In this episode we talk about an important aspect of the Christian life that we should be engaged in each and every day.Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 93: Truths from RuthEpisode 94: Is anything too hard for the Lord?Scriptures referenced:1 Samuel 30:1-6Romans 12:2Matthew 6:33Isaiah 26:3Psalm 103:1-5Psalm 42:11Proverbs 18:21John 10:10John 14:18Hebrews 13:5Romans 8:38-39Romans 8:31Romans 8:1Philippians 4:131 Corinthians 10:13Psalm 55:22Ephesians 4:29Ephesians 6:16Matthew 4:1-11Luke 4:13Galatians 6:2Ruth 2:15-17John 14:16-17Matthew 11:30Romans 12:21Proverbs 4:18Psalm 23:6Psalm 139:5I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, feel free to email us at [email protected]. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled" above. Please also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" above and fill out the form. Also, feel free to check out our most recent newsletter.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast" above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we look at a crucial principle from the life of Abraham that we should all seek to emulate.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 66: Isaacs or Ishmaels?Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, Part 1Episode 91: HupomenōScriptures referenced:Genesis 12:1-3Genesis 15:1-6Genesis 17:1-7Genesis 12:4Genesis 18:10-15Genesis 21:1-3, 6Proverbs 13:12Romans 4:18-25Psalm 23:6aRomans 12:1-2John 3:16John 1:11-13Matthew 8:5-13Matthew 6:33Matthew 15:7-9Matthew 4:4Psalm 1:1-32 Timothy 2:7Hebrews 13:5Psalm 27:13-14James 1:2-42 Corinthians 12:8-10Matthew 11:28I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, feel free to email us at [email protected]. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled" above. Please also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" above and fill out the form. Also, feel free to check out our most recent newsletter.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast" above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we do a brief overview of Ruth and draw out three truths.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 21: "I never knew youEpisode 24: The GospelEpisode 31: "Until I went into the sanctuary of God"Quotes used in this episode:NET footnote from Matthew 22:24: "The brother of a man who died without a son had an obligation to marry his brother’s widow. This served several purposes: It provided for the widow in a society where a widow with no children to care for her would be reduced to begging, and it preserved the name of the deceased, who would be regarded as the legal father of the first son produced from that marriage."NET footnote from Ruth 2:3: "The text is written from Ruth’s limited perspective. As far as she was concerned, she randomly picked a spot in the field. But God was providentially at work and led her to the portion of the field belonging to Boaz, who, as a near relative of Elimelech, was a potential benefactor.""God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, and you may be aware of three of them" (Pastor John Piper)."This is a BIG message in a SHORT story. It shows how God is constructing his grand story out of the small, seemingly inconsequential stories of everyday people. This little story is intentionally framed at the beginning and end by the larger storyline of the Bible. Ruth shows how God is at work in the day to day activities of average people. All the characters face life’s normal challenges (death, moving, lack of financial resources, familial responsibilities, etc.) and find God is weaving a story of redemption out of all the details. The Book of Ruth encourages us to view our day-to-day lives as part of God’s bigger plan for our lives and world" (The Bible Project)."The characters talk about God a few times, but the narrator hardly ever mentions God explicitly doing anything in the story. This is its subtle brilliance because God's providence is at work behind every scene, weaving together the lives of the characters" (The Bible Project)."Endurance is faith expressed over time" (Pastor J. D. Greear).Scriptures referenced:Ruth 1:1-5Ruth 1:15-18Ruth 2:1-17Leviticus 19:9-10Leviticus 23:22Deuteronomy 24:19-22Ruth 2:20-23Ruth 3:1-13Deuteronomy 25:5-10Matthew 22:23-33Ruth 3:16-18I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, feel free to email us at [email protected]. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled" above. Please also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" above and fill out the form. Also, feel free to check out our most recent newsletter.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast" above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about potential idols in our lives and what to do about them.Here is the prayer I encouraged you to pray: "Lord, is my heart blameless and whole towards You, or are there rivals to you in my heart?"Scriptures referenced:2 Chronicles 16:9a-b1 Kings 11:1-42 Corinthians 6:141 Corinthians 7:16Psalm 86:11-12Psalm 127:1Proverbs 27:6Proverbs 27:17Matthew 6:1-18Luke 6:46Psalm 135:15-18Exodus 20:3-6Exodus 321 Kings 18:21John 16:12-13Psalm 51:2Psalm 51:7Psalm 51:10Psalm 32:51 John 1:92 Corinthians 12:9Philippians 4:13John 15:5James 5:16James 4:6Matthew 23:12Proverbs 12:151 John 5:21Matthew 11:28-30I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, feel free to email us at [email protected]. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled" above. Please also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" above and fill out the form.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast" above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the crucial role that steadfastness/endurance plays in the life of a believer.For those of you who are interested, here are some links regarding the Greek words I referenced in this episode:Hupomenō (Source 1)Hupomenō (Source 2)Hupomoné (Source 1)Hupomoné (Source 2)Scriptures used:John 15:4Romans 8:28Galatians 5:22-23James 5:11Job 16:7-17Job 19:6-12Job 16:20Job 19:25-27Job 1:11, 22Job 2:5, 9-10Job 42:7-8Lamentations 3:31-33Colossians 1:9-122 Thessalonians 3:5Galatians 2:20Hebrews 12:1-2James 1:2-41 Peter 1:14-161 Peter 2:11 Peter 2:111 Peter 2:16Matthew 5:13-161 Peter 2:121 Peter 3:13-16Matthew 11:28-30**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When quoting Galatians 2:20, I accidentally left out a phrase. Here is the verse verbatim: "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me"At one point I paraphrased Romans 8:28. Here is the verse verbatim: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, feel free to email us at [email protected]. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled" above. Please also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" above and fill out the form.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast" above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the fact that we will experience opposition if we are actively following Jesus and sharing the Gospel.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 21: "I never knew you"Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 86: The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are fewScriptures referenced:Luke 11:14-23John 3:16-21John 14:6John 8:12Matthew 5:14John 15:18-202 Timothy 3:12Ephesians 2:1-10Luke 6:22-23, 261 Peter 4:12-16John 1:142 Peter 3:9Ezekiel 18:32**CORRECTIONS**The first time I read 1 Peter 4:14 I accidentally said "sake" instead of "name". Here is the verse: "If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you."I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, feel free to email us at [email protected]. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled" above.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast" above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about how God gives us wisdom when we need it.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 83: The lie of anxiety and the grace for todayScriptures used:1 Samuel 10:81 Samuel 13:1-14Esther 9:1-22 Peter 1:3-4Psalm 56:3-4Romans 12:2James 1:5-8Matthew 6:34Proverbs 12:15Proverbs 27:1John 5:17Galatians 5:22-23Psalm 27:14**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When I read 1 Samuel 13:13, I forgot to read the word "forever". Here is the verse verbatim: "And Samuel said to Saul, 'You have done foolishly. You have not kept the command of the Lord your God, with which he commanded you. For then the Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever.'"When quoting Romans 12:2 I paraphrased it. Here is the exact quote: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, feel free to email us at [email protected]. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled" above.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast" above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about being zealous for the Lord. Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 86: The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are fewEpisode 87: Guard your hopeGreek words referenced:Spoudé (G4710)Zeó (G2204) (source 1)Zeó (G2204) (source 2)Zelos (G2205)Zélótés (G2207)Scriptures referenced:Romans 12:11Deuteronomy 6:4-5Matthew 22:37-40John 14:151 Corinthians 3:6Acts 18:24-282 Peter 3:18John 2:13-17Titus 2:11-14Acts 6-7Exodus 18Matthew 26:59-61Luke 23:34, 46Romans 8:9John 15:4-5John 4:31-34Ephesians 5:18Ephesians 4:30Hebrews 13:5Romans 8:38-39Psalm 66:18Luke 19:10**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When I said "Deuteronomy 4" the correct passage was actually Deuteronomy 6:4-5.Support the Show.If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the crucial importance of walking in biblical hope.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 21: "I never knew you"Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 82: Do not despise the time in betweenEpisode 86: The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are fewScriptures referenced:Job 23:8-9Job 30:26Job 42:51 Peter 5:7Philippians 4:7Psalm 55:22Proverbs 12:25Proverbs 13:12Psalm 39:7Psalm 42:11Jeremiah 22:8-9Lamentations 1:3Lamentations 3:1-24Romans 8:31, 33-34, 38-39Revelation 21:41 Peter 1:3-5, 13Titus 2:13Titus 3:4-7Psalm 27:13-14Psalm 34:4-6Psalm 107:6Matthew 7:7-11Mark 11:24-252 Corinthians 12:8-91 Thessalonians 5:16-18Romans 15:13Romans 8:28Support the Show.If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the vital importance of sharing the Gospel, and we ask ourselves some difficult questions about our sharing Jesus habits.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 21: "I never knew you"Episode 24: The GospelAccess resources to aid in telling others about JesusI mentioned videos from the recent sharing Jesus workshop that we did at Mentoring Men for the Master. I will include the links to those below for any who are interested. (Please note that many of the videos are shorter because we provided additional time those weeks for the small groups to practice and discuss sharing the Gospel.)Part 1Part 2Part 3Part 4Part 5Part 6Part 7Scriptures referenced:John 4:1-42John 6:35John 7:37-39Isaiah 55:1-2Matthew 11:28Matthew 5:6Luke 19:10Matthew 9:35-38John 14:6Matthew 28:18-201 Corinthians 15:3-4John 3:16-18Romans 3:23Romans 6:23Romans 5:8Romans 10:9, 13Ephesians 2:8-92 Corinthians 5:21Romans 8:12 Corinthians 5:17John 17:3Matthew 7:21-231 John 3:4-61 John 2:1-6John 15:18-202 Timothy 3:12John 7:172 Peter 3:9**CORRECTIONS*At one point when quoting John 4:35, I accidentally omitted part of the verse. The other times I read it, I read that part correctly. However, here is the verse: "Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest."When I said, "Seeking out people; saving people; restoring people to relationship with God; forgiving our sins" I was referring to what Jesus does. I was not implying that we ourselves can save people, restore them to relationship with God, or forgive their sins. Nevertheless, Jesus works through us.I paraphrased John 7:17. Here is the exact quote: "If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority."Support the Show.If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we take a look at Romans 6 and how to walk in freedom from sin.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 14: Our funeral leads to our freedomEpisode 83: The lie of anxiety and the grace for todayScriptures referenced:Romans 5:20-21Romans 6:1-23Colossians 2:11-12Matthew 28:18-202 Corinthians 5:17Genesis 4:6-7Galatians 5:22-23Romans 12:2Proverbs 29:25Proverbs 27:62 Peter 1:3-4Philippians 2:12Ephesians 4:22-24Titus 2:11-14Genesis 3:1-6Philippians 4:13John 15:5Hebrews 13:5Romans 8:38-39Galatians 2:21Proverbs 14:12Philippians 4:6-92 Timothy 2:20-21Ephesians 2:8-9Ephesians 6:12Matthew 6:11Matthew 6:34Psalm 68:19Galatians 5:16**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**One of the times I read Romans 6:6 I accidentally said that our old self was crucified "in" him. The text says our old self was crucified "with" him. The other times I read it I said it correctly.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we talk about a facet of self-control that we all need each and every day.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 72: A sacrifice of praiseEpisode 82: Do not despise the time in betweenEpisode 83: The lie of anxiety and the grace for todayScriptures referenced:Galatians 5:22-232 Corinthians 10:5Romans 12:2Ephesians 3:14-21Matthew 7:7-8Psalm 107:6Psalm 118:5Romans 8:9Galatians 5:16Ephesians 5:18Isaiah 40:28-31Matthew 11:28-30Titus 2:11-14James 1:20Philippians 4:13Daniel 1:7Daniel 3:13-182 Peter 1:3-4John 15:4-5James 1:2-41 Thessalonians 5:16-18Psalm 34:1-3Psalm 4:6-7Psalm 16:11John 14:27Philippians 4:6-7Matthew 4:1-11John 5:17**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**At one point I refer to the "temptation to think and feel". I meant to say "temptation to think or feel something" (implying something contrary to the Word of God). Obviously, there is nothing intrinsically wrong with thinking and feeling. God Himself thinks and feels. Rather, the point is what we are thinking about and if our feelings are godly.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we look at what exactly it is that anxiety is trying to get us to do when it strikes and how to resist it.  And we also talk about how God gives us everything we need for today.Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 21: I never knew youEpisode 24: The GospelOrder The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten BoomScriptures referenced:Matthew 6:34Philippians 4:6-9Isaiah 50:4Proverbs 6:6-11Psalm 56:3Isaiah 26:3Galatians 5:22-23Luke 12:7Psalm 231 Corinthians 10:13Philippians 4:11-132 Corinthians 12:8-9Ephesians 3:14-21Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 28John 10:14Hebrews 13:5Matthew 6:33Philippians 4:19Psalm 19:1Romans 1:202 Timothy 1:7Luke 12:25-26Matthew 24:35Ephesians 1:17-18Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we discuss how circumstances we may see as unpleasant may actually be preparatory and how the Lord is developing humility in us.Buy A Tale of Three KingsScriptures referenced:Numbers 13-14Deuteronomy 8Romans 8:28James 4:6Psalm 127:1Genesis 37; 39-502 Samuel 5:3-5 (note also 2 Samuel 2:1-4)Psalm 27:13Proverbs 2James 1:5**CORRECTION**When I said chapter 29 verse 21 I meant chapter 39 verse 21.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we continue our discussion about spiritual warfare and look at one particular title of the enemy's that reveals how he operates.Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 79: Satan was in Eden tooEpisode 80: Do not give in to fear!Scriptures referenced:2 Timothy 1:7James 4:6-71 Peter 5:8-91 John 4:1Matthew 4:1-11Luke 4:13Genesis 3:1-6Ephesians 6:10-11, 16Romans 8:1Revelation 12:10Philippians 4:61 Thessalonians 5:18Romans 8:372 Kings 6:17John 15:5Psalm 127:1**CLARIFICATIONS**I mentioned how the enemy tempted Jesus after Jesus had fasted forty days. Luke 4:1-2 says, "And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry." It's possible based on this passage that the enemy tempted Jesus not only at the end of the forty days, but also during the forty days. Nevertheless, it doesn't undermine, diminish, or change the point that the enemy struck at a moment of vulnerability.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about how fear is a chief weapon in the arsenal of our enemy and how we must resist it!Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 79: Satan was in Eden tooI mentioned some info about the phrase "hem me in" from Psalm 139:5. You can see info about the phrase in the original Hebrew HERE.Scriptures referenced:2 Kings 6:8-17James 4:6-81 Peter 5:8-9Psalm 139:3, 5-61 Samuel 17:1-581 Kings 18:17-40John 8:44Romans 8:92 Timothy 1:7Psalm 56:3Matthew 4:11Luke 4:131 John 4:4Ephesians 2:10Romans 16:20Genesis 3:15Psalm 91:13Matthew 11:29Psalm 23:2Romans 15:13Galatians 5:22-23Isaiah 26:3Revelation 12:11Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk look at the reality of the spiritual realm and consider one component with regard to identifying the origin of thoughts.Other podcast episodes referenced in this one:Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 77: Fullness of joyListen to the sermon by J. D. Greear that I mentionedHere is the J. D. Greear Quote:"When the Holy Spirit, your real Shepherd speaks, it's in the context of hope. Yes, He will convict you of sin, but when He does, it is redemptive. He identifies what He wants you to change, He gives you a plan to do it, and He assures you of His ability to accomplish it through your life. His voice leads to clarity, and love, and life. When one of the demonic realm speaks to you with a fiery dart, it is in the context of condemnation and despair. It is never clear what they want you to change, there is certainly no hope or no redemption in it. The voice just screams hopelessness and despair.…When our enemy speaks, it has the soundtrack of death, and defeat, and confusion, and despair. When Jesus speaks, it is filled with invitation, and clarity, and love, and hope. Any voice leading you to confusion and despair is your enemy's voice, even if it's using valid questions or pointing out true facts.…My shepherd never leads to confusion and darkness. He leads only to life. Even if Satan is pointing out true things in your life, if it's leading you to despair, recognize that as his voice and resist it.…In your life, the voice of despair is the voice of Satan and never the voice of the Holy Spirit."Scriptures referenced:Psalm 127:1Matthew 10:282 Kings 6:8-17James 1:5Ephesians 6:10-13James 4:71 Peter 5:8-9Ephesians 4:26-27Luke 10:17-20Revelation 12:7-112 Corinthians 2:5-111 Timothy 4:1-22 Corinthians 11:13-151 Corinthians 10:13Psalm 91:11-12Hebrews 1:14Matthew 26:51-54Hebrews 13:2John 4:24Romans 8:28Genesis 1-3Genesis 1:27-28John 10:27Matthew 4:5-7Luke 4:132 Kings 3:5-10James 4:6Judges 6:36-40Galatians 6:2John 10:10aAs a reminder,  if you gave to this ministry in 2023 and didn't receive an email with your contribution records for when you file taxes, please email us at [email protected], and we will get it sorted out! Thanks again!Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we talk about not missing what the Lord may be saying to us or doing in us and around us because we are so focused on something else.Scriptures used:Mark 8:1-21Matthew 14:21John 6:8-9Matthew 16:1-121 Samuel 17:24-37, 54Isaiah 26:3Proverbs 3:5-6Psalm 103:1-5Romans 8:28Psalm 27:13Romans 13:7Matthew 6:33Luke 10:38-42**CORRECTION**When I quoted Romans 8:28, I accidentally omitted part of the verse. Here is the full verse: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the joy that comes as a result of being in the presence of God and how important it is that we be walking in that joy.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 72: A sacrifice of praiseListen to the sermon by J. D. Greear that I mentionedBelow is the quote from J. D. Greear that I read near the end. Two people asked for it after this lesson was originally given; so, I wanted to include it here as well in case anyone else wanted to note it down."When the Holy Spirit, your real Shepherd speaks, it's in the context of hope. Yes, He will convict you of sin, but when He does, it is redemptive. He identifies what He wants you to change, He gives you a plan to do it, and He assures you of His ability to accomplish it through your life. His voice leads to clarity, and love, and life. When one of the demonic realm speaks to you with a fiery dart, it is in the context of condemnation and despair. It is never clear what they want you to change, there is certainly no hope or no redemption in it. The voice just screams hopelessness and despair.…When our enemy speaks, it has the soundtrack of death, and defeat, and confusion, and despair. When Jesus speaks, it is filled with invitation, and clarity, and love, and hope. Any voice leading you to confusion and despair is your enemy's voice, even if it's using valid questions or pointing out true facts.…My shepherd never leads to confusion and darkness. He leads only to life. Even if Satan is pointing out true things in your life, if it's leading you to despair, recognize that as his voice and resist it.…In your life, the voice of despair is the voice of Satan and never the voice of the Holy Spirit."Scriptures referenced:Matthew 4:4Ephesians 1:17Psalm 63Psalm 4:6-7Numbers 6:24-26Psalm 16:11Psalm 34:5Psalm 34:8John 15:4-5Galatians 5:22-23Psalm 36:7-9Psalm 37:4Malachi 1:6-14Psalm 50:14-15Psalm 50:23Hebrews 13:151 Thessalonians 5:16-18Psalm 69:30-31Philippians 2:13Matthew 3:13-4:11James 1:2-4Romans 8:28James 1:25Psalm 66:16Psalm 34:1-3Proverbs 27:21Luke 17:11-19Hebrews 11:6Psalm 1:1-3John 15:9-11Psalm 33:1Psalm 40:16Psalm 59:17Psalm 71:8Hebrews 12:2Matthew 7:7James 4:2Philippians 4:6-7John 10:10Matthew 11:28Romans 8:1John 14:16-17Revelation 12:10-11Romans 8:33-34**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I switched the word order of Romans 8:28 (although it didn't affect the meaning). Here is the correct wording: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."When I said I could think of two times where the Lord really did something in my life and then I was hit with anxiety, I meant that there are two times I could think of that intense anxiety immediately followed what the Lord did. I didn't mean to imply that I could think of only two times when I could remember Him working in my circumstances. I can think of countless times He has worked!Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we continue the conversation on Psalm 34 that we began in episode 75. Today, we look at the remainder of the psalm, but we focus on verses 4-10.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 75: Oh, magnify the Lord with Me!Listen to Psalm 34 (Taste and See) by Shane & Shane.Scriptures referenced:Psalm 34Psalm 119:18Habakkuk 3:17-19John 17:3Matthew 7:21-23John 15:4-5Luke 10:38-42Matthew 15:82 Chronicles 15-16Hebrews 11:62 Timothy 3:12Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 28Ecclesiastes 12:13Matthew 11:29Exodus 34:6-7Psalm 33:8-9Romans 8:38-39Romans 8:1John 3:161 Corinthians 6:19-20Hebrews 12:5-13John 19:32-372 Corinthian 5:21Psalm 66:181 Peter 3:7Luke 12:4-7Acts 7Genesis 4Acts 12:1-3Psalm 27:13Psalm 16:11Psalm 36:9**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I paraphrased Matthew 15:8 in this episode. Here is the verse verbatim: "This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me".Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we take a look at Psalm 34:1-3 and discuss how to apply these verses in our lives.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 72: A sacrifice of praiseListen to Psalm 34 (Taste and See) by Shane & Shane.Scriptures referenced:Matthew 16:17John 15:5Psalm 34:1-3Matthew 5:13-14Psalm 33:1Psalm 50:23Habakkuk 3:17-19Hebrews 13:151 Thessalonians 5:16-18Philippians 4:4Ephesians 5:18-21Psalm 107:6John 16:33Hebrews 13:5Psalm 62:8Psalm 55:22Proverbs 27:21Psalm 115:1Jeremiah 9:23-24Deuteronomy 8:11-18James 4:6Matthew 5:14-16Matthew 6:1John 8:12Acts 14:24-28Matthew 22:37-40Psalm 46:1Hebrews 4:16**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I slightly misquoted Jesus in John 8:12. Here is the verse verbatim: "Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss bringing to the Lord whatever little we may have and trusting Him to use it for whatever He wants to accomplish.Visit Mentoring Men for the Master's websiteIf you would like more information about Mentoring Men for the Master, feel free to email me at [email protected]!Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 48: Five loaves and two fishScriptures referenced:Psalm 119:18Matthew 7:28-29Isaiah 50:4Mark 6:30-44Matthew 14:14John 17:3John 14:9Hebrews 1:3Mark 1:40-41Mark 10:13-16Matthew 23:13Matthew 23:4John 2:13-17Matthew 11:28-30James 1:5Matthew 14:21John 6:5-9James 1:13Ephesians 2:10John 11:39-44Matthew 17:20/Mark 11:23Matthew 28:18-20Acts 1:8Ephesians 5:18Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we talk about how the Lord may be leading us into the very things we are seeking to avoid in order to develop us, mature us, and free us.Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 68: But what does the Bible say?Episode 72: A sacrifice of praiseScriptures used:James 1:5-6Proverbs 12:15Matthew 3:17Matthew 4:1-112 Timothy 3:161 Corinthians 10:13James 1:13Matthew 13:19James 4:7Luke 4:13Numbers 13-14Psalm 56:3Psalm 18:29Psalm 18:34John 15:4-5James 1:2-4Nehemiah 6:1-9Luke 9:511 Thessalonians 5:16-18Hebrews 13:5John 14:6John 3:16John 1:12-13Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss offering a sacrifice of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord.Scriptures referenced:Malachi 1:6-14Leviticus 22:17-22Psalm 50:7-13Hosea 6:6Psalm 51:16-17Psalm 50:14-15Psalm 50:231 Thessalonians 5:16-18Habakkuk 3:17-19Luke 17:11-19John 1:12-13Hebrews 13:5Romans 8:38-39Romans 8:12 Corinthians 5:17Isaiah 6:3Revelation 4:11Psalm 13:1-6Psalm 107:6**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATION**I accidentally added the word "then" in Malachi 1:9, but this doesn't alter the meaning.When reading part of the passage from Leviticus 22 I accidentally used the word "acceptable" in one place when it actually says "accepted". However, the word "acceptable" does appear later in the same passage.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

We all have influence in someone's life. Today we talk about the great responsibility that having influence brings.Scriptures used:Numbers 20:1-13Exodus 17:1-7Galatians 2:11-14James 3:1Luke 16:10Proverbs 12:15Proverbs 19:20Colossians 3:16Proverbs 27:6Ecclesiastes 4:13Proverbs 13:20Proverbs 18:13Proverbs 18:17James 1:22Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we discuss the importance of centering our lives around the Lord instead of simply fitting Him into our schedules.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 15: Abide, part 1Episode 16: Abide, part 2Blue Letter BibleScriptures referenced:John 15:4-5Matthew 10:11Matthew 11:23Matthew 26:38John 10:40James 4:8Hebrews 11:6Matthew 7:7Mark 1:35Luke 5:15-16Galatians 5:22-23Isaiah 26:3Daniel 6:10Psalm 55:17Psalm 119:164Psalm 1:1-3Psalm 46:10Psalm 5:3Matthew 6:34Luke 18:1-8Luke 11:5-13Romans 8:1Romans 8:38-392 Corinthians 5:211 John 3:1Romans 8:9Galatians 2:20Colossians 1:27Hebrews 13:5Ecclesiastes 5:2-3James 1:22-25**CLARIFICATIONS**When I said, "We cannot remain in a hurry," I did not mean that we can't remain in a state of being hurried. No, we certainly can and frequently do remain in such conditions. What I mean is that we can't obey Jesus' command to abide in Him in a hurry. We can't remain somewhere and be hurrying at the same time.Near the end of the episode I mentioned David and Psalm 3. I meant to say Psalm 5:3.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about living in the freedom of God's grace versus the slavery of legalism. While this episode is lengthy, there is some much more that could have been said on the topic or even just regarding the book of Galatians. After listening to this episode, I would highly encourage you to go read Galatians start to finish keeping in mind what we discussed today.Purchase The Grace Awakening (Chuck Swindoll).View the definition of "justify".View the definition of "righteousness".Quotes used:AMP Bible footnote: "Being justified is a legal or judicial declaration of righteousness. Justification has two parts: (1) Being declared free of blame, acquitted of sin—not guilty. Believers are justified because Jesus Christ personally assumed the guilt for our sin on the cross; (2) God declares the person righteous, that is, placed in a position of right-standing with Him. A person may not be made righteous by his personal behavior, no matter how good, or by the declaration of any other human being.""There is a battle raging today throughout the world in the heads and hearts of multitudes of people, who just will not accept the fact that they can do absolutely nothing to justify themselves before God!" (Phil Newton)"Paul did not deny that good works were significant. He just denied that they were the grounds of our acceptance. Ephesians 2:8-10 shows Paul's gospel clearly—God's initiating grace, through mankind's faith response, unto good works." (Dr. Bob Utley)Scriptures referenced:Matthew 7:28-29Galatians 5:1Acts 10Acts 13:1-3Acts 13:9Acts 13:46Acts 14:24-15:11Genesis 17:14Leviticus 12:3Romans 3:20James 2:10Galatians 1:1-9Galatians 2:11-14Galatians 2:15-21John 17:20-212 Corinthians 5:21Romans 8:33-34Romans 8:38-39Ephesians 2:8-10Galatians 3:1-3Matthew 22:37-40John 14:15John 3:16Romans 5:8Matthew 3:17Romans 5:3Hebrews 13:52 Timothy 1:7Philippians 4:6Romans 8:1Philippians 3:12-14Hebrews 4:16Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 282 Corinthians 5:9Colossians 1:9-10Ephesians 5:10John 1:12-131 John 5:3Galatians 5:2-4Revelation 12:10-11Romans 6:1-22 Corinthians 5:17Romans 8:14**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I said that Paul lists his "credentials" so as to defend against the attacks of his opponents therefore defending against the diminishing of his message. Another reason he lists his credentials is to show how those things cannot save (e.g., Philippians 3:1-11).When I said, "Is that not different than the whole distinction between identity and behavior," I didn't mean to say "not".Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss a crucial component of growing in our ability to recognize God's voice and receive wisdom from Him.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1Three assumptions in this episode:1) You want God to speak to you and guide you.2) You have thoughts and emotions.3) You sometimes are unsure as to whether or not a thought is from God or some other source.George Müller quoteOpenBible.infoScriptures referenced in this episode:Romans 8:14Matthew 4:1-11James 4:7Ephesians 6:172 Corinthians 11:14Philippians 4:8-9Romans 12:1-2Hebrews 5:142 Timothy 3:16John 17:3Matthew 15:8Psalm 119:105Psalm 119:130Psalm 119:24Psalm 119:97-100Psalm 119:160Psalm 119:18Psalm 119:124-125Psalm 19:7Proverbs 30:5-6James 1:5-6Psalm 19:1John 16:13Romans 3:4Proverbs 12:152 Timothy 1:7Philippians 4:6Romans 8:1Psalm 1:1-3Psalm 119:15Psalm 119:97Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we ask ourselves a searching question that could reveal where we need to humble ourselves and possibly experience some healing.Scriptures used:Proverbs 26:3-11Proverbs 17:10Proverbs 9:7-9Proverbs 1:7Proverbs 18:2Proverbs 10:23Proverbs 29:9Proverbs 14:7Proverbs 13:20Ecclesiastes 7:9Proverbs 12:16Proverbs 23:9Ecclesiastes 4:13Proverbs 14:16Proverbs 27:22Matthew 7:24-27Proverbs 26:12Romans 12:16Proverbs 12:15Proverbs 27:5-6James 4:61 Peter 5:5Matthew 23:12Matthew 11:281 John 1:9Romans 8:1John 1:14Numbers 6:24-26Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the importance of trusting God's timing and not taking matters into our own hands.Quote used: "The monogamy ideal of original creation is lost, surprisingly in an attempt to 'help' God!" (Free Bible Commentary)"God's will, God's way, and in God's timing (Andy Stanley)Scriptures referenced:Psalm 56:3Genesis 12:1-5Genesis 15:1-6Genesis 16:1-16Genesis 17:1-5, 15-21Genesis 21:1-7Hebrews 11:8-12James 1:5-6Proverbs 12:15Psalm 27:14Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we discuss the importance of paying close attention to the things that the Lord reveals to us and not forgetting them.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, Part 1Click HERE to find the Experiencing God Bible Study.Quotes used in this episode:"When the disciples were with Him alone, they asked Him why He spoke in parables. He explained to them that only those with receptive hearts were permitted to know the mystery of the kingdom of God. A mystery in the NT is a truth hitherto unknown that can only be know through special revelation." (William MacDonald -- Believer's Bible Commentary)“Divine truth is not something we 'discover;' it is revealed by the Holy Spirit of God. As such, no other reality in the Christian life is as important as being filled with the Spirit.” (Henry Blackaby -- Experiencing the Spirit: The Power of Pentecost Every Day)"Have you ever received a word from the Lord that gave you the exact direction you needed? If so, let me guess what happened next. Suddenly - BOOM! It seemed like all hell broke loose! The craziest circumstances erupted, seeming to directly challenge and assault that word you had just received from God! If I've just described what you've gone through or what you are going through right now, be encouraged! You must be right on track! A spiritual fight usually does occur when you've been specially illuminated to the plan God has for your life...If you have been in this place I'm talking about - or if this is exactly where you are right now - then be encouraged! This is probably your clearest signal that you've received a real word from the Lord. You must be right on track, because the devil is terribly concerned about what will happen if you act on what God has revealed to you. Don't back down. Don't surrender to the enemy's vicious lies in your mind, his attacks against your body, his challenges to your finances, or his assaults on your relationships. Regardless of how much resistance he tries to bring against you, don't you dare back up on that word God gave you! If you hadn't received a true word from the Lord, there would be nothing for the devil to challenge! The fight you face is the greatest evidence you're right on track! Just hang on, and don't give up! You're clearly headed in the right direction!" (Rick Renner -- Sparkling Gems from the Greek 1)Scriptures referenced:Mark 4:21-25Mark 4:1-20Luke 8:15Psalm 119:130John 10:27Luke 8:16-18James 1:22-251 Peter 5:8Ephesians 6:12Numbers 6:24-26Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we talk about the importance of having a right view of God and living our lives in continual awareness of His presence and love.Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 24: The GospelThis episode is named after this song. I would encourage you to listen to it and specifically note the chorus in light of our discussion today. Here is another song about how amazing the Lord's heart towards us is. This second song is also relevant to the Brother Lawrence quote I read.Quotes from today:“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”  (A.W. Tozer)"Brother Lawrence felt it was a great delusion to think that the times of prayer ought to differ from the other times." (The Practice of the Presence of God)"My King is full of mercy and goodness. Far from chastising me, He embraces me with love. He makes me eat at His table. He serves me with His own hand and gives me the key to His treasures. He converses and delights Himself with me incessantly in a thousand and a thousand ways. And He treats me in all respects as His favorite." (The Practice of the Presence of God)Scriptures referenced:John 14:9Matthew 11:28-30Matthew 5:3John 3:16John 1:12-13Galatians 4:4-7Hebrews 12:3-13Proverbs 13:24Proverbs 29:15Romans 8:1Mark 10:13-16Psalm 139:1-12Hebrews 13:5Psalm 23:1-3aPsalm 23:6John 14:151 John 4:19Psalm 16:11Psalm 27:8Psalm 16:81 Thessalonians 5:172 Corinthians 12:8-9Proverbs 12:15John 16:33Acts 17:24-25Romans 6:23Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the vital importance of being honest and transparent in our relationship with the Lord and opening up all of our hearts to Him, even the parts where we are confused, discouraged, frustrated, etc. We discuss how all of this can actually serve to deepen our relationship with Jesus.Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 62: Trust the Lord, not the meansScriptures referenced:Matthew 7:28-29Luke 10:38-42Matthew 8:5-13Job 42:7-9Proverbs 13:12aPsalm 10:1Psalm 10:17-18Psalm 13:1-6Psalm 139:4John 17:3Psalm 62:8Numbers 11:4-17Jonah 4Matthew 11:28Romans 5:8John 3:16Luke 15:3-7Isaiah 40:11Genesis 32:24-30Luke 11:5-13Luke 18:1-8Psalm 107:6Psalm 138:3Romans 8:12 Corinthians 12:8-91 Thessalonians 5:16-18James 1:2-42 Corinthians 1:3-4Psalm 27:13-14Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about guarding against placing our trust just in the means by which God speaks to us and moves in our lives instead of in God Himself. It can be easy to put our hope in a method or formula, but we must remember that it is God who worked through those things in the first place, and our hope must always remain in Him and not in the methods by which He worked.You can find the book that I mentioned HERE.Scriptures used:1 Samuel 4:1-4Exodus 25:21-22Psalm 139:7-10Joshua 3:14-17Joshua 6:1-71 Samuel 4:5-91 Samuel 4:10-111 Kings 181 Samuel 5Psalm 46:1Psalm 91:4Psalm 34:18Psalm 30:11Proverbs 3:5-6Psalm 127:1Proverbs 21:31Psalm 33:16-19Psalm 44:5-6Psalm 121:1-2Psalm 62:5-6Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the need of transparent and vulnerable community and asking others to carry us to Jesus in prayer.Scriptures referenced:Mark 2:1-12Mark 1:351 Corinthians 12:12-27John 13:34-35John 13:13-17Galatians 6:2Romans 12:15James 5:16James 4:6Matthew 23:12Philippians 2:5-11Matthew 7:7Hebrews 4:162 Corinthians 1:3-11Ephesians 6:18-20**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When I said that we should publicly acknowledge that we don't have it all together, I didn't mean sharing our struggles indiscriminately. I meant sharing it with someone, and simply by bringing another person into the scenario, we have made it "public" as opposed to it simply being a private battle that no one knows about.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about how to be right with God, and we also discuss the peril of what has been called "easy believism".Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 21: "I never knew you"Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 48: Five loaves and two fishEpisode 49: If we don't control our thoughts, they will control usYou can find the book Gentle and Lowly HERE.Scriptures referenced:John 6:28Here is where the feeding of the 5,000 can be found in each Gospel account: Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15John 6:14Deuteronomy 18:15John 6:15John 6:22-29John 1:12-13John 3:16Romans 1:16-17Romans 10:41 John 5:131 John 3:23Acts 16:30-31Romans 3:23Romans 6:232 Corinthians 5:21Ephesians 2:8-9Romans 8:38-39Matthew 22:37-40John 14:152 Corinthians 5:14-152 Corinthians 5:17James 2:17Ephesians 2:10Matthew 5:14-16Romans 6:1-2Matthew 11:28-30John 17:3Matthew 7:21-23Hebrews 12:3-13John 6:30-40Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we return to the topic of our thoughts and the emotions that flow from them. We see how our minds are like raging rivers that can sweep us away or can be harnessed and used biblically and constructively.Other episodes referenced in this one:7. Meditating on the Scriptures, part 126. Taking thoughts captive 10133. Do not be anxious44. The renewal of our minds49. If we don't control our thoughts, they will control us54. How to respond to pressure and stress57. It's all about knowing HimScriptures used:Matthew 4:42 Timothy 3:16Isaiah 26:3Philippians 4:6-9Romans 12:1-2Matthew 6:34Psalm 119:92Psalm 42:11Psalm 27:13-14Psalm 62:5-6Psalm 56:3-4Psalm 1:1-3Psalm 119:18Proverbs 15:23Isaiah 50:4**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When I quoted Matthew 4:4 I said, "Man does not live by bread alone..." The actual quote is "Man shall not live by bread alone..."Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we talk about broadening our view of what God may be doing in our lives because we may be missing it by having too narrow a view.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 50: The Lord knows bestEpisode 55: Prisoners in unlocked cells, part 1Episode 56: Prisoners in unlocked cells, part 2Check out the Experiencing God Bible study.Scriptures referenced:John 5:1-19Romans 12:2Mark 3:1-6Matthew 4:23-24Matthew 13:58James 4:1-31 John 5:14-15Matthew 7:7-11Jeremiah 42:1-7James 1:5-6James 1:17Numbers 6:24-26**CLARIFICATIONS**When I made the statement about the Lord being able to supernaturally heal apart from surgery, that was not a statement against surgery. Sometimes the Lord heals through surgery. Sometimes He heals supernaturally. Getting surgery is not some sort of failure. My point was simply to say that we should guard against having super restricted ideas of how something can happen.I said healing and restoring is what Jesus did. I would like to amend that to say that healing and restoring is what He does.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Reading the Bible is not an academic exercise, but an investment in a relationship. Today we talk about how the main objective in the entire Christian life is to know Jesus. If we miss the relational component of our walks with Him, then we miss everything.Episodes referenced in this one:Episode 4: Brief overview of the Old TestamentEpisode 24: The GospelScriptures used in this episode:John 17:3Jeremiah 22:8-9Ezekiel 33:10-112 Peter 3:9Ezekiel 18:32Ezekiel 18:23Romans 6:23Ezekiel 18:4Jonah 1:1-3aJonah 3:1-10Jonah 4:1-4, 11Matthew 23:12Luke 15:17-24John 1:14Philippians 2:12-13Matthew 11:28Ezekiel 34:1-6, 15-16John 10:112 Corinthians 3:17-18John 14:8-9Hebrews 1:1-3**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When quoting John 10:11, I accidentally omitted the second occurrence of the word "good". Here is the actual Scripture: " I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we continue the conversation that we  began in the previous episode about fighting against a victim mentality. Specifically, today we look at two things: a practical application and a caution.Episodes referenced:Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 55: Prisoners in unlocked cells, part 1Resources mentioned:The Jesus Storybook BibleExperiencing GodScriptures used/referenced:Galatians 6:7James 4:8Proverbs 12:15James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5Proverbs 6:6-11Proverbs 27:12Proverbs 19:3Genesis 3:1-7Proverbs 18:10John 14:15Matthew 4:1-11Romans 8:91 Corinthians 10:13Romans 5:8Ephesians 2:4-9Psalm 103:13-34Psalm 145:17Luke 6:35Revelation 20:11-15Matthew 5:44-45Psalm 27:13-14Matthew 7:7-11**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I said there was a disconnect between what the person in the financial example was sowing and reaping. What I meant was that in their mind there is a disconnect because they couldn’t seem to see (or they refused to see) the connection.Proverbs 19:3 has an even broader application than just how I used it in this episode. For example, it could also refer to a person who was aware of the consequences of their actions and yet expected God to shield them from those consequences nonetheless.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the subtlety and peril of having a victim mentality. It's something that we can all fall into if we're not paying attention, and, if we're not careful, such a mentality has the power to dominate our lives and color the way we see everything that happens around us.Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 12: His steadfast love endures foreverEpisode 54: How to respond to pressure and stressScriptures referenced:Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 28Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31Psalm 138:3Romans 12:2Philippians 4:132 Peter 1:3-4Romans 8:11Joshua 6:261 Kings 16:341 Corinthians 13:11Romans 3:4Psalm 27Psalm 18:29Hebrews 13:5Psalm 107:11 Samuel 16:14Psalm 51:11John 14:16Psalm 20:7-8Matthew 26:63Hebrews 12:2Philippians 2:51 Corinthians 2:162 Chronicles 16:12Psalm 42:10-11Romans 8:37Romans 8:31Romans 8:28-29Philippians 4:6-7Jeremiahs 22:8-9Jeremiah 32:14-15**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**Regarding the curse laid on anyone who would rebuild Jericho, note what the latter part of 1 Kings 16:34 says, "according to the word of the Lord, which he spoke by Joshua the son of Nun". Notice that it was a word from the Lord spoken by Joshua. It originated with the Lord. He was the source of the power behind the pronouncement.When reading 1 Corinthians 13:11 I added the word "but" to emphasize the contrast, but "but" is not in the actual passage.The point I was making by quoting Romans 3:4 is that God and His Word are true, period. They are true regardless of everything else. If the truth of God bumps up against something we think, then it is we who need to adjust and correct to the Word of God and not the other way around.I paraphrased Philippians 4:6-7. It wasn't a direct quote.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we look at some biblical principles regarding how to respond to pressures and change them from being destructive to being constructive.Quotes:To abide in Jesus is to live in fellowship with Him every moment of every day. (Vance Pitman)Fruit is the life of the Vine pressed out through the branches. (Vance Pitman)The life of Jesus in me being lived through me (Vance Pitman)Other episodes mentioned in this one:Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, Part 1Episode 12: His steadfast love endures foreverEpisode 24: The GospelScriptures used:Psalm 107:1Psalm 107:43Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 28Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31Romans 8:38-39John 3:16Psalm 138:3Psalm 143James 4:8Psalm 105:4Hebrews 11:6John 15:4-5Galatians 2:20Colossians 1:27James 1:5-6Matthew 7:28-29Philippians 4:131 John 4:19Ecclesiastes 4:9-12Mark 2:1-12James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5Matthew 23:12Galatians 6:2Proverbs 17:17James 5:16Psalm 121:1-2Psalm 34:8Psalm 1:1-3Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Our love for the Lord is a response to His love for us. Like 1 John 4:19 says, "We love because he first loved us." And our obedience to the Lord should flow out of our love for Him.In this episode we talk about the Lord's love for us as seen through some of the things that the Lord did for us through the Gospel. As we come to know and believe these things more and more, our hearts will swell with reciprocal love for God.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1Episode 14: Our funeral leads to our freedomEpisode 24: The GospelHere is the list that I read and some corresponding Scriptures:Because of what Jesus has done:All of our sins and shortcomings are completely and totally covered and forgiven (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 2:13-14).We have been redeemed (our debt was fully paid, the wrath of God has been fully satisfied and no longer rests on us, Jesus was the propitiation—He died in our place) (Romans 3:23-26; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14; Colossians 2:13-14; 1 Peter 1:18-19).We have been adopted as sons and daughters of God (Ephesians 1:4c-5; Romans 8:15).We have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places (Ephesians 1:3).We are holy and blameless before God (Ephesians 1:4a-b).In Christ we have been justified (made righteous, made right, approved of and accepted by God) (Romans 3:23-26; Romans 8:33-34; 2 Corinthians 5:21).We don’t have to be perfect. We put no confidence in the flesh. We are freed from looking for a righteousness of our own that would come by trying to keep the law (Philippians 3:8-9; Romans 6:14).We have peace with God (Romans 5:1).We live in the grace of God (Romans 5:2).Who we are is not who we were. We’ve been made new. We died with Christ and were raised with Him (Romans 6:6; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 2:11-12).There is no condemnation for us in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).We have the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9-11).We are heirs with Christ (Romans 8:16-17).All things work together for our good (Romans 8:28-29).We are more than conquerors through Him (Romans 8:37).Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39).We are seated in the heavenly places with Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:4-7).We have direct access to God through Christ Jesus (Ephesians 3:11-12; Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:19-22).Additional Scriptures used:John 14:15Matthew 5:21-221 Samuel 16:7James 2:17, 26Galatians 5:22-23Matthew 22:37-40John 19:30Matthew 16:13-17Hebrews 12:3-13John 3:16Romans 6:1-2John 1:12-13Romans 10:13John 17:3**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." When quoting it, I said "shall" instead of "should".Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we look at a passage from Jeremiah and ask ourselves a hard question based on what we read.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 4: Brief overview of the Old TestamentEpisode 6: Surrender: a firsthand experienceEpisode 50: The Lord knows bestScriptures referenced:Jeremiah 1:4-8Jeremiah 2:4-13Jeremiah 22:8-9Jeremiah 42:1-22Deuteronomy 5:29Jeremiah 43:1-7Psalm 40:8Matthew 26:39Luke 6:46Psalm 107:6Psalm 40:1-3Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

"Pray as if it all depends on God, and work as if it all depends on you." That's something a man of God I used to know would say, and it captures the focus of this episode. Today we look at how we need to do what we can do and then depend on God to do what only He can do.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1You can access the commentary I read the quote from about John 2:4 HERE.Scriptures used:John 2:1-11John 19:26-27John 11:38-44Matthew 17:20Matthew 28:18-20John 6:44Psalm 1:1-3Psalm 119:112 Timothy 2:7Psalm 105:4Psalm 27:8Psalm 119:10Jeremiah 29:13Hebrews 11:6James 4:8Matthew 7:7**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I referred to Psalm 27:6. The correct reference is actually Psalm 27:8.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Happy 50th episode!In this episode we discuss the peril of doing what seems best to us and the importance of trusting the Lord in every circumstance even when it may not make sense to us.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 6: Surrender: A Firsthand ExperienceScriptures used:Proverbs 14:12Proverbs 16:25John 10:10Proverbs 3:7-8Proverbs 12:15Proverbs 26:12Judges 17:6Judges 21:25Romans 12:19-21Matthew 5:38-42Genesis 3:1-6Revelation 12:9John 3:16Romans 5:81 John 3:11 John 4:9-10Psalm 16:11Proverbs 3:5-6Psalm 103:13-14Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the importance of trusting the Lord, and we see how our emotions are indicators of our thoughts. It's our responsibility to meditate upon the Word of God, to ask God for wisdom, and to analyze our thoughts and see if they line up with the truth of God's Word. But we must also be dependent upon the Holy Spirit in this process. Apart from His power, we won't be able to do what we discuss in this episode (see 1 Corinthians 2:11-12). Like Jesus said, "...apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5).Here is the declaration I shared in this episode: My emotions are not intrinsically trustworthy, and I am not led by them; rather, it is the Lord and His Word that govern my thoughts and actions. (Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”)Remember, if we don't control our thoughts, they will control us. When we find ourselves sinking like Peter was, we need to pay attention to the thoughts we are thinking that are leading to that. Or, to put it simply: when we find ourselves sinking, ask, "What am I thinking?"Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 44: The renewal of our mindsEpisode 48: Five loaves and two fishScriptures referenced in this episode:Matthew 14:22-33Mark 6:48James 2:26Isaiah 26:3James 1:5-6Romans 12:2Ephesians 4:22-24Matthew 6:25-34John 1:12-13Psalm 56:3-4Psalm 42:11Philippians 4:8-9John 8:44John 14:6Philippians 4:6-7John 10:10John 16:33Romans 8:37**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When I said that "we" had physical bodies in the garden before the fall, I was referring to Adam and Eve, of course. By "we" I meant humankind.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss how if we bring to the Lord what we have He can take it and multiply it into something greater than we could have ever imagined for His glory and the good of others. Just remember: you can be used to make an impact in the kingdom go God!Here is where the feeding of the 5,000 can be found in each Gospel account: Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 15: Abide, part 1Episode 16: Abide, part 2Episode 24: The GospelScriptures used/referenced:Mark 6:30-44Luke 9:11John 6:8-9Matthew 14:21Ephesians 2:8-10Exodus 3:1-4:17Judges 6-81 Corinthians 12:12-20John 15:1-5Matthew 13:3-9Matthew 13:18-23Galatians 6:2Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode I share three things that the Lord does in us through difficulties. There are certainly many more things, but these three are things He has highlighted to me recently. As a recap, those three things are:He wraps His arms around us and comforts us (and also teaches us how to comfort others).He teaches us to rely on Him instead of ourselves.He teaches us meekness.Also, here is the declaration I wrote about meekness that I share in the episode: "The Lord is teaching me meekness. I don’t get angry when things don’t go my way. The times when I’m insulted, criticized, slandered, spoken against, or disrespected are simply the training grounds for learning meekness." (1 Peter 2:22-24; Proverbs 16:32)Scriptures used:John 16:33Romans 8:28-29Matthew 11:28-302 Corinthians 1:3-42 Corinthians 12:9James 4:61 Peter 5:5Matthew 23:122 Corinthians 1:8-9Matthew 5:5Ephesians 4:1-3Galatians 5:22-231 Peter 2:22-24Philippians 2:3-11John 6:38Matthew 26:52-54Matthew 5:3-4Proverbs 16:321 Thessalonians 5:16-181 Samuel 18:10-111 Samuel 19:9-10Galatians 6:2Galatians 6:1Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

This episode is a continuation of the conversation that we started back in episode 44. In it, I share a declaration that I wrote based on the reality that our righteousness comes from Jesus alone and that we don't have to earn God's love, favor, or approval.Here is the declaration I shared in this episode: "I don’t have to 'do enough', because Jesus has done it all." (Philippians 3:8-9)Episodes I referenced in this one:Episode 21: "I never knew you"Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 44: The renewal of our mindsEpisode 45: DeclarationsI referenced the Greek word that the ESV translates as rubbish in Philippians 3:8. More information (including the Strong's number) can be found HERE.Scriptures used in this episode:Philippians 3:2-11Romans 8:1Hebrews 12:3-13John 1:12-13Romans 8:38-39John 14:151 John 5:3Matthew 11:30Matthew 22:37-40Romans 3:23Matthew 5:3Matthew 15:1-9Romans 3:19-202 Corinthians 5:17Hebrews 13:5John 6:372 Corinthians 12:9Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode I share some of the declarations that I have written for myself. Hopefully, some of them will be an encouragement to you too. Remember though, it's important for you to personalize them or come up with your own as well based off of what the Lord is currently teaching you.As I shared in the episode, I'm including the declarations below. I wanted to write out the Scriptures in their entirety next to each one, but it would exceed the amount of space I'm provided in this podcast description. As such, I just put the Scripture references next to each declaration.DECLARATIONS:Jesus is all that I need. (Psalm 23:1)Every moment of every day I set the Lord before me. No matter what comes, I am stable because He is with me. (Psalm 16:8-9; 112:7)I continually give thanks regardless of my circumstances and emotions. My days are an endless stream of gratitude to the Lord for who He is and all that He’s done for me. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)I put others first. I run to the back of the line. I hurry to the low seat. I live to serve, not to be served. (Mark 10:42-45)I am led by the Spirit. I consciously and willingly yield to Him today and place my mind under His control. (Romans 8:14)Jesus loves me. He meets me with open arms, not a pointed finger.  (Matthew 11:28-30)All of my guilt, shame, and condemnation has been nailed to the cross. There is none left for me. (Romans 8:1-4)I am not dragged around by my thoughts or emotions. I trust the Lord and look to Him for guidance and answers. He shows me what to do. (Proverbs 3:5-6)God gives me wisdom when I ask for it, and He doesn’t point a finger in my face for needing it. He is not disappointed or irritated with my need for wisdom. (James 1:5-6)I don’t know everything, and I don’t have to always be right. I am a learner and a listener, not a know-it-all. I can learn something from everyone. (Proverbs 18:2)I don’t seek conflict, but I don’t run from it either. (Proverbs 28:1)God is my provider. I don’t worry about finances. I just seek Him. (Matthew 6:31-34)I am not an anxious person. Any anxiety I experience I immediately cast at the feet of Jesus, give thanks, and ask for His wisdom. Then I leave the matter there unless He tells me to do otherwise. (Philippians 4:6-7)I do what’s right, not what’s easy. (Still working on a verse)I am a finisher, not just a starter. (Still working on a verse)I look to the Lord and not to food for comfort. I don’t overeat. By the power of the Holy Spirit, I’m temperate and self-controlled. (Proverbs 25:16)The Lord sees me. He is fully aware of what I’m facing and how I’m feeling, and He cares. (Genesis 16:13)I’m a joyful person regardless of my circumstances. God has filled my heart with joy. He is the source of my joy. (Psalm 4:6-7; 16:11)**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When sharing my first declaration, I said the Scripture reference was Psalm 23. Specifically, it's Psalm 23:1.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the importance of being transformed by the renewal of our minds by declaring truth daily so as to change the way that we think.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 20: Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!Episode 26: Taking thoughts captive 101Pastor Craig Groeschel's book Winning the War in Your Mind  can be purchased HERE.Scriptures referenced:Luke 10:38-42Matthew 11:30John 14:26Romans 12:2Philippians 4:6-9Romans 8:12 Corinthians 5:21Hebrews 13:5Proverbs 12:15Psalm 16:8-91 Thessalonians 5:16-18Proverbs 18:2Mark 10:42-45Psalm 4:6-7Psalm 16:11Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the important difference between empathy and compassion.Episodes referenced:Episode 39: "Seventy-seven times"Episode 42: "By this all people will know..."www.blueletterbible.org is the resource that I mentioned that is helpful for doing studies in the original languages.Here are the words that I focused on in this episode (click on the highlighted link to go to the corresponding page):splagchnizomai (σπλαγχνίζομαι G4697)splagchnon (σπλάγχνον G4698)List of verses where splagchnizomai  is used:Matthew 9:36Matthew 14:14Matthew 15:32Matthew 18:27Matthew 20:34Mark 1:41Mark 6:34Mark 8:2Mark 9:22Luke 7:13Luke 10:33Luke 15:20Scriptures referenced in this episode:Romans 12:15bMatthew 9:35-10:8Acts 1:8Matthew 14:13-21Matthew 15:32-39Matthew 18:21-35 (especially verses 25-27)Matthew 20:29-34Mark 1:40-42Luke 10:25-37 (especially verse 33)Luke 15:11-32 (especially verse 20)Matthew 5:46Colossians 3:12-14**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When reading the passage out of Matthew 15, I somehow accidentally jumped over verse 35, which says, "And directing the crowd to sit down on the ground"Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the importance of love in the life of a believer.Other episodes referenced in this one:21. "I never knew you"24. The GospelQuote by Pete Scazzero: "Love really is the mark of a true and mature spirituality."Quote by my pastor Jeff Kapusta: "Crisis reveals character."I mentioned blueletterbible.org. I wanted to include the link to that website HERE.Scriptures used:John 13:34-35John 3:16Romans 13:8-10Matthew 22:37-40John 1:141 Corinthians 13:4-71 Corinthians 12:31b1 Corinthians 13:1-3Galatians 5:22-231 Corinthians 10:13Proverbs 17:3James 4:6Matthew 23:12Psalm 51:101 John 3:1Psalm 23Hebrews 13:5**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When quoting Matthew 22:37-40 I said, "And He said to them..." It is actually, "And He said to him..."I said that being able to quote Scripture doesn't indicate maturity at all. I want to clarify that a little more. What I meant is that just because someone can quote Scripture doesn't mean that they are spiritually mature; however, if someone is growing in spiritual maturity, then they should also certainly be growing in biblical knowledge as well. To put it simply, just because someone can quote Scripture doesn't make them mature, but if someone is mature, then they will most likely know quite a bit of Scripture.When reading 1 John 3:1, I accidentally omitted the word "to" at one point. It doesn't change the meaning, but here is the portion of the verse that I was reading, "See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are."Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

The journal entry I mention in this episode captures the focus of the entire thing:"I was just praying and asked the Lord for wisdom, and I think He showed me something wonderful. He’s promised to give wisdom; so, when I ask I need to truly be confident that He will give it. I can rest in that assurance. It's a guarantee! However, I’ve wanted that wisdom same day or same week. There is no guarantee of when it will come or how it will come; the guarantee is simply that it will come! Good things come to those who wait. So, if I’m asking God for wisdom in a matter and He hasn’t given it to me yet, then I just need to wait for the Lord. I shouldn’t make a move. I must not become impatient. If I don’t wait for the Lord, then I will just be doing what is right in my own eyes."Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 32: Wisdom series: Connect the dotsEpisode 35: Wisdom series: "And David inquired of the Lord"Episode 36: Wisdom series: Jethro's adviceEpisode 37: Wisdom series: PerspectiveScriptures used in this episode:James 1:5-8Proverbs 2:1-15Judges 21:25Proverbs 3:5-6Matthew 23:12Psalm 27:14Genesis 16Psalm 46:10Proverbs 12:15Psalm 119:105Psalm 1:1-2Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about experiencing emotional healing from the Lord.The quote that I referenced from my pastor was: "If our past is still affecting us, it's not our past."Here are the items that we talked through:God sees you, and He cares.He understands.His heart is one of compassion towards you.Cry out to Him. Where there is no prayer there is no progress.Apply Romans 8:28-29 to the sources of the pain.Give thanks in all circumstances.Here are some of the main Scriptures I used/referenced:2 Corinthians 3:17Isaiah 61:1-3Luke 4:16-30Psalm 139:23-24John 16:33John 14:27Psalm 34:18Psalm 4:7Psalm 16:11Galatians 5:22-23Genesis 16:13Matthew 6:8Matthew 6:32Hebrews 4:14-16Matthew 8:2-3John 4:46-54Matthew 9:35-36Matthew 15:32Hebrews 13:8Romans 8:1Matthew 19:13-15Matthew 23:1-36Matthew 11:16-19Matthew 11:28-30Psalm 23:1-3aJeremiah 17:9Psalm 107:6Luke 18:1-8Luke 11:5-13Psalm 30:2Psalm 30:11-122 Corinthians 12:7-10Romans 8:28-291 Thessalonians 5:16-18Philippians 4:6-7Galatians 6:2**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I say that the account of Jesus reading from the scroll of Isaiah was at the end of Luke 4. It is actually closer to the middle of Luke 4.At one point I referenced "Psalm 38". The correct reference is Psalm 34:18.When discussing the Angel of the Lord, I mentioned that this was the seedbed for the Trinity. By saying this I was not implying that the Trinity did not always exist. All three Members of the Trinity have always existed from eternity past. My point was simply to address the wrong idea that the Trinity is a New Testament invention, which it clearly is not. We discuss the Trinity more in episode 25 entitled "The Trinity". I mentioned that "Hagar" meant "the immigrant". While I originally heard this from a reputable source that I trust, I had trouble finding this definition while double checking. Another suggested meaning of the name is "to flee".I referred to an incident where a man came and asked Jesus to heal his servant who was in bed and Jesus did and when the man returned the next day he was told that his servant recovered at the very hour that he had been speaking with Jesus. I accidentally combined multiple accounts in my mind. It was not the man's servant but his son. The account is recorded in John 4:46-54.At one point I said, "Here we agree with things, but here we believe them." I pointed to my head and then to my heart when saying this.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the vital importance of forgiving others.I referenced an episode that I uploaded about the Gospel. That was episode number 24 (entitled "The Gospel").Here is the quote from Lewis B. Smedes that I read: "To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you."Scriptures used:Matthew 18:15-352 Kings 4:1-7Romans 3:23Romans 6:23Ephesians 2:8-92 Corinthians 5:21Ephesians 4:30-32Luke 7:36-501 John 4:7-20Matthew 22:34-40Romans 8:1Hebrews 12:5-13John 3:16Luke 23:34Romans 12:19Matthew 6:14-15Psalm 66:18Mark 11:20-25John 14:131 John 5:14-15James 4:3**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I said that a talent was a unit of measurement. It would've probably been more helpful and accurate to refer to it as a monetary unit instead of a unit of measurement (although I suppose it does "measure" an amount of money so to speak).I used the word "exorbitant" to describe the king's generosity and compassion. Perhaps "extreme" would have been a better word. Sometimes exorbitant can have a negative connotation about it, which is most certainly not what I was implying. I was only referring to the king's mercy in positive terms.When reading Matthew 18:34, I said, "...until he should pay off all his debt." I accidentally added the word "off". The verse actually says, "...until he should pay all his debt."I read Matthew 18:33 as, "And should you not have had mercy...". It's actually "And should not you have had mercy..." It was just a slight word order change that didn't affect the meaning in any way.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Here is that list I mentioned listing out a few things that are true of us in Christ:Nothing can separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus.Romans 8:38-39In Christ I am a new creation.2 Corinthians 5:17In Christ I am the righteousness of God.2 Corinthians 5:21There is no condemnation for me in Christ Jesus.Romans 8:1 Romans 8:33-34I have been adopted into the family of God. God is my Father.John 1:12-13Romans 8:14-17The Lord will never ever leave me nor forsake me.Hebrews 13:5I have the Holy Spirit.Romans 8:9I no longer am who I was. I am dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Sin no longer has dominion over me.Romans 6:6Romans 6:11Romans 6:14Galatians 2:20God will not ever let me be tempted beyond my ability. No matter what situation I find myself in, it is never too much because God is faithful.1 Corinthians 10:13I have everything I need to live the life God has called me to live.2 Peter 1:3-4Quote I used:"Without being too technical, the verb lay aside can be translated one of two ways, (1) either indicating a completed past action (this would be our position in Christ) or (2) an action the believer is to carry out (almost giving it the sense of an imperative)." (https://www.preceptaustin.org/ephesians_420-22)Other podcast episodes that I referenced that are helpful companions to this one (in order of appearance):Episode 21: "I never knew you"Episode 34: JustificationEpisode 14: Our funeral leads to our freedomScriptures used:John 11:35John 11:38-44John 11:11-15John 11:252 Corinthians 5:17Romans 6:6Ephesians 4:17-24Ephesians 2:1-3John 1:12-13Romans 8:14-172 Corinthians 5:21Romans 8:9Galatians 5:22-23Colossians 3:8-10Romans 6:14Romans 8:38-39Hebrews 13:5Romans 12:1-21 Corinthians 2:11-12Romans 6:1-11**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I said "be transformed by the renewing of your mind". The direct quote is "be transformed by the renewal of your mind" in the translation I was reading out of. This doesn't make any difference at all whatsoever. I simply wanted to be precise.When I said that Jesus' first coming brought a spiritual death and rebirth I was referring to what happens to us when we were born again. I fully believe the biblical message that Jesus physically died and that He physically rose from the dead. That is a crucial and indispensable component to the gospel.I think I made this clear at a couple of points in the episode, but these identity qualities that I am describing are true of those who are in Christ, meaning those who have place their faith and trust in Him. For those who have yet to do so, these qualities do not yet apply; however, they can! Anyone can give their lives to the Lord in an instance and receive immediate forgiveness for sins and become a new creation!Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we continue our discussion on seeking wisdom from the Lord, specifically by asking Him to give us His perspective.You can access the article I mentioned concerning Elisha HERE.You can access the Hebrew word for "marauding bands" HERE.Scriptures used or referenced:2 Kings 6:8-242 Kings 5:2John 10:18Exodus 15:22-27Exodus 16-17James 1:5-6Matthew 5:3Matthew 16:21-231 Corinthians 15:14John 10:18Matthew 17:22-23Romans 6:23Hebrews 10:19-22**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**2 Kings 6:10 reads, "And the king of Israel sent to the place about which the man of God told him. Thus he used to warn him, so that he saved himself there more than once or twice." I accidentally omitted the word "there".I refer to Syria as "he" at one point. I meant "they". Syria is not an individual but rather a nation.I accidentally said, "Elijah" a number of times when it clearly should've been "Elisha".I referenced what Jesus said in John 10:18, but I wanted to include the verse verbatim here: "No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father."I referenced what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:14, but I wanted to include the verse verbatim here: "And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain."I accidentally said "Romans 6:26". The correct reference was Romans 6:23.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we continue to discuss getting wisdom from the Lord, specifically with regard to the topic of prioritization.Scriptures used:Exodus 18Exodus 2:11-22Exodus 3:1Deuteronomy 5:1-2Ephesians 2:8-10Romans 12:3-81 Corinthians 12 (especially verses 12-27)Acts 2:41Acts 6:1-7James 1:27**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I said that Moses saw an Egyptian taskmaster abusing a Hebrew slave. The text doesn't actually indicate that this Egyptian was a taskmaster. Exodus 2:11-12 says, "One day, when Moses had grown up, he went out to his people and looked on their burdens, and he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his people. He looked this way and that, and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand." I wanted to clarify that the text does not say that the Egyptian was a taskmaster or that the Hebrew was a slave; however, the oppression of the Hebrews is clearly implied by the phrase "and looked on their burdens". Furthermore, it likely was a taskmaster because Exodus 1:11a says, "Therefore they set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens." But the point remains the same that an Egyptian was beating an oppressed Hebrew.I mentioned how Horeb and Sinai refer to the same location. I wanted to provide a couple more Scriptures indicating this. Notice in Exodus 19 that the mountain is referred to as Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:11, 18, 20, 23). It is also referred to as Mount Sinai in Exodus 24:16 and 31:18. Then in Exodus 32 the incident with the golden calf happens down in the camp. Referring to this incident, Psalm 106:19 says, "They made a calf in Horeb and worshiped a metal image." Furthermore, Exodus 33:6 says, "Therefore the people of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments, from Mount Horeb onward." These Scriptures (among others) indicate that Horeb and Sinai are the same location.I mentioned how Jethro spent one night with Moses and then left the next day. The text explicitly states that the next day after he arrived Jethro saw what Moses was doing (Exodus 18:13). Then Jethro offers the advice. Later in the passage Moses applies Jethro's wisdom, and then Jethro departs. It's possible that Jethro remained there even longer than one day. The text simply does not explicitly state that. It could've been one night, or it could've been more. The point is that Jethro came and saw the situation with Moses and seemingly immediately offered his counsel.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we take another look at seeking wisdom from the Lord but from a slightly different perspective. This episode is connected to episode 32 because both episodes have to do with seeking wisdom from the Lord.Scriptures used:2 Samuel 5:17-25Joshua 6:1-5Joshua 6:15-21Joshua 7:1-13Joshua 8:1-2Matthew 5:9Proverbs 3:5-6James 1:5-6**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**Joshua 6:18 says, “But all silver and gold, and every vessel of bronze and iron, are holy to the Lord; they shall go into the treasury of the Lord.” I accidentally placed the word “the” before silver. It doesn’t affect the passage in any way. I just want to always totally accurately represent the text.Also, let me clarify that I wasn't trying to paint Joshua in a negative light in this episode. After all, he was the one who in Joshua 24:15 said, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Nevertheless, we can really learn from what happened regarding Ai.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we talk about the crucial topic of justification (or being made righteous).Scriptures used:John 1:12-13Romans 8:92 Corinthians 5:17Romans 5:1-2Romans 3:19-20Romans 3:23Genesis 15:1-6Romans 4:20-25Ephesians 2:8-9James 2:20-24James 2:14-19John 17:3Ephesians 2:10John 3:16John 20:30-31Romans 5:6-92 Corinthians 5:21Galatians 2:16Romans 8:1Philippians 4:6-7Romans 8:31-34Galatians 6:1-2Hebrews 12:5-11Hebrews 4:16Hebrews 10:19-222 Corinthians 5:9Psalm 19:14John 14:15**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I said at one point that we are saved by faith. What I meant was that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus ChristI said Hebrews 10:19-20. I meant to say Hebrews 10:19-22.I said that if we are in Christ that we have been justified and the Lord loves us. I don't meant to imply that the Lord does not love those who are not yet born again. The Bible is clear that He loves everyone and that it is because of His love that He offers us the opportunity through Jesus Christ to be saved (e.g., John 3:16; Romans 5:6-11). My point was simply that we do not have to earn His love.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the struggle against anxiety and how to walk in victory over it.Scriptures used:Matthew 6:25-34Matthew 10:19Luke 10:38-42Philippians 4:6-7Philippians 2:19-24John 10:10John 16:33Galatians 5:22-23Psalm 55:221 Peter 5:6-71 Thessalonians 5:16-18Colossians 3:15Galatians 6:2Quotes:“Worry chokes the life of faith. It does not help us to overcome our difficulties, but unfits us for dealing with them. No weapon that is formed against us shall prosper; every tongue that shall rise against us shall be condemned; our bread shall be given, and our water sure. God will perfect that which concerneth us, and His goodness and mercy shall never cease. Roll thyself and thy burden on the Lord, and leave them there. Too many take them back again!” (F. B. Meyer)“Nothing is the most exclusive word in the English language. It leaves out everything.” (J. Vernon McGee)Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss our vital need for wisdom from the Lord and some practical ways to ask for that wisdom and identify the answer to that prayer.Scriptures used:Matthew 5:9aJames 1:5-8Hebrews 11:6Romans 10:17James 1:2-4Matthew 7:7-11James 4:2-3James 1:221 Kings 3:5-10Proverbs 2:1-15Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we are looking at Psalm 73 in its entirety and the vital importance of asking the Lord to give us His perspective.You can access the article I mentioned about Asaph by clicking HERE.Scriptures used in this lesson:Psalm 73Romans 6:23John 14:6Isaiah 40:29-31Matthew 11:15James 1:5-6Numbers 14:7b-9Matthew 5:9Galatians 6:1Matthew 7:7-8**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**Around 16:08 when I quoted Romans 6:23, I only quoted the first half of it in the episode. Here is the full verse: "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."Around 32:20 I accidentally said "Numbers 14 halfway through verse 17 through verse 9." Obviously, I meant "Numbers 14 halfway through verse 7 through verse 9."Around 33:09 when I quoted Galatians 6:1, I only quoted part of the verse. Here is the whole verse: "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted."Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we revisit the topic of humility and pride and go a little deeper into the conversation.You can click the following links to see the definitions of some of the words we discussed:PROUDHUMBLEOPPOSESGRACEABOMINATIONYou can access a the article I mentioned about fasting by clicking HERE.Scriptures used:James 4:6Matthew 23:12Luke 18:9-14Matthew 4:17Romans 6:23Philippians 2:3-4Matthew 11:29Luke 14:7-11Proverbs 27:2Proverbs 26:12Proverbs 18:12Proverbs 16:18Proverbs 21:4Proverbs 16:5Psalm 138:6Isaiah 57:15Isaiah 66:1-2Ephesians 2:8-92 Corinthians 12:7-10Galatians 5:16Titus 2:11-14Hebrews 13:5Hebrews 10:19-22Philippians 2:5-11**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**At 3:24 when discussing the word for pride I say "The first word is 'hyper". I meant to say that the first word is "huper". "Hyper" is a transliteration of the Greek word "huper". Not really a substantial point, but I still wanted to be thorough and clear.At around 4:25 I mentioned Matthew 23:12. While this passage does not use the same word for “proud” as James 4:6, it absolutely communicates the same concept through the word “exalts”. Different word, same concept.At around 27:18 I said something to the effect of, “I didn’t even know what the English word ‘abomination’ meant, let alone the Greek word.” I meant to say “let alone the Hebrew word”, because this verse was originally written in Hebrew.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we briefly discuss the vital importance of having a right understanding of what God is like.Here is a link to the quotes from C.S. Lewis and A.W. Tozer: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/tozer-vs-lewis-whats-the-most-important-thing-about-us/Scriptures used in this episode:Romans 5:6-102 Corinthians 5:21John 1:12-13John 1:14-18John 14:8-9John 17:6John 17:25-26Matthew 1:1Mark 3:20-21Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss James 1:2-4 and how the Lord will use trials in our lives for our benefit and His glory.Scriptures used:James 1:2-4Romans 8:28Psalm 119:160Matthew 4:42 Timothy 3:16Psalm 119:67Psalm 119:712 Corinthians 3:17-18Proverbs 10:22Proverbs 22:4Psalm 84:11Matthew 7:11Psalm 103:13-141 Peter 1:6-7Proverbs 17:31 Corinthians 10:13Proverbs 24:101 Peter 5:6-11For those interested, you can read a little bit more about the Septuagint by clicking HERE.**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**Around 10:50 when I said, "Talking about this is my favorite thing to do" I was holding up the Bible. I imagine that was probably clear by the context, but still wanted to clarify.Around 13:10 I slightly misquoted James 1:2 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds..."Around 13:25 I slightly misquoted Romans 8:28 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."Around 14:32 I slightly misquoted Psalm 119:160 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever."Around 14:35 I slightly misquoted Matthew 4:4 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "But he answered, 'It is written, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."'"Around 18:25 I slightly misquoted Psalm 103:13-14 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust."Around 26:15 I said that 10 karat gold is 50% gold and 50% other metals. It is actually 41.7% gold and 58.3% other metals.At 30:34 I quoted part of 1 Corinthians 10:13. I wanted to write out the entire thing here because it is so relevant to this episode's topic: "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."Around 31:43 I said that the Greek word used in the James passage translated as "steadfastness" is "hupomeno." It is actually the word "hupomone." This doesn't change the point at all. "Hupomeno" is simply the verb form while "hupomone" is the noun.Around 41:32 I say, "Unfortunately and fortunately He is more concerned with lasting change.” Obviously, I was being intentionally facetious when I said "unfortunately." The Lord developing us is the best thing that could happen to us.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Today we talk about the vital importance of being in genuine Christian community where we can be transparent and vulnerable.Scriptures used:Luke 14:7-11Psalm 27:10Hebrews 13:5c1 John 5:2-3John 14:152 Corinthians 3:17-18Proverbs 27:17Proverbs 27:6Colossians 3:16Galatians 6:2Galatians 6:1Proverbs 12:15Romans 12:15Hebrews 10:24-25James 5:13-18Mark 2:1-12Mark 8:22James 4:6CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONSAt around 1:45 when I say the parable is straightforward, that is not to say that it is simple. The truth is that there are always new insights and life-changing principles that the Lord can show us from any passage. We will never 100% exhaust any part of the Bible.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss how to address recurring troubling emotions, how to identify lies that we are believing, and how to inform those lies with the truth of God's Word and begin to walk in freedom and joy.Here is the resource I mentioned that could be helpful in finding verses related to specific topics: http://www.openbible.info/topics/Many of the verses used in this episode:Philippians 4:6-7Hebrews 4:12Hebrews 13:5cRomans 12:2Ephesians 4:17-242 Corinthians 10:3-6John 10:10John 15:5Philippians 4:8-9Psalm 127:1aPsalm 46:1Psalm 1:1-3Joshua 1:8Psalm 119:160Proverbs 30:5John 17:17Matthew 4:42 Timothy 3:16-17James 4:6bMatthew 23:12Romans 12:15Proverbs 24:17-18**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**At around 30:15 I said "the superficial feelings." I meant to say "the superficial thoughts."At 31:35 I quote Matthew 23:12 but I accidentally said "but" instead of "and". It does not change the meaning, but here is the actual verse: "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted" (Matthew 23:12).Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

We look at the Scriptures to see what the Bible has to say about the Trinity.One God:Deut 6:4Jn 17:3Isa 44:61 Tim 2:3-6 (cross reference 1 John 4:14)God the Father:Jn 3:161 Jn 3:1a1 Pet 1:3aLk 10:21-222 Cor 1:3-4Jesus is God:Matt 3:1-3Jn 8:48-59Ex 3:13-15Jn 10:22-42Jn 14:8-11Jn 20:24-29Mk 2:1-12Mk 4:35-41 (cross reference Psalm 107:23-32)Jesus' humanity:Mk 4:38aJn 4:4-6Matt 9:9-13Jn 19:28-37Jesus' submission to the Father:Jn 14:28 (cross reference Jn 17:4-5 and Phil 2:5-11)The Angel of the Lord:Gen 22:10-18The Holy Spirit is a Person:Eph 4:301 Cor 12:11Rom 8:26-27Jn 16:12-15The Holy Spirit is God:Acts 5:1-6The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament:Gen 1:21 Sam 16:13Isa 11:1-2All three Persons of the Trinity in the same passage:Matt 3:16-17Matt 28:18-20Jn 14:26Gal 4:6Rom 8:9Articles:General overview of the Trinity: https://www.gotquestions.org/Trinity-Bible.htmlInformation about Jesus being God: https://www.insight.org/resources/article-library/individual/how-do-we-know-that-jesus-is-godThe Angel of the Lord: https://blog.logos.com/angel-of-the-lord/ (This is quite a lengthly and detailed article, but it is helpful. One quick correction: at one place the article says "Genesis 20:10-18". That is a typo. The correct reference is Gen 22:10-18.)The Holy Spirit being God: https://www.gotquestions.org/is-the-Holy-Spirit-God.htmlConcerning Modalism: https://www.gotquestions.org/Modalistic-Monarchianism.htmlConcerning Arianism: https://www.gotquestions.org/arianism.htmlConcerning Docetism: https://www.gotquestions.org/Docetism.htmlConcerning Adoptionism: https://www.gotquestions.org/adoptionism.htmlI mentioned that I would include a few articles discussing the possible meaning of Jn 10:34. Below are two articles that take differing stances. I am not necessarily endorsing one view over the other. I simply wanted to include both perspectives as a means of allowing you to be informed.One view: https://www.gotquestions.org/you-are-gods.htmlAnother view: https://faithlife.com/posts/776815Here is the quote I mentioned concerning when Jesus said “for the Father is greater than I”: “‘for the Father is greater than I’ This is not a statement that focuses on the inequality of the Son, but a statement that deals with the functions within the Trinity related to mankind's salvation (cf. John 10:29-30). This subordination of the Son was only for a period of time, during His stay on the earth to fulfill the Triune God's plan of revelation and redemption (cf. John 17:4-5; Phil. 2:6-11). However, there is a sense in which the Father, being the sender, is primary (cf. John 13:16; 1 Cor. 15:27-28; Eph. 1:3-14).”**CORRECTIONS**At 3:34 it wasn't clear when I finished the quote. Here's the whole quote: "This is a term that is used to attempt to describe the triune God—three coexistent, co-eternal Persons who are God."At 31:41 the correct reference is actually Matt 9:9-13.At 38:55 the correct reference is actually Phil 2:5-11.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little whileSupport the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss what the gospel is and how someone can begin a relationship with the Lord.Here is the link to the Bible dictionary definition of "gospel": https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g2098/esv/mgnt/0-1/Here are many of the Scripture references that I used:Matthew 1:18-25Luke 2:46-52John 1:1John 1:14Matthew 4:23-24Matthew 9:35-36John 6:60-71John 10:17-18Hebrews 4:151 John 3:51 Peter 2:22-25Romans 3:23Isaiah 6:1-3Deuteronomy 32:4Romans 6:23Romans 5:6-82 Corinthians 5:21Matthew 16:211 Corinthians 15:3-8Colossians 3:1John 14:6John 3:16John 1:12-132 Corinthians 5:17Luke 9:23Luke 13:1-5Romans 10:9Ephesians 2:8-9Hebrews 7:25Romans 8:9-171 Peter 5:6-7Psalm 119:18Hebrews 10:24-25Matthew 28:18-20**CLARIFICATIONS**At 10:08 I say, "Jesus is simultaneously God and also the Son of God." I also want to acknowledge the fact that He is also fully human. Jesus is 100% God and 100% human. I think this was communicated through the rest of what I said, but I wanted to say it in conjunction with this statement as well.At 14:42 I say that Jesus' life started off with His supernatural conception and birth. This was NOT to say that His existence began with the virgin birth. The Son of God has always existed. We see this from places like John 1:1. My statement was merely referring to the beginning of his human life on earth.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this brief episode, we discuss some ways that we can practically meditate on the Word of God consistently throughout the day. Some of the Scriptures I referenced:Joshua 1:8.Psalm 1:1-3.Psalm 16:7.Psalm 34:8.Psalm 119:18.Psalm 119:130.1 Corinthians 2:11-12.1 Thessalonians 5:17.**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**At 10:32 I called the app and website "Scripture Typer." I think that may have been a previous name. The current name of the app and website are "Bible Memory." Here is the link to the website: https://biblememory.com.Around 12:15 I reference "John 16:3." I meant to say "John 16:13."Around 12:30 I mention the idea of falling asleep while meditating upon the Scriptures. That idea came from a guy who is discipling me. It was not original to me. I wanted to give credit where credit is due.Around 15:00 I said that when Peter saw the wind and the waves that he began to sink. The issue was not that he saw the intense weather. The issue was that he gave in to fear. He stopped trusting the Lord in that moment. The passage says, "But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, 'Lord, save me.' Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?'" (Matthew 14:30-31). Likewise, in our lives, "seeing the wind" is not the problem. The problem is when we take our trust off of the Lord and give in to fear. When we do this we quickly begin to sink.Around 16:15 I said the Holy Spirit makes the Scriptures real to us. Of course the Scriptures are 100% objectively true, period. In saying that He makes them real to us I am not advocating some sort of relativistic truth. What I mean is that He brings them to life in our experience. In other words, the Scriptures are objectively true, and the Holy Spirit takes them and makes them also subjectively true to us. Or, put yet another way, he will move the Scriptures from simply being in our heads to being also in our hearts. He empowers us not only to agree with the Scriptures intellectually but to truly believe them in our innermost being.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we talk about the vital importance of not just hearing the Word but also of doing it.Here are the resources that I mentioned in the episode:George Müller quote: https://www.georgemuller.org/devotional/how-i-ascertain-the-will-of-god.Open Bible: https://www.openbible.info/topics/ (This link will take you directly to the page where you can search for topics; so, it removes a step in how I described it on the episode).Got Questions: https://www.gotquestions.org (This website has extremely helpful articles on almost any topic relevant to Christianity. While I don't 100% agree with absolutely everything in all of the articles, I use this phenomenal resource very frequently and would commend it to just about anyone).List of topics: http://www.mentoringmen.net/important-teachings-of-the-bible/ (This link will take you directly to the page; so, you can skip all the steps that I mentioned in the episode).Some of the primary Scriptures I referenced:James 1:22-25.2 Corinthians 3:17-18.John 8:34-36.Matthew 5:3.Matthew 5:8.Matthew 7:24-27.Matthew 4:4.2 Timothy 3:16-17.Psalm 119:160.John 16:13.John 17:17.Proverbs 12:15.Proverbs 28:26.**CLARIFICATIONS**At around 6:45 I said that for some people conviction is a spiritual experience. Conviction from the Holy Spirit is indeed a spiritual experience for all of us. My point was simply to say that many people feel as though they are doing well simply because the Holy Spirit convicted them of something even if they don't act on that conviction. This would of course be hearing but not doing.At around 39:00 I said something along the lines of wanting Jesus to be real in our experience. I try to be careful to accurately communicate what I mean when I use this type of verbiage. Obviously, Jesus is real. Period. Whether or not someone believes in Him does not affect the fact that He is real, that He is alive, and that He is at the right hand of God. What I meant was that He will become more real to us in our practical experience. To say it another we, we experience Him more intimately.At around 48:00 I quickly quoted Matthew 4:4. My wording was slightly off (although it did not change the meaning). Here is the exact wording: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we take a close look at Jesus' words in Matthew 7:21-23: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'"The main points were:Just because someone verbally says that Jesus is Lord does not automatically mean that they are truly saved.Just because someone does some spiritual/religious things does not automatically mean that they are truly saved.True salvation is evidenced by a changed life. If someone can continue in sin and have no desire to stop or if someone doesn't actually have the desire to know Jesus, then that individual may very well not know the Lord at all.True salvation is found in truly knowing Jesus, not just doing and saying the right things.There is no way to have a relationship with God apart from through Jesus Christ.For those who are truly born again, there has been a change. They are no longer who they were but have become a new creation.We covered a lot of Scripture in this episode and I wanted to include some of the references for those of you who want to go back and reread them. These are (roughly) in order of appearance in the episode:Matthew 7:21-23.Ephesians 2:8-9.Psalm 119:160.John 17:17.2 Timothy 3:16.2 Peter 1:20-21.John 1:12-13.John 20:30-31.John 3:16.John 14:6.Acts 4:12.1 John 3:4-10.1 John 1:8-2:6.Ephesians 2:10.John 17:3.**CLARIFICATIONS**Early on I say that the Sermon on the Mount describes what a Christian should be like. This is most definitely true, but the Sermon on the Mount is even more than just a description of how a Christian should behave. In it we see much about the character of God, salvation, trusting the Lord, and many other things. I simply used that abbreviated description in passing. Nevertheless, I wanted to elaborate on it a bit.At one point I say something like, “It’s faith in these things that leads to salvation.” I want to clarify: it’s faith in Jesus Christ that leads to salvation—nothing else. The “these things” to which I was referring were facts about the Gospel that described what it means to have faith in Jesus. I still wanted to clarify though.When discussing 1 John 2:2 and I said the whole world had access to the Lord, that was not to say that the entire world has heard the Gospel. There are indeed still un reached people groups. My statement was simply saying that anyone can come to the Lord regardless of background. Everyone is invited to repent and place their trust in Him. It’s not only for a specific people group.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode I share a teaching that I did with the ministry that I'm with. As I mentioned in the introduction, there are a few things that made sense if you were in the room but might not have been as clear if you were not. I thought these things were minor enough to still post the teaching here.At one point I used my hands to briefly describe the layout of first century Israel. Here is a map of Israel during Jesus' physical ministry so you can see what I was talking about: https://www.loc.gov/item/2009579463/Link to Winning the War in Your Mind by Pastor Craig Groeschel: https://www.amazon.com/Winning-War-Your-Mind-Thinking/dp/0310362725/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=winning+the+war+in+your+mind&qid=1624900048&sr=8-1Link to 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp: https://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Gifts-Fully-Right/dp/0310321913/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=1000+gifts&qid=1624900963&sr=8-3**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**When I was discussing Moab and Mt. Seir regarding Deuteronomy 2, I said they were the descendants of Esau. The people of Mt. Seir were indeed descended from Esau, but the people of Moab descended from Lot, Abraham’s relative.I slightly paraphrased Philippians 2:14 (although it didn’t change the meaning). Here is the exact text: “Do all things without grumbling or disputing…”At one point I paraphrased Romans 8:28. Here is the exact text: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."Near the end I was quoting 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. I accidentally slightly switched the word order in verse 18. While it didn't change the meaning of the text at all, I still wanted to include the passage verbatim here: "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we approach the difficult subject of what happens to those who never hear the message about Jesus.Near the end of the episode I mentioned that I would include some resources for anyone who wanted to learn more about the fate of the unborn/infants/young children/the severely mentally handicapped who have died.Here is a helpful article: https://www.gotquestions.org/do-babies-go-to-heaven.htmlHere is another relevant article: https://www.gotquestions.org/aborted-babies-heaven.htmlLastly, here is YouTube video of the audio of biblical scholar Michael Heiser discussing this very topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BV1nurdpgU**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**At one point I said “various levels of hell.” I meant to say “various levels of punishment in hell.”Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Hope is a powerful thing. In this episode we shift our perspective a little beyond what we can see. We discuss how the Lord will test us and the importance of perseverance.The Scriptures we focused on were Exodus 15:22-27; Deuteronomy 8:1-20; 1 Samuel 10:8; 13:1-15; and John 6:5-7.**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I quote Romans 15:13 a few times in this episode. The primary application of what that verse means by “hope” is the hope that we have in Christ, namely, that our souls are secure in Him. It’s about the reality of the fact that we have been redeemed by Him and we look forward in anticipation to His coming and His kingdom. Nevertheless, the verse is still relevant because hope has to do with having the correct biblical perspective and drawing strength from a future reality.In passing I slightly misquoted James 1:17. Here is the verse: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the difference between actually spending time with the Lord and just reading the Bible. The passages that we focus on are Matthew 11:28; Luke 10:38-42; Genesis 32:24-26; Luke 11:5-10; and Luke 18:1-8.CORRECTIONS:When describing the ways by which we can be certain that Jacob was wrestling with the Lord I mentioned that one noteworthy thing was how Jacob received a name change (to Israel). I mentioned how Abraham had previously received the same thing. That was not to say that the Lord is the only individual in the Scriptures who will change someone’s name. For example, Moses renamed someone named Hoshea and gave him the name Joshua (Numbers 13:16). This is the Joshua after whom the book of Joshua is named. So, it’s possible for a human to rename another, but it is also something we see the Lord doing. In retrospect while I was trying to prove from the Scriptures that this individual with whom Jacob wrestled was the Lord I wish I had included Genesis 32:30: “So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, saying, ‘For I have seen God face to face, and yet my life has been delivered.’” This clearly shows the point I was trying to make.Near the end, when quoting Psalm 66:18 I said, "If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, You would not have listened." The text actually says, "If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." Obviously, this doesn't affect the meaning at all.When quoting Matthew 5:23-24 I says, "if you are offering your gift before the altar...", whereas the text says, "so if you are offering your gift at the altar..." Once again, this makes no practical difference. I just want to faithfully quote the text.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we wrap up the brief series on abiding in Christ.Summary of part 1:What are we commanded to do in John 15? We are commanded to abide in Christ.What are the results of abiding in Christ? Bearing fruit (vv. 4-5), answered prayer (v. 7), overabundant joy (v. 11), and intimacy with the Lord (v. 10).How do we abide in Christ? By meditating upon His Word (v.7), and by obedience (v. 10).Key takeaways from part 2:If we are not obeying, then we are not abiding.Obedience leads to intimacy. If we want our relationship with Jesus to be vibrant and living, then we need to be obeying Him.This leads to the need of consistent and immediate repentance of any known sin in our lives.Generally speaking, as believers we often take the sin in our lives far too lightly.Quotes that I used in this week and last:"It does not matter what your personal deficiency, or whether it be a hundred and one different things, God has always one sufficient answer, His Son Jesus Christ, and He is the answer to every need." - Watchman Nee"God is not seeking a display of my Christ-likeness, but a manifestation of His Christ." - Watchman Nee"You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in You." - Augustine"When you ignore God's instructions, do not expect to receive His blessing." - One of the pastors from my church"Do not wait for the hour of evening prayer, nor even for the opportunity of being alone, but in the busy street, in the midst of daily toil, lift up your heart to Christ if you have done wrong, and say: 'I have gone astray...'" - F. B. Meyer"It is not the nature of sin to remain in a fixed state. Like decaying fruit, it grows more rotten. The man who is bad today will be worse tomorrow." - Charles Spurgeon**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I said, "Jesus, knowing that all things had been placed under their feet, got down and washed theirs." I meant to say, "Jesus, knowing that all things had been placed under HIS feet, got down and washed theirs."When I quoted John 20:31 I slightly changed some of the verbiage unintentionally. It doesn't affect the meaning of the text at all, but I wanted to post the verse here: "...but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name."I was speaking about God's response to Job's friends. I wanted to post the verse that I was referring to here so that the wording will be exactly right: "After the Lord had spoken these words to Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite: 'My anger burns against you and against your two friends, for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has'" (Job 42:7).I said I was reading 2 Cor 7:10. It was actually 2 Cor 7:1 that I was reading.While reading 2 Tim 2:22 I accidentally switched the order of the words "faith" and "love". This doesn't have any impact on the meaning of the text, but I still wanted to clarify.I accidentally said that we're saved "by faith through grace" when I meant "by grace through faith." I was quoting Ephesians 2:8.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Every one of us wants peace, joy, fulfillment, etc. But what if all of those things are simply by-products of the thing we actually want?In this episode we begin a short two-episode series called Abide. The main text for this episode is John 15:1-11. We go through the text verse by verse, and focus in on a particular key word that appears 10 times in this passage.**CORRECTIONS**When briefly listing out the fruit of the Spirit, I accidentally switched "gentleness" and "goodness" in the order. Obviously, this doesn't impact the meaning of the text in the least, but I still wanted to correct that.When I was describing the events of John 12 when Mary poured perfume on Jesus' feet and wiped them with her hair, I accidentally said she wiped Jesus' hair instead of wiped His feet with her hair.When I began describing when Jesus fed the 5,000 with the bread and the fish, I initially said that it was in John 7. It is actually in John 6. Every other time I said John 6, but the first time I accidentally said 7.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss how to deal with the root (or source) of sin as opposed to simply focusing on the fruit (specific actions or behaviors). We focus on the crucial truths found in Romans 6:1-14.As I mentioned, I challenge you to internalize (memorize and meditate upon) Romans 6:1-14! Just take it little by little. Scripture memory is "hard by the yard, but a cinch by the inch!"And remember that if we want to put ourselves in a position for the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Scriptures to us, we need to meditate on the Word and fervently pray for Him to help us to see and understand! For more info on this see episode 7 of this podcast ("Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1").Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we look at what at first may appear to be a contradiction between these two verses. Once we see how the "contradiction" is not a contradiction at all, then we explore generally the topic of temptation and what is happening spiritually whenever we are tempted with something.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Hello, everyone!In this episode we take a close look at Psalm 107, what it shows us about what God is like, and the implications that it has on our lives! No matter what, remember that God is compassionate, and you can cry to the Lord in your trouble. He wants to hear you.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss the importance of repetition in the Bible. The passages that I used as examples were:1) 2 Samuel 5:17-25.2) Jonah 1; Mark 4:35-41; Psalm 107:23-30.Also, the book I recommended was The Lost Letters of Pergamum by Bruce W. Longenecker.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss a few major contexts to keep in mind while reading the Bible. Context determines meaning. The contexts I mentioned in the episode were:1) Overarching/Entire Bible Context -- "What does the rest of the Bible say about this topic. Are there any other Scriptures I can think of?"2) Literary Context -- "What is the genre of this portion of the Bible? Is it poetry, prose, narrative, a letter, biography, etc.?"3) Immediate Context -- "What do the sentences and paragraphs around this passage say? How do they inform my understanding of the text?"4) Historical/Cultural Context -- "Are there any historical or cultural details that would help me understand and properly interpret this passage?"Two helpful resources I want to share with you are:1) http://www.openbible.info/topics (This site will allow you to fill in a search bar that says "What does the Bible say about...". Then it will just give you verses that are relevant to the topic you typed in. This will help with the Overarching/Entire Bible Context.)2) http://www.freebiblecommentary.org (This man has written introductions to each books of the Bible as well as commentaries on each chapter of the Bible. When I am looking for a good introduction to a book of the Bible, I frequently come to this site. This will help with the Historical/Cultural Context.)**CORRECTION**At 34:30 I said that Israel was made up of 10 tribes before the national split. I meant to say that it was made up of 12 tribes before the split, and the 10 tribes in the north were collectively referred to as the nation of Israel while the 2 tribes in the south were collectively referred to as the nation of Judah.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

This is our first Q&A! I spend a few minutes answering the question of where a new believer should begin reading the Bible!Here is one possible ordering of reading the Bible:1) The Gospel according to Luke, Psalm 23, and Psalm 912) The Gospel according to Matthew, Mark, and John3) Acts4) The letters (Romans-Jude)5) Revelation6) Then begin reading through the Old Testament beginning with Genesis. I highly recommend listening to Episode 4 (Overview of the Old Testament) of this podcast once more when beginning this step.At the same time, you can be reading through Proverbs at your own pace. Many people will read 1 chapter of Proverbs a day. There are 31 chapters; so, the number of chapters corresponds to the numbers of days in certain months. You can also be reading through the Psalms at your own pace.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Thanks for listening! In this episode we are continuing the conversation on meditating upon the Scriptures. This episode focuses on how to do a word study.Like I mentioned in the episode, here are some steps of doing a word study:1) Identify the key word(s) in a verse or passage.2) Look up the definition(s) of the word.3) Look at other places where the same word is used in the Bible and how it is translated there.4) Notice any passages that utilize parallelism to give further insight into the meaning of a word.5) Now that you have the idea of how the word is defined and used elsewhere in the Bible, return to the original passage you are looking at and pay attention to the context that the word appears in. Context determines meaning. 6) Think about what you have learned constantly ("day and night"), asking the Lord to speak to you through the passage and help you to understand it.7) Obey it in your life! Apply what you have learned and what the Lord has shown you.I mentioned a resource that is EXCELLENT for doing such study. Here is the url: https://www.blueletterbible.org. You can copy and paste the in your browser and begin using the resource as well!**ONE CORRECTION AND ONE CLARIFICATION**Correction: At one point I said Psalm 88. I meant Psalm 77. I corrected in the episode, but still wanted to add a note.Clarification: I said in passing that the 10 Commandments were an example of narrative. The actual 10 Commandments are technically prose/discourse, but the account of Moses climbing the mountain and receiving the 10 Commandments is narrative.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

This episode is the first part of a conversation about meditating upon the Scriptures. In this series we will explore what the Bible has to say about biblical meditation, what it means, and discuss some tools on how to do it practically.In this first part we discuss how one of the big things the Holy Spirit does in our lives is that He takes the Scriptures and makes them real to us. He takes what is objectively true and gives us eyes to see it as a subjective reality in our own lives. It is one thing to agree with the Bible. It is another thing entirely to believe it!**Clarification: Around 21 minutes I say something to the effect of “The Holy Spirit will take the Scriptures and move it from here to here.” During the first “here” I was pointing to my head. During the second “here” I was pointing to my heart.**I also went through a lot of verses in this lesson, many of which the original hearers had already spent time reading and studying; so, they were already very familiar with them. I will include the verses I discuss here as well.Ephesians 1:15-21.1 Corinthians 2:9-13.2 Timothy 2:7.Psalm 119:18.Psalm 119:130.Luke 24:27, 32, 45.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode I share 3 things that the Lord spoke to my heart as He led me through the process of surrendering something that I did not want to let go of. Anyone who has been in a similar position will undoubtedly be able to relate to a lot of what I say in this episode, and it is my prayer that this gives you hope and confidence to take the next step in doing whatever it may be that the Lord is calling you to do.As I share in the intro to this episode, the content was originally recorded while I was teaching during one of the weekly meetings of the ministry I'm on staff with. There is a slight change in the audio sound and there may be some background noise from the people in the room.**CORRECTION** In the episode I cite "Luke 6:66" in passing. I meant to say "John 6:66."Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss how God's grace is the solution to every problem we face. The apostle Paul learned this firsthand in the passage we are focusing on today.One quick slight correction to something I said in this episode. When I quoted Galatians 2:20, I accidentally left out the 3 little words “in the flesh.” While this didn’t affect the point I was making in any way, I desperately want the Scriptures to be quotes correctly; so, here is the correct quotation: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss a VERY brief overview of the narrative of the Old Testament. The better that we understand the Old Testament, the better we will understand the New Testament!Email your questions or thoughts to [email protected]!You can access the picture of the chart of the kings of Israel and Judah that I mentioned by clicking HERE or copying and pasting this URL:https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2017/07/updated-chart-of-israels-and-judahs-kings-and-prophets/I was originally going to include both the TaNaKh and English Old Testament ordering of books, but this description would become too cumbersome. As such, I will just include the TaNaKh ordering here and you can compare it with the Old Testament ordering in the table of contents in your Bible.TaNaKh ordering of the Old Testament:THE LAW:GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyTHE PROPHETS:JoshuaJudgesSamuel (1 & 2)Kings (1 & 2)IsaiahJeremiahEzekielThe Twelve (the minor prophets)THE WRITINGS:PsalmsProverbsJobSong of SongsRuthLamentationsEstherEcclesiastesDannelEzra-NehemiahChronicles (1 & 2)**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**I mentioned that the length of the exile was 70 years because the land had been deprived of its sabbath rests for 490 years; so, it was being repaid the 70 sabbaths it missed (see Leviticus 25:1-7 for the command to let the land have a sabbath rest every 7th year). I mentioned that Jeremiah explained this specifically. While Jeremiah did indeed mention the length of the exile being 70 years (See Jeremiah 25:11-12 and 29:10), it doesn't seem that Jeremiah mentions anything about the sabbath rests for the land. Second Chronicles 36:21, however, does. Maybe it was the 2 Chronicles verse that I had in mind when I said that. Even so, the text doesn't mention anything about 490 years where the land didn't have a sabbath. I think I just inferred that based on what 2 Chronicles 36:21 says. So, that point of what I said in the episode may be off. I apologize for the confusion, but I want to be diligent to be accurate!Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

In this episode we discuss how taking one Scripture, passage, or principle in isolation can actually lead us to do ungodly things. This is all about keeping the totality of Scripture in our minds as we make decisions, navigate life, and seek the Lord.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

This episode takes an in-depth look at the text of James 1:2-4,12. I mention in the episode that I would include the Strong's numbers for anyone who wanted to study the Greek terms we discussed more. Here they are:"Count" (G2233 - hegeomai)."Testing" (G1383 - dokimion)."Steadfast" (G5278 - hypomeno)."Perfect" (G5046 - teleios)."Complete" (G3648 - holokleros)."Blessed" (G3107 - makarios).Sources used:A.L.O.E. The Giant Killer. Mount Morris, NY, Lamplighter Publishing, August 2004, pp. 186-188."James 1:12 Commentary." preceptaustin.org. www.preceptaustin.org/james_112. Date accessed 30 July 2020.Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!

Thank you for joining me!This is an introduction to who I am and what the vision and scope of this podcast is!Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to [email protected]. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!Take care!