovedness in Work and Rest RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re wrapping up our time in the Sermon on the Mount – a part of scripture that is rich, profound, and full of depths to plumb. In a world that can make us feel ambivalent, this is what Jesus wants us to know about following him. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Our verses this week are Matthew 7:13-14: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” Is this a passage about salvation? How do I know if I have found the road? This passage lends itself to a lot of questions. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Psalm 1 – Jesus is bringing us back to this psalm – we can see how this sermon might be an expounding on this Psalm. Deuteronomy 30:19 – “I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse, therefore choose life…” Jesus would be speaking to people who understand the law and sets up two choices just like this verse does, blessings vs curses. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Our fruit is evidence of our salvation or lack thereof. Success is not the same as fruit. The unsparkly faithfulness and obedience are what looks like attractive fruit to him. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? Are you bearing fruit for the kingdom? Not the fruits of this world (success, wealth, fame) but the steady persevering fruit that makes you planted like a strong, sturdy oak tree. Are you bearing the aroma of Christ? Are people drawn to Christ because of you? If you feel like you are incapable of doing this, you might be just where God wants you. The invitation is generous and inclusive – anyone who comes to me, Jesus says – will have eternal life. ABOUT RACHEL: Rev. Rachel Toone joined Montreat College in July 2018 as the Dean of Spiritual Formation. She holds a B.A. in Theology from Whitworth University, an MDiv. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and she is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Trinity School for Ministry. Rev. Toone is an ordained teaching elder by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. When she is not working, Rev. Toone enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading old books. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Matthew 7, Jesus speaks of not judging others, of not giving away what is holy to dogs, and of seeking and asking the Father for help. These three points, when taken together, create a powerful message about how we should live our lives. This is the passage of scripture that liberates the church from experts. It’s not too hard to interpret, but it’s challenging to truly apply and live it out. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? First, Jesus speaks of not judging others. He says, “Do not judge so that you may not be judged, for with the judgment you make, you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get” (Matthew 7:1-2). This is a reversal of our natural tendency – to be lax on ourselves and critical of others. But Jesus wants us to believe the best in others. This is a reminder to us all that we should not be so quick to judge others. We should be careful to not be hypocrites, and instead, look at our own flaws before we point out those of others. Second, Jesus speaks of not giving away what is holy to dogs. He says, “Do not give what is holy to dogs and do not throw your pearls before swine or they will trample them underfoot and turn and maul you” (Matthew 7:6). This is a reminder to us to be careful about how we share our faith with others. We should not be so quick to share our beliefs with those who may not understand or appreciate them.  Finally, Jesus speaks of seeking and asking the Father for help. He says, “Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives” (Matthew 7:7-8). This is a reminder to us that we should not be afraid to ask for help. We should not be afraid to turn to the Lord for guidance and strength. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? 1. God wants to give good gifts, just full stop. When you come to Him in prayer, he wants to give you gifts. When you come to Him each day, He wants to give you gifts. Every day is ripe with the possibility of good gifts. What gifts is God giving you today? We often approach God as if I'm trying to get my act together. I'm trying to clean myself up. And God's saying, listen you love your children no matter what state they're in. Don't you think I love you so much more than that? 2. Are you loving others the way you want others to love you? The golden rule: in everything, do to others as you would have them do to you, for this is the law and the prophets. This might require some creativity. What do you want someone to do for you? And are you willing to do that thing?  ABOUT RACHEL: Rev. Rachel Toone joined Montreat College in July 2018 as the Dean of Spiritual Formation. She holds a B.A. in Theology from Whitworth University, an MDiv. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and she is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Trinity School for Ministry. Rev. Toone is an ordained teaching elder by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. When she is not working, Rev. Toone enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading old books. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus consistently shows us the importance of authenticity. And not in a cheap social media way; he wants the person on the inside to match the person on the outside. He wants your prayer life, your generosity, your spiritual disciplines, everything to be consistent inside and out. In this section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks to what is one of the most defining and important habits and practices, which is how we deal with money and how we deal with our anxieties, two closely related things. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Matthew 6:22-23 might throw you off simply because that's he's using a Jewish expression. He's talking about how the eyes are the lamp of the body. If your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. And if it's unhealthy or dark, you'll be body will be full of darkness. In this kind of Jewish idiom, a good eye meant you were generous, and a bad eye meant you were stingy. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Jesus links money and anxiety. How we spend money shows what we do and do not trust. We have more but are less happy than ever before. Nothing is more anxiety-producing than trying to put your identity in external things that you cannot control.  Jesus addresses this issue in his teachings on money and anxiety, calling us to focus on internal factors like connection and belonging, rather than external validation. Ultimately, dealing with money and anxiety is a heart issue, and we need to address the underlying causes of our anxiety to find true security and happiness. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? What are your “What shall we’s”? Our need for security and validation can only be met by God. He is the only one who can truly provide us with a sense of peace and assurance. Jesus tells us to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). In doing so, we will be directing our energy towards what is most important—our spiritual growth and investing in the kingdom of God. We can trust that God will provide all we need. God cares about us and our needs. He knows what we need and He is eager to provide it. We can trust Him to take care of us and provide for us. This is why Jesus tells us not to worry, but to put our trust in God. He will provide all we need. What promises of God do you need to cling to? The Bible is full of reminders of God's care and provision – which do you need to cling to? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” This is a reminder that even if we feel like we can't do something, God is with us and will provide. In Romans, we are reminded that “there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus.” This is a reminder that God loves us and will never leave us. In 1 John, we are reminded that “perfect love drives out fear.” This is a reminder that God's love is perfect, and He will always be with us. Consider the birds and the lilies. When we look around us, we can see God's care in action. He has provided us with the beauty of nature and the wonders of the world. He has created a world full of life and beauty, and He has provided us with the means to enjoy it. We can take time to appreciate the beauty of nature and the wonders of the world, and to remember that God cares for us and provides for us. ABOUT RACHEL: Rev. Rachel Toone joined Montreat College in July 2018 as the Dean of Spiritual Formation. She holds a B.A. in Theology from Whitworth University, an MDiv. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and she is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Trinity School for Ministry. Rev. Toone is an ordained teaching elder by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. When she is not working, Rev. Toone enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading old books. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you wake up anxious first thing in the morning? Does your mind race with thoughts of what you need to get done today and what you failed to do yesterday? If this is a pattern for you, we challenge you to break the morning cycle of worry with prayer! In this episode preview from Teach Us to Pray, host Christina Patterson shares what to pray in the morning for a worry-free day.   Discover More Episodes of Teach Us to Pray with Christina Patterson: 3 Signs God Is Trying to Get Your Attention: https://apple.co/3pmZYHN / https://spoti.fi/42uBdYS  How to Turn Your Worries into Prayers: https://apple.co/3I4FPgd / https://spoti.fi/3VTyWUO  How to Pray When You Sense God Moving You In a New Direction: https://apple.co/42tOrVJ / https://spoti.fi/3BoBwIJ  Why Prayer Is So Hard: https://apple.co/3pz8jZ9 / https://spoti.fi/3LUNSx9   Follow the Teach Us to Pray Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3NBnXgt Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3NXSghLSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Context: This is King Jesus’ Inaugural address. He starts with who belongs in the kingdom of God and builds on that to describe what those people are like on the outside (salt and light) and on the inside. Now, Jesus turns up the temperature – this is some of the hardest ethical teachings in world history. WHAT DOES IT SAY? “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” – Jesus means not only everything already spoken in the OT law, but also what he is about to discuss. Cf Galatians 3:24-26 24 So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. 25 Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian. 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith… “Until everything is accomplished” – cf Matthew 24:34: 34 Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? What’s the role of the OT in the lives of Jesus’ followers? We read ALL of Scripture through Jesus. He is the hermeneutical key – he is the one through whom we interpret the Bible through. God is consistent. What God desires for flourishing in the OT is the same in the NT. Jesus is fully interpreting the law, not changing it. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? Read the OT! You will understand Jesus and your faith in new ways through it! Jesus raises the bar on how precious humanity is. ABOUT RACHEL: Rev. Rachel Toone joined Montreat College in July 2018 as the Dean of Spiritual Formation. She holds a B.A. in Theology from Whitworth University, an MDiv. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and she is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Trinity School for Ministry. Rev. Toone is an ordained teaching elder by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. When she is not working, Rev. Toone enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading old books. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Salt and Light make everything better. Do you make every room better that you come into? Want more from Nicole? Sign up for Nicole’s free newsletter: nicoleunice.com/realtalk WHAT DOES IT SAY? Matthew 5:13-16: 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 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. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Properties of Salt and Light: Two normal things that most people like and have around them. Specific Properties of Salt: A mineral that our bodies need. Makes bland food good. It amplifies all other flavors around it Specific Properties of Light: Illuminates what is around you. You’re not looking at the light, you’re looking at what the light is shining on. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Questions to ask the text: What Does it Mean That God’s People Are Salt and Light? We are useful in the kingdom of God. “You are the Light of the World” Cf John 8:12 – Jesus says he is the light of the world. We are called to be like Jesus! WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? Questions to Self-Examine Yourself With: How does the world experience you? How do you show up in a room? Are you making your environment better? The motive is NOT “I’ve got to level up, I’ve got to be better” – the call is “Man, look what God has done, I want to opt into that.” Lord, help us be aware of what it means to be a citizen in the kingdom of Heaven. ABOUT RACHEL: Rev. Rachel Toone joined Montreat College in July 2018 as the Dean of Spiritual Formation. She holds a B.A. in Theology from Whitworth University, an MDiv. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and she is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Trinity School for Ministry. Rev. Toone is an ordained teaching elder by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. When she is not working, Rev. Toone enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading old books. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Nicole and her friend Rev. Rachel dive into Matthew 5 together and discuss the implications of the greatest sermon ever told. For now, the invitation is just to read the Sermon of the Mount. Let it sit with you. Don’t worry about perfect understanding. Over the coming weeks, we will dive deep and unlock interpretation and application. Want more from Nicole? Sign up for Nicole’s free newsletter: nicoleunice.com/realtalk WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY? Let’s set the context for the sermon of the mount. What happens right before chapter 5? (How to Study the Bible Tip) When you don’t understand a phrase in scripture, often you can use cross references to get a better sense of what is going on. Matthew 4:23: “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. Jesus is sharing the good news of the kingdom, and how you access that kingdom. He is embodying it before he explains it. He is reversing everything that sin and death have done by going into these villages and healing the sick. He is giving people back whole life in this action, and then he switches to teaching about what full life looks like in him. Matthew is writing to Jews. He is building directly on important Old Testament references. The cross-references will help you interpret Matthew correctly! The listeners would have made connections between what Jesus was preaching and their knowledge of Moses’ law and the themes of the Prophets. The first words out of his mouth would have alluded to the Psalms. So the whole of the Old Testament – the Law, the Prophets and the Wisdom writings – are all packed in. Read Psalm 1 as a key connection to what it means to be blessed in the kingdom of God. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Blessed – clearly, blessed means something different here than it does in our current, Instagram hashtag way of describing it. In Psalm 1, the Hebrew word for blessed means going the right way. We are blessed when we are going the right direction into the kingdom of God. Jesus reframes what it means to go the right way. The grace and sweetness of Jesus’ assurance: Jesus’ calling is pointing to an attitude of the heart more than an action step. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR ME? The invitation of the beatitudes: don’t turn away from God when you’re weary, worn and broken. We want to avoid the disposition of desperation, but that is where Jesus meets us. ABOUT RACHEL: Rev. Rachel Toone joined Montreat College in July 2018 as the Dean of Spiritual Formation. She holds a B.A. in Theology from Whitworth University, an MDiv. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and she is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Trinity School for Ministry. Rev. Toone is an ordained teaching elder by the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. When she is not working, Rev. Toone enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading old books. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today it is my great privilege to talk with author Kelly Balarie about her latest book, Take Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy for the Mind of Christ ABOUT KELLY: Kelly is a speaker, blogger, and author of the books Fear Fighting and Battle Ready. She comes alongside women to help them live wholeheartedly, rather than in uncertainty, fear, and doubt. Her work has been featured on The Today Show, The 700 Club, Moody Radio and many other television and radio broadcasts.  Visit Kelly at www.purposefulfaith.com or on Instagram at www.instagram.com/kellybalarie RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re a parent, you might have several of Sandy’s books on your shelves! Sandy is the award-winning creator of the Great Bible Adventure children’s series, several joke books for kids, The Best Worst Dad Jokes, and Kids' Big Questions for God. He says, “There’s something about children – their innocence and trust – I truly believe that that’s why Jesus said we need to become child-like to enter the Kingdom of God.” On this episode, Sandy and Nicole talk about a number of things, including: The great responsibility of children’s ministry Sandy’s creative process and how his latest book has come together The questions kids have about God and why God delights in our questions How does God hear all our prayers at once? Why doesn’t God just make all of us follow him? How Jesus opens up the door for us to go to heaven Why, oh why, did God make mosquitoes?! FIND KIDS' BIG QUESTIONS FOR GOD - https://sandysilverthornebooks.com/book/kids-big-questions-for-god/ https://www.amazon.com/Kids-Big-Questions-God-Things/dp/0800741765 ABOUT SANDY: Sandy Silverthorne is a children’s illustrator and author; whose mission is to help parents and grandparents discover fun Bible stories and Bible lessons to share with the kids in their lives. His goal is to make God’s Word come alive and be easy to understand for kids. Sandy has worked as a cartoonist, author, illustrator, actor, pastor, speaker, and comedian. Apparently, it's hard for him to focus. Connect with him at www.sandysilverthornebooks.com. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus has not only beaten death and fulfilled all the promises he said he would, but he is telling us that our greatest purpose in life is the way we pass along our faith to others, and how we baptize and disciple them. This is the commission of the church. We are wrapping up our Jesus 101 series this week by looking closely at Jesus’ resurrection and what it means for us. Want more from Nicole? Sign up for Nicole’s free newsletter: nicoleunice.com/realtalk WHAT DOES IT SAY? This week we are diving deep into Matthew 28 – the Resurrection and the events that immediately followed for his disciples and the women who followed him to the cross and beyond. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?  “Women were filled with joy” - The marker of belief is joy. When you are getting close to the goodness of God, you will experience joy. Joy is a hallmark of the Christian faith. The good news of the gospel, when understood, always brings joy. “Clasped his feet and worshipped him”- This is huge for our theological understanding! Jesus accepts worship of himself. It’s very clear in the Jewish tradition that God is one God, and you cannot worship anything or anyone other than God (1st Commandment). For a Jewish teacher to receive personal worship would have been completely offensive to their faith and a violation of the law. This is one more piece of evidence that Jesus is not a mere prophet or mystic, but is the Son of God – fully God and also fully man. The Great Commission - Jesus allows worship but also tells them not to hold onto him (John 21) but to go and tell others about him. In setting the disciples’ purpose, he sets our purpose as well. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? 1. Want to do a diagnostic test on your faith, ask yourself: Am I experiencing joy today? If the answer is no, ask God to remove what might be blocking you from experiencing the joy of the gospel. You can have pain and sadness and still have joy. This deep joy is knowing that everything Jesus says about himself is true. 2. Jesus has commissioned you into the kingdom of God, so you can invite others into the Kingdom. I.e., 1 Peter 3:15: “Always give a reason for the hope that you have.” This is our greatest purpose in life – how we pass along our faith. Our faith is not a private endeavor. Are you living in the joy of your salvation, are you speaking about that joy? 3. We have to pray and seek God’s wisdom to know how to apply what God has spoken into the specific lives of those he has called us to. If you are interacting with a life, God has called you to that person. In the way you pray for and interact with that person, God has a purpose. God-willing, if you are living out that joyful good news, you are going to have opportunities to share the reason for the joy that you have. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected]  FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Has the true story of the cosmic reality of what Jesus has done for us on the cross and through his resurrection been lost on you? Has the story grown stale? My prayer is this passion week, you might here something in this chapter you haven’t noticed before, and remember the joy your salvation. This is week 4 of our Jesus 101 series, where we look at 5 foundational movements of Christ. Be sure to go back and listen to weeks 1,2 and 3! You can find full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ Free Resource: check out and sign up for Nicole’s newsletter: nicoleunice.com/realtalk WHAT DOES IT SAY? This week, listen to Nicole read Luke 23:1-43 and perhaps read it aloud to yourself or your family. The darkness of humanity is on display. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Pilot and Herod – power players in this passage. They almost play with Jesus like he’s an object. The crowd – would have been some of the same people who were fed by him on the hillside, heard his teachings, put palm branches down for him – has now turned on him. Barabbas – an actual criminal. Jesus, the innocent one literally takes the place of the guilty one. The passion of Christ is to take the sin and guilt of the world upon himself, even for those who do not know what he is doing. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Often the temptations and trials that come to us are meant to prepare us for a future moment of greater temptation. Jesus’ temptation by Satan (that we discussed earlier in the series) prepares him for his encounter with Herod. We are a fickle kind of people. We are swayed by power and fear. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? In the darkest that the world has to offer, Jesus is still so close. He is taking the punishment for your sin, the weight of sin for you, so that we can be with him in paradise. Fall upon his mercy, even though you don’t deserve it. Jesus remembers you, you are blessed. What kind of person comes to Jesus? See 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 26 For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. 30 And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” Are you willing to accept Jesus on his terms? RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we come to the end of ourselves, we enter the blessing of God. This is week 3 of our Jesus 101 series. Be sure to go back and listen to weeks 1 and 2! You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ Free Resource: check out and sign up for Nicole’s newsletter: nicoleunice.com/realtalk RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What type of mindset makes us vulnerable to chronic stress, anxiety & depression? When you are stressed, what automatic coping mechanisms have you adopted that don’t help, but diminish your wellness?  What holds you back from getting the rest that you need when you’re stressed?   In this episode from Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast (another free show from LifeAudio), soul care coach Bonnie shares how to ditch mindsets that keep you stuck in anxiety, worry, and stress and what you can do to stop the stress, when you need it most. This episode will help you let go of unhealthy thinking patterns and replace them with a healthy biblical mindset to create a new rhythm to stop the stress cycle.   DISCOVER MORE EPISODES OF BREATHE: THE STRESS LESS PODCAST FROM BONNIE GRAY: Is Self-Care or Soul-Care Selfish or Unspiritual? - https://apple.co/40lhHxb / https://spoti.fi/3FIg305  How to Stop Numbing Your Emotions & Stop Negative Self-Talk with Jesus - https://apple.co/405mcvz / https://spoti.fi/3Z2b0hP  Feeling Anxious? Cast Your Cares on God Because He Cares For You - https://apple.co/3FHsQA5 / https://spoti.fi/3ZWQb8R    LINKS & RESOURCES: Take the Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your FREE personal wellness assessment – to learn which areas of wellness you’re missing most to flourish with God’s peace and joy in your life. Grab Bonnie’s new book to lower stress, Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Join the FREE Breathe Wellness Book Club to tackle for areas of wellbeing: emotional, physical, spiritual, and social wellness at http://thebonniegray.com/breathe. Get 4 LIVE sessions + community support! Want scientific articles mentioned in today’s show? Sign up for the FREE Breathe newsletter https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Get Bonnie’s FREE 7 Prayers & Scriptures to Calm Anxiety here!   FOLLOW BONNIE: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thebonniegray Facebook: https://facebook.com/thebonniegray Website: http://www.thebonniegray.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every time you fail, God’s grace outruns your failure. He is ultimately merciful, so don’t let your failure separate you from God. That’s what the enemy wants you to do. What God wants you to know is that he is always willing to welcome you back, he is always ready to embrace you. Come back to him today. This is Week 2 of our Jesus 101 series. Be sure to go back and listen to Week 1! You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ Free Resource: check out and sign up for Nicole’s newsletter: nicoleunice.com/realtalk WHAT DOES IT SAY? Matthew 4 Right after his baptism, Jesus is led into the wilderness, fasts for 40 days and nights, and is tempted by the devil. He endures three temptations, and then angels came and ministered to him. Three temptations – what is the enemy really tempting Jesus with? The first temptation - Satisfy your appetite (v 3). Make yourself feel good right now. We don’t want to wait for God, we want to remove discomfort. The second temptation – Show your approval (v 5). Prove you have God’s approval, do it yourself. The third temptation – Choose a shortcut to authority (v 8). “What you want to see happen in the world, I can make happen… just make this one concession.” WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Deuteronomy 8:1-5 Jesus’ desert temptations echo back to the Israelites’ wandering in the desert for 40 years after the exodus. Those years were marked by constant disobedience and complaining. God’s people were incapable of doing what God commanded them to do. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Jesus did what God’s people could not do when tested: he stayed obedient to the Father. In this way, he is the new and better Moses. How he overcomes temptation is a blueprint for how we – the new Israel - can overcome temptation. If Jesus was tempted, we will be too. You’ll be tempted to make a shortcut for your appetites, to prove yourself, and you’ll be tempted to find life outside of God. All temptations will pass over time. When we resist, the enemy leaves. We need to know God’s Word AND God’s intent. The enemy can use Scripture against us. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? Perhaps we can expect that after mountaintop moments, temptations will follow. Will we allow God to teach us in both places? How are we experiencing the grace of God, abounding more and more? The Enemy always wants humans separated from God. He wants us to bow down to him, not God. Soul death is giving our lives away to something that does not have life in it. To give our lives away to worship anything that is not God. Study the Bible and pray regularly so you can understand God’s intent and discern when the enemy is tempting you. Expect trial & trouble (John 16:33) We do have a real enemy, who is persistent but not that creative. Most temptations will come to us in the form of shortcuts: satisfying our own appetites, seeking approval, or choosing a shortcut for authority.  Questions to ask this week: Am I shortcutting my life apart from God? Am I moving toward more or less dependence on God? Am I using pride, satisfying myself with comforts that keep me numb to my longings and hunger for God? Or am I showing up expectant, asking God to meet my needs and satisfy me? RESOURCES: Read: Anonymous by Alicia Britt Chole Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can you believe that the God of the universe knows you? He knows your sin and limitations, and yet loves you beyond what we can imagine. He gives us belonging, he gives us his acceptance, he gives us his approval. Which one of those do you need to believe is true? As we approach Easter, we’re getting back to the basics of Jesus' life, the movements of his earthly ministry that lead to his death and resurrection. He has moved in this world and is moving in our lives as well. This week, we’re looking at Matthew 3 and the story of Jesus’ baptism. You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? For the first 30 years of Jesus’ life, he had a quiet life. Now he’s stepping into the spotlight, into his calling. Meanwhile, John, a righteous Jew who is seeking the Messiah as foretold in the Old Testament. is preaching in the desert. People are coming to him to be baptized – a common cleansing rite that many kinds of religious orders would have participated in. WHAT DOES IT SAY? We learn at least three groups of people approaching John. He calls them to bear the fruit of repentance. Some were being baptized and repenting, others were standing around watching (judging?) Then Jesus walks up. John doesn’t want to baptize him, knowing he is not worthy. But Jesus insists – he is obedient to the Father. “This is my son” – there is connection and belonging “whom I love” – there is acceptance “with whom I am well pleased” – there is approval WHAT DOES IT MEAN? All the prophecies of the Old Testament are coming to fulfillment in Jesus. This is an incredibly important moment, where God offers Jesus his full belonging, acceptance, and approval. Jesus was beloved, and that same standing is conferred (given, transferred) to us when we believe: “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Cor 5:21) WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? Before we can do anything or approve anything, God gives us belonging, acceptance and approval. If you believed this to be absolutely true for you, what would change? RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it look like to live wisely? When you don’t know what to do, go find a commandment of God, and say to yourself, “I can work on this in my life today.” We never outgrow God’s Word. At the end of the day, we are all to “fear God, and keep his commands.” You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ WHAT DOES IT MEAN? If you just read these words as they are, you’re going to read them literally or it’s all going to go over your head. So, in order to unlock meaning, we need context. We need basic hermeneutic skills – that’s a fancy word that just means bible interpretation skills. Here are four basic interpretation principles for passages of scripture that are hard to interpret: Return to main themes – you can use the intro to the book of Ecclesiastes in your study notes to help with this. Look for repeating ideas – helps us to come back to the big picture Consider context & tone – if I don’t understand a passage, I might consider re-reading it in a different tone. (10:19 in this example – can be read ironically, with a wink) Zoom out – zoom way out to what you know is true, where else can I read to interpret the trickier passages. In this passage, we’re thinking of authority structures in the world. The Teacher might be drawing his listeners back to the history of their government. “Eat, drink and be merry because money is the answer to everything” – that’s the way of the world. Yet, “Don’t revile the king” – you are going to have to live in the world, the way the world works. But you need to live uprightly amid that. Cross Reference: Romans 13 “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.”  WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? I heard it said, “You should be known for what you are for.” When you look at suffering or problems or leadership in the world, yes we want to judge wisely, but we also want to ask the question, “How then should I live?” and “What does wise look like here?” Wrapping Up the Book As we wrap up Ecclesiastes, let’s head to the conclusion of the book - Chapter 12 (v 13): Now all has been heard;     here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments,     for this is the duty of all mankind. Applying the Book of Ecclesiastes to Our Lives: Fear God. Live with a reverent sense of who God is. Worship him in his holiness. Keep His Commandments. When you don’t know what to do, go find a commandment of God and work on living it out. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected]  FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You and I were made for righteousness. But sin entered in and created brokenness beyond repair, and it has caused us to seek out many different schemes to make ourselves feel okay. Today, we return to what we are focusing on throughout the book: How do we make sense of a dark and broken, and complicated world in light of God’s promises and goodness? You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ The preacher addresses three different concepts in Ecclesiastes 7: First - The Role of Sadness in Our Lives (7:2-5) What really brings wisdom? What helps us grow as people? The reality is, pleasure and good times don’t grow us. None of us like hard times, but we grow in those times. So allow the hard things to teach you to number your days. It will move you toward a greater purpose. The things that move and break our hearts are sometimes the places where God calls us to be activated. Second - Conflict and the Reality of People (7:8-9; 21-22) How do we live well in relationship with people? Set an intention for what you want to have come out of conflict (being patient is better than pride). We get so caught up in being right, heard, or getting our way. If we take lightly what people say about us, we acknowledge that everyone (including ourselves) is broken, hurting people. Are you focused on getting to the resolution of the conflict, or are you focused on being right? Are you easily angered and provoked? How is your patience – are you showing up with a spirit of listening? How are you doing with forgiving – are you able to let go of small slights? Third: True Righteousness (7:27-29) This is challenging scripture. He’s laying out an axiom – an accepted truth – that there is no one on earth who is righteous. This is one of the mega themes of the Bible. Why is it written out like this? Perhaps to draw out this idea of the rarity of righteousness. It might be a literary technique to gather up a statement of wisdom. But there is nowhere in scripture where it says that women are morally inferior to men. What it does say is that all humanity is broken beyond repair: “none are righteous.” The preacher is preaching the gospel! WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? Allow the hard things to teach you to number your days. Engaging in the reality about yourself and others is true humility and the beginning of wisdom. The message of the gospel rings through scripture, and Jesus is our answer. Additional Scripture to Meditate on This Week: Romans 5 Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected]  FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever struggled with being content? Have you ever had that little thought in your mind, “if only I had more, if I only had that thing, then I would be at peace.” Today, we’re talking about the superpower of contentment for your lives. This ancient Scripture is incredibly relevant for our age, as we wrestle with our own contentment and the American Dream culture in which we live. Truly, our whole lives are absolutely bombarded with the message that there is just one more thing around the corner. That if you experience contentment, you will get peace and experience contentment. But is that true? Let’s examine this in light of what the teacher of Ecclesiastes tells us about contentment. You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ Ecclesiastes 5 -  “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.” The teacher is saying, “If you love money, you’re never going to have enough of it.” Money is a tool that has a lot of power to corrupt us. One of the ways it corrupts us is in our belief that we can buy our contentment and fulfillment.   “As goods increase, so do those who consume them.And what benefit are they to the ownersexcept to feast their eyes on them? The sleep of a laborer is sweet,whether they eat little or much,but as for the rich, their abundancepermits them no sleep.” It might seem like it would be better to have more money, but in reality, there’s something about a simple life that makes it easier to rest in the world. “Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart.” The secret of contentment according to these verses: The ability to enjoy what we have The ability to accept our lot in life The ability to be happy in our toil (work) It’s all in our mindset and attitude. Our ability to be satisfied with the life we have is the secret of contentment. How then can I be content? Philippians 4:11-13: “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”  Contentment is in this: When our identity is squarely with Christ. When our understanding of life is based on what Christ has said makes a good life. When we open our eyes and say, “I am happy because I get to worship God. I am happy with what he has given me and where he has settled me, I am happy with the work I have today.” When we do this, we’re humbly placing ourselves before God, aligning our hearts and lives with his plan for us. 1 Timothy 6:6 - Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. What Does This Mean for Me? Examine your relationship with money. Have you held onto it too tightly? Has money made you happy? Do you need to redefine money and your relationship with it? Am I living with contentment? Am I entering this day thanking God, satisfied with where he has placed me? If the answer is no, one next step is confession – “God, I know I’m not settled, I know I don’t bring contentment to my world and life – will you help me grow in that area?” RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ecclesiastes is a book designed to provoke emotion and get us thinking. The preacher – probably Solomon – wrote this to make sense of a good God in a broken and dark world. In this section, he ponders what it means to number our days wisely. You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ Bible Reading Tip: When we read the bible, we should look for the tone and emotion of the author, as well as the words and structure. In wisdom literature, like Ecclesiastes, we need to see the poetic, literary form that the wisdom is held in. Part 1: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - Understanding Time Turn, turn, turn by The Byrds - they took these words from Ecclesiastes and made it into a hit song and anthem of a volatile age (1965). Our time is short, full of ups and downs, full of work, and also time to rest. There are times when things are falling apart, and when things are coming together. Application: What would it look like to open your hands and heart and say, “I want to live fully in the day I have”? What season are you in? Is there room for both sides of what is presented here? Joy, and also grief? Work, but also rest? Tearing down, but also building up? We want to avoid lopsided living. Pray to understand what season your loved ones are in as well. Ask God to give you discernment to see and understand where loved ones are, and give them grace and compassion for the place they are in. Part 2: Ecclesiastes 3:9-15 – Our Experience of Time, God’s Experience of Time “What do workers gain from their toil?” [cf: Genesis 1-3] – we’re trying to figure out work, with knowledge of good and evil, in a way that we can’t fully comprehend. But God knows the whole story. God knows all and is above and beyond time, and therefore is the one we can trust. Rightly numbering our days and seasons leads to a content and peaceful human life. Application: Allow seasons to come. Trust that our God is good and sovereign. He knows what is happening in your life and therefore, you can trust him. We have to come to a settled acceptance that there are things God sees and knows that we ourselves will never understand. We want to control things. But we must cede control. This is how we find freedom. Cf: Psalm 90:12: Teach us to number our days, so that we may gain a heart of wisdom. God, who knows all and is beyond time, is the one we can trust. Rightly numbering our days and seasons leads to a content and peaceful human life. “I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.” What time are you in? What would it look like to live rightly just today? And then trust the rest of your days to the Lord who loves you, knows you, and who already sees how everything is playing out. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ecclesiastes is a complicated book. It’s meant to be provocative. It’s meant to be emotional, to create emotion in you. It’s meant to raise questions. Ecclesiastes means assembly. Most people think it’s written by Solomon. You can think of it as a preacher’s manifesto. The opening line is “vanity of vanities, all is vanity." Vanity of vanities is repeated 38 times in this book! The meaning of which becomes clearer as we go along. The literal meaning is’ vapor.’ Something that dissipates. It’s okay if you can’t immediately interpret everything in Ecclesiastes. Right now, we want to hear it, Step back and read a larger portion, and see what the larger theme is. The theme of Ecclesiastes might be, ‘what is the good life?’ What is man meant to get out of the world, in his vapor of time on it? You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ Section 1: Finding Life in Wisdom What does man gain? This is the journey of the book. How do we make sense of a dark and broken and complicated world considering God’s promises and goodness? What is it like to wrestle with the concept that life does not always improve? What do we do when righteousness doesn’t lead to blessing and goodness? All the frameworks we use to make sense of the world are being inspected and attacked here. “Vanity of Wisdom” v 18 – in much wisdom is much vexation, he who increases wisdom, increases sorrow. The preacher is willing to address the flip side of wisdom. Solomon asked for wisdom, sought it out, gained it – and he admits, it’s a mixed bag. As you grow in wisdom, you can grow in sorrow. “Vexation” – sad and angry. We might call this an existential crisis – the more you know about the world, instead of finding hope, you find sorrow. Everything can be hard. There’s a plus and a minus to everything in life, even wisdom. Section 2: Finding Life in Self-Indulgence The preacher tried wisdom, it led to sorrow, so he turns to pleasure to see what it can offer him. He found this was all also vanity. 2:4: “I made great works” – he became great through his work. This shows we can do good things with the wrong motive too, if we are trying to find life in them. If you want these things to hold the weight of your life, you will be greatly disappointed. “There was nothing to be gained under the sun.” What emotions come up when you hear this? What do you wrestle with? What’s your response? Takeaway Lesson: 2:12-13 After considering the vanity of wisdom and the vanity of self-indulgence, he decides both are a mixed bag, but still, it’s better to be wise than foolish. “There is more gain in light than darkness.” The pastor is refreshingly honest about it all. When we move toward the light, it doesn’t take away everything hard, but it’s still way better than being in the dark. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE: Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we’re exploring the highest call we have in following Jesus: what it means to crucify the self. Why does the call to Christ have to seem so wholesale, so violent, so destructive to ourselves? Why does following Christ have to feel like a death? How do we reconcile being made in the image of God with this sense that we are worthless? Let’s explore all of that together today. You can find the full show notes at https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/ Secrets of the Good Life Series: Week 1: The First Secret of the Good Life: Consider GodWeek 2: Confess and Receive: The Second Secret of the Good Life (Psalm 51)Week 3: How to Fight Fear: The Third Secret of the Good Life Week 4: Joy Is Not a Feeling You Wait For; It’s a Choice You Make (Philippians 4:4-7) Galatians 6:14 14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. WHAT DOES IT SAY? What questions does it generate in me? If you try to re-write this in your own words, what do you come up with? What is Paul trying to get us to see and understand in this analogy? WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Is this a train of thought or a point of teaching that we find repeated in Scripture?  Cross references: 1 Corinthians 2:2; Philippians 3, Romans 6:6 WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Let’s put these cross-references together to get a clearer picture of what Paul is talking about: 1 Corinthians 2:2-5: For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified… so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power. There are two systems at work in the world: human wisdom and human strength, and then there is this whole other system: God’s power Philippians 3:3-9 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— though I myself have reasons for such confidence… But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.  According to the system of the world, Paul had everything. But after Christ, everything worldly is considered garbage. Not only are there two systems in the world, but having operated in both, he finds system of Christ so good that everything else seems like a loss. Romans 6:6-7 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—  because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. When we die to the way of the world, we are no longer slaves to the things the world demands. You don’t have to be or earn or prove anything. How do we enter this completely different system through the cross of Jesus Christ? This is where the sacrament of communion comes in. “His body was broken so that we can have access to God through him.” But there is a cost to us. We don’t just enter this new system without a cost – and the cost is that we crucify the self. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? To crucify self is to let go of an entire system of action and being and feeling, and to enter into an entirely different system. This system is so glorious, so freeing and so powerful, that you will look back on your old self and think, “I can’t believe I used to operate that way. I operated in bondage to what people thought of me, to achievement, to unforgiveness and bitterness and anger.” When we crucify that old self, we crucify these things in the old system. When we sacrifice that system of living, we find there is only freedom on the other side. Romans 12:22 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your life is meant to change when you begin to follow Jesus. But for so many of us, that doesn’t happen. Why the disconnect? This series is all about unlocking the good life in Christ, and what it really means to be changed by him. Secrets of the Good Life Series: Week 1: The First Secret of the Good Life: Consider GodWeek 2: Confess and Receive: The Second Secret of the Good Life (Psalm 51)Week 3: How to Fight Fear: The Third Secret of the Good Life This week (week 4), we’re looking at what it means to really choose joy. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. If you want to know how to start your day out with God, here it is! “Always” – rejoicing is not limited to when everything is going well in our lives. Joy is not a feeling you have but a choice you make. “Gentleness” – the fruit of our time with God is a gentle spirit, our gentleness should be evident to other people. “Every situation” – nothing is too small “The peace of God… will guard your heart” – his peace will keep you from spiraling into anxiety, or stop you from trying to control everything WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Pastoral letters like Philippians give us a view of what’s happening in the church as more people believe and as Christianity is spreading. Pastoral letters set a direction for us. We do not need to be confused about who we are meant to become – the Word shows us. If you’re feeling down, or anxious, this is a great letter for you. The theme of joy echoes throughout Philippians, where Paul is making it clear that joy is based on trusting the sovereignty of God and is always available. WHAT DOES IT MEAN? What does it mean to choose joy? It is about rejoicing not in the circumstances but in who God is within the circumstances. Principle for the week: Joy comes from unshakable promises. Psalm 16:8: I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Isaiah 54:10: “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Romans 14:17: For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? We must separate happiness and joy. Joy comes from things that can never be taken away. Joy is a practice. Make a list! Who does God want you to become? From these verses, we would say “always rejoicing” and “gentle” – is that the intention of your lives? Year after year, are you growing in these things? Make another list – what promises of God can you rejoice in each day? What attributes of God can you rejoice in today? RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered how your fear overlaps with other people’s fears? I think we’d find we are far more fearful that we realize. There is healthy fear, and unhealthy fear. One of the roles of Christianity is a new way to understand what fear is and how God helps us be confident even in the most trying circumstances. Today, we’re going to look at what God has given us to fight the fear in our lives. In a 2022 survey of Americans, almost 9 out of 10 reported daily anxiety about inflation, with over 60% reporting daily anxiety over everything from health to relationships to global events.  Our recent history as a culture is full of trials that tempt us toward fear, whether it presents itself as a low rumble of worry always operating in the background of our mind, or a crippling anxiety that controls our every decision. When it comes to fear, the Bible has good news and bad news for us. First, the bad news: fear is as present a reality today as it was when the Bible was written, and there is no promise that circumstances will improve in a way that would give us reason not to fear. But the good news? What God promises us is not deliverance from fearful circumstances, but deliverance from a fearful heart. In Genesis 50, Joseph’s first words for his brothers were “do not be afraid.” The good news Joseph gave to his brothers pales in comparison to the good news we find in Jesus, who repeatedly affirms that we do not need to be afraid. In Christ, we can live in uncertainty and still have peace. (For the 19-30% of Americans with an anxiety disorder, simply “trusting God” is not the answer to a complicated illness. If your anxiety interferes with your ability to lead a normal life, there are treatments that can help alongside of your spiritual practices). The secret of the good life is NOT that suffering won’t happen, but that we can be different people, people without fear, because of Christ. Verses This Week: John 14: 26-27:  But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. Deuteronomy 31:6-8: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Hebrews 13:5-7: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Practical Steps to Fight Fear: Watch out for what clutters your life. What we fear is often what we think we need to live in peace. Good things become ultimate things, Tim Keller says. When these good things become idols, we fear losing them so much we create anxiety around them. Practice contentment. This is like changing the channel in your brain and choosing to focus on what God has given you and his promises to you. Look for role models. Being in local community is so important for this reason. You need real, in the flesh human beings, who are role models for what it looks like to live out the Christian life.Remember: healthy fear is an instructor; unhealthy fear is a taskmaster. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we’re going to be working through Psalm 51, and we’re going to work through it as a devotional using the Alive Method. I encourage you to get out your bible and journal as you listen. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Notice what you notice. Write down what stands out to you – that is God speaking to you through his Word. That alone is a beginning of a conversation with the Spirit. In Psalm 51: David acknowledges specific sin He longs for restoration, asking for it (“grant me a willing spirit”) A willingness to talk about your sin to testify to the grace of God WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY? This is the psalm David wrote after his sin with Bathsheba (listen to our episode on this story). WHAT DOES IT MEAN? We cannot move into a place of joy and peace if we have unconfessed sin or thought patterns that do not align with the glory of God and the truth of his Word and promises to us. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? 1. Do you have a practice of regular confession? If you feel blocked or dull in your study of God’s Word, consider what you need to confess to God. What places do you live in fear, anxiety, self-pity, or self-hatred? Are you able to say, “This thought pattern in me, does not represent the glory of God.” (If you have a clinical thought pattern problem, you might need outside therapies! Or you may not have a clinical crisis but still carry stuck thought patterns). 2. After confession, we draw on God’s righteousness: A huge part of our faith is understanding that we throw ourselves onto the goodness of God, that we claim his character and his actions as the way we live and move (completely counter-cultural to the messages of today). I don’t have to claim to be righteous, I’m drawing on God’s righteousness. I need to own up to my mistakes and faulty and self-focused thinking. Two verses to memorize: Psalm 71:2: In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me; turn your ear to me and save me. 1 John 1:9: if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 3. The more we consider, confess, and spend time with Jesus, the more we love what we love and detest what he detests: As we hang out more with Jesus, we want to be more like Jesus. As we look at ourselves clearly and objectively, we are going to discover that we don’t like the ways of wickedness, bit by bit. Sure, we keep failing and falling, but our desires begin to be for what God desires. It’s hard to spend time with the creator of the universe and keep claiming that we oversee our reality and our view of the world IF we are willing to confess and receive. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the start of the year, I like to get back to the basics. What does the good life look like, according to Jesus? We have an opportunity to be a winsome follower of Jesus. If people were to see that hope in me and ask me about it, what would I say? How would I describe what the good news of Jesus is and the true, full life he offers us? The spiritual questions of this generation are centered on personal and societal pains, and how to choose joy, purpose and selflessness for the good of others. In this series, we’ll tackle these ideas and show how Jesus gives us the answers to our pressing questions about ourselves and the world. The first secret to a good life in our faith is to cultivate the posture of considering. To consider means a thoughtful engagement. It requires us to focus and pay attention. Psalm 8 – “When I consider the work of your hands.” We need to create space to be intentional about thinking. Most of us don’t make space to intentionally think, because when we do, it brings up negative feelings – anxiety, un-dealt with emotions, and places where we feel grief or loss or out of control. But when we disconnect from bad feelings, we disconnect from the good feelings of joy, hope, and love. To feel the fullness of joy, we also have to engage with the things that are difficult. Considering, then, is the first step to a more joyful life. What might this look like in our lives? Well, first, it might look like a 5-10 minute quiet walk or spending time to explore something outside of yourself and away from technological distractions. What our culture tends to do is look inside ourselves to find meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. This “Gospel according to Oprah” sounds so good but it doesn’t work. John 4:24 tells us a better way. “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” This is objective truth. Do you believe this? Your Practice For This Week: Consider – Who Is God? 1. Read how God reveals himself in creation: Job 38 2. Then, consider how God reveals himself through creation AND through his care for mankind: Isaiah 40:25-31 3. Finally, read Psalm 8:1-4, and consider how God reveals himself, is mindful of us, AND has provided dominion, glory, and honor to us. What does it mean for me? When I feel unsure about where I stand in the world or how to make my way through it, I need to practice God-centered mindfulness we are called to; not to reflect on our own problems but to consider the glory of God and then place ourselves within his glory. RESOURCES: Nicole’s Book: Help My Bible Is Alive! Ask Nicole a Bible study question: [email protected] FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHAT DOES IT SAY? Luke 1 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? What do we know about Mary: -she knew some scripture-she was faithful-she was among the believers [not venerated, but in community] Acts 1:14  14 They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. Mary had no qualifications for being chosen. This beginning also mirrors our beginning when it comes to receiving the good news. All of the good news is contained here: You who are highly favored. In the context of the world, she is not highly favored. When we think of what makes someone highly favored, we tend to think of the examples we have in the world. But that wasn’t Mary at all.  You have found favor with God. [favor=charis=grace] -Not dependent on anything that she (or us) can do. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the Lord set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples, but it is because the Lord loves you and is keeping the oath that he swore to your fathers. (Deuteronomy 7:6–8) What was given through the Israelites is now passed to everyone: Galatians 3:14 14 He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. The Lord is with you.  Matthew 1:23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).  You aren’t alone. You aren’t isolated. God knows you. *Emmanuel But God with us, as in He comes to live inside us, giving us strength in place of weakness, courage in place of fear, and vibrant life in all those dark places that once felt dead. – Jennifer Slattery The power of being “with”. When people are hurting, we want to be with them. Waiting in hospital rooms. [Brantley/AJ] She receives two promises: highly favored, Lord with you. Crazy surprise – 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Basil Pennington: “my self-worth my value depends on what I have, what I can do, and what others think of me” My false self protects me with: I am what I do.I am what I have.I am what others think of me. My true self: I am. (I am worthy)I am the Lord’s. (I belong)I am the Lord’s servant. (I have purpose) Living in our true self is about a radical acceptance of who we are, based on what God has decided. “Some Christians base their identity on being a sinner. I think they have it wrong—or only half right. You are not simply a sinner; you are a deeply loved sinner.”  David Benner Accepting the incredible surprise of the good news means releasing control. Receiving the gift of our favor is the ability to open our hands to everything God gives, “I am the Lord’s servant, may your word be fulfilled.” Radical acceptance unlocks the joy of surprise. surprise-find-shift-change WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? What sets Mary apart is her radical acceptance to God’s invitation, and what defines us as children of God is our radical acceptance to the same invitation. Radical Acceptance: God has not given up on me, no matter how I feel. I do not need to try harder. My pain and struggle is not wasted. My false self protects me with: I am what I do.I am what I have.I am what others think of me. My true self: I am. (I am worthy)I am the Lord’s. (I belong)I am the Lord’s servant. (I have purpose) FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get Your FREE Gift from Nicole! Nicole has written a free Christmas Eve liturgy for you and your family: https://www.nicoleunice.com/christmas When you sign up for Nicole’s newsletter, you’ll also be entered to win Lineage of Grace by Francine Rivers! TODAY’S PASSAGE: 1 Kings 1:28-31: 28 Then King David said, “Call in Bathsheba.” So, she came into the king’s presence and stood before him. 29 The king then took an oath: “As surely as the Lord lives, who has delivered me out of every trouble, 30 I will surely carry out this very day what I swore to you by the Lord, the God of Israel: Solomon your son shall be king after me, and he will sit on my throne in my place.” 31 Then Bathsheba bowed down with her face to the ground, prostrating herself before the king, and said, “May my lord King David live forever!” WHAT DOES IT SAY? - Bathsheba is a key person in David’s kingdom - Lineage passing WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? - Run down your study notes in 2 Samuel 12- Trouble in the kingdom, sons ready to kill for the throne- Backstory of the pain and renewal of David and Bathsheba - a whole new life WHAT DOES IT MEAN? - So why is Bathsheba mentioned in Matthew 1? (And she’s named Uriah’s wife)- Advent: as we wait, we can trust in the renewal of all things that is promised through Christ and in Christ’s ultimate return: Titus 3: 4-6:  4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? God’s plan is uncomfortable- if we didn’t know it before with Tamar and Rahab, Ruth are we getting it by now? Do not count yourself out -- you are not your own judge. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. - 1 Samuel 16:7 FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We live in a broken world filled with broken people. Because of this, everyone experiences some level of trauma. Unfortunately, past trauma experiences can greatly impact our lives, perceptions, and interactions in the present. This special bonus episode (from the podcast Faith Over Fear) sheds a light on this topic and offers valuable resources you can use in your life to gain courage.  To hear more episodes of Faith Over Fear, please check out the links below! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/faith-over-fear/id1500408829 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5GCj0NnLVrkEqeSraSxJYx LifeAudio: https://www.lifeaudio.com/faith-over-fear Nicole will be back on Monday with a brand new episode of How to Study the Bible. Thanks for listening!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**Giveaway! Enter to Win Lineage of Grace by Francine Rivers by signing up for Nicole’s newsletter at: https://nicoleunice.com/christmas/ Today’s Passage: Ruth 1:15-18: 15 “Look,” said Naomi, “your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her.” 16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” 18 When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her. WHAT DOES IT SAY? Ruth makes an incredible declaration of loyalty, commitment, and acceptance of God. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY? Ruth is Moabite: why is that significant? Corners of fields were historically left for the poor to glean. Themes in the book of Ruth include emptiness/fullness; God’s sovereignty and also human responsibility/courage WHAT DOES IT MEAN? The story of Ruth closes with genealogy: a little micro-story of the goodness to come in Matthew 1. God’s sovereignty is on the move from generation to generation. During hard, evil times, God is at work. God’s extension of grace to outsiders is a theme throughout the Bible and through the line of Jesus. He is in the business of renewal, moving us from emptiness to fullness. God rewards faith, tenacity, and audacity – we see this in Ruth. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME? What do you need to hear in this story today? Be encouraged - God’s not done even with your story. FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get Your FREE Gift From Nicole!Nicole has written a free Christmas Eve liturgy for you and your family:https://www.nicoleunice.com/christmasWHAT DOES IT SAY?This week, we’re looking at Joshua 2 and Joshua 6 The stories of the God of the Israelites have spread to the cities surrounding them and have gotten to Rahab. She decides to go all-in based on what she has heard about God.WHAT IS THE CONTEXT?Matthew 1: Genealogies are put in place because the people matter to the storyWhat stories continue to be told about Rahab? She comes up in Hebrews and in James: “In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.”WHAT DOES IT MEAN?Faith without deeds is dead. Faith does not exist as just an idea in your mind. It is only faith when it’s put into action.WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?Even if you feel like you have no options, like the doors are closed – you can still be righteous. You can still have faith that God has a plan and a purpose for you, even if it feels like a dark season in your life.FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are kicking off a new Advent series! We are going to be looking at the women in Jesus’ lineage in a ‘God of Our Mothers’ series. In Matthew 1, we get a genealogy of Jesus’ family. Genealogies are put in place because the people matter to the story, and there are several women named in his family line. Over the next few weeks, we’ll look closely at the women in Jesus’ lineage and what they have to teach us about the God who loves us and came to rescue us.This week, we’re looking at the story of Tamar.FREE Gift from Nicole!Nicole has written a free Christmas Eve liturgy for you and your family:https://www.nicoleunice.com/christmas*WHAT DOES IT SAY?*Matthew 1:1-3:“This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: 2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,3 Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar…”Genesis 38 – Who Is Tamar?1. She is not an Israelite2. She is unwanted3. She is mistreated4. She is seeking justice5. She is shrewd(Don’t forget how Judah’s mom came to have him--also veiled and in disguise)Genesis 38:26 is the turning point in the story. Judah confesses his unrighteousness, and we see that Tamar is brought into his family and one of her twin sons becomes part of the lineage that leads to Jesus (Perez).*WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY*After Joseph is sold into slavery, we get this graphic story in Genesis 38. We see the wickedness of Judah as a foil to Joseph’s righteousness. But eventually, we’ll see Judah take a righteous turn. First, though, he marries a Canaanite, and they have three sons. One of these sons marries Tamar.*WHAT DOES IT MEAN?*1. God colors outside the lines.2. We are never defined by our past.3. God sees the marginalized.*WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?*How do we define ourselves? Are we righteous on our own, or sinners on our own? Can we relate to Tamar? If we can relate, we can receive. “I have come for the sick, for the sinners.Matthew 9:10-12: 10 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples.11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”12 On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’[a] For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHAT DOES IT SAY? 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.This is Paul’s last final instructions for us in this letter. 4 big points:1. Be wise in your way2. Make the most of every opportunity3. Shape our conversation4. Know how to answer outsidersWHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?A. On outsiders and opportunities:People are being added to the church every day – God is not just the God of the Jewish people but of everyone. The gospel of Jesus Christ is about being saved through grace by faith. Paul is saying, “you have to engage with those outside the faith.”Ephesians 5:15-16 states “Be careful then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity…” B. On conversation:1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” This verse assumes you are living hopeful. Amid your sufferings, you have a hope that makes people want to ask you, “Why are you the way you are?” Are you living hopeful? Are you living joyful, despite your troubles?C. On being seasoned with salt:Salt is used to season food, to make it palatable and enrich the flavor. But salt is also a “symbol of lasting concord,” and the Arabic expression “There is salt between us” implies eating together and developing a friendship. Speech seasoned with salt can mean several things:1. Salt, as a seasoning, makes speech more intriguing and enticing to the listener. Paul was known to speak this way, as with the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers in Athens. Salt, as a symbol of friendship, implies that believers were not to “preach” to their non-believing neighbors, but to be in relationship and friendship with them, letting their actions and conduct join with their “seasoned” words in sharing the gospel. 2. Salt has also been associated with wit and is sometimes rendered “common sense.” The multiple meanings bring forth vivid imagery that points the reader to the importance of graceful speech in the context of meaningful relationships with non-believers to share the “mystery of Christ.”WHAT DOES IT MEAN? (Remember, at this point in Bible Study you are looking for timeless principles or truth that transcends our own time and culture) – 1. The gospel is for all! The playing field has been leveled.2. As our hearts grow in knowledge and love for Christ, we also grow in wisdom and love for those outside of the kingdom.3. The gospel requires intentionality in our relationshipsWHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR ME?1. Who is an outsider of the faith in your life? Can you write them down in your prayer journal and pray specifically for them? 2. Another application of the passage would be on the need to have a clear, succinct knowledge of our faith. Understanding the “mystery of Christ” and knowing how to present it with clarity and conviction is required “so that you may know how to answer to everyone.” Scripture that is central to salvation must be written on the Christian’s heart. Knowing how to answer to everyone implies that there are questions! Slick programs and spiritual platitudes cannot cultivate a faith that is rooted deeply enough for the demands of life. When believers understand that they must meet “outsiders” where they are, they are alert to opportunities for spiritual conversation. To prepare to know how to answer, a teaching from this passage could prompt listeners to process some of their own questions as they came to the knowledge of Christ, and then use that conversation to prepare their own wise, “seasoned with salt” responses.FOLLOW NICOLE:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FOLLOW NICOLE FOR THE FREE COLOSSIANS READING PLAN!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtostudythebiblepod/Email Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/FIND MORE FROM CARLEY:Listen to Carley's Podcast Therapy + Theology:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/therapy-theology-with-carley-marcouillier/id1565826125Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1q70A94yQ8lT5tUPKgN9R1LifeAudio: https://www.lifeaudio.com/therapy-theology-with-carley-marcouillier/FOLLOW T+T on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/therapyandtheologypodcast/FOLLOW CARLEY:Website: https://www.carleymarcouillier.com/WHAT DOES IT SAY:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”OBSERVATIONS: - Where we start from: we are God’s chosen people, holy and dearly beloved. That is our identity. - Clothing yourselves with these character traits is a daily, intentional practice- Forgiveness practices: it’s NOT sweeping things under the rug. It’s going to the person and explaining the hurt. It’s countercultural, it’s not in our nature outside of Christ. The new nature that we are able to put on enables us to practice forgiveness.WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?- Forgiveness is a regular practice. Most pastor letters like Colossians are addressing human problems and conflict.WHAT DOES IT MEAN?Forgiveness isn’t a feeling. It’s a foundation from which we build on repair and reconciliation. “Let the Word of God dwell in you richly.” - It’s hard to hold on to hurt if you’re praying for a person, praying for their heart, their hurt, their healing.This starts with identity, then moves into practice. We can’t give what we don’t have. We receive forgiveness, and then can forgiveWHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?- If you can’t clothe yourselves with these things, it’s probably because you’re in a place of unforgiveness. And if you CAN clothe yourselves in these things toward the person you have a grievance with, the way you engage in a spirit of forgiveness comes out in a place of love for them.- We’re calling it forgiveness, but are we trying to get polite vengeance or justice? That’s a self-focused perspective. But if we have put on the character traits of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. 5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.WHAT DOES IT SAY?- Paul’s goal: that the church would be encouraged in heart and united in love--that’s the vehicle for how we know Christ.- All wisdom is in Christ- Deception is real!WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?- Paul is writing to a church he helped to start. Usually, these Pauline letters are a response to a conflict or question in the church.- Use your cross-references to build your own bible study. For example, in this chapter, our cross reference points us to 1 Peter, where we see there are things within the church that are deceptive: 1 Peter 5 and Ephesians 6WHAT DOES IT MEAN?- To stand firm and discern wisely, I need to be finding my wisdom in Christ by remaining in him. - John 15:4: Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?Stop/Start/Continue - - What do I need to stop? Start? What do I need to continue in order to be walking in the way of Jesus?WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, we covered the big idea of Colossians, be sure to check that out if you haven’t: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3U6gRACSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3TSodIaGrab the FREE Colossians reading plan:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtostudythebiblepod/Email Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/WHAT DOES IT SAY:15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.Look for repetition – in this section of scripture, the word “All”:- Over all creation- All things were created- All things were created- Before all things- All things hold togetherWHAT’S THE BACKSTORY:He existed before his earthly life (before all things) – he is supremeWHAT DOES IT MEAN?v 18 - “so that” – cues us in to the reason Paul is explaining this to the Colossiansv 19-20 - Jesus is God, and He is a reconciling agent (bringing back into proper order)WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?There is nothing in life that is untouched by Christ--either now or later. Either you choose to have Christ’s reconciling work bring you to communion with the Father, or ultimately that will happen later. I choose to be friends with God now.Revelation 216 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. 8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”Be thirsty for God.WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our new series starts today!! Over the next few weeks, we’re going to be in the book of Colossians.FOLLOW NICOLE FOR THE FREE COLOSSIANS READING PLAN!Starting 10/31 we will have a reading plan as we cover the book of Colossians. You can receive that by following me in one of a few places:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtostudythebiblepod/Email Newsletter: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/INTRO TO COLOSSIANS:Colossians is an early letter in Christian history, about 30 years after Christ’s death and resurrection, written by Paul (with help from Timothy).Why are the New Testament letters usually written? Because conflict in the church is happening, and Paul (the planter of churches) is writing to address those issues help them through those conflicts.THEME OF COLOSSIANS:The overarching theme of this book is how Christ is in all things, and the ramifications of that for us.Most commentators agree that perhaps someone in the church was teaching different rituals and superstitions for a “different level” of faith, a “Jesus plus ‘this ritual’” – and Paul is returning the church to this true doctrine, that Jesus is ALL. There is nothing else we must add to our faith. Jesus is ALL.LET’S READ TOGETHER: Colossians 1:3-7 - 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people— 5 the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel 6 that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace.WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHAT DOES IT SAY?Jacob Wrestles with God22 That night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two female servants and his eleven sons and crossed the ford of the Jabbok. 23 After he had sent them across the stream, he sent over all his possessions. 24 So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. 25 When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man. 26 Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”27 The man asked him, “What is your name?”“Jacob,” he answered.28 Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.”29 Jacob said, “Please tell me your name.”But he replied, “Why do you ask my name?” Then he blessed him there.30 So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, “It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.”31 The sun rose above him as he passed Peniel, and he was limping because of his hip. 32 Therefore to this day the Israelites do not eat the tendon attached to the socket of the hip, because the socket of Jacob’s hip was touched near the tendon.WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY?It’s really important in the Old Testament to zoom out and figure out where the story you are reading is placed within the larger story surrounding it. If we cut Genesis into fractions, we’ll miss out on its meaning.Let’s first look back at Jacob’s life - Jacob is a twin, who struggled inside his mother’s womb. His life is marked by struggle, an ongoing theme throughout his life. He steals his brother’s blessing and birthright, and then leaves home.Jacob prays to God in Genesis 32:9-12. He is fearful and trying to control the situation he finds himself in (about to meet Esau).After the dream – Esau is a picture of grace. He runs to Jacob, kissing him.During the dream encounter – struggling with his identity. He is given a new name, “Israel” – he struggles with God. And he doesn’t let go of this person he is encountering – he wants relationship! He is finally responding to God. He takes the journey we all take--moving from fearful to free, from wrestling with God and man, to accepting what He gives us.WHAT DOES IT MEAN?AW Tozer – “God formed us for himself.” Anytime we are out of relationship with God, we will struggle. Until we find ourselves in him, named by God and identified with him, we will struggle in our souls.Genesis 47 – he bows in worship at the end of his life. He is in relationship with God, and lived out of the identity God gave him. He still struggled, but not in the way he had before he wrestled with God. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?Deep soul struggle is addressed through Christ. He makes a way for us to cease striving and have relationship with God.But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. - Isaiah 43:1Do you know where you belong? Do you know you have an identity? Do you feel at home in my soul? Is God dwelling in my heart? If yes, your only response is praise! Your only response is worship and gratitude. If not, invite God into your life in this real and meaningful way.WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are part of a very big story. Every single one of us who calls on Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior is a living stone. Every single one of us has a precious and important part to play in creating this spiritual house, this place where God dwells. I am living my life out as a piece of the dwelling place of God! I take my little piece everywhere I go. Everywhere you go, you bring a dwelling place of God with you. WHAT DOES IT SAY?Jacob’s Dream at Bethel - Genesis 28:10-22:10 Jacob left Beersheba and set out for Harran. 11 When he reached a certain place, he stopped for the night because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones there, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep. 12 He had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. 13 There above it[a] stood the Lord, and he said: “I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. 14 Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring.[b] 15 I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”16 When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” 17 He was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven.”18 Early the next morning, Jacob took the stone he had placed under his head and set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it. 19 He called that place Bethel,[c] though the city used to be called Luz.20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear 21 so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord[d] will be my God 22 and[e] this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.”Questions you might ask the text:1. What does the dream mean?2. Jacob receives the blessing?3. Do the stones matter?4. Call the place Bethel? Observations:1. Standard approach: humans quake with fear when God shows up2. Same blessing is again repeated--maybe we also need to hear things a lot to believe them, especially when they take faith.3. Gen 28:13-15: Sounds like a covenant4. Gen 28: 20-21: IF God is with me… Jacob is not totally sold?5. Gen 28:22: Promised sanctuary, the stone is the consecration…WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY?1. Jacob’s childhood and adolescence - he has swindled his brother out of this birthright AND blessing2. His father Isaac sends him away and confers God’s blessing on him3. God then confirms the blessing through the dream.WHAT DOES IT MEAN?1. God is committed to making the earth his dwelling place.2. This story is linked to the bigger story of lineage in Genesis, which is linked to the BIGGER story of a coming king, which is the story of Jesus and the story of you and me.WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?1. God is committed to dwelling with us.2. Are you committed to dwelling with him?3. Jacob’s stone is a signpost pointing us toward the promised sanctuary in 1 Peter 2:4-6:4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house[a] to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For in Scripture...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God calls himself the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, over and over in Scripture, in both the Old and New Testaments. God is establishing his covenant through these families; God’s chosen people is created – these families become the Israelites. And we, through Christ, are the new Israel as believers. As Galatians 3:18 tells us, “we are all one through Christ Jesus.”*WHAT DOES IT SAY?*Genesis 26:22-25He moved on from there and dug another well, and no one quarreled over it. He named it Rehoboth, saying, “Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land.”23 From there he went up to Beersheba. 24 That night the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham.”25 Isaac built an altar there and called on the name of the Lord. There he pitched his tent, and there his servants dug a well.-- There is so much humanness playing out in these verses - arguments, playing favorites, lying! Humanity makes mistakes, even God’s chosen people. Isaac lied about his wife just like Abraham did.-- Just because you are struggling or in conflict, doesn’t mean you are outside of God’s favor.*WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?*-- There is a famine in the land, but God tells Isaac to stay in the land and promises blessing.-- Both Abraham and Isaac fall prey to being scared about their wives’ beauty and lies about them – a pattern of lying for self-protection (and not trusting God). -- God’s chosen people are not perfect. Isaac and Rebekah, and their children, lie and manipulate. Human family disfunction is playing out.*WHAT DOES IT MEAN?*-- “The Lord has given us room.” This phrase points to the idea of “a spacious place” told to us in scripture, such as in Psalm 118:5. “When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place.” We are most likely to sin any time we get into a scarcity mindset – there’s not going to be enough for us, that God is not actually going to provide, that God is not trustworthy to make sure we’re going to be okay. We see this in Abraham and Isaac’s lives. -- A world of anxiety exists when we believe we must protect ourselves and our stuff. When we do this, we become small people. OR – we can have a centered place in us, a spacious place – where we trust what God is doing and will do for us. Do you believe God will bring you into a spacious place?*WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?*-- Does your family still struggle with generational sin? You’re not alone. These patterns of living are as old as the stories in the Bible. God still faithfully shows up and works in the people who trust him – not the people who are necessarily righteous. We have to deal with pain caused by other people’s sin, and our own. -- God is faithful even when we mess up. 1 John 3:16 – we can keep coming back to God, every day, to experience God’s spacious place for us.-- The priority is your availability. Are you available to God? Do you put God’s plans in front of your own? “God, what you want is more important than what I want. What you want leads to spacious places, so I’m going to want what you want.”A simple prayer for today – “God make me aware of your presence, make me available for your interruptions. Make me purposeful on my path and restful in the spacious place of your grace. Amen.”WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does it matter that we study these Old Testament stories? When we’re able to zoom way out and see what God has been stepping in to help the generations before us, we’re able to place our own sufferings and struggles in context. The God of our Fathers is our God, too. The covenants God has made with our forefathers are for us, too.WHAT DOES IT SAY?11 But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!”“Here I am,” he replied.12 “Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.”13 Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram[a] caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. 14 So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” - Genesis 22:11-14God appeared to Abraham and told him to sacrifice Isaac. We have to remember; this is a different time and day. Abraham trusts God and obeys. As he moves toward the action of sacrifice, God intervenes. God calls out personally to Abraham, and he provides an alternative. He doesn’t just cancel the plan, he provides a substitute sacrifice. WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY?If you’ve been reading Genesis, you know a few weeks ago that God made a covenant with Abraham through his descendants, promising him that he will in fact have children. Sarah does in fact get pregnant even though she’s ninety years old.Then the bizarre happens: God tells Abraham to sacrifice this son, who is the fulfillment of the covenant. What is going on here?This is another chapter in a long life with a faithful God. Many commentators believe that Abraham might have thought even if he killed Isaac, God could bring him back to life.God tests us to show us what’s already there. He tests us to show us the strength of our faith that is already present. When we go through testing, we’re getting more and more anchored in our identity in God, who he is. Something eternal is growing and developing in us.WHAT DOES IT MEAN?The Lord Will Provide--beginning of a pattern of substitutionary atonement. God is faithful to his promises. We are seeing the start of God’s people, the Israelites. Romans 3:24-25:24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. Redemption means something is bought back, recovered, or handled. God redeems us through Christ. Abraham was required to take his beloved, one and only son to sacrificed, but God stayed his hand, and provided a sacrifice instead.But when God sent his one and only son to the mountain to be sacrificed, he did not stay his hand. He allowed Christ to be sacrificed for our sins, once and for all.WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?1. Even when all hope seems lost, God will still provide. 2. Sometimes going backward in our story can give us the strength to face what’s ahead3. Our faith in Christ’s substitution is built on generations upon generations of God showing his faithfulness to us as his people.WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is the second in a series we are calling God of Our Fathers. Find all of our episodes here: https://www.lifeaudio.com/how-to-study-the-bible/1. WHAT DOES IT SAY?Notice how God is personal and relational. “After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.”2. WHAT IS THE BACKSTORY?Abram is childless but knows God’s promise to make a nation from his.In Genesis 14, he’s just been tempted to gain power by making a treaty with another king and resists that temptation. His faithfulness has been tested. Covenant ceremony: You cut the animal and walk between in as a sign. “Let me be like these dead animals if I don’t keep my promise.” 3. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?Covenant is an incredibly important part of our faith.Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness. – This is incredibly important! It is his faith, not his work, that God counts his righteousness. Faith is belief in action.This idea carries us into our relationship with a Christ, who made a new covenant--he cut a new deal, or more importantly, a “fulfilled” deal, Hebrews 7:22 “Jesus is the guarantor of a better covenant…”No longer under the law as a sign of our citizenship and acceptance as God’s people--we are under the covenant, an inward reality.Old Covenant required a series of laws and birthright to be God’s chosen people.Old Covenant required sacrifices made over and over.Old Covenant required a priest to mediate between the people and God, not direct access.New Covenant calls all people by faith.New Covenant means Christ is the ultimate sacrifice made for all our sins.New Covenant means Jesus is our great high priest, mediating on our behalf so we have access, full communion with God through him.4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?Because of our acceptance, our worth comes from what’s been done for us, not what we do for God.Our response, our obedience to God comes from love and worship, not obligation and dutyThis is what love looks like.WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHAT DOES IT SAY?1 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”We see “blessed” 5 times in the text – the central message of this passage is blessing!WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?Genesis 3-11: A dumpster fire of what happens when sin separates people from GodGenesis 11: Terah (Abram’s dad) is going to Canaan, but settles in Haran. Abram is going to be told to go to the place his father never made it to.“I will bless you so you will be a blessing” – this is the purpose of blessings, to bless others.WHAT DOES IT MEAN?Questions to consider – What does it mean to be a representative?What does it mean to bless?What does it mean that Abram is a blessing?What does it look like to move blessing on?WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?God always has a plan. He pursues blessing for his people despite our failings.Abraham’s part to play was obedience.Everything in your life is part of a bigger plan. God is constantly working his plan out in the world, and you a part of that plan.WANT MORE? Check out Nicole’s book Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RESOURCES:Help, My Bible Is Alive!: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-be-real-with-nicole-unice/id1505817001FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Happy Rant, Ted Kluck, Ronnie Martin, and Barnabas Piper wander to and fro through a variety of topics:1. Who we are, a brief introduction for new listeners2. What we love about podcasting together3. How we would describe our show: The Seinfeld of podcasts, a Piper family dinner party, and a description to aspirational college studentsSubscribe to Happy Rant:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-happy-rant/id878250651Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3iIwABQZ3mTsFtOx6hOafXListen on LifeAudio: https://www.lifeaudio.com/the-happy-rant/episodesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month we are re-airing Nicole’s 2020, 4-part miniseries called "Comfort in God’s Promises." We'll be using what we learned through the Alive Method of Bible Study in order to apply God’s never-changing truth to the ever-changing circumstances of our lives.“When the things we have found our comfort and security in are failing, it is at that point Jesus invites us to go deeper with him.” - Nicole UniceIn this episode, Nicole walks us through Luke 5:4-11 using the Alive Method of Bible Study, guiding us to our true source of security when life is uncertain.RESOURCES:Help, My Bible Is Alive!: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-be-real-with-nicole-unice/id1505817001FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month we are re-airing Nicole’s 2020, 4-part miniseries called "Comfort in God’s Promises." We'll be using what we learned through the Alive Method of Bible Study in order to apply God’s never-changing truth to the ever-changing circumstances of our lives.“As a people of God, we are called to bold and courageous action. But when our lives get smaller and smaller because of the fear of what we think might happen, we actually are out of accord with God’s purpose and design for our lives.” Fear is real, and it’s because we do have real things to be afraid of. But sometimes, our survival instincts, like fear, can begin to work overtime and unnecessarily become anxiety. In today’s episode, Nicole unpacks what to do when our fears become anxieties that begin to impact how we make decisions. If you struggle with anxiety, this is a must-listen episode.This is episode #2 in Nicole's 4-part series "Finding Comfort in the Promises of God." You can listen to part one here: Finding Hope in Stressful TimesRESOURCES:Help, My Bible Is Alive!: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-be-real-with-nicole-unice/id1505817001FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month we are re-airing Nicole’s 2020, 4-part miniseries called "Comfort in God’s Promises." We'll be using what we learned through the Alive Method of Bible Study in order to apply God’s never-changing truth to the ever-changing circumstances of our lives. In this episode, Nicole unpacks how to go to Scripture to find hope in stressful times. Learn what it looks like to "go back to home base” whenever you feel discouraged or confused.Scripture References: Matthew 13:44; Matthew 6:19-21; Ecclesiastes 2; Philippians 4:19RESOURCES:Help, My Bible Is Alive!: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-be-real-with-nicole-unice/id1505817001FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve been in the church or faith for a while, the temptation to believe “God, aren’t I good enough to get the best from you?” When we say that, we really mean what seems best to us. This is an easy but dangerous mindset for the “good person” to slip into. In this last session in our Stories Jesus Told series, we are looking once again at the Prodigal of the Lost Son. But this week, we’ll be looking at the older son, the second half of this parable.**1. WHAT DOES IT SAY?**What a cliffhanger ending! A courageous conversation from the father, and we do not know if the older son accepts and receives this word from the father.In the older brother’s heart is resentment and a refusal to go into the celebration. The younger son went far away in his heart and body. The older son went away in his heart and is now physically outside. The father goes to both, but the reactions of the sons are different.The father’s posture toward both sons is continual generosity. **2. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?**The older son always gets a double portion, which is not touched by the younger son. The anger, animosity and resentment are not because the younger brother swindled him. **3. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?**It is by grace we are saved. For the younger brother, the sin is obvious and so are the consequences of that sin. What’s less obvious is how sin interrupts the older brother’s life, but the consequences are there, too.Who’s outside the party now?The older brother fails to realize that “anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness; he does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him” (1 John 2:9-11).**4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?**In this story, the child closest to home is the one who has allowed sin to blind him from his own reality, from his own need for lavish grace.How are you like the older brother, demanding the best from God (as defined by you)?Are you willing to open your eyes to see the gift of right standing with God – or are you allowing comparison and resentment to keep you from the party?***Check out: Rembrandt’s ‘Return of the Prodigal Son’ - https://bit.ly/3PCQmkL Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216FOLLOW NICOLE:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“We will find ourselves far from home all throughout life, because all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The question is, when we find ourselves there, what will we do with grace?”This is perhaps the most famous parable Jesus told. This week, we are looking at this story from the eyes of the father, and the eyes of the younger son.Check out: Rembrandt’s ‘Return of the Prodigal Son’ - https://bit.ly/3PCQmkL 1. WHAT DOES IT SAY?- The younger son says he wants his inheritance. This is egregious- who asks for their inheritance before the parent dies? But the father doesn’t protest – he gives the son his share of the inheritance.- He leaves for a distant country and squanders it all. Then the country experiences a famine, and unprepared, he finds himself with nothing. He goes to feed pigs – an unclean animal to the Jews. He’s so hungry he wants to eat the food of the pigs. No one is there for him.- Decides to go back to his father and beg to become his servant.- The father sees the son, runs to him, kisses him, clothes him, and celebrates his return. 2. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?Jesus is telling stories of things people lose – and the final story is about an actual person who is lost.3. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?Our Heavenly Father is waiting for our return, scanning the horizon. He runs to us, full of compassion. 4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?What piece of this story can you relate to? Are you trying to will yourself back to the good path?Can you recognize yourself in the younger son? What will you do with the astounding level of grace and love God has for you?We reap what we sow – what are we reaping in this life?***Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A reminder: A parable is a story that tells us a spiritual truth.The blessings of the kingdom are available to all who will come to Christ by faith. We have a part in accepting that invitation.1. WHAT DOES IT SAY?The question asked of Jesus: What does it mean to be righteous? What behaviors make you righteous? Jesus shocked them with a different way to see the kingdom.The man preparing the banquet – God. This is God’s story. Think about the excuses that were given – are they “good excuses”?Jesus makes it clear that the kingdom of heaven is open for people who would not normally get an invitation. 2. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?Who was “one of those” – a prominent PhariseeWhere was the table? – the Pharisee’s house3. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?It’s not about what you have to get invited, it’s about whether you say yes. The only ones left out are the ones who choose to be left out. The blessings of the kingdom are available by faith.The inclusion of the Gentiles is a fulfillment of Hosea 2:23, “I will say to those called ‘Not my people,’ ‘You are my people’; and they will say, ‘You are my God.’” God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9), and “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13).4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?We need to realize that as we become comfortable in our faith, as we are more and more surrounded by those who are also Christians, the edge of self-righteousness can creep in. Let’s not lose the spirit of the invitation! God is seeking people intentionally and intensely seeking people for his kingdom. The people in Jesus’ time who wanted to put restrictions around who was invited were the ones Jesus directed these parables to.QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER THIS WEEK:Are we inadvertently putting up barriers between ourselves and other people, to say someone is in or out of the kingdom?Am I more concerned with naming behaviors that help me know who is in or out of the kingdom? Or, am I more concerned with the heart of God, a God who is extending an intense and urgent invitation out into the world?***Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“We do not become less needy and less dependent when we pray, we become more needy, more dependent, that is to say, more human.” - Eugene PetersonGod invites us into a relationship where we are more dependent on him, not less and less.1. WHAT IT SAYSOne friend is needy and dependent on another. What makes the other friend finally get up? The persistent, shameless knocking. 2. WHAT’S THE BACKSTORY?This whole passage comes right after Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray. “Give us this day our daily bread.” Now Jesus is telling a parable centered around one friend asking another friend for food.3. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?God wants to meet us in the human stuff of life. He wants to meet our real needs. Above all, he gives the Holy Spirit.When we ask for good things, he will not give us bad things. The best thing he can give us is the Holy Spirit.4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?Do we come to God more and more dependent? God is inviting us to become more and more dependent on him, not less. He is inviting us to become more aware of our need for him.QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER THIS WEEK:Have you found yourself no longer asking God for things in prayer? Have you stopped being shamelessly audacious? Are your dreams smaller and smaller? Are you less dependent and open to receiving from the Lord? Perhaps God is knocking on the door of your heart to allow Him to give you good things. Be honest about your daily needs. And be confident that he meets those needs with a filling of the Holy Spirit.***Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re looking at two different stories about debts owed, Jesus’ response to those debts, and our experience with forgiveness.Forgiveness does not necessarily always mean the restoration of a relationship. If someone hurts you repeatedly, it does not mean you should put yourself in a position to be hurt again and again. But what God does call us to is forgiveness, because it is good for our souls. When we are not forgiven, we are bound up, and when we are bound up, we are not receiving the mercy of God for ourselves. We’re not receiving the love of God for our deep debt.--1. What Does It Say?--In both stories, we have – Two debtors: one who owes a little, and one who owes a lot.A merciful king, willing to relieve the debtA different way of receiving the forgiveness that is happening--2. What Does It Mean?--Forgiveness for us and to us is not optional in the Kingdom of God. Our relationship to forgiveness will be in direct proportion to our ability to love.God gives two options in Matthew 18 – do you want justice or mercy?--3. What Does It Mean for Me?--God has called you to forgive because it is good for your souls, and because he wants you to receive forgiveness.--Questions to consider this week:--What would it look like for me to live with a heart of mercy? Are there any places in my heart where I am harboring unforgiveness and hurt?Do you want to live with your Father who is merciful, or your Father who is just?***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parable means “to throw alongside” – Jesus uses everyday stories to teach spiritual truths.- 1. - What does it say: This story is so familiar that even those outside of Christianity know and use the phrase “the good Samaritan.”Who are the characters?The lawyer – this was a religious leader whose job it was to interpret the Law for the people, to explain how to live righteously.People groups called out – Jesus uses different people groups that would have a known context to his listeners and to provoke thought and engagement- 2. - What’s the backstory: Usually, the person in authority would ask the questions of the teacher, but immediately Jesus turns it on its head and asks the lawyer to answer the question.To deal with anything “left half-dead” would make you unclean. The uncleanliness of helping a half-dead man would leave the religious leaders unable to perform their religious duties.- 3. - What does it mean: Both ‘neighbor’ and ‘love’ are redefined by Jesus in this parable. The expert correctly links the love of God and love of neighbor to each other, but Jesus redefines who was a neighbor, therefore expanding the love of God.He is showing that religious duties are not as important as offering mercy to the people in your path.- 4. - What does it mean for me?The right question is not “who is my neighbor?” The right question is “who is being a good neighbor?” How can we “go and do likewise”?Am I being a neighbor? Perhaps in big things, it would be easy, but what about in little things? Neighbor is no longer defined by the other person, it’s defined by my action. ***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are kicking off a new series this week! Stories Jesus Told: A Series on Parables. Today, we’re looking at the parable of the sower in Luke 8:4-15. In light of Jesus’ resurrection, let’s look back at the way of his teaching and the relevancy of his lessons for us today.“A parable is not to tell us something new, but to remind us of something we’ve overlooked.” - Eugene Peterson- 1. What does it say? - Questions we might ask: Who are the characters in this story?Where does the seed land?What happens to the seeds in the various places they land?What is the text -not- saying? (We will use scripture to interpret scripture)- 2. What is the background context? - Parables use a story that would make sense to the listeners at the time--and Jesus then uses that story to lay down a spiritual truth. Parables are for those who are willing to receive: so we start today with this parable of “hearing.’- 3. What does it mean? - This parable is explained for us by Jesus, so we don’t have to reach far to find the explanation!- 4. What does it mean for me? - What kind of hearer of the Word are you? In this season of life, how does the Word land for you, when you hear it or read it? How can you receive the Word with joy today?***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every single day you face temptation. And every single day, you have tools to remember who you are and who you belong to. You my friend, are a child of God.FIRST - What’s the backstory?Remember, at this point in our reading, we will have questions! Here are a few of mine:Does God lead us to temptation, or to sin?How does God deliver us? Who is the evil one?For answers, let’s look to Scripture:James 1:13-14: When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.Matthew 4:1-11: look at how Jesus was tempted….SECOND - What does it mean?How does the enemy work?1. With subtle, powerful lies:When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. John 8:44Coaching work/struggle is real is about bringing out lies into the light—What kind of lies are you likely to believe?2. By masquerading as light:2 Corinthians 11:13-1513 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.3. Using questions to lead us to temptation:Designed to confuse, confound, discourage and ultimately to take us toward independence from God and suspicion toward others:THIRD - What does it mean for me?We will have fights to face in this world, but we don’t face them alone.This is a daily and intentional practice from beginning to end. The fullness of what it looks like to be in relationship with God is captured in this prayer.***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. What Does It Say?“Forgive/Forgiven”, “Debts/Debtors” – We are asking God for forgiveness. We also forgive our debtors. What is going on when we forgive someone?2. What Is the Backstory?Jesus is preaching in the Sermon on the Mount – a primer to a completely different way of life in the Kingdom of God.This verse has a legal background – Deuteronomy 15:2. Debt must be address. We are in a deficit. And the Lord’s release has been proclaimed. 3. What Does It Mean?This prayer is all about connecting with God – and prayer, confession and forgiveness is part of that connection. God’s holiness cannot endorse our sinfulness – we must address our sin.God’s abundance makes stringent economic pressure on others inappropriate. 4. What Does It Mean for Me?Do we live with a sense of superiority over others? This is fundamentally unwise. If you can’t forgive others, you have not experienced forgiveness. (Drew also explains what forgiveness is *not*)***Want to go deeper than the podcast? This series includes access to a private Facebook group: you can join here: https://m.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodwithnicoleuniceIf you want access to exclusive content (interviews, bonus teaching and a 28-day prayer plan), you can pay for premium here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/Subscribe to Nicole’s mailing list and get a weekly companion guide for each episode, with journal prompts and reflection questions: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. What does it say? “Give” – We need something outside of us to supply sustenance. How much do we believe that we are the source of love and life for ourselves and others?“Us Our” – This prayer for all of God’s children, for a community of people. This is communal prayer. We are praying for ourselves, but also for a community of people to be provided for, by God.“This Day Our Daily” – This isn’t tomorrow’s bread or retirement bread. It’s today’s bread. Are you anxious for provision months away? This prayer challenges us to focus our prayers for today’s needs and come back to him daily.“Bread” – Our most basic, daily needs are food and water, and God wants us to ask for our daily needs.2. What is the backstory?In Matthew’s gospel, this verse comes in the middle of the Lord’s prayer. This verse comes right after the part of the prayer that is totally focused on God and what he has done. This is the shift in the prayer that focuses on us and what we need.Further out context – this is part of the Sermon on the Mount. This prayer comes amid teaching about the Kingdom of God and how to live life in the Kingdom.3. What does it mean? Whole-bible context: God provided manna in the desert during the Exodus. It was literally a daily provision of food from God to his people. God provides for our needs. Are you grateful and aware of his daily provision?Jesus’ miraculous abilities are shown through providing food – think of the thousands he fed, and The Last Supper. Bread is a symbol of community, and a symbol of his body, broken for us.4. What does it mean for you and for me?God provides in all seasons of life – in hard and good seasons, through neighbors or friends – if I accept my neediness, then I will be able to accept God’s provision in my life through these various means. Life becomes a gift to receive, not a trial to endure.***Want to go deeper than the podcast? This series includes access to a private Facebook group: you can join here: https://m.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodwithnicoleuniceIf you want access to exclusive content (interviews, bonus teaching and a 28-day prayer plan), you can pay for premium here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/Subscribe to Nicole’s mailing list and get a weekly companion guide for each episode, with journal prompts and reflection questions: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus is always using stories to describe the Kingdom of Heaven. He uses imagery to help us humans - who are not yet in heaven – understand a little bit of what heaven is like.Week 3 Scripture: Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. - Matthew 6:10This week, we’re looking at three specific things in this verse – “your/thy,” “kingdom,” and “will.” Reflection Questions:1. What does the Bible say about the kingdom of God?2. What does the Bible say about His will?***Want to go deeper than the podcast? This series includes access to a private Facebook group: you can join here: https://m.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodwithnicoleuniceIf you want access to exclusive content (interviews, bonus teaching and a 28-day prayer plan), you can pay for premium here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/Subscribe to Nicole’s mailing list and get a weekly companion guide for each episode, with journal prompts and reflection questions: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have a Father in Heaven and are invited into a relationship and purpose with him! Today we are diving into the first verse in the Lord’s Prayer – Matthew 6:9.What does it say?1. “our” father – we are immediately placed in community. This is not an individual prayer.2. “father” – we all have emotional underpinning to this word. If I say the word father, what is the first word that comes to your mind? Check out Romans 8:15 and think about what it means that God is your Abba Father. We have a framework here for how we can approach our Father in Heaven – with freedom and confidence.3. “hallowed be your name” – God is not only our intimate father, but also to be revered as set apart and holy. God wants to be intimately a part of your life, but not as a genie, but as God of all creation. Lord -help us to know you and set you apart the way you are meant to be known and set apart***Reflect:1. Do we need to ask our Father in Heaven – “Lord, what does it mean that you are my Father?”2. We have a shared Father in heaven, we want to know him and for him to be known as holy. “God the Father is ours, and we are his.” - Dale Bruner***Want to go deeper than the podcast? This series includes access to a private Facebook group: you can join here: https://m.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodwithnicoleuniceIf you want access to exclusive content (interviews, bonus teaching and a 28-day prayer plan), you can pay for premium here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/Subscribe to Nicole’s mailing list and get a weekly companion guide for each episode, with journal prompts and reflection questions: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/***Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to go deeper than the podcast? This series includes access to a private Facebook group: you can join here: https://m.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodwithnicoleuniceIf you want access to exclusive content (interviews, bonus teaching and a 28-day prayer plan), you can pay for premium here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/Subscribe to Nicole’s mailing list and get a weekly companion guide for each episode, with journal prompts and reflection questions: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/In this first episode, we’re going to talk about the little passage that leads into The Lord’s Prayer – Matthew 6:5-9. A. What does it say?3 Praying People in These Verses:1. The hypocrites – what do they do? They love to be seen in prayer, and they already have their reward.2. The righteous – they pray private prayers (at least in this context), and God rewards them later on.3. The pagans – they babble on with many words, thinking they will be heard – do not be like them. This passage is not a formula for prayer. If we take this too literally, we will miss the principles, the general framework, that we can grab from this passage.B. What is the backstory?Hypocrites were known to pray as performance, and Jesus was addressing that during the Sermon on the Mount – his sermon introducing his upside-down kingdom and what is required of those who choose to follow him.C. What Does it Mean?Prayer should not be performance, but personal. Jesus is setting up a framework that says, there is a way you can pray that helps you connect to a Father who knows you and loves you. Notice: Jesus does not say “here is ‘what’ to pray.” But rather, “here is ‘how’ to pray.” D. What Does it Mean for Me?Am I making space for private, personal prayer? Or am I praying to be seen? Don’t pray for others’ affirmation. These next few weeks is an invitation to create a place of intimacy and connection with your heavenly father. If you have felt like you are missing something because prayer does not feel like what you think it should – if you have those questions, you are in the right place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When there is more love, there will inevitably be less fear. The more we believe and accept God’s love for us, the more we trust him. And the more we trust him, the less we will fear, even when life is not going the way that we want.1. Context and backstory: Division within the church, with people in the church teaching something other than the gospel. John returns again and again to the fruit of people’s actions, specifically how we love our Christian brothers and sisters.2. What do these verses say:More love = less fear. Fierce love requires an ongoing acknowledgment and release of fear.3. What does it mean for me?A. God calls us to fellowship locally with believers. Are you in fellowship with believers in a face-to-face way?B. When you are in a pattern of fear, name the things that only God can handle in your life. For example: your identity can only be entrusted to God. Also: your soul, your calling, your future.C. If our identity and calling are secure in the Lord, we can begin to love others with God’s love as the source. We don’t want to give love in order to get love.D. “Keep yourselves from idols” What does John mean by that? We must keep our spiritual house in order. Anything that takes top priority in our hearts, when we begin to link our identity and the way that we decide if life is worth living to those things, our spiritual house is chaotic and messy.Isaiah 42:8 says it this way: “I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.” God is very inclusive in his invitation to find life in him, BUT he is very exclusive about his positioning in our hearts. He demands priority in our hearts, not for his good, but for our good.Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodromans/**Don’t Miss Our How to Pray Series!** Starting in March, we will be walking through Lent with a special series: How to Pray. We will be looking closely at the Lord’s Prayer together. Find out more at: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you made space (silence) in your life to hear from the Holy Spirit? This week, Nicole helps us understand the connection between making space in our lives for the Spirit and the spiritual freedom we want but don’t know how to get.A. Principle in this Passage:1. God loves us as his children (1 John 3:1). Can you take a moment today and imagine God’s love for you. Imagine the most loving parent you have ever known. God loves you even more perfectly and completely than that. Allow his love to meet you today.2. If you can’t believe the feeling of God’s love, believe the fact of his love: Jesus Christ laid down his life for you. (1 John 3:16)B. What Is The Backstory?John was correcting divisions in the church. The way they could know who was living in the love of Christ: how they loved others.C. What This Means for Me:Obedience in Action (v. 18) – If you experience this love of God, out of that overflow of love there will be an immediate and recognizable change in how you treat believers. Confidence in Discernment (v. 20-21) – God hears everything and hears your prayers. If you’re feeling less than or have regret, confess to God and he is faithful to forgive – have confidence before God. If your heart feels clear, good! You’ll want to do what pleases him. Know God Lives in You by the Way You Are Led by the Spirit (v. 24) – make space in your life this week. 5 or 10 minutes to start. Be quiet. Say, “search me or know me. Engage with me, help me know how to engage in this world.” Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodromans/**Don’t Miss Our How to Pray Series!** Starting in March, we will be walking through Lent with a special series: How to Pray. We will be looking closely at the Lord’s Prayer together. Find out more at: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this passage, John gives us a series of tests for our faith – not tests like the kind we take in school that you can pass or fail, but tests that reveal to us the genuineness of our faith – so that we can have full assurance of our salvation and so that we can recognize true believers.Test 1: Obedience Out of LoveTest 2: Live as Jesus LivedTest 3: Having Love for Brothers and SistersPrinciple in this Passage:1. I know him2. I love him3. I love others because I love himWhat does it mean for me?1. Apply: What is the motivation of my obedience?2. Apply: What does increasing love look like for my brothers and sisters in faith?Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodromans/**Don’t Miss Our Lent Series!** Starting in March, we will be walking through Lent with a special series: How to Pray. We will be looking closely at the Lord’s Prayer together. Find out more at: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This short letter is rich, deep, and will challenge how we have looked at Bible study so far. This pastoral letter, written by an older Christian, encourages us toward assurance and confidence in our faith.As we begin to open this letter, remember that this letter has a tone of fellowship, joy, and blessing. Big Overview of the Letter: Circular themes of true doctrine, obedient living, fervent devotionWalking through 1 John 1 with the Alive Method:1. What does it say?Themes of light/darkness, cleansing, sin2. What’s the back story?
Connection back to the gospel of John
Circular themes--keep a list of questions
3. What does it mean?
There is a process to forgiveness
There is a path to our righteousness
4. What does it mean for me?
The practice of confession
Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/walkingwithgodromans/**Don’t Miss Our Lent Series!** Starting in March, we will be walking through Lent with a special series: How to Pray. We will be looking closely at the Lord’s Prayer together. Find out more at: https://nicoleunice.com/howtopray/Follow Nicole:Website: https://nicoleunice.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicole will be back next week! Until then, we are re-airing her first episodes on the basics of Bible study. If you didn't catch these episodes when they first aired, be sure to listen. These episodes lay the foundation for Nicole's simple but powerful approach to Bible study.****Let’s review the first three questions you ask of Scripture:1. What does it say? Can I restate what the passage says?2. What’s the backstory? What’s our context and history in the time it was written?3. What does it mean? What is the principle at play, what is it teaching me about God and our interaction with him?Today, we’ll unpack question four – What does this mean for me? All of our work in studying and understanding the Bible is all meant to move us to this place: where our lives are transformed by who and what we know.What can Scripture give us?1. Encouragement and priorities for the hard or mundane seasons of life.2. Conviction leading to repentance when we sin (2 Corinthians 7:8-13).3. Worship as a response to what we now know about who God is and what he has done! For more, check out:Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: https://nicoleunice.com/help-my-bible-is-alive/You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Nicole is taking a much-needed break, we are re-airing her first episodes on the basics of Bible study. If you didn't catch these episodes when they first aired, be sure to listen. These episodes lay the foundation for Nicole's simple but powerful approach to Bible study.****In this episode, we’ll look at the three most common issues that can derail our Bible study and how we can overcome them: Problem 1 - These passages contradict! How can I possibly find the meaning?Questions to ask yourself: What else happens in Scripture related to this topic, beyond this verse? Is it bound in a cultural time or is it a timeless principle?Problem 2 - It seems like the God of the Old Testament and the New Testament disagree. Questions to ask yourself: What if I’m wrong? Have I read both the Old and New Testament in their entirety? Have I explored the backstory? Problem 3 – The Old Testament doesn't seem relevant in my life. Questions to ask yourself: Have you read large passages (several chapters or even an entire book) of the Old Testament at once? Can you read it for the larger story and not only read at the verse level? Resources Mentioned:The Blue Parakeet by Scot McKnight: http://urlme.cc/Ll8qFor more, check out:Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: http://urlme.cc/vzQp You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Nicole is taking a much-needed break, we are re-airing her first episodes on the basics of Bible study. If you didn't catch these episodes when they first aired, be sure to listen. These episodes lay the foundation for Nicole's simple but powerful approach to Bible study.****“The minute you have asked ‘why?’ – you have become a theologian.” – Carolyn Custis JamesFirst, the bad news: you might be a little uncomfortable with this part, at least a first. But the good news (and it really is good news!) is that as you know more, it more it becomes easier to pull the principle out of Scripture. In this episode, Nicole talks about the five filters we use to understand what a passage is teaching us about God, ourselves, and the world we live in:1. Is the principle or theory reflected in the passage?2. Is the principle timeless?3. Does the principle transcend culture, gender, age, status, etc.?4. Is the principle harmonious with the rest of Scripture?5. Is this principle relevant then and relevant now?For more, check out:Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: https://nicoleunice.com/help-my-bible-is-alive/ Grasping God’s Word by Duvall and Hays: https://amzn.to/3rn2gE9You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Nicole is taking a much-needed break, we are re-airing her first episodes on the basics of Bible study. If you didn't catch these episodes when they first aired, be sure to listen. These episodes lay the foundation for Nicole's simple but powerful approach to Bible study.****If you’ve ever gone to a play, you’ll have been handed a playbill before the program began. This playbill gives you some important information like the characters, the setting, and the scenes you’ll see when the lights dim. The backstory helps us engage with what’s in front of us.When we read the Bible, we also need a backstory. The problem is, we often want it to ignore the backstory and apply the Word immediately to our lives instead of asking what it meant to the original audience. But when we do this, we misapply Scripture.Join Nicole in this episode as she unpacks how we can understand what’s going on behind the scenes of the passages we read.Nicole’s Favorite Study Bible: The NIV Study Bible - https://www.amazon.com/NIV-Study-Bible-Hardcover-Letter/dp/0310438926/Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word: https://amzn.to/3A7Yy5jYou can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Nicole is taking a much-needed break, we are re-airing her first episodes on the basics of Bible study. If you didn't catch these episodes when they first aired, be sure to listen. These episodes lay the foundation for Nicole's simple but powerful approach to Bible study.****Here’s a secret of the universe: there are always basics of everything. If you want to be physically fit, you have to do cardio and strength training. If you want to be a good cook, you have to learn how to chop, mix spices and know how flavors complement one another. And if you want to be good at reading and understanding the Bible, there are basic skills you need to learn as well.In this episode, we’ll unpack just what those fundamental skills are, through Nicole’s 'Alive Method,' by asking four basic questions of every passage of Scripture.Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - http://urlme.cc/OroKYou can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Nicole is taking a much-needed break, we are re-airing her first episodes on the basics of Bible study. If you didn't catch these episodes when they first aired, be sure to listen. These episodes lay the foundation for Nicole's simple but powerful approach to Bible study.****Most of us want to hear from God, but when we actually go to the Bible, it feels irrelevant, archaic or just plain confusing. In this episode, Nicole addresses three of the common obstacles we face in spending time in the Bible and how to get past those into a vibrant relationship with God through His Word.Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - http://urlme.cc/OroKFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/Tetiana5See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say? Over the past 16 weeks, we have learned the truth about sin, the power of faith, and the fulfillment of the law with love. In closing this book, Paul encourages us to be wise about others and wise about the way we love and create unity within the body of Christ. What does it mean for me? Be able to tell someone what the book of Romans is about! What would you say if someone is curious? What would you say to them that would inspire them to read the book for themselves?Nicole’s Wrap-Up of Romans: “The book of Romans: the truth about sin, the power of faith, alive in Christ, released from the law, free in the spirit, suffering for a reason, more than conquerors in this world! Mercy always reigns -- for Israel and for us. Now we are transformed! So, at home and at work, whether weak or strong, we fulfill the law with love! We need each other, and everyone matters. But let’s be wise --seek unity and love, not division or strife.”Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say? All the practical matters that Paul has been teaching lead to bringing praise and glory to God. What’s the backstory?In the New Testament, it is very clear that the Old Testament matters. There are several connections to the Old Testament that cross reference what we read in the New Testament. It is not only important to the encouragement it gives us, but the endurance that it gives our mind. What does it mean?Three principles: 1.Our purpose is God’s glory.2.Not only in this passage does God give us our purpose, but He provides his Word and himself for our endurance and encouragement in our purpose.3.Our purpose is to live in harmony and hospitality with believers because that glorifies God.What does it mean for me? The way we experience hospitality with others brings God glory. Hospitality is a state of mind which leads to action.Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say? Romans 14 instructs readers to not do anything to cause a brother or sister to fall or stumble. We learn through this passage that we are the ones responsible for making efforts to cultivate peace and build those up around us. What’s the backstory?As the early church is being established, there in a specific dispute over whether Christians must abide by Jewish food laws. In this passage we find Paul giving instruction on how to interpret disagreements. First and foremost, he encourages readers to do what ultimately leads to peace. What does it mean?The principle of this passage is not about ceremonial foods, it is about what to do when we have different views within the kingdom of God. We are instructed to honor the one whose faith is weak and honor what they believe leads them to peace. What does it mean for me? As we go into the holidays, be mindful of what this means for you and do what leads to peace and mutual edification. *****Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? 4. What does it mean for me?1. What do the verses say? (We’ll be looking at two verses in particular)Romans 13:1Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.Romans 13:10Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.2. What’s the backstory? What’s the context?Before we get to our own authorities, we’ve got to ask what it would have first meant to the first hearers of Paul’s letter. The civil rulers were most likely all pagan. Christians might have been tempted to ignore their civil leaders because of the corruption that influenced their government. The Christians of that day would have been looking for guidance on how to live as oppressed people under a morally bankrupt government. There is no doubt that the morality of the Roman Empire was darker than the morality of today.3. How do we wrestle through principles together?(Remember the principle test: principles are timeless, transcend culture, and are harmonious throughout scripture). 4. What does it mean for me?Rather than a heart of violence or a critical spirit, what does it look like for me to say “love does no harm to my neighbor?”Think about the fact that Jesus deliberately came into the world during a morally dark time but did not come to overthrow the authorities of the day. What might that teach you about how to live today?*****Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettyAleksei MorozovSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage?4. What does it mean for me?What does it say? Romans 12 gives us a clear picture of where we are going in the next few chapters. If you’ve ever wondered what exactly you are supposed to do as a Christian, you can find your answers in this chapter. What’s the backstory?The main backstory is that everything before this chapter mattered. Everything we are talking about now has to do with God’s mercy up to this point. What does it mean? And what does it mean for me? A few questions to ask yourself: 1. What does sacrifice look like for me in this season?2. What does serving look like for me this season?3. What am I drawn to in the love passage in this chapter?4. What am I being called to overcome? Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say? Paul has been building a logical argument over the course of Chapters 9, 10, and 11 to ultimately express his desires for all to be saved.What’s the backstory?At the beginning of Chapter 9 Paul sets the emotional tone for the letter. The whole tone of 9, 10, and 11 is from a place of grief and anguish for his community. This is not a tone of condemnation or anger, but a tone of sorrow. We begin to see another theme in 9, 10, and 11 which is mercy. He wants to convey to his beloved people that God is bigger than they think. What does it mean? God is God. There is mystery to the way he works, but there is clarity of what he wants us to know. When the mystery of God leads you to a place of anxiousness, you can lean back on the clarity of God. What does it mean for me? I may not know how all my sorrow is held together in Jesus, but I know that God is merciful, faithful, and has not let me down. If I don’t understand something, it does not mean that God doesn’t understand.Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say? Paul expresses his anguish and trouble towards wanting everyone to be saved. He can testify that the Israelites are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. The gospel has been revealed to them, but not all will accept it. What’s the backstory?Romans 10:9 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Jesus went to the cross already to die for our sins. This death resulted in a resurrection, just as it will for us. What does it mean? 1.Everyone who calls on the name of The Lord will be saved. 2.We have the honor of being part of the work of sending and proclaiming so that those can hear and believe. What does it mean for me? Questions to Ask Yourself: 1.Am I guilty of having zeal without knowledge? 2.Have I thanked God recently for bringing the good news? Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say? Paul has great sorrow in his spirit knowing that his own people do not see Jesus as their Messiah and as Christianity begins to blossom, his desire is that they accept Jesus as the chosen one. The Jewish people are stumbling trying to be righteousness by law, but it is the gentiles; the people outside of Judaism, that are choosing righteousness by faith.What’s the backstory?There are a lot of people out there who will debate with you about theology and the verses in Romans 9. Amid the mystery of these verses, remove everything you know about church and look at the story for what it is: a historical man who had a 3-year career, who died, and his followers insisted that he was raised from the dead. It sounds like fooliness. And yet, here we are in 2021 with billons of people believe in this message. This is who Jesus is. What does it mean? When we are trying to understand the mystery of Romans 9, we must interpret it with scripture that we know is clear and forthright. Two verses to help us interpret Romans 9: 1.John 3:16: “For God so loved the world.” 2.2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patience with you not wanting anyone to parish but everyone to come to repentance.” What does it mean for me? Am I willing to be clay in God’s hands? Am I willing to be formed or reformed? Can I hold onto the mystery of what I cannot explain with the certainty of what I can explain? Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say? There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Outline of Romans 8: Romans 8:1 —The PromiseRomans 8:24 — The How of the PromiseRomans 8:14-15 — The Permeance of the PromiseRomans 8:26-27 — The ConfidenceRomans 8:31-39 — Circling Back on How Awesome The Promises AreWhat’s the backstory?Jesus is the fulfillment of the entire Old Testament system, which means he gets the set the conditions and declare that it is finished. He was the only perfect sacrifice who came as a man and embodied sinlessness.What does it mean? We have permanent adoption as sons and daughters of Christ Jesus. Because of this, holiness will become more evident in you as you see more of your darkness and sin. What does it mean for me? God is actually very involved and interested in being a part of your everyday life and decisions. The Spirit of God is living and has taken up residence in you. Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say?In Chapter 7, Paul expresses that even though he has been set free from the law that has brought death, he still struggles with sin. What’s the backstory?Paul alludes to a process in which there is a time in our lives that we are innocent of the awareness of sin. However, as we learn about morality and the law that we are supposed to follow, it makes us want to sin. What does it mean? Even though Paul is a “holy guy” the struggle is real for him, and the struggle is real for us too. There is no difference between us. More education, knowledge, or desire for God does not mean that we won’t struggle with sin. What does it mean for me? There is a real war being waged within me as a believer. This law of sin is still at work trying to draw me in, but I have an assurance of salvation and the mercy of God. Every single day his mercy is new. Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say?It’s okay to be confused or uncomfortable while reading scripture. When reading tends to feel like this, it is important to refer to the study notes. If we are justified, how do we grow into maturity in Christ? We are going to talk about maturity in three parts over the next two or three weeks: 1.Freedom from sin’s tyranny.2.Freedom from condemnation.3.Life in the power of the Spirit.What’s the backstory?In verse 18-19, Paul uses the analogy of slavery, which may be hard to digest in 2021 as we go through this difficult time in our history. In verse 19, Paul also uses the word “offer,” which may be easier to understand in this context. Paul suggests that we offer ourselves as willing servants to the Lord.What does it mean? We are free not from sin itself, but from the enslaving, tyrannical nature of sin. In the power of Christ, we have the ability of Christ to break out of our patterns and give ourselves to a higher power. Sin is deceptive in its charm, but destructive in its nature. What does it mean for me? What does increasing holiness look like in your life? Increasing holiness is a person looks like someone that is full of love, presence, kindness, and in enjoyment of the world. Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? What does it say?There are four phrases we are going to look at to help us understand the passage: Justified by faith: Justification comes through Jesus’ blood. In the sacrifice that Jesus made on our behalf, we can now be in right standing with God. It is the process of reconciliation. Peace with God: Peace with God is not a weather condition; it is like a location. We can have circumstances that make it feel different, but peace is always the same. Access into this grace: We all have access into this grace. Boast in hope: We boast in the hope of the glory of God because of his peace that we have experienced. What’s the backstory?Everything that happened through Adam in the book of Genesis is rectified through Jesus. Just like Adam, we are all sinful from birth. We are all made in the image of God, so we are imprinted with his imagery, but we also bring sin into our life. Adam is the way that sin entered the world, and Jesus is the way we experience the abundance of life. What does it mean? Peace and hope are always ours to have. Always. Through Jesus Christ, in faith, we get to stand in grace.What does it mean for me? Do you practice the peace of God in your life? What would it look like for you to practice the peace of God this week? Romans 5:1-2:Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we[a] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we[b] boast in the hope of the glory of God.Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupToday is a special day! Today I am joined by my friend Rayshawn Graves as we dig into Romans 4. Rayshawn is a pastor here with me in Richmond, Virginia, and hosts the podcast Ask A Pastor.Questions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Romans Week Four: Romans 4 1. What Does it Say? We learn what it looks like to believe in Jesus – it doesn’t work to depend on works. You could stack your works against the works of the holiest person that you can think of, and the scales do not balance. 2. What Is the Backstory? Sometimes we may think that the God of the Old Testament is a God of wrath, but Paul takes us back to the Old Testament through Abraham reminding us that God has always had a plan. Abraham trusted and believed in God when he had nothing else. 3. What Does It Mean? We must believe in Him who raised Jesus, our Lord, from the dead. And believe that Jesus was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. Knowing, embracing, and leaning into this truth is the basis of our faith (v. 23-24).4. What Does It Mean for Me? We see God’s goodness and proactiveness in our lives – he does for us what we couldn’t do. Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage?Romans Week Three: Romans 3:20-261. What Does it Say?Notice the “therefore” in verse 20. Everything we learned about in chapters 1 & 2, we’re about to get the closing argument for here. None of us can be who we think that we can be – none of us is righteous. 2. What Is the Backstory?All of Romans up to this point is addressing the problem of human logic. God cannot be understood fully in our human intelligence. We see the limits of human logic and reason throughout the Bible, even recorded in the earliest written book – Job (See Job 38:1-4).3. What Does It Mean?Sin is the great equalizer of men; mercy is the great deliverance for those who believe. Unless we recognize how deeply we cannot make this happen without God we will continue to try to justify ourselves through our own false self-righteousness. 4. What does it mean for me?1.Reckon with our pride2.Repent of our self-righteousness3.Rejoice in his mercy.Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Romans Week Two: Romans 2: 3-4, 291. What Does This Passage Say? Last week on the podcast we left off knowing that 1) Romans is going to give us a vision for our life and 2) that we are set up with a problem of sin and need a savior. This is the chapter of conviction. Paul is preaching that the church has a problem. Some people are worshipping created things, some who call themselves good are passing judgment and condemnation, and all have a sin problem. “So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? 4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” (v. 3-4). “No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God.” (v. 29)2. What’s the Backstory? Paul sets up this life-giving letter to say that human beings cannot be good on their own. There is no holiness that you can pursue that will make you holy enough for God. We need to ask the question, what am I relying on to make me feel good? What am I relying on to say that I am okay? Whether your sin is on the outside or inside, we all have the same need for God’s kindness – and that becomes the starting point for the good news.3. What Does It Mean? Genuine faith does not come from outward acts, but an inward reality. Heart change is proven over time. 4. What Does It Mean for Me? I have a problem just as much as anyone – and that problem is my sin. Questions to ask yourself: Do I believe that I need a savior? Do I experience in my own self-awareness that I fall short every day? Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to subscribe to Nicole's mailing list and receive bonus resources on RomansClick here to join the conversation in Nicole's Romans Facebook groupQuestions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible:1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory? What's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage?Romans Week One: Romans 1:16-17; 251. What Does This Passage Say?In the opening of this great letter of the Apostle Paul, we get a vision for what the gospel really means. This gospel is righteousness, by faith, and is the power of God for life. But, what is the problem in the world? “They exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator.” (v. 25)2. What’s the Backstory?Paul is doing ordinary pastoral problems and challenges. In the midst of that, he gives us a detailed and thoughtful doctrinal statement on what really matters. We often separate the doctrine & belief from the everyday reality. But what if we chose to see this great gift of salvation as 100% relevant to our everyday life?3. What Does It Mean?The gospel is the power of God, and it is for the Jews and Gentiles – it is not for just one people group. It is about and for the world.4. What Does It Mean for Me?If someone turned to you and asked you: “Why do you follow Jesus?” “How are you different than me?” “What is grace really?” What would you say? That is what is ahead! Resources:Help! My Bible Is AliveFollow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/aradaphotographySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join our FREE Romans Group to take your study of Romans to the next level! Just head over to https://nicoleunice.com/romans/ to sign up for access to weekly inspirational content and access to our private Facebook group! We will walk through Romans as a community, and Nicole will be in the group every week answering your questions about Romans and providing reflections for you to take your study to a deeper place.***No matter what circumstances you are in, God describes himself as slow to anger, compassionate, and rich in love. In today’s episode, we are searching for truth in our feelings when we are angry. What do we do when we feel angry? Behind our anger can be fear, insecurity, pride, control, and irritation, but God is calling us to search our hearts before him to understand where our angry is being placed. In today’s episode, Nicole does a topical study of scripture and breaks down 3 important principles about anger:1. God is slow to anger.2. God’s anger and human anger are not the same things. 3. Anger is not a sin, but it can lead to sin. Questions to consider: 1. Since anger is a natural reaction, what is my plan for dealing appropriately with it? 2. How am I at releasing anger? What might I need to request from God about my anger? As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What do the verses say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture Referenced: Exodus 34:6Psalm 135:8Psalm 103:8Psalm 86:15Nehemiah 9:17Proverbs 15:1Escalates 7:9Ephesians 4:26James 1:19-20Psalm 4:4***Check out Nicole’s latest book, The Miracle Moment: a six-week Bible study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/Pict RiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join our FREE Romans Group to take your study of Romans to the next level! Just head over to https://nicoleunice.com/romans/ to sign up for access to weekly inspirational content and access to our private Facebook group! We will walk through Romans as a community, and Nicole will be in the group every week answering your questions about Romans and providing reflections for you to take your study to a deeper place.***Sometimes we tend to go through life with a low-lying fearful anxiety that may come out stress, irritability, or tiredness. Sometimes we need to stop and ask ourselves: What am I fearing…really? In today’s episode, Nicole challenges us to become in touch with our fear, knowing that our heavenly Father will never leave us nor forsake us. In this new three-week series of How to Study The Bible, host Nicole Unice is breaking down how to be met by God when you are confused, scared, and angry. In today’s episode, Nicole breaks down 2 principles from God as seen in John 14:15-27:1. God promises to be with us.2. Our fear is dissipated by God’s presence. As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? ***Check out Nicole’s latest book, The Miracle Moment: a six-week Bible study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/Aleksei MorozovSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us as we study Romans together! Nicole has created a FREE Romans Group Study to take your reading of Romans to the next level! Just head over to nicoleunice.com/romans/ to sign up for access to weekly inspirational content and access to our private Facebook group. We will walk through Romans as a community, and Nicole will be in the group every week answering your questions and providing reflections for you to take your study to a deeper place.***In today's episode, we ask: Am I making God’s commands the central focus of my heart? There is a spiritual blessing when we are willing to take on God’s commands and live in God’s way. In this new three-week series of How to Study The Bible, host Nicole Unice is breaking down how to be met by God when you are confused, scared, and angry. Here are the five commands from The Lord as seen in Proverbs 3:1-12:1. Let love and faithfulness never leave you.2. Trust in The Lord with all your heart.3. Do not be wise in your own eyes.4. Honor The Lord with your wealth.5. Do not despise The Lord’s disciple.As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-12***Check out Nicole’s latest book, The Miracle Moment: a six-week Bible study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/danijelalaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all have the desire to make a big impact in the world. We each want to live with purpose and feel connected to others. But, do we fully understand this or are we too caught up with daily provisions in our life? In today’s episode guest host, Drew Daniels, will be breaking down the last question of this four-part series, “Don’t You Understand Yet?” taken from Mark 8:14-21.Questions to ask yourself: 1. Do I actually believe that God’s spirit is living and active around me the way scripture says it is? 2. Do I actually believe that God will work in my life in a real and tangible way? As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? ***Drew has been in full-time ministry for nearly a decade. He and his wife Paige currently live in Richmond, Virginia and have two lively toddlers, Nash and Lux. A worship leader and pastor, Drew is passionate about the Bible and leading others to love God’s Word. He is currently pursuing pastoral ordination, completing his Master of Divinity at Fuller Seminary and actively church planting with a team of missionaries in Richmond.*** Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/rudall30See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**Quick Note to our Listeners! Nicole is off for the next few weeks, so while she enjoys some much-needed time off, we hope you enjoy hearing from some of Nicole’s friends in our latest series, “Questions Jesus Asked.”Have you ever felt Jesus speak to you? Maybe you had a sudden urge that God wanted you to do or say something? There are going to be times in our lives when we are confronted with this, and it may not make any sense to us. So how do we learn to stay, listen, and wait for Jesus to reveal himself in these times?In this new series, we will be diving deep into questions Jesus asks throughout The Bible and what they mean for us today. In today’s episode guest host, Erin Rose, is back with us breaking down the question, “You don’t want to leave too, do you?”As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage?Today's Scripture: John 6:60-7060 On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” 61 Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before! 63 The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit[a] and life. 64 Yet there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. 65 He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.” 66 From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. 67 “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” 70 Then Jesus replied, “Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!”*** Erin Rose is a real estate agent in Richmond, VA, who also serves as a pastor and worship leader. She’s part of Urban Doxology, a worship group dedicated to writing songs of reconciliation for the urban context. Listen in and discover their music at @urbandoxology.*** Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**Quick Note to our Listeners! Nicole is off for the next few weeks, so while she enjoys some much-needed time off, we hope you enjoy hearing from some of Nicole’s friends in our latest series, “Questions Jesus Asked.”Have you ever struggled with where you find your identity? In this new series, we will be diving deep into questions Jesus asks throughout The Bible and what they mean for us today. In today’s episode guest host, Drew Daniels, will be breaking down the first question “Who touched me?” In Mark 5:21-34, we learn about a woman with a physical condition who had suffered for 12 years and desperately desired to be healed. As the woman comes forward amid the crowd and falls before Jesus, something miraculous happens. Questions to ask yourself: 1. Do have an area in my life where the healing is not complete? Maybe you have dealt with the surface wound but is there something at the core level that needs to be addressed?2. Do I desire for Jesus to heal me and make me whole? As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? ***Drew has been in full time ministry for nearly a decade. He and his wife Paige currently live in Richmond, Virginia and have two lively toddlers, Nash and Lux. A worship leader and pastor, Drew is passionate about the Bible and leading others to love God’s Word. He is currently pursuing pastoral ordination, completing his Master of Divinity at Fuller Seminary and actively church planting with a team of missionaries in Richmond.***Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/rudall30See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**Quick Note to our Listeners! Nicole is off for the next few weeks, so while she enjoys some much-needed time off, we hope you enjoy hearing from some of Nicole’s friends in our latest series, “Questions Jesus Asked.” This week, Erin Rose hops on the podcast to share her investigation into one of the most fascinating stories in the gospels – when Jesus calms the storm.****Fear and anxiety are real things we deal with every day. Even though we know Jesus is with us, we still tend to be afraid. In this new series, we will be diving deep into questions Jesus asks throughout The Bible and what they mean for us today. In today’s episode guest host, Erin Rose, will be breaking down the first question “Why are you afraid?” In Mark 4:35-41, the disciples find themselves in a windstorm amongst the sea. As fear grows amongst them, Jesus rebukes the wind, and says the sea, “peace be still.” The disciples are amazed as God’s power and reign go beyond what they can see or even imagine. As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture: Mark 4:35-4135 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” 36 And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” 41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”*** Erin Rose is a real estate agent in Richmond, VA, who also serves as a pastor and worship leader. She’s part of Urban Doxology, a worship group dedicated to writing songs of reconciliation for the urban context. Listen in and discover their music at @urbandoxology.*** Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/MimadeoSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you ever struggle with confronting a loved one’s sin? Is God calling you to speak the truth to someone you know? As Jesus walked through life, his greatest desire was to be obedient to the Father. He confronted sin; but also engaged, loved, and leaned into all kinds of relationships.We are called as people of integrity to align our emotions, words, and actions in pursuit of a God-honoring life. In this episode, Nicole walks us through 2 Timothy 3:1-5 where we learn that God desires us to be people that bring the gospel not just through our words, but through our actions. As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:1-5 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.***Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: Getty/XtockImagesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to seek restoration in our relationships? Are we willing to do the work to reach mutual peace and understanding? In this episode, Nicole breaks down the narrative between Peter and Jesus in John 21. In this passage, Jesus models what true restoration looks like including the need for forgiveness, reconciliation, and repentance. We learn that we are forgiven in Christ because of the work Jesus did on the cross. We experience full forgiveness and have a mandate as believers to offer forgiveness to others.As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture: John 21:15-2215 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” 16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me? ”He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” 17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me? ”Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. 18 Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!” 20 Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) 21 When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” 22 Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”***Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/*** Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to lead a life of love? In this episode, we are looking at the narrative between Pilate and Jesus in John 18-19. In this pivotal story, we learn about the nature of humanity and the difference between leading a life of fear and leading a life of love. It can be so easy to step out of a place of love and step into a place of fear. So what do you fear? What do you fear in your relationships? What do you fear when you think about being more loving, forgiving, or truthful? If we are not willing to look deeply at who we are, we will miss out on the joy and the miracle of Christ strengthening us in our places of weakness. As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture: John 18:28-19:16 ***Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole: Her Site | Facebook | InstagramEpisode Image Credit: GettySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are moments when we fail in our love towards others – it is inevitable! So how do we learn to love others fully, as Christ loves us, despite our earthly desires? Is there a relationship in your life where you desire more closeness?In the following passages, we will learn how to train our mindset to love others and how to put it into our daily practice. Through challenging relationships and difficult situations, Christ can transform us into his likeness. As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture: Philippians 2:5-8 NLT - 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 6 Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. 7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, 8 he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross.Colossians 3:12-14 NIV - 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.***Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/Francesca BelliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When did your heart start to wake up to God? Can you pinpoint when you fully understood the victory of Jesus? The promise of victory is a foundational truth for how we understand ourselves, engage in growing with Christ, and engage in loving others. The promise of victory states that you cannot mess up enough to leave the dominion of God's love, and you cannot condemn yourself enough to be separated from the love of Christ. If God is powerful, who can bring a charge against the most powerful one? If God is justified, who could condemn that justification? Can anything separate us from the love of God? Through scripture, we are convinced that nothing can separate us from the love of God. When we are confident of this, we can step into our lives differently. As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show: 1. What does the passage say? 2. What's the backstory, what's the context? 3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage? Today's Scripture: 31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." [j]37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[k] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.*** In this series, we're going to walk through the idea that Jesus is the teacher, and his classroom is your life. Your experiences, your struggles and joys, all of that is the living stuff that Jesus uses to teach you about himself and the kingdom of God.***Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/nadia_bormotovaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is a kind of joy present when you understand your salvation. It changes the way you look at trials; you begin to see that those trials are important to your faith. And when you have joy in your salvation, and you experience those trials that are important to your faith, you get to remember these deep promises that come with salvation - that you have been made new, that you have a new birth, and that you have a hope that exists and is alive. You have an inheritance that is a reward, kept for you in eternity.Our creator knows our tendencies to doubt what we cannot see and to give up when the going gets tough. So he’s given us this gift called living hope.What is hope? It is an active, robust experience of believing that there is more for us in the future than we can see in the present. This can reframe our trials, our grief, everything that feels frustrating or stuck. That’s why I believe that living hope is a miracle.As a reminder, here are the three questions we ask each show:1. What does the passage say? 2. What’s the backstory, what’s the context?3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage?Today’s Scripture:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.***Check out Nicole’s latest Bible study and video series, The Miracle Moment: a six-week study on transforming conflict into connection: https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/***Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/Ponomariova_MariaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Out of this story of Jonah’s failure (and obedience), we see God’s grace extended not only to the people who are wicked, but also to the person who is considered righteous. God extends his grace in both directions because God isn’t just looking at actions, he looks at our heart.What Are the Principles in Jonah?1. God loves the people you think are against you. Think of the people or place you least enjoy. God’s grace extends to even to them.What Does the Book of Jonah Mean for Me Today?1. Who is my Nineveh? Where is my Nineveh? Who are the people, person, or group that God might be asking you, “Do you know my grace extends to them as well as you?” 2. Are you willing to give love as your first response to those people you feel are against you? Do you want their repentance and for them to receive grace?3. “Those who cling to worthless idols will forfeit the grace that is theirs" - Jonah 2:8. Dwell on the word “forfeit.” Am I showing up for grace? Or am I clinging so tightly to something important to me, that I am not showing up for the grace given to me?4. Worship! Dwell on the gift of God’s grace in your life today!***Next week, we start a brand-new series on my new book, The Miracle Moment. We’re going to walk through the idea that Jesus is the teacher, and his classroom is your life. Your experiences, your struggles and joys, all of that is the living stuff that Jesus uses to teach you about himself and the kingdom of God. You can check out The Miracle Moment here! To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/. If you order the book in advance, you will also get a FREE 30-day coaching group.***Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/xochicalcoSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Nicole unpacks Jesus' authority on earth through the fullness of David’s heart in Matthew 22:41-46 and Psalm 110.In Matthew 22:41-46, we see the Pharisees relentlessly asking Jesus questions to trap him. However, Jesus turns the tables on them prophetically and profoundly through Psalm 110. Jesus reveals to them that he fulfills any prophet, priest, and king of the time. David was just a shadow of what was to come. Jesus was continually moving his life towards a sacrificial end and ushers in a whole new way of life.In this episode, Nicole covers:1. Why Jesus quotes David’s psalm when speaking to the Pharisees (Psalm 110)2. What Matthew 22 reveals about Jesus (Matthew 22:41-46)Principles in this Passage of Scripture:1. Jesus is not only your savior, but he dwells within you. You have access to the wisdom, knowledge, and purposes of Christ. 2. God himself will reveal more of himself through you. Not only is he our savior, but our leader, teacher, and friend. Question to ask yourself: Do you allow God to reveal himself through you? Next Week we will look at the story of Jonah!Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/gldburgerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The book of Ruth is a love story... but maybe not in the way you think it is. In this episode, Nicole unpacks the Old Testament book of Ruth. Ruth was so valuable and crucial to the life of Jesus Christ that she is even named in his genealogy. The book of Ruth is a love story of redemption. In this episode, Nicole covers: 1. What a Kinsman-Redeemer is (Ruth 2:19-20)2. What moral righteousness means (Chapter 3:9)Principles in this Passage of Scripture:1. God's redemption extends to every true Israelite. God's chosen people extend beyond lineage. There is comfort in the fact that God's grace extends to the ends of the earth.2. God uses human needs to extend his principle of grace. Questions to ask yourself: What have you perceived as beyond the care of the Lord? What feels hopeless or too far gone outside of his redeeming love?Next Week's Scripture: Matthew 22:41-46, Psalm 1:10Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/vinapSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This story is mysterious and frankly, a little weird. But when you know what it means in the context of the narrative of Scripture, it makes so much more sense.Context:In this part of the exodus, the people are impatient to get to the Promised Land. “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness?” In doing this, they speak against God’s grace.When God withdrawals his grace, he leaves the Israelites open to the natural dangers of the wilderness (dangerous snakes, in this case). He wants his children to see their entitled attitudes. But as soon as they turn toward him, he gives them a way back to him.What Does This Story Mean?John 3:14-17: Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."Here are God’s people, spurning his grace, and in doing so, are choosing death. That death can only be relieved by looking to this snake that has been lifted up. There is a choice to be made. Jesus himself says in John that the whole point of that passage is to point to what is going to happen through himself.What Does This Mean for Me?When you hear this story, what is your response?If you lack understanding or doubt, have you asked God to unveil your understanding?Our Verses for Next Week: Ruth 1-4Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/vinapSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, unveils the promises of God in Genesis 15, through the Old Testament character Abram. In the New Testament, Abram is reintroduced to help us understand the promise of Jesus, and Nicole walks us through those connections in Scripture.Through Abram's belief in and commitment to God, we can hold fast to the promises of The Lord.In this episode, Nicole covers: 1. Abram's belief in God and God's credit of righteousness (verse 6) 2. Abram's belief that God can do the impossible (verse 15)3. Abram's understanding of the sacrifice of God (verse 17)Principles in this Passage of Scripture:1. You do not have to do something to get to God. God is coming to you first in your sin and goes before you to give you life. 2. The covenant of grace supersedes any earthly thing we can do... all we have to do is believe.Next Week's Scripture: Exodus 14 and Numbers 21Related Resources: Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! There’s a moment in every conversation that can change the whole relationship. It’s the “miracle moment.” And once you learn how to recognize and respond to it, it holds the power to help transform the relationships you have at home, in love, and at work into the ones you really want. To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/KatBuslaevaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Nicole unveils the meaning behind the old covenant through Genesis 14.Over the next two weeks, Nicole is going to teach us about two characters in scripture that are reinterpreted in the New Testament to help us understand Jesus' promise. The first character is Melchizedek. Through Melchizedek, we learn that Jesus died once and for all. Therefore, we are secure in our relationship with Him. In this episode, Nicole covers: 1. Who Melchizedek was (Genesis 14) 2. What Melchizedek means (Psalms 1:10)3. Why Melchizedek is important (Hebrews 7)Principles in this Passage of Scripture: 1. Jesus is our guarantee. Therefore, Jesus can save those who come to God through Him. 2. Jesus has established a new world order. In doing so, God has been using moments throughout the Old Testament for a redemptive narrative. Questions to ask yourself: What does this mean for me? Am I falling in love with my security, identity, and confidence that comes from Jesus?Next Week's Scripture: Genesis 15Related Resources: Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! There’s a moment in every conversation that can change the whole relationship. It’s the “miracle moment.” And once you learn how to recognize and respond to it, it holds the power to help transform the relationships you have at home, in love, and at work into the ones you really want. To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/SedmakSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week’s Bible verses: Genesis 1-3, Genesis 3:15What Nicole covers in this episode:1. The context of Genesis 3 and why we can’t start our story there; we have to start in Genesis 1-2. 2. Why God’s mercy was on display when he made Adam and Eve leave the garden.3. The first human experience of shame and what we can learn from it.4. What happens to Adam and Eve’s relationship after sin entered the world, and how Satan’s work to divide impacts all relationships.5. God's plan for redemption, already in place.Principles from this Passage of Scripture:1. God’s redemptive plan has been ongoing since the beginning of humanity.2. God is in control even when all seems lost.3. God has provided a way for a restored relationship with HimQuestion to Ask Yourself: Do I ever feel like all hope is lost, and if so, how can I move toward a posture of belief around redemption?Scripture to read for next week: Genesis 14 & 15Related Resources: Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! There’s a moment in every conversation that can change the whole relationship. It’s the “miracle moment.” And once you learn how to recognize and respond to it, it holds the power to help transform the relationships you have at home, in love, and at work into the ones you really want. To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/GldburgerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this first episode of our new ‘Glory in the Unveiling’ series, Nicole unpacks 2 Corinthians 3:10-18. Today we are looking at the transformation of the old covenant and the new covenant through an unveiled face. What is an unveiled face? Why do we need to know this? In this episode, Nicole breaks down what the veil means and how it impacts our faith: 1. God gives us a bold faith (2 Corinthians 3:12)3. Comparing the past and the present (2 Corinthians 3:16) 2. Freedom will come (2 Corinthians 3:17)4. Transformation begins (2 Corinthians 3:18)Principles in this Passage of Scripture: 1. Our contemplation in the work of Christ in the entity of scripture brings us increasing freedom and transformation. With an unveiled face, we can see the world differently, no matter who we are. Next Week's Scripture: Genesis 1-3Related Resources: Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! There’s a moment in every conversation that can change the whole relationship. It’s the “miracle moment.” And once you learn how to recognize and respond to it, it holds the power to help transform the relationships you have at home, in love, and at work into the ones you really want. To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/WachiraphornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we are unpacking Matthew 4:8-11 in our ‘Temptations of Jesus’ series. You can listen to the first and second episodes here.In this passage, we are looking at the temptation of shortcuts, or moral relativism. This temptation asks us, “Don’t you want to accomplish and achieve all the things you know God would want?” In this temptation, Satan gets more obvious and blatant with what he wants – “bow down and worship me.” Of course, Jesus quotes Scripture; his weapon in this battle that is not of flesh and blood… If Jesus needed Scripture to defeat the lies of the enemy and overcome temptation, how much more so do we?In this episode, Nicole also helps us unpack the backstory of the enemy:1. He is the accuser or slanderer. He uses words and twists them to attack us.2. There is no truth in him. He is the liar and the father of lies (John 8:44).3. He is still under the power of God (Luke 22:31; the book of Job)4. He is scheming: (Ephesians 6:11)5. It is possible to resist him (James 4:7)6. His work has already been destroyed (1 John 3:8)Related Resources:Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! There’s a moment in every conversation that can change the whole relationship. It’s the “miracle moment.” And once you learn how to recognize and respond to it, it holds the power to help transform the relationships you have?at home, in love, and at work?into the ones you really want. To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/OverearthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this second episode of our True Life series, Nicole looks at the temptation of validation that Jesus faced, and what his victory of it means for us today. Listen to the first episode here!Today, we’re looking at how Satan tempted Jesus to throw himself off the highest point of the temple. What should we imagine when we read that? What do we need to know to be able to rightly interpret Jesus’ response? Principles from this passage:Satan tempts Jesus (and us) to prove who God really is. But we learn from Jesus that there is a difference between claiming the promises of God and asking God to prove himself to us.We see from these verses that interpretation matters. Am I honest with myself when my doubt or discouragement is actually disobedience? Am I equipped to answer my doubt or discouragement with the Word of God?Scripture Referenced in this Episode:Matthew 4:5-7; Psalm 91Related Resources:Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! There’s a moment in every conversation that can change the whole relationship. It’s the “miracle moment.” And once you learn how to recognize and respond to it, it holds the power to help transform the relationships you have?at home, in love, and at work?into the ones you really want. To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/GrivinaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we lead up to Easter, for many of us, understanding what the Resurrection means and its importance in our faith are sometimes lost on us. It’s easy to go through the motions but not actually experience the Resurrection as a true reality in our lives.In this episode, we begin our look at the Temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4. The beginning of Jesus’ public ministry gives us a window into what Jesus was sent to do. When we see how he began, we understand how his ministry was fulfilled. We also get an interesting angle into the kinds of temptations that we should expect while we are here on earth.When Jesus quotes the Word of God at Satan, we have a model for perfect obedience. The truth of God's Word was stronger than the temptation of comfort. By calling on the Word of Truth, Jesus was able to keep himself from temptation, as so can we.Principles in this Passage of Scripture:1. The Enemy’s Methods are Not Creative, But Often Effective: He calls into doubt your identity. He tempts you to prove yourself and looks for moments when you’re weakest to tempt you. We don’t need to be fearful, but we need to be discerning.Related Resources:Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! There’s a moment in every conversation that can change the whole relationship. It’s the “miracle moment.” And once you learn how to recognize and respond to it, it holds the power to help transform the relationships you have?at home, in love, and at work?into the ones you really want. To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/Tony BaggettSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The most surprising thing about God’s character is that he is all-powerful AND all-merciful. In this episode, we dive into a psalm full of beautiful praise to our powerful, merciful God: Psalm 145.What Are the Principles That Psalm 145 Teaches Us?- A call to remember the character of God as he is written about in this psalm. - Do we believe these attributes of God are true, and meant to bless us?- What does it mean for us to recite to ourselves what is true about God?- It is important to meditate on the wonderful works of God (v. 5)- We have a responsibility to the next generation for the way we live out our lives for God- We are called to praise every single day, forever and ever.- God welcomes us to celebrate the goodness in life, and be joyful.How might you take one of these principles from Psalm 145 and apply it to your life today?Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleFollow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/BenjavisaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Psalms cover the entire range of human expression. They invite us to be fully honest and fully ourselves with God. But they also instruct us on how to use trust and praise to strengthen our faith. Perhaps you’ve wondered about the positive psychology idea of “self-talk.” Well, today we are going to learn about the origins of that very idea--right here in the Psalms. Let’s take a look together at what we can learn about the power of promises to lift our spirits and direct our paths. What Are the Principles Psalm 103 Teaches Us?#1 - This earthly life is a chapter in our eternal life. He might heal (see the story of Hezekiah), or he may not on this side of eternity. We might not yet fully understand what his healing looks like in our earthly lives.#2 – When God says he removes our sins “as far as the east is from the west” – we can learn several things about God’s forgiveness for us: it is permanent, it is limitless.Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleFollow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/BenjavisaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it really mean to pray honest prayers to God? The honest prayers of David can teach us so much about how to come to God in prayer.This is the third episode in our Love Psalms series. Here is the first episode, and here is the second.What Nicole Covers in This Episode:• How to dig into large sections of Scripture at a time• In this honest prayer, what is David asking, what is he declaring? How can we take that framework and apply it to the way we pray?• What is the backstory and how does that information help us understand it?• Where else do these verses show up in Scripture? (Hebrews 10, Matthew 5:3)• Takeaway Principle 1: To praise God is to remember. We can call on the promises of God in confidence, even when we are in a place of trouble. There is a trust we are cultivating with God when we choose to praise and remember who he is.• Takeaway Principle 2: The attitude of the heart is more important than any other offering (cf. Matthew 15:8; Isaiah 29:13)• Which of these aspects of prayer do you want to commit to today?Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleFollow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/OverearthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge, kicked off on February 1st. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleThis is the second episode in our Love Psalms series. Here is the first episode.If you are in a season of discouragement, loss, or grief, come study Psalm 6 with us. Discussed This Week:• Have you accepted that trouble and suffering is a part of this world, not the exception but the rule?• Other Psalms of lament: 8, 12, 32, 38, 46, 51, 102, 130• One of Nicole’s favorite definition of mercy: “God’s affection set on relieving our affliction”• Even if we have brought grief on ourselves, like David has in Psalm 6, we can still cry out for mercy.• Does God punish us for our sin? (Yes, according to 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8.) Nicole explains how with grace, the penalty for our sin is removed and we can have right standing with God. But grace does not mean that if we go on sinning that we do not receive consequences.• How do we handle it when God doesn’t seem to come to our aid?• The confident turn in Psalm 6 that shows us in the midst of suffering we can have confident hope in who God is.• Three questions: Do I need to repent of something in my life? Do I need to have confidence in my grief in sorrow? Do I need to believe that God has heard my cry?Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/izumikobayashiSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge, kicked off on February 1st. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleIf you’ve ever wanted to better understand the Book of Psalms, this series is for you! We are going to spend the next five episodes looking at the 5 types of major psalms in the Bible and how to properly read this poetic book.We’re calling it Love Psalms, because sometimes love is full of praise, sometimes love has lament in it. Sometimes love is about when we feel close, and sometimes it’s our love is expressed in the anguish we feel in distance. The Psalms allow us the full emotional expression of human existence. Every part of your emotional experience, every part of your life experience, is welcome in God’s presence. That’s the subscript of the whole book of Psalms.In this episode, Nicole breaks down:• What is the posture of the righteous? What do they do, and what don’t they do?• How to spot imagery and parallelism (and what they matter)• What it means that this is the first psalm in the entire book• What you should expect when you live a righteous life?• How to correctly interpret the idea of “prospering”Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/izumikobayashiSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge, kicked off on February 1st. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleIn This Episode:Erin Rose joins Nicole to talk through Isaiah 43:18-19 and what exactly the “new thing” is that God is doing.This Week’s Key Verse: Isaiah 43:18-19 - “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”Erin Rose is a real estate agent in Richmond, VA, who also serves as a pastor and worship leader. She’s part of Urban Doxology, a worship group dedicated to writing songs of reconciliation for the urban context. Listen in and discover their music at @urbandoxology.Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/PasevenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge, which kicks off on February 1st. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleNicole’s book 'Help! My Bible Is Alive' is available here.In This Episode:Right about now, we start to realize just how difficult it is to change. If you’re feeling that way, know that you have a Heavenly Father who promises to do the things he requires of us. If he’s calling us to holiness, he’s going to make a way for us to get there. If he’s calling us to a new attitude or mind, he’s going to make a way. We are active participants in the transformative work that the Spirit is doing in us.This week, we are diving deep into 2 Corinthians 5:17 and the amazing implications it has for us as believers. What does it mean to be a new creation? It means our eternal life starts now, not once we’re in heaven.This Week’s Key Verse:2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/Ponomariova_MariaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge, which kicks off on February 1st. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleNicole’s book 'Help! My Bible Is Alive' is available here.In This Episode:The work of a new heart is done in Christ, but we are still participants in that work. Every day, we have the choice: will we continue to put off the old self, and put on the old self? In this episode, Nicole looks at what it means for us to take our thoughts captive and hold them up to the truth of God’s Word.This Week’s Key Verses:Ephesians 4:22-24: “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”2 Corinthians 10:5: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”Lamentations 3:22-23: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/nadia_bormotovaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you looking to get more out of your time studying the Bible? Or maybe you're ready to finally start building a consistent, daily quiet time with the Lord? If that sounds like you, then Nicole would like to personally invite you to join her Help! My Bible is Alive FREE 30-Day Challenge, which kicks off on February 1st. To sign up, head over to https://nicoleunice.com/bibleNicole’s book 'Help! My Bible Is Alive' is available here.This Week’s Key Bible Verse:Ezekiel 36:25-27“What God requires for his people, he always provides.” God promises to give you a new heart and a new Spirit. In this episode, we’ll dive into Ezekiel to see just what God promises to do for us in our relationship with Him.If you’re new to the podcast, check out our first episodes, which will walk you through Nicole’s ‘Alive Method’ of Bible study: The Basics of Bible Study Digging Deeper - What's the Backstory? Unpacking Principles and Finding Meaning What to Do When You Get Stuck Making it Personal - What Does It Mean for Me? Follow Nicole:Her Site | Facebook | Instagram Episode Image Credit: Getty/nadia_bormotovaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode, we wanted to introduce you to Nicole's other podcast, Let's Be Real! In this episode, Nicole shares why setting healthy boundaries can be so hard, and how to be a peaceful, joyful person with your YES and your NO.To take Nicole's FREE boundaries assessment, just head over to https://nicoleunice.com/boundaries/. To listen and subscribe to Let's Get Real, go to https://nicoleunice.com/podcasts/ (Episodes 18, 19, 20, and 21 are the ones focused on setting healthy boundaries.)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our forth and final episode of our latest season, Nicole walks us through Philippians 4 and our path to peace.Recommended Resources:Walking with God: A 30-Day Guided Discovery of Philippians and Ephesians. This is a 5-week guided devotional plan to help you unpack God’s Word in simple, daily steps. Learn more at https://nicoleunice.com/walking-with-god/Connect with Nicole:Her website: https://www.nicoleunice.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Episode Image Credit: Getty/Malte MuellerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this third episode of our new season, Nicole helps us open our eyes to receive the riches of Philippians 3 and the source of our confidence.Recommended Resources:Walking with God: A 30-Day Guided Discovery of Philippians and Ephesians. This is a 5-week guided devotional plan to help you unpack God’s Word in simple, daily steps. Learn more at https://nicoleunice.com/walking-with-god/Connect with Nicole:Her website: https://www.nicoleunice.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Episode Image Credit: Getty/Ponomariova_MariaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this second episode of our new season, Nicole digs deep into the goodness of Philippians 2, connecting the experience of our salvation with the outwork of our salvation.Recommended Resources:Walking with God: A 30-Day Guided Discovery of Philippians and Ephesians. This is a 5-week guided devotional plan to help you unpack God’s Word in simple, daily steps. Learn more at https://nicoleunice.com/walking-with-god/Connect with Nicole:Her website: https://www.nicoleunice.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Episode Image Credit: Getty/nadia_bormotovaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new season of How to Study the Bible Is here! This season, Nicole takes us through the book of Philippians and what it looks like to have abundant joy in a world that is often anything but joy-filled.In this episode, Nicole reminds us how we use the Alive Method to discover the meaning and application of Scripture, and begins to walk us through Philippians.Recommended Resources:Walking with God: A 30-Day Guided Discovery of Philippians and Ephesians. This is a 5-week guided devotional plan to help you unpack God’s Word in simple, daily steps. Learn more at https://nicoleunice.com/walking-with-god/Connect with Nicole:Her website: https://www.nicoleunice.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.unice/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleunice/Episode Image Credit: Getty/FORGEMSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to find strength in God’s joy? In this episode, Nicole looks at Nehemiah 8 in order to help listeners move from happiness based on circumstances, to being people who actually find within themselves a deep joy that is settled in God. While we can’t change our circumstances, we want to be people who deal with our circumstances differently because of God in our life.Resources:Help, My Bible Is Alive!Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real.Follow her on Facebook and InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“When the things we have found our comfort and security in are failing, it is at that point Jesus invites us to go deeper with him.” - Nicole UniceIn this episode, Nicole walks us through Luke 5:4-11 using the Alive Method of Bible Study, guiding us to our true source of security when life is uncertain.This is episode #2 in Nicole's 4-part series "Finding Comfort in the Promises of God." You can listen to part one here: Finding Hope in Stressful TimesResources:Help, My Bible Is Alive!Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real.Follow her on Facebook and InstagramImage Credit: ©Getty/frimagesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“As a people of God, we are called to bold and courageous action. But when our lives get smaller and smaller because of the fear of what we think might happen, we actually are out of accord with God’s purpose and design for our lives.” Fear is real, and it’s because we do have real things to be afraid of. But sometimes, our survival instincts, like fear, can begin to work overtime and unnecessarily become anxiety. In today’s episode, Nicole unpacks what to do when our fears become anxieties that begin to impact how we make decisions. If you struggle with anxiety, this is a must-listen episode.This is episode #2 in Nicole's 4-part series "Finding Comfort in the Promises of God." You can listen to part one here: Finding Hope in Stressful TimesResources:Help, My Bible Is Alive!Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real.Follow her on Facebook and InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode #1 of a new, 4-part miniseries called "Comfort in God’s Promises." We'll be using what we learned through the Alive Method of Bible Study in order to apply God’s never-changing truth to the ever-changing circumstances of our lives. In this episode, Nicole unpacks how to go to Scripture to find hope in stressful times. Learn what it looks like to "go back to home base” whenever you feel discouraged or confused.Scripture References: Matthew 13:44; Matthew 6:19-21; Ecclesiastes 2; Philippians 4:19Resources:Help, My Bible Is Alive!Subscribe to Nicole’s weekly podcast, Let's Be Real.Follow her on Facebook and InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve got the plan, you know what to do, but now you’ve got to do the work. We’re all prone to laziness or apathy, but if you truly want to hear from God through his word for a lifetime and be transformed, you’ve got to make an effort.Here are a few steps you can take to build on the success you’ve had so far:1. Maintain the Habit 2. Always Be Somewhere in Scripture3. Set Short and Attainable Goals4. Seek to Live in Community5. Teach Somebody ElseTake the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: http://urlme.cc/vzQp You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s amazing what 15 minutes with God can do to our perspective, our attitude and our actions in one day. Putting the Alive Method together, Nicole walks you through all 4 questions we've unpacked in previous episodes using one passage of Scripture.(It might be a good idea to have your Bible, notebook and a pencil for this episode, as we’re getting practical and applying everything we’ve talked about here!) For more, check out:Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: http://urlme.cc/vzQp You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s review the first three questions you ask of Scripture:1. What does it say? Can I restate what the passage says?2. What’s the backstory? What’s our context and history in the time it was written?3. What does it mean? What is the principle at play, what is it teaching me about God and our interaction with him?Today, we’ll unpack question four – What does this mean for me? All of our work in studying and understanding the Bible is all meant to move us to this place: where our lives are transformed by who and what we know.What can Scripture give us?1. Encouragement and priorities for the hard or mundane seasons of life.2. Conviction leading to repentance when we sin (2 Corinthians 7:8-13).3. Worship as a response to what we now know about who God is and what he has done! For more, check out:Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: http://urlme.cc/vzQp You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’ll look at the three most common issues that can derail our Bible study and how we can overcome them: Problem 1 - These passages contradict! How can I possibly find the meaning?Questions to ask yourself: What else happens in Scripture related to this topic, beyond this verse? Is it bound in a cultural time or is it a timeless principle?Problem 2 - It seems like the God of the Old Testament and the New Testament disagree. Questions to ask yourself: What if I’m wrong? Have I read both the Old and New Testament in their entirety? Have I explored the backstory? Problem 3 – The Old Testament doesn't seem relevant in my life. Questions to ask yourself: Have you read large passages (several chapters or even an entire book) of the Old Testament at once? Can you read it for the larger story and not only read at the verse level? Resources Mentioned:The Blue Parakeet by Scot McKnight: http://urlme.cc/Ll8qFor more, check out:Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: http://urlme.cc/vzQp You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The minute you have asked ‘why?’ – you have become a theologian.” – Carolyn Custis JamesFirst, the bad news: you might be a little uncomfortable with this part, at least a first. But the good news (and it really is good news!) is that as you know more, it more it becomes easier to pull the principle out of Scripture. In this episode, Nicole talks about the five filters we use to understand what a passage is teaching us about God, ourselves, and the world we live in:1. Is the principle or theory reflected in the passage?2. Is the principle timeless?3. Does the principle transcend culture, gender, age, status, etc.?4. Is the principle harmonious with the rest of Scripture?5. Is this principle relevant then and relevant now?For more, check out:Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: http://urlme.cc/vzQp Grasping God’s Word by Duvall and Hays: http://urlme.cc/DNlPYou can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever gone to a play, you’ll have been handed a playbill before the program began. This playbill gives you some important information like the characters, the setting and the scenes you’ll see when the lights dim. The backstory helps us engage with what’s in front of us.When we read the Bible, we also need a backstory. The problem is, we often want it to ignore the backstory and apply the Word immediately to our lives instead of asking what it meant to the original audience. But when we do this, we misapply Scripture.Join Nicole in this episode as she unpacks how we can understand what’s going on behind the scenes of the passages we read.Nicole’s Favorite Study Bible: The NIV Study Bible - http://urlme.cc/AvRnCheck out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - http://urlme.cc/OroKYou can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here’s a secret of the universe: there are always basics of everything. If you want to be physically fit, you have to do cardio and strength training. If you want to be a good cook, you have to learn how to chop, mix spices and know how flavors complement one another. And if you want to be good at reading and understanding the Bible, there are basic skills you need to learn as well.In this episode, we’ll unpack just what those fundamental skills are, through Nicole’s 'Alive Method,' by asking four basic questions of every passage of Scripture. Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - http://urlme.cc/OroKYou can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us want to hear from God, but when we actually go to the Bible, it feels irrelevant, archaic or just plain confusing. In this episode, Nicole addresses three of our common obstacles we face in spending time in the Bible and how to get past those into a vibrant relationship with God through His Word.Check out Nicole’s book on this topic: Help! My Bible Is Alive: 30 Days of Learning to Love and Understand God’s Word - http://urlme.cc/OroKYou can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ And on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleuniceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We want to experience God through the Bible… we really do! But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to.In this podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through his Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.