Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight In God Through Faith In Jesus Christ podcast

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Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

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Hungry for deeper intimacy with God? Thirsty to (re)discover His love for you and your love for Him? Ready to embrace your full identity in Christ? Gospel Spice is your Jesus Christ-centered podcast, infused with in-depth Bible flavors and sprinkled with a dash of French culture.

How central is delight in God for you right now? Have you recently found yourself less than captivated by your relationship with God? Do the pages of Scripture feel stale and lifeless? Are you looking for a spiritual flavor explosion in your journey with God? Then Gospel Spice is your new secret ingredient.

French host and Bible teacher Stephanie Rousselle invites you to taste and see that the Lord is good, and to (re)awaken your delight in God through Jesus Christ through a fresh experience of Scripture. Could the Christian faith prove more delightful & delicious than you’ve tasted so far? A feast awaits. Begin today!

Join Stephanie and her guests to taste & see that the Lord is good! The Gospel Spice Podcast is ranked Top 1% All Categories globally*, and is listened to from 180+ countries. Over 200 guests include Dallas & Amanda Jenkins, Max Lucado, Joel Rosenberg, Os Guinness, Melissa Dougherty, Jennifer Rothschild, Sheila Walsh, Bob Goff, Susie Larson, Jonathan Evans, Ruth Chou Simons, Jim Cymbala, Jo Saxton, Alisa Childers, Curt Thompson, Darlene Zschech, Sandra McCracken, Margaret Feinberg, and so many, many more. When not with her guests, Bible teacher Stephanie Rousselle invites you to delight in God by diving deep into Scripture!

Gospel Spice was recognized as the 3rd most recommended podcast (for Christian women) in 2025 and the 18th overall recommendation worldwide. So, don't miss out!

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DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES

We exist to inspire Christ-followers to delight in God. The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools by Gospel Spice Ministries. We provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus.

Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. The majority of donations above our minimal operating costs go to Christian organizations fighting human trafficking.

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

(*ListenNotes ranking, 2025)

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

357 episoder

#Religion #Christianity #Stéphanie Rousselle

Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

updated for ca. 10 timer siden

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Serier hjem•Feed•Betal utgiveren

Gospel Spice was recognized as the 3rd most recommended podcast (for Christian women) in 2025 and the 18th overall recommendation worldwide. So, don't miss out!

NEW! SHOP GOSPELSPICE MERCH

DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

(*ListenNotes ranking, 2025)

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

357 episoder

#Religion #Christianity #Stéphanie Rousselle

Alle episoder

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Pentecost: Cycles of Harvest, Holiness, and Hope 43:39

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Stephanie invites you today to spice up your faith by exploring unexpected connections between two great feasts. She dives deep into the intertwined celebrations of Pentecost in the Christian tradition, and Shavuot in the Jewish faith. Both festivals are celebrated 50 days post-Easter and Passover respectively, and invite us to reconnect with themes of gratitude, thanksgiving, and divine revelation. Through the enduring cycles of joy, preparation, and revelation, both Shavuot and Pentecost call believers into a deeper understanding of divine grace and the cyclical journey of faith. You can purchase the Spring Feasts workbook to take notes while you listen, including the gorgeous visuals we created to accompany your experience: https://www.gospelspice.com/offers/ct6coMYd In the Christian liturgical calendar, Pentecost, celebrated on June 8, 2025, mirrors Shavuot’s setting—50 days after the major religious observances of Easter and Passover. It marks the momentous occasion when the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus's followers, empowering us to spread the gospel. God’s presence attributes joy and delight to Pentecost, making it a critical event that signifies the birth of the church and believers' empowerment. Shavuot, or the Feast of Weeks, concludes a significant period of anticipation following Passover. Observers commemorate this festival by reading the Ten Commandments and partaking in the harvest of wheat, lauded as the superior grain. Symbolically, Shavuot represents the culmination of the spring feasts, and includes the unique preparation of two loaves of leavened wheat bread, symbolizing humanity's sinful nature. Celebrated with offerings, figs, olive oil, and more, Shavuot is a joyous occasion steeped in history and spirituality. Stephanie discusses these celebrations as a "rehearsal dinner" for the future wedding banquet, the final joyous gathering in Christ's return. This celebration encapsulates both preparation and revelation, drawing a parallel to the Israelites' three days of preparation to receive the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. The festival’s ladder-shaped challah symbolizes Moses' ascent to receive the Law, while its inclusion of yeast signifies the sinful nature that, through divine grace, will be fully redeemed. Central to both Shavuot and Pentecost, is the theme of harvest. The gathering of wheat represents the process of evangelism. As believers are sanctified through trials, they are refined wheat, ready for offering and transforming into the spiritual bread of life. In the same vein, Pentecost is a reminder of the Great Commission—empowering believers to go forth and harvest souls for the kingdom of God. Christ embodies the fulfillment of Shavuot. Just as Shavuot celebrates God’s revelation to Moses, Pentecost commemorates the Holy Spirit’s descension, ushering a new covenant. This underscores a deeper spiritual truth: the festival of Shavuot rehearses the believers' ultimate communion with God, transcending into a season of salvation heralded by Jesus' coming. Stephanie highlights a fascinating contrast between Jewish and Western traditions: the Jewish cyclical view of time versus the Western linear perspective. Shavuot, celebrated from sundown on June 1 to nightfall on June 3, 2025, emphasizes the end of the spring harvest—a marker in the cyclical liturgical calendar that heralds a pause until the fall feasts. Meanwhile, the Western tradition tends to perceive time as linear, steadily moving towards a future point. This cyclical nature of the Jewish liturgical calendar offers hope and progress, especially during periods that may seem monotonous. After the spring feasts conclude, the Jewish calendar enters a four-month period without festive observances until Rosh Hashanah. Stephanie encourages believers to view these "ordinary" times as infused with the joy and anticipation of Shavuot and Pentecost, reflecting the Christian longing between Christ's first and second comings. This period is an invitation to embody thankfulness, evangelism, and charity, preparing for the ultimate harvest in the final gathering. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on Holy Day traditions in upcoming episodes of Gospel Spice! Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/store DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools given to you by Gospel Spice Ministries. In a nutshell, we exist to inspire Christ-followers to delight in God. In more details: we provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel-Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family. PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! PAY IT FORWARD!! Would you consider supporting this show today to help others enjoy it for free? It comes to you completely free, but is labor-intensive to produce, and we want to keep putting it in the ears of people! Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. All donations above our minimal operating costs go to Christian organizations fighting human trafficking. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog (*ListenNotes ranking, 2023) Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Choosing joy over fear and pessimism when life feels heavy | with Nicole Zasowski 41:44

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Have you ever lived in a mindset where you're basically waiting for the other shoe to drop, hope feels impossible or too dangerous? It can feel safer to fly low, embrace pessimism and cynicism and think, “if life turns out half as bad as I imagine, then at least I'll be ready for it.” That's the kind of mindset Stephanie had when she was younger. Stephanie welcomes Nicole Zasowski, author and therapist, who shares wisdom on reclaiming joy and celebration in a world often dominated by worry and pessimism. Nicole’s journey and research reveal that joy isn’t just an emotional response, but a courageous, spiritual discipline rooted in God’s faithfulness. Despite her deep faith, she had concluded that joy and celebration were risky. She was sure that celebration would come with a catch, so she became practiced in praying for the miracle while preparing to mourn and dreaming while rehearsing disaster. And yet she discovered that our methods of self-protection came at a cost. A lot of the loss we experience in our lives is not only the grief and the disappointment itself, but also the joy that we overlook because we are too afraid to embrace it, she tells us. That’s the conversation on Gospel Spice today. Understanding the Struggle with Joy Nicole begins by dispelling the myth that celebration and joy come naturally to her—in fact, her books were born from seasons marked by change, loss, and disappointment. Through experiences like moving across the country and enduring infertility and miscarriages, Nicole discovered a heartbreaking truth: much of her loss was not just in what she lacked, but in her refusal to embrace the goodness that God placed in her path out of fear that it would be taken away. This led her into research, both biblical and scientific, to understand why joy can feel so vulnerable and difficult, especially when we’ve experienced pain. Redefining Celebration: A Spiritual Discipline American and Western cultures, Nicole notes, often see celebration as a reward for good news or accomplishments. However, the Bible—especially the Old Testament—demonstrates celebration as a spiritual rhythm and discipline, not just a reaction. The Israelites practiced regular, scheduled celebrations and feasts, regardless of their current circumstances. These rhythms were not designed to reward themselves for their goodness, but to remember and honor God's consistent faithfulness. Celebration, then, is about choosing remembrance: looking back at God’s goodness and letting that fuel hope, courage, and anticipation about the future—even when circumstances are hard. The Vulnerability of Joy Joy is inherently vulnerable because it opens our hearts to the possibility of loss. For those who have experienced pain, pessimism and cynicism can become self-protective mechanisms. However, Nicole’s research and experience as a therapist show that numbing ourselves to joy doesn’t actually protect us. Rather, it diminishes our ability to savor God’s goodness and leaves us empty-handed in difficult times. Practical Tools for Practicing Joy Nicole emphasizes that joy, like any virtue, can and must be intentionally practiced. Two key habits can help rewire our hearts toward joy: 1. Savoring: Take mental “snapshots” of small moments, deliberately noticing what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. This helps your brain store joyful experiences that might otherwise go unnoticed. 2. Thanksgiving (vs. gratitude): Beyond silently feeling grateful, speak and express thanks out loud—to God or others. Research shows that this actually heightens and solidifies joy inside us. Key Takeaways from our conversation · Joy and celebration are not merely emotions; they are spiritual practices and choices that shape us. · God invites us into rhythms of celebration even when our feelings or circumstances do not match, because it roots us deeper in remembrance of His faithfulness. · Practicing joy often feels counterintuitive—especially in pain—but it is the way God designed us to process life and hope. · Tools like savoring and thanksgiving can help transform our hearts and brains to default toward joy instead of worry or cynicism. Nicole encourages us that it’s never too late to begin practicing joy, regardless of our life’s season. The discipline of joy prepares us for eternity, deepening our delight in God and training our hearts for hope and celebration—no matter what comes our way. MORE ABOUT NICOLE ZASOWSKI Nicole Zasowski is a licensed marriage and family therapist and author of What If It's Wonderful, From Lost to Found and her new Bible Study Daring Joy. She is also the coauthor of Advances and Techniques in Restoration Therapy and Families and Forgiveness. As a writer who wears her heart proudly on her sleeve, Nicole’s work is a weave of biblical wisdom, psychological expertise, and vulnerable storytelling. Often praised for her wisdom and approachable style, Nicole is a sough-after speaker, frequently teaching at conferences, retreats, and women’s events around the country on topics that integrate faith and psychology. In addition to her private practice, Nicole’s therapeutic work has included teaching as an adjunct professor at Alliance Theological Seminary in New York and leading marriage intensives at the Hideaway Experience. Nicole and her husband, Jimmy, are the grateful parents of three young children. Her favorite place to be is looking for sea glass on the Connecticut shoreline, exploring a New England town or New York City neighborhood, or sitting in her front yard around a fire with her family, friends, and neighbors. Meet Nicole at https://www.nicolezasowski.com/ MORE ABOUT “DARING JOY” Joy can feel risky. When you've experienced pain of any kind, it can feel easier not to dream than to be disappointed, or not to hope than to be left heartbroken. If you ever feel like it's safer not to embrace joy at all than to hold something that might break, you're not alone. Thankfully, the Bible paints a different picture—one that gives you the courage to hold on to joy regardless of your circumstances. https://www.nicolezasowski.com/daring-joy MORE ABOUT “WHAT IF IT’S WONDERFUL” What If It’s Wonderful? Author and marriage and family therapist Nicole Zasowski knows that it’s difficult to trust joy and find the courage to celebrate when you have endured seasons of disappointment and despair. When God has been your faithful anchor in the storm, does joy then leave you unmoored? Nicole reminds us that we can stay tethered to the hope of Christ in seasons of celebration, because even joyful days hold the learning, growth, and intimate encounters with Jesus that our hearts crave. What If It’s Wonderful? offers a new perspective. With a compelling psychological and spiritual case for the importance of embracing joy and celebration, even when it feels scary. https://www.nicolezasowski.com/wonderful We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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How do I cultivate my spiritual heart? 41:06

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What is wisdom? What is righteousness? Who are the primary role-models in wisdom and righteousness in the Old Testament, and how do they point us to Christ? As we conclude our last episode in our Gospel Spice Proverbs series, Stephanie invites us to take a final look at what righteousness and wisdom truly are, and then we will gaze at the Face of Him who is our righteousness. We ponder perseverance and endurance in the faith in our struggle against lust--in whatever form. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom On righteousness: Proverbs talks a lot about the righteous and the wicked, the lazy, the fool. It teaches by example—what is righteous by showing what is wicked. The moment you accept Christ, life does not become a stroll in the park. Perseverance in your faith is the hallmark of your faithfulness. Your authenticity is proven by your walk. The walk of faith is a slow transformation with lots of roadblocks and dead-ends and detours, many coming from the past – past idols trying to trip you up in guilt and shame. But you are a new creation in Christ. You are the Bride of Christ, pure and blameless and spotless and righteous—not on your own strength but HIDDEN IN HIM. If you think that conversion is a fast-pass to transformation, you are in for a deception. Faith is slow-cooked more often than it is pressure-cooked, though both happen. Righteousness is valuing God above all else. It means that ethics and morality find their source in respecting God as the ultimate worth. Righteousness is more than doing the “right” thing: righteousness is valuing God as ultimate in all things. Valuing God as ultimate in all things is the ultimate right thing, and that is what makes you righteous in His eyes. Our righteousness is exhibited when we too value and respect the worth of God without wavering and upholding it in all that we do, to the nest of our strength in Christ. In other words, We as humans are to practice righteousness towards the goal of obtaining it, knowing it is already ours in Christ. On wisdom: Solomon was the wisest king who ever lived, yet we have seen that he didn’t end so well. The consequences cannot be overstated. Proverbs extols wisdom associated with a man who, by everyone’s judgment, was considered wise and is so to the present day. Yet he failed to live by wisdom. The result is further affirmation of the testimony of the Law, that our hope is in One. Even so great a force as wisdom, when it is nurtured and embraced, cannot rescue us from the evil that resides in our hearts. Solomon’s details and bad ending, moral of the story: even the wisest man, apart from Christ, is not wise enough. “ The universal Voice of God was by the ancient Hebrews often called wisdom .” (A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God) “ This habit of explaining the Voice by appeals to natural law is at the very root of modern science. In the living, breathing cosmos there is a mysterious Something, too wonderful for any mind to understand. The believing man does not claim to understand. He falls to his knees and whispers, “God.” The man of the earth kneels, too, but not to worship. He kneels to examine, to search, to find the cause and the how of things. ” A.W. Tozer Folly is looking for an explanation in the dirt of the earth, under the sun. Wisdom is knowing that God will be found above the sun. And so, wisdom, the voice of God, calls and searches the one who wants to cultivate their spiritual heart. If you have ever experienced inexplicable loneliness, or otherworldly longing, or a feeling of awe and wonder, a moment of light and lightness – that is the Voice of God guiding your spiritual heart to find your rest in Him. On wisdom from above, in the Face of Christ Jesus: Jesus describes the wisdom that is from above in His Sermon on the Mount. Take the Beatitudes and write them in reverse – you will get the wisdom from the world: accumulate riches. Be selfish. Be on the lookout for Number One. Live for this world alone. Jesus is not offering an opinion here. Jesus never gives opinions. He gives truth. HE KNOWS. His wisdom is not from under the sun like Solomon’s. His wisdom is not the result of his study of human nature or nature itself. Jesus gives truth because He is fully God. He is speaking from within the intimacy of the Trinity. His words are not opinions. They are truth. The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus’ definition of wisdom that is from above. So, worship God, who is from above the sun. Worship Christ, the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature. This is taken from Hebrews 1:1-5, which tells us that God spoke wisdom through the Old Testament, in Proverbs for example, but that He went all out in Christ: "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs." ---------------Note to PARENTS--------------- We CARE about your family!! As usual, Stephanie brings in a fictitious character to illustrate our theme. This week's trait is lust. Therefore, the initial illustration, while not explicit, might not be for the youngest ears--unless you are ready to answer spicy questions about intimate relations. Stephanie's mention is brief, but an inquisitive little heart may pick up on questions worth asking! Decide for yourself when to best listen to the first 5 minutes of this episode! Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom MORE ABOUT OUR FICTIONAL GUESTS Over the last few weeks, we have sought to cultivate God-centered hope, faith and joy by pondering wisdom from the Book of Proverbs. We have followed fictitious characters who have role-modeled various options open to us as believers. Today, we will conclude our series by highlighting key takeaways from each one. Samantha has shown us what foolishness is, so that we could know what wisdom from above means. We have seen that embracing Wisdom will bring us knowledge and discernment. We have learned how wisdom undergirds our God-breathed process towards deeper hope, faith and joy. Brian has exemplified the danger of refusing to let God be God. We called this “spiritual adultery,” and discovered guilt that leads to repentance and restoration. We have chosen to embrace integrity and truth in order to enjoy a clear conscience. Brian has shown us that our quest is rooted in our identity. Jessica lived a life rooted in fear and anxiety. She is learning to replace them with faith and trust. With her, we have chosen to embrace faith, as it will lead to peace and serenity. She would tell us that God’s love for us is where our heart finds its rest. Lauren’s life moved from self-pride to genuine humility. With her, we have embraced a Christ-centered humility that leads to God-honoring gratitude. With Lauren and Jessica, we have pondered this truth: fear stems from a delated view of God; pride stems from an inflated view of self. Eve chose to move away from her self-centered lifestyle, and towards selfless love. She has discovered that true God-grounded love leads to compassion. With her, we have identified the God-given challenge of the Christian life: to nurture our craving for the One who will never disappoint. John’s life was deeply rooted in self-destructive greed. Idolatry happens when we love something—anything—more than God. We are all guilty. We all rob ourselves of joy when we choose greed. Because greed robs us of joy, we choose generosity and a purpose rooted in hope, faith and joy. Finally, Lizzie indulged in a lifestyle of selfish numbing and comfortable little pleasures. She created for herself a bubble that isolated her from the real world God had been inviting her to take her place in. We pondered the importance of self-control as the means to the life of freedom that God has for us. Hope, faith and joy are the expression of this God-given, God-glorifying freedom. Through all of them, we have seen that, when we become serious about our intimacy with God, distractions, dangers and hindrances will come knocking. Our life is a spiritual battleground. Our hearts will either side with God, or with the enemy of our soul. Hope, faith and joy lie in the balance. They are the means to the great Reward of life itself: intimacy with God. Worship is the secret of a vibrant relationship with God. Worship is valuing Him as ultimate in all things. First, it means that hope, faith and joy will not grow in the soil of your life without cultivating a heart of gratitude. Also, it means that there cannot be true worship without complete surrender to God’s sovereignty. That is spiritual wisdom. Surrender is not adopting a martyr’s pose in submission; it is the glad agreement that God is right. Such faith is cheerful, joyful, and approving. Worship is embracing the truth that God is wise, and that we grow in hope, faith and joy under the shadow of His wings, His wisdom, His guidance. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Dream small, because we serve a big God! 36:59

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Today, Stephanie invites us to discover the wisdom and peace that come from being deeply immersed in God’s Word, learning to frame our lives from His perspective, and embracing the power of “dreaming small” in a world obsessed with performance, productivity, and success. She invites us to dream small, because we serve a big God. She begins by reflecting on the abundance of Christian resources addressing contemporary anxieties—productivity, body image, success—yet she points out many solutions don’t truly immerse us in Scripture. She urges us to ask, “What does God say about these issues?” When we view our lives through God’s eyes, many problems become smaller and less urgent. Immersion in Scripture doesn’t only heal us; it often prevents problems from taking root in the first place. When we passionately pursue God, our unhealthy attachments and distractions are “pushed to the periphery.” Making God our central “affection” leads to a natural displacement of the lesser things demanding our attention. It’s what Thomas Chalmers calls the “expulsion power of a new affection”, Stephanie shares her journey from aspiring to “dream big”—as culture demands—to finding relief and purpose in “dreaming small.” This isn’t about stifling ambition, but about setting aside others’ expectations and enjoying God’s bigness by being “comfortably nestled” in our own smallness. True success, she argues, isn’t found in big achievements, but in daily delighting in God. She challenges common cultural idols: · Anxiety: Rooted in control issues; cured by deeply trusting God’s sovereignty. · Body Image: Healed by adopting God’s view of our bodies, rather than striving for ever-changing cultural standards. · Productivity & Performance: Our society idolizes doing more and being at the top, but Jesus offers rest; God calls us to steward well, but not to endless striving. Scripture encourages letting go of measuring worth by output or appearance and instead valuing peace, humility, and unbroken fellowship with God. God often calls us to faithfulness in small, seemingly mundane opportunities. Life-changing moments may never arrive, or they may find us unprepared if we haven’t practiced with the “little things.” God’s kingdom often advances not through grand gestures, but through humble, everyday obedience. Lasting change is God’s work. Desiring God and framing our priorities around Him requires deep, slow transformation—a “renewing of the mind” (Romans 12:2)—which happens through soaking in God’s Word and presence. Only then are we freed from endless striving to embrace peace and joy anchored in Christ. Stephanie encourages us to let go of chasing worldly standards of success, productivity, and performance. Instead, pursue deeper intimacy with God through Scripture—allowing Him to redefine what truly matters, transform your mind, and fill your life with the peace, love, and humility that only He can give. Dream small, because you serve a big God. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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What is distracting me from God today? 43:29

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Will we dare to diagnose our distractions? This heavy topic is on our mind today as we ponder the lessons from the Book of Proverbs about priorities, and distractions. Stephanie introduces us this week to a new fictitious character, who constantly seeks to maintain herself in a state of numbing and escape from the real world. And so, we look at the ever-increasing numbing that comes from seeking pleasure or relief in the wrong places, so predominant in our culture today. We talk about misplaced loves: we are wired for joy and pleasure and delight, but we need to beware of seeking these in the wrong places, even the “innocent” ones. God is the only safe place for us—in everything, including our delight and joy and pleasure. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom The author of the Book of Proverbs suffered from an acute case of escapism. King Solomon was addicted to women, and to wine (see Proverbs 31:1-9). He learned the lesson, but too late-- from 1Kings 11 to the entire book of Ecclesiastes, Scripture attests to the failure of the world's wisest man to choose delight in God at the twilight of his royal life. Solomon stopped delighting in God’s glory and started delighting in his own. Does this mean that our own desire to delight in God, and to escape escapism, is a doomed quest? Not so! Because we have access to the wisdom that is from above the sun--the very wisdom of God through the Holy Spirit who lives in us, in the name of Christ. We have what Solomon never had. Disclaimer – pleasure itself is not a bad thing. We are wired for pleasure and joy and delight. But beware where you seek it! Jesus loved pleasure and joy and delight, and role-models how to place these desires rightly: squarely in the lap of our heavenly Father, on our knees. The questions we are challenged to answer this week: Would we rather garner praise from humans for our own works, or praise from God for our dependence on Him? Would we rather build our own little kingdom, bound in time and space under our own wisdom, and be its ruler for a season -- or be part of the larger, infinite, eternal Kingdom of God with the place of honor of a child? Jesus opened the way of wisdom on the cross by surrendering to the Father, and invites us into the same. His passion was the climax of a life of resisting the temptation to delight in Self-glory. For example, the wilderness temptations were all attempts at distractions from His mission. And, so was Gethsemane: it was the final battle for resolve, the culmination of a lifetime of battles against sin and temptation. Jesus did what we could not do: a life of perfect surrender to God (which is perfect freedom) so that He could give us that freedom through the Cross. Freedom from sin; Freedom from Self; Freedom to surrender to the Son. Why would we want to be our own master, when Christ offers to be the master we could never be for ourselves? What the world needs most right now is our personal intimacy with God. Only then will we be truly equipped to reach the world in His Name. So, Stephanie ends this highly personal episode with several of her own personal tips and experiences of trusting God. They include: - Early morning routine; - Prayer; - Bible study, intake, memorization (raking for leaves and digging for diamonds both); - Discipline; - Worship. Are we PERFECT? NO. But the general direction is a growth in our moment-by-moment dependence on God by His Spirit through Jesus Christ our Lord. That’s the spirit of the Book of Proverbs. Don’t give up. Trust God, not yourself. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/proverbs MEET OUR FICTIONAL GUEST TODAY | LIZ Lizzie loves a good shopping spree. She finds peace in the endless rhythm of browsing the racks, and trying things on, and spending hours in search of the one perfect item she is looking for. She usually does not know what she needs until she finds it, but then, she knows. She jokes that Target has a memory erasing device at the entrance of their stores—she comes in for milk, and leaves with 3 trendy pillows, a pretty dress, and a new kitchen gadget. And then she has to send her husband to the store after work because she forgot the milk. Oh, her husband. He’s a good man. Lizzie loves to spend hours on social media. She’s been known to let dinner to burn, or forget to get it started, because she was down a rabbit hole on Twitter. Good thing she can order takeout at the click of a button. Her husband is very supportive. Her favorite evenings are spent with a glass of wine—or two—watching her favorite shows. Yes, she has been known to binge watch. She just can’t resist the pull of a good story. She loves to bury herself in the comforting world of make-believe characters and their fascinating stories, especially easy romance. Her own life is dull and humdrum—nothing like those exciting adventures. Married, kids out of the house, not much to report. Well, on the surface at least. She doesn’t really want to think about the long evenings her husband has to work to provide for them. All this stress is exhausting. Lizzie loves the little cocoon she has woven for herself—all those well-deserved, innocent comforts to escape reality. She remembers a time in life when it seemed like she could handle a lot more—more stress, more activities, more relationships. Maybe it’s just part of aging. That’s why Lizzie loves to take naps: there is nothing like the feel of drifting away from reality to embrace the sweet comfort of sleep. She just decided to quit her job as a part-time administrative clerk; it is just too much pressure. Yes, it is going to put financial stress on her hard-working husband, but her wellbeing is important, right? He keeps telling her that God will give her purpose and passion. That sounds like too much work. She’s not interested. She’d rather stay home and get some rest. Distractions build a smoke and mirror kingdom that will take us away from God’s calling on our lives. Because we are wired for joy and hope and faith, we need to see the danger of distractions, even “innocent” ones. Accumulated distractions will build for us a small world of delusion and fantasy. Lizzie is seeking refuge in her little make-believe bubble of comforts. This small escape world only exists in her mind. It is the sum of her misplaced loves. The Book of Proverbs teaches us that wisdom is placing our love in God Himself. No less, no more. God invites us to live out the fullness of our identity in Him. Lizzie is too distracted to care about identity, calling and purpose. She has numbed herself into the comfortable oblivion of manifold distractions. So, unlike Lizzie, let’s dare to diagnose our distractions. Let’s dare to refuse self-deception and self-numbing. Let’s seek to cultivate the root of our hope, our faith, our joy in God Himself. Let’s be ruthlessly honest and see distractions as they really are in our own heart, even when comfort beckons. Especially when comfort beckons. And let’s dare to ask ourselves: what if God was using our uncomfortable circumstances to personally mentor us into deeper intimacy with Him? Would it make difficult seasons worth it? We have a choice. Our circumstances can distract us away from genuine faith, hope and joy, or they can draw us closer to God. We cannot grow closer to God while building our own little kingdom through self-numbing and worldly comforts. Instead, God invites us to join His bold and ambitious work to build His larger, infinite, eternal Kingdom. To accomplish our purpose in this life, we need to be laser-focused on God’s calling over us, and shun the worldly distractions. What the world needs most right now is our personal intimacy with God. Only then will we be truly equipped to reach the world in His Name. Take a listen to Gospel Spice Podcast Episode 390 to find out many more ways that our world aims to distract us from God today. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Oceans of faith: facing fears and finding God among coral reefs | with Rachel Jordan 1:03:54

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For marine biologist, writer, and lay theologian Rachel Jordan, the ocean has never just been a backdrop—it’s been a living metaphor for her relationship with God. Raised in a Christian household, Rachel’s wonder at tide pools and the mysteries of the deep developed alongside her budding faith. She explains how the intrigue of peering into tiny, brimming tide pools mirrored her fascination with glimpses of God’s character: “There was something vast and impressive that laid beyond, that I wanted to explore.” Just as the tide pools hinted at whole worlds awaiting discovery, Rachel found that both faith and science propelled her deeper: “Being a Christian has propelled me further into a desire to understand science ... and being a scientist has, I believe, made me a better Christian.” Rachel may study the ocean’s wonders, but her path has been anything but fearless. “I’ve had this recurring nightmare ... of getting eaten by sharks ... I was just terrified of it,” she confesses. And yet, her marine biology career meant close encounters with those notorious creatures were not just possible, but sometimes necessary. What’s remarkable is how God met her in those moments of dread—not by removing the fear, but by transforming it. As she recounts, “The beauty is that God took this thing that I was afraid of and converted it to open-mouthed wonder.” Rachel’s transparency normalizes fear as a companion to growth, whether learning to dive or facing daunting new callings. Her encouragement? “It’s okay to feel [fear]; it might be something that God uses in your story to do something really big and to show you more of who he is.” Lessons of Grief and Hope from the Coral Reefs Perhaps nowhere does Rachel blend her scientific vocation and spiritual conviction more poignantly than in her stewardship of endangered corals. She describes the “magic castles” of Dry Tortugas National Park—towering, endangered pillar corals—where she devoted herself to preservation efforts. Witnessing the corals’ decline from disease was, for Rachel and her fellow scientists, “tragic and deeply impactful.” Yet, as a follower of Christ, Rachel finds hope in the heartbreak. Not only does she grieve in community, but she sees loss through the lens of biblical resurrection. She connects the “white skeleton bony structures” of dead corals to Ezekiel’s vision of dry bones: if God can bring those bones to life, can’t he also restore coral reefs one day? For Rachel, loss becomes an invitation to hope: “All of creation is eventually going to be restored, remade ... I just wonder what he’s going to do next.” Divine Lessons from Buddy Dives and Seahorses Diving, for all its wonder, is fraught with risk, which is why marine biologists always practice “buddy diving”—entrusting their lives to a partner in the depths. For Rachel, this is a living parable: “God is our ultimate dive buddy ... he’s not only capable of rescuing us in danger, but he promises to never leave or forsake us.” Other creatures—even a seahorse named Mr. Snuggles—have revealed to her the joy of relationship, not just provision. “I want to, like Mr. Snuggles, draw close to him and just sort of curl up with him and hang out together.” Scripture: A Dive Site Brimming with Life What better metaphor for the Bible, Rachel muses, than a vibrant dive site—unchanging in position but always full of surprise, beauty, and life? “When I read God’s word ... there’s always something new to discover.” It’s a place to keep returning with fresh awe and an explorer’s heart. The Deep Calls to Deep Whether or not you’ll ever strap on a snorkel, Rachel’s conversation is an invitation: to see the world as shot through with the beauty and presence of its Maker, to find him not only in safe harbor but also in the open, sometimes scary waters of life, and to trust that every loss and fear can be met—and even redeemed—by the God who made oceans and corals... and calls each of us out into the deep. MEET RACHEL JORDAN Rachel G. Jordan is a professional marine biologist and lay theologian. A self-professed Jesus-loving coral nerd, she was raised in Idaho and has since traveled the globe chasing her passion for faith and science. She has an MS in marine biology and ecology from James Cook University (Australia), a BS in ecology from Seattle Pacific University (USA), and a certification in biblical studies from Bodenseehof Bible School (Germany). In addition to working as a coral biologist for the US National Park Service, Rachel has worked in marine aquaculture research, organic chemistry laboratories, veterinary research facilities, the pet industry, and a museum. When not diving or writing, she can be found reading C.S. Lewis, growing wildflowers, and exploring creation with her husband. More at https://rachelgjordan.com/ MORE ABOUT “IF THE OCEAN HAS A SOUL” The ocean is filled with scientific discoveries―and God’s presence. For marine biologist Rachel Jordan, both science and Scripture are means of knowing creation and Creator. In If the Ocean Has a Soul, Rachel considers the natural world through a spiritual lens, meshing marine biology with biblical truths in a keen and current take on faith and science. With engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of the Bible, she asks and answers questions like: How can Christians reconcile religion and science when the two seem opposed? What do suffering and death teach us about the character of Jesus? How do we care for the environment when there seems to be little hope for repair? What do the ocean and its sea creatures, specifically, reveal about God? In these pages, Rachel recounts fascinating aquatic phenomena alongside the sometimes humorous, sometimes tragic stories of animals she has known. You’ll lose yourself in the shadows of an underwater labyrinth; hear spiritual wisdom from a great-grandmother coral the size of a Volkswagen Beetle; and fall in love with Porky, the pudgy porcupinefish greeting visitors at the Windjammer shipwreck. And along the way, you’ll see how the promise of restoration unfolds in both physical and spiritual ways. Rachel’s thoughtful scientific and theological insights encourage us to know the Creator of the sea and everything in it. Preorder Bonus Content – Until June 3, 2025 when the book releases: Preorder and fill out the form below to access exclusive bonus content: Preface & Chapter 1: early digital access Full Audiobook: limited time access (until release date) Resource List: PDF download “Can Faith & Science Coexist?” Guide: PDF download Spotify Playlist: the book’s soundtrack Phone Backgrounds: 6 unique styles Watercolor Mini-Paintings: 3 high-quality prints We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Jesus and the Feast of First Fruits: a resurrection celebration 37:55

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Jesus has set the Easter table richly, for us to partake. Come to His table today through our exploration of Easter, which took place on the very day of the Jewish Feast of First Fruits. What does it mean for us today? The story of Easter is a tapestry woven with complex emotions—the somberness of Good Friday followed by the overwhelming joy of Easter Sunday. The sequence takes us through the contemplation of Jesus' crucifixion, echoing the depth of human suffering and sacrifice. As Christians, we are invited to relive these moments, acknowledging the pain while eagerly anticipating the joy of resurrection. Easter, often referred to as the most important day in the Christian calendar, transcends time and history. It bridges the gap between Jewish traditions and the new covenant established by Jesus. You can purchase the Spring Feasts workbook to take notes while you listen, including the gorgeous visuals we created to accompany your experience: https://www.gospelspice.com/offers/ct6coMYd The Feast of First Fruits mark the beginning of the harvest, while Pentecost signifies its culmination. Both events are intrinsically linked through the work of the Holy Spirit. The First Fruits celebration on Easter sets the stage for the Holy Spirit's coming at Pentecost, bridging the gap between the initial offering and the full harvest, pointing to the birth and growth of the Christian church. The Feast of First Fruits, celebrated the Sunday after Passover, used to hold immense significance in Jewish tradition. Rooted in Leviticus 23:10, this feast involves offering the first barley harvest to God, symbolizing gratitude and the anticipation of a plentiful harvest. It’s a day Jews can’t eat bread or drink wine until sacrifices are made, an act mirrored by Jesus' Last Supper—where he promised a new covenant symbolized through bread and wine. During the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the practice of communion, tying it to the Jewish Passover. He told his disciples that he would not eat or drink again until he was in God's Kingdom, thus establishing the new covenant. The meal shared at Emmaus is another crucial moment. When Jesus broke bread with his disciples, they recognized him, affirming his authority and lordship. The breaking of bread in this context goes beyond a mere meal; it’s a reaffirmation of Jesus' identity and the fulfillment of his promises. Interestingly, Jesus reappears to his disciples but does not partake in the meal at Emmaus. Instead, he later eats fish with another group of disciples, a humble act connecting to his earlier ministry and ultimate sacrifice. This post-resurrection meal underlines his humility and serves as another reminder of the first fruits principle—Jesus is the first fruit of resurrection. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 15:20) highlights that Jesus’ resurrection on the Feast of First Fruits symbolizes the future resurrection of believers. Jesus is the firstborn of creation and the first to rise from the dead, promising eternal life for all who follow. The concept of First Fruits extends to envisioning a perfect, sinless world—a harmonized existence in the eternal presence of Christ. This heavenly vision, often referenced in biblical texts, portrays a future where every generation enjoys everlasting peace and the profound joy of being in God's presence. In today's context, the call for revival echoes the ancient practice of offering First Fruits. Believers are urged to be the first fruits of revival in our times, sharing the message of hope and resurrection with a world in need. It’s a reminder to live with purpose, reflecting the truly life-changing power of Jesus' resurrection in our daily lives. Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/store DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools given to you by Gospel Spice Ministries. In a nutshell, we exist to inspire Christ-followers to delight in God. In more details: we provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel-Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family. PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! PAY IT FORWARD!! Would you consider supporting this show today to help others enjoy it for free? It comes to you completely free, but is labor-intensive to produce, and we want to keep putting it in the ears of people! Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. All donations above our minimal operating costs go to Christian organizations fighting human trafficking. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog (*ListenNotes ranking, 2023) Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread echo each other in Christ 1:03:16

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In the heart of the Christian and Jewish traditions lie two sacred week-long holy feasts: Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. As Scripture and tradition invite us into the intricacies of these feasts, we invite you to connect the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus to the rich tapestry of Jewish Torah and tradition. Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread stand as inseparable pillars within Jewish celebrations. Passover, the most important Jewish feast, serves as precursor to the Feast of Unleavened Bread. For Christians, the former marks the sacred observance of the Lord's Supper as the Lamb of God, while the latter points to Jesus' sinlessness. You can purchase the Spring Feasts workbook to take notes while you listen, including the gorgeous visuals we created to accompany your experience: https://www.gospelspice.com/offers/ct6coMYd The perfect alignment of Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread in 2025, an unusual thing, offers interesting connections we invite you to explore. For example, the Jewish tradition of inspecting and setting aside the unblemished lamb for sacrifice intertwines with the events of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The parallel between the Passover lamb and Jesus, the sinless lamb of God unfolds, as Holy Week draws us into the divine plan of salvation. We also explore how Jesus’ cleansing of the temple showcases his authority to safeguard the spiritual dwelling places of believers. Jesus' encounters with religious leaders during Holy Week also reflect his absolute integrity and absence of blemish, mirroring the unblemished Passover lamb. He is proving the true Lamb of God indeed! The interweaving of Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread is an original way, in 2025, to highlight God’s eternal redemptive plan. Jesus is indeed the sinless lamb who fulfills the ancient prophecies, opening for us the path of salvation. We invite you to join us as we find ourselves steeped in the timeless tapestry of God’s divine love, giving glory to Jesus, our only source of salvation. Our hope and prayer is that, through the original connection in 2025 between Holy Week and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, we will together experience the divine truth of Scripture, anchoring our faith in the sinless lamb, Jesus Christ, for our redemption. Amen! Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/store We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Passover's prophetic threads: Tasting the connections to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection 52:25

for 8 weeks siden52:25

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Passover is a prologue to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. This most essential of Jewish feasts seamlessly transitions from prophecies in the Old Testament, to fulfillment in Jesus. We invite you today to see how this prophetic landscape is shaped with divine orchestration by the hand of our deeply loving God! Passover is a significant Jewish feast that not only commemorates the deliverance of the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt, but also points to Jesus’ mission and identity. We invite you today to navigate through the rich tapestry of the Passover tradition, examining its prophetic nature for the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. You can purchase the Spring Feasts workbook to take notes while you listen, including the gorgeous visuals we created to accompany your experience: https://www.gospelspice.com/offers/ct6coMYd The observance of Passover, with its sacrificial lamb, bitter herbs, and unleavened bread, is rooted in Old Testament events. Two lambs are central to this feast: one for each family and one to be sacrificed at the temple. The sacrificial lamb of the feast points to Jesus Christ, who becomes the ultimate sacrificial Lamb for our redemption. The act of painting lamb's blood on doorframes to prevent death eerily prefigures the sacrificial significance of Jesus' blood. Jesus deliberately fulfills the Passover feast of Pesach by instituting the Lord’s supper, and by going to the cross on our behalf. From washing his disciples' feet as an act of servanthood, to identifying Judas as the betrayer, Jesus adds new meaning to His last Passover meal - from the way He references the Passover elements, to how He identifies as the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone (Psalm 118). The Passover feast is inextricably linked to the mission of Jesus, from the symbolism of the Passover elements to Jesus' own actions during the Last Supper. For instance, the 3rd cup of the Passover meal, identified as the cup of redemption, embodies the essence of the new covenant, which Jesus describes as the cup of his blood shed for the salvation of humanity. Join us to experience Passover as Jesus did. Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/store We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Finding God's timeline: navigating friendship and life transitions | with Grace Valentine 49:26

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Stephanie welcomes Grace Valentine, author and speaker, to explore how to navigate friendships and understand God’s timing when life doesn’t seem to make sense. This conversation will equip every woman navigate friendships better; it will also be a very insightful tool for every man who has a woman in their life whom they wish to understand just a little better 😊 . Do not miss the questions that real-life college students Annie, Grace, and Katie have asked Stephanie to ask Grace! Some of the highlights of the conversation include, God's Timeline and Purpose : It's easy to feel out of sync with God’s timeline, especially when life doesn’t match personal expectations. Grace underscores the importance of trusting God’s bigger picture. God withholds no good thing from those who walk according to His purposes; understanding that His view is far broader than ours invites peace in seasons of waiting and uncertainty. Pursue what God has for you in the present moment, looking for His goodness and purpose therein. Living Set Apart : To be “set apart” is to align one's life with God’s purpose, which often means not adhering to cultural expectations or norms. Embracing this biblical truth involves trusting in God’s plan, even when it leads away from social acceptance or immediate gratification. It calls for a life marked by holiness and discernment, focusing on eternal significance rather than temporary pleasures. Dealing with Past Hurts and Rejection : Grace shares her personal experiences of being bullied and not fitting in, even into adulthood. She invites us to address past hurts and rejections by bringing them to Jesus, rather than seeking fake comforts like revenge or outward success. Healing comes from acknowledging these wounds and inviting Jesus into the healing process, which transforms insecurity into strength. Navigating Jealousy : Addressing jealousy in friendships, whether you're the jealous one or the recipient, requires honest confession and a celebration of others’ successes. Grace advises confessing jealous feelings to friends and committing to celebrate their achievements genuinely. This helps to break down feelings of inadequacy and build stronger, genuine connections. Understanding Friendship Dynamic s: Grace Valentine highlights the importance of recognizing different types of friendships as defined by Aristotle: friends of convenience, pleasure, and goodness. Friends of convenience include neighbors or coworkers with whom you maintain amicable relationships. Friends of pleasure are those you share enjoyable activities with. Friends of goodness are deeper connections that foster mutual growth and support. It’s crucial to discern these dynamics, as it aids in cultivating meaningful relationships that align with shared values and support spiritual growth. Practical Application and Community Building : Grace stresses the importance of actively engaging in community building, especially when feeling isolated. This involves initiating relationships and activities that foster deeper connections. For example, regularly planning intentional gatherings, serving others, and being a beacon of Christ’s love, all cultivate a supportive community and aligns personal actions with God’s mission. Grace and Stephanie invite us to view friendships and life’s timing through the lens of faith. Let’s cultivate vulnerability, active love, and discernment in all relationships! Whether navigating college life or adult challenges, this will foster relationships grounded in love, mutual growth, and a shared purpose in Christ. MEET GRACE VALENTINE Grace says, “I'm an author, blogger, podcast host, and speaker. I grew up near New Orleans, Louisiana, in a suburban town called Mandeville. In 2018 I graduated from Baylor University with a degree in journalism. I currently reside in Atlanta, Georgia, where I enjoy going on runs and eating lots of sushi. I am just a girl who loves Criminal Minds a little too much. On Saturdays you can find me at the farmers market or sleeping in a little too long. I've learned many lessons the hard way, laugh a little too loud, but try to embrace each day and the life God has given me. It is an honor to connect with you. Thank you for loving me and my hot mess self.” More at https://gracevalentine.org/ MORE ABOUT “THE BETTER FRIEND” Tired of one-sided friendships that leave you feeling lonely? Make the shift to life-giving connection. Friendships should build us up, not leave us scrambling to prove our worth. But in a culture obsessed with popularity, it’s easy to settle for shallow friendships that take more than they give. The good news is that meaningful friendships with sisters you can lean on anytime are possible. In this encouraging book, author, podcast host, and speaker Grace Valentine offers twelve powerful truths to help you rethink the way you connect with others. As someone who has been through the low-lows and high-highs of friendships—saying goodbye to those that were stuck or one-sided, uprooting her whole life and starting over in finding community, and nurturing long-distance friendships—Valentine knows what it takes to make good friends and to be a good friend. When you build better friendships with people who help you become the best version of yourself in every way, you become better, get to know God better, and experience confidence in who He made you to be. Whether you’re ready to level up your current friendships or start fresh, The Better Friend gives you the tools you need to build life-giving connections in any season. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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What is keeping me away from God today? 37:30

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Will I dare ask myself if greed is an issue in my life? Will I dare ask myself if greed is an issue in my life? What is keeping me away from God today? Could greed be a problem? There’s a French saying: some people are so poor, all they have is money. Today we are talking about replacing greed, and all forms of idolatry, with joy. Greed. What does the Bible say about it? Proverbs 1:19 - Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors. Proverbs 11:28 -Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf. Greed doesn’t give. Greed robs. Greed robs YOU of joy. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom To start us off, Stephanie challenges us--and herself--with seven questions to self-diagnose if we have unknowingly fallen victim to greed, in one form or another: 1. Is it MY money or God’s? 2. What would I do differently if I knew I would be dead in a year? 3. WHY do I want more money? 4. How do I spend my time? thinking of ways to earn more, or of ways to advance God’s Kingdom? 5. How would I behave if I lost everything? 6. Am I truly generous? 7. Do I compromise character to make more money? Then we ponder the link between joy and righteousness and the only true cure against greed. Idolatry is misplaced worship. Proverbs describes where joy cannot be found. The summary of the entire book of Proverbs can be found in Mark 8:36: "For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?" That’s the definition of unrighteousness. Joy "must be sharply distinguished both from happiness and from pleasure" - CS Lewis Joy is “unsatisfied desire, which is itself more desirable than any other satisfaction.” – CS Lewis again. God promises to give us a joy that surpasses anything this world has to offer. Here’s the question: how much of your life to do you spend experiencing this joy, vs looking for joy elsewhere? Psalm 35:27 - Let those who delight in my righteousness shout for joy and be glad and say evermore, “Great is the Lord, who delights in the welfare of his servant!” Haydn, the great musician, was once asked why his church music was so cheerful, and he replied: "When I think upon God, my heart is so full of joy that the notes dance and leap, as it were, from my pen ; and since God has given me a cheerful heart, it will be pardoned me that I serve Him with a cheerful spirit." Joy is the juice of gladness that comes from the fruit of peace, itself springing up from the ground of righteousness – our righteousness in Christ. Matthew Henry defines joy as "a constant delight in God." Who does the work of transforming our hearts to find satisfaction in God? God Himself is the One who transforms our heart to increasingly see Christ as our supreme treasure, even as we seek to find our satisfaction in Him. Cyprian was a third-century North African. As he was anticipating death, he penned these last words to his friend Donatus in 258AD: “It’s a bad world, an incredibly bad world. But I have discovered in the midst of it a quiet and holy people who have learned a great secret. They have found a joy which is a thousand times better than any pleasure of our sinful life. They are despised and persecuted, but they care not. They are masters of their souls. They have overcome the world. These people are the Christians—and I am one of them.” This is an episode you do not want to miss. We look forward to serving you through it this week! MEET OUR CHARACTER OF THE WEEK It had been a good year for John. He had managed to obtain a bonus packet worth a small fortune. It would go towards the purchase of his new beach house. Despite this formidable win, it bothered him that others in his industry made more. After all, he deserved every Benjamin, and then some. Sure, his recent promotion had come by a lot of backstabbing. Good for him. The corporate pie was only big enough to share among the most ruthless sharks, and he wants the biggest slice he could get his teeth on. John was determined to keep his focus on multiplying his assets this year, and fast. Today is all that matters. Faster, stronger, better. Last week, in the middle of a heated discussion about a takeover bid that was going to earn him that next nice bundle, John had a stroke. He is now on his hospital bed, slowly recovering. For the first time since he can remember, he has time to think. He is wondering if big money really is all that it is cracked up to be. He loves life with money, but what would money be without life? Hum. Would you say that John has reaped joy from the money he is accumulating? There’s a French saying: “some people are so poor, all they have is money.” John is plagued with a self-imposed case of greed. Greed is idolatry: it is valuing something—anything—more than God. It’s the “just-a-bit-more” mentality: “if only I had this, then…” The problem is, it is a moving target that never satisfies. Greed is the agony of “never enough.” It makes us ignore or forget God in our pursuit of “more.” Eventually, it slowly brainwashes us to believe that God, like everything else we’ve tried, is “never enough.” Greed makes us forget about eternity; it replaces our God-given perspective of Heaven with a world-centered focus on today. The change can be so subtle, though, that it is almost never self-diagnosed. Let’s be the exception! Whether the Holy Spirit whispers it to us through our time in prayer, or in the study of His word, or through a true friend, let’s identify any seed of idolatry in our heart. Greed, like any form of idolatry, never gives. Greed robs. It robs us of joy. The alternative to greed is joy—joy in God Himself. It is joy in our relationship with Him, not for what He can give us, but for the sheet delight of relationship. As C.S. Lewis puts it, joy in God is “unsatisfied desire, which is itself more desirable than any other satisfaction.” This is what I would wish to tell John: God promises to give us a joy that surpasses anything this world has to offer. Scripture challenges us to embrace the universe through the lens of faith. This perspective from Heaven promises us hope and joy. And yet, how often do we look for joy elsewhere? As Christians, we easily acknowledge that God is the almighty, living, ruling Lord of all. He is one God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who dwells in heaven, a place of eternal joy. The psalmist says, "You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” (Psalm 16:1, NIV). But do we really experience this? Joy has been God’s ambition since Day One—literally. God created the universe for His own pleasure and enjoyed doing it. He created planet earth as our breathtaking dwelling place. He fashioned man and woman in His image to glorify Him, to live and rule in peace and joy. The totality of His creation made Him smile and He called it "very good." Then something went very wrong. Iniquity appeared, and earth became a place of sorrow, a troubled segment of the universe where idolatry and greed now reign in humans’ hearts. God knew it would unfold so. The plan was already in place: at the appointed time, His Son Jesus came on a pre-planned mission to free the earth from its curse and return its people to an abundant life of hope, joy, and faith. Nothing could be further from puny greed. "For the joy set before Him," Jesus endured the cross. It means that He took our sin from us, accomplished our salvation, died, and rose again to everlasting life in the kingdom of heaven. To those who receive Him as Lord and acknowledge Him as Savior, Jesus Christ promises forgiveness, redemption from sin, a new birth, answers to prayer, the outpouring of His Holy Spirit of love, victory over death, and the everlasting joy of heaven. Jesus lives today at the Father's right hand in resurrected glory and fullness of joy; He has promised to come back for His church and to take us where He is. That is the essence of joy in God, and it is ours to cling to. We invite you to listen to this week’s episode of the Gospel Spice Podcast to find out what happened to John, and to unpack the deeper truth of abiding in God’s joy today. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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The sacred dance of beholding, becoming, and belonging | with Dr Saundra Dalton Smith 43:14

for 11 weeks siden43:14

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Stephanie explores with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith the intricacies of identity, rest, and spiritual fulfillment. According to a recent article from CNBC, Americans have been taught that our work is the single most important way to prove our worth. In essence, what we do has been heralded as far more important that who we are. No matter our life stage -student, graduate, adult, parent, or retiree – the message has been communicated (and received) that we need to perform in order to matter. Researchers assert that this mindset is making us miserable and induces high rates of depression, shame, and substance abuse. Dr. Dalton-Smith debunks the myth of "having it all," emphasizing the importance of finding rest in the journey, rather than aiming to relentlessly complete life's tasks. She shares her personal journey of relinquishing control, choosing instead to trust and obey God, which allowed her to embrace her identity beyond societal roles and accomplishments. Scripture reveals aspects of God that illuminate parts of ourselves and encourages a journey of becoming aware of these divine connections. Through her book "Being Fully Known," Dr Saundra invites us to behold God's character, becoming aware of His presence within us, and belonging in a way that uniquely reflects His image. Stephanie and Dr. Dalton-Smith explore the joy of embracing life's mysteries, moving through cycles represented by fields of suffering, surrendering, stretching, and soaring. These fields reflect the dynamic, non-linear nature of spiritual growth, grounded in God's character rather than worldly achievements. Embracing such cycles and living in obedient surrender will lead to deeper rest and fulfillment. Dr. Dalton-Smith proposes the "abide-act" framework—a cyclical practice involving periods of resting in God's presence, followed by active steps based on what He reveals. This approach invites us to pursue our unique, God-given path without succumbing to societal pressures or predefined identities. This approach allows us to discover God's limitless creativity in crafting our journeys. Through personal anecdotes, Dr. Dalton-Smith exemplifies how past pain and experiences are redeemed to fulfill God's purposes, turning them into sacred work that doesn't feel burdensome, but life-giving instead. Dr Saundra encourages believers to redefine success and fulfillment through a biblical lens, fostering a cycle of beholding, becoming, and belonging that transcends linear progression and celebrates divine rest and purpose. MEET DR SAUNDRA DALTON SMITH Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a board-certified internal medicine physician, an international speaker, and the CEO of Restorasis, a workplace well-being consulting agency. She is also the award-winning author of Set Free to Live Free and Sacred Rest and the host of I Choose My Best Life podcast. Dr. Saundra lives in Alabama with her husband and their two sons. https://www.drdaltonsmith.com/ We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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How can I live in deeper awareness of God's love for me? 39:07

for 12 weeks siden39:07

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Are you ready for a fresh, spicy approach to the love of God today? We've all heard that God loves us. Do we really believe it? How can we live in deeper awareness of God's love for me? The Book of Proverbs might not be overtly explicit about God's love, but it is the underlying foundation for the entire book. So, today, we are pondering God's love: what does it mean that "God is love"? Why is He love? What does His love look like? We're not staying in shallow waters. We are peeking under the hood of Proverbs to look at how the engine of this book truly functions. And we discover that Love is the fuel behind every motion in Proverbs. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom Stephanie starts us off this week with a powerful quote by her countryman, Blaise Pascal, on his famous "God-shaped hole" in the human heart: “ What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace? This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him, seeking in things that are not there the help he cannot find in those that are, though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words by God himself” -- Blaise Pascal, 1670. We see that, IN God, our primary life calling: to REST in LOVE and DELIGHT in HIM in return. To make God our rest and my delight. We are created to LOVE and BE LOVED. We are attracted by LOVE like an irresistible magnet. And, we can only love well when we are loved well. Love is an experience of the heart AND mind. It is a decision of the will that transforms your heart and turns living into loving. Stephanie challenges us to embrace the challenge of the Christian life: to nurture the One Craving of craving the One--Christ, that is. And we discuss practical ways to do just that. They may sound overworn and cliche, but there's a reason some paths are well-trodden by countless generations of Christ-worshipping believers across time and space: these well-worn paths actualyl work, and actually lead us deeper into God. They are called prayer and the study of Scripture. Stephanie gives us a fresh perspective to rejuvenate our desire to walk these paths daily. We are challenged to learn to experience the consequences of growing in our craving of God alone. Then, we look at the practical outcome: True love is binding yourself to the One you love. It is a surrender of freewill to embrace freedom to love another. God displays His supernatural glory through human impossibilities. He chooses us to make us a willing partner of His acting through us. Love the Lord your God, and then love your neighbor as yourself. - Jesus. Join us today for a fresh, in-depth dive into the love of God! Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/proverbs MEET OUR CHARACTER OF THE WEEK Eve has always wanted to get married but does not feel very comfortable with the idea of long-term commitment. Now in her early 40’s, she would describe herself as pleasing, accommodating and bubbly. And she has an amazing body that she works hard to fine-tune. In social situations, Eve shines. It makes her job as an events coordinator all the more enthralling. She craves the thrill of success. If it takes a perfectly fitting shirt or some batting of the eye lashes — in the end it gets the job done. God helps those who help themselves, right? Eve recently began attending a church in town. The music is so unique compared to the boring hymns she grew up with! She felt exposed, however, when the pastor’s wife invited her to attend a women’s event. You see, Eve just doesn’t get along with women that well, and naturally shies away from female friendships. In this case however, given that it was church, she agreed to attend ONE event. After all, she’s always looking for opportunities to coordinate an event and land some new clients, so she decided to go ahead with it. Fast forward a few months. The women’s event was so enjoyable that Eve started attending a Bible study. Surprisingly, she finds herself learning to like some of the women. One woman invited her for coffee and started asking more personal questions. This left Eve feeling anxious and uncomfortable. No one had ever probed like this. Yet it also felt so caring and loving. Weird. Eve is starting to feel nervous that she might not know how to connect. She wonders if there is more to life than the fancy events, the fine-tuned body, the bubbly interactions. She thinks she wants something more but has no idea for what that would look like. Eve is looking for God’s love, and she does not know it. She is feeling what my compatriot, Blaise Pascal described in the 1650’s in his Pensées as “this infinite abyss [that] can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words, by God himself.” You may have heard this referenced to as a “God-shaped hole” in every human heart. Blaise Pascal never said it was a merely a hole or a vacuum. It’s an infinite abyss. Only God can fill the abyss of our heart. And that is, because only God is pure love. We often settle for substitutes, even good ones. And yet, nothing short of God’s infinite love will truly satisfy. Even the “perfect” family, the dream job, the best ministry—they may satisfy for a season, but the “infinite abyss” of our heart intuitively discovers that they do not fill. Only the love of our infinite God can fill the infinite abyss of our heart. So, what does God’s love look like, and how do we experience it so that it fills our heart? I would venture to say, in the same way that we experience anyone else’s love! God has given us human interactions so that we would learn from them how to spot true love, and then infinitely extrapolate the experience to embrace God’s love. In other words, how do you know anyone loves you? I think it is the sum of what they say and what they do. And so it is with God. Ponder what Scripture tells you about what God says about you, what He promises you, and what He has done for you both in the past and in the present. For example, Zephaniah 3:17 describes you as the recipient of the overflow of the love of God: “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke y but will rejoice over you with singing.” To need and to want; to love and be loved. This is the experience God invites us to enjoy in Him. Love is an experience of the heart AND mind. It is a decision of the will that transforms your heart and turns living into loving. So, how do we do this? First, be inspired by others who DO delight in Him. Who do you know, who loves the Lord with all of their heart and mind and strength and soul? Seek them out, and then surround yourself with them; learn from them. And second, YOU be inspiring to others who seek to delight in Him! Never place yourself intentionally on display, but intentionally invite Him to use you as His earthen vessel in a jar of clay. In other words, love God, and love others like yourself. What does it look like? I would sum it up in one word: Crave. Crave Him. The more you spend time with others who crave Him, the more you will crave Him. It will happen through prayer and study of His Word. It will happen through a deeper living-out of the set-apartness of knowing you are His, and He is yours. It will happen as you practically set out to love others in His Name. And it will not happen in your own strength—that’s the secret. God displays His supernatural glory through human impossibilities. Crave God. He will satisfy. Love God. He will teach you to love Him through the Spirit. Love others. He will act through you. Join us this week on the Gospel Spice Podcast to find out how Eve is discovering the mysterious miracle of intimacy with God. Make sure to check out the optional-but-oh-so-helpful mini e-book to go along with the series at gospelspice.com/wisdom We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Intriguing connections to worship Jesus anew | Delight in Jesus from fasting to feasting 48:46

for 13 weeks siden48:46

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Stephanie here! We are taking a temporary break from the Book of Proverbs to immerse ourselves in the two major Jewish and Christian liturgical events happening this week, roughly at the same time (which is unusual): Lent and Purim. I always find it fascinating to find fresh ways to worship Jesus Christ through the connections between different feasts and seasons. So today I invite you to delight in Christ through the unexpected juxtaposition of Purim and Lent. We invite you into a delightful exploration of the divine tapestry that intertwines the ancient traditions of Purim with the solemn reverence of Lent, ultimately pointing to the redemptive Lordship of Jesus Christ. You can purchase the Spring Feasts workbook to take notes while you listen, including the gorgeous visuals we created to accompany your experience: https://www.gospelspice.com/offers/ct6coMYd Purim, a joyous and festive Jewish celebration, commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people as detailed in the book of Esther. The intricacies of the story, from the absence of God's name in the book of Esther to the sovereignty and deliverance of His people, provide a rich tapestry to explore. In the Christian tradition, Lent serves as a period of preparation and reflection leading up to Easter, encompassing forty days marked by fasting, sacrifice, and repentance. Both Purim and Lent share a dark background of struggle and the hope of a joyous feast, creating an intriguing juxtaposition. Steeped in history and tradition, Purim and Lent leads us to worship Jesus at their intersection. It's compelling to note that while Purim is celebrated with joyful feasting and the giving of gifts to the poor, Lent involves fasting before the celebration of Easter. Both observances intertwine notions of hardship and hope, underscoring the resilience and faith exhibited by believers. Purim and Lent beckon us to seek and find Jesus in the heart of these sacred observances. So, join the conversation today! Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/store DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools given to you by Gospel Spice Ministries. In a nutshell, we exist to inspire Christ-followers to delight in God. In more details: we provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel-Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family. PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! PAY IT FORWARD!! Would you consider supporting this show today to help others enjoy it for free? It comes to you completely free, but is labor-intensive to produce, and we want to keep putting it in the ears of people! Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. All donations above our minimal operating costs go to Christian organizations fighting human trafficking. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog (*ListenNotes ranking, 2023) Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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Balancing confidence and humility, the secret to authentic worship | with Darlene Zschech 52:03

for 14 weeks siden52:03

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Stephanie engages in a heartfelt conversation with renowned worship leader Darlene Zschech, who likes to remind us that learning to trust God is a superpower! Darlene invites us into a life of authentic worship. She challenges us to cultivate a heart rooted in humility, to pursue genuine connection with God, and to understand the profound impact of living a life centered around worship. Darlene emphasizes the necessity of approaching worship without pressure or performance. She underscores that God's love is unconditional and is not influenced by our achievements or failures. This invites us to worship and create from a place of freedom, where we can focus on building a sincere relationship with God rather than seeking approval or validation from others. Darlene shares her own journey, highlighting how she learned to adore God not for His gifts or as a task to check off, but simply to be in His presence. God's delight in us is not contingent upon our accomplishments, but is inherent to our relationship with Him. Engaging with God without any agenda other than presence leads to an authentic worship experience. Darlene's wisdom reminds us that trusting God is a superpower. Her personal experiences, including battling cancer, illustrate God’s faithfulness and the necessity of discerning His voice. Humility in worship is non-negotiable. Darlene speaks to the trap of self-sufficiency, particularly for those naturally inclined to leadership and capability. She insists on the importance of shedding self-reliance and embracing humility to fully trust and depend on God. In a world craving attention, Darlene values the hidden life and the importance of remaining true to worship's essence. Her journey reminds us to fight for a culture of truth and humility. Darlene's experiences illustrate the significance of nurturing deep roots in God's Word and maintaining accountability in our faith walk. She cautions against the allure of fame and the pressure to create commercialized versions of worship, advocating instead for a focus on genuine expression that aligns with God's heart. Darlene's testimony of God's faithfulness during her battle with cancer is particularly moving, as she reminds us to trust both God's whisper and shouts alike. Nurturing a close relationship with God prepares us to discern His guidance during pivotal moments. Stephanie asks Darlene about the church's role in cultivating worship leaders. Darlene stresses the importance of mentoring and discipleship within worship teams, encouraging leaders to uphold a culture of truth, confidence, and humility. This environment ensures that the focus remains on facilitating worship towards God rather than self-glorification. Darlene's experience with Christians in India teaches us about true devotion and reliance on God. When comfort isn't an option, desperation calls out to God, showcasing His incredible faithfulness. Here are some of the key insights Stephanie will remember from her conversation with Darlene. Make them your own, or add some more! 1. Embrace Your Identity in Christ: God loves you unconditionally, regardless of your actions or achievements. 2. Delight in God's Presence: Prioritize spending time with God, not just for what you can gain, but for simply being with Him. 3. Practice Humility and Confidence: Strive for the combination of these qualities in your faith and life. 4. Cultivate a Life of Worship: Lead others to focus on God’s worth, not your own abilities. 5. Seek to Align Desires with God’s Will: Spend time in His word to align your heart with His plan. 6. Nurture a Hidden Life: Value your private relationship with God over public recognition. 7. Be Anchored in a Sure Foundation: Start each day with devotion and prayer, positioning yourself for what the day brings. 8. Serve with Excellence: Honor God through high standards in your work, recognizing Him as the source of your abilities. 9. Surrender to God’s Will: Continually submit your life to Him and trust in His faithfulness. 10. Remember God’s Faithfulness: Regularly reflect on and remember His past faithfulness as a source of encouragement. 11. Lead by Example in Worship: Facilitate a genuine connection between people and God, elevating them to see His worth. 12. Guard Your Heart: Continually examine and protect your heart against pride and complacency. 13. Embrace the Power of Influence: Use influence responsibly and to glorify God, while ensuring roots are deep in His word. 14. Remain Teachable: Continuously seek mentorship and embrace correction and growth. 15. Trust God Beyond Self-Reliance: Let go of self-sufficiency and put trust fully in God, who desires to guide your path. 16. Value Discipleship and Community: Learn from and contribute to the community around you for spiritual growth. CONNECT WITH DARLENE ZSCHECH https://www.darlenezschech.com/ “First and foremost, I am a woman who simply and wholeheartedly loves Christ, and serves Him through loving my family, serving the church, and speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” – Darlene Zschech Darlene Zschech is an award-winning Australian singer-songwriter, worship leader, pastor, author, and speaker. With three GMA Dove Award nominations, the winner of GMA's International Award for influence in praise and worship, and the achievement of 16 Gold and one Platinum ARIA album, her songs have reached many nations around the world. However, Darlene’s success simply stands as a testimony to her life’s passion for serving God, her family and people with all her heart. Alongside her husband Mark, they are the Senior Pastors of Hope Unlimited Church (HopeUC) on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, which now has churches in the US and India. Darlene is perhaps most famous for the worship anthem “Shout to the Lord,” a song that has been sung by millions and translated into multiple languages. In addition to “Shout to the Lord,” Darlene’s catalog includes “In Jesus Name,” “Victor’s Crown”, “Worthy is the Lamb,” and over a hundred others which have greatly contributed to the worship in the contemporary Church worldwide. Darlene is passionate about raising and training other worship pastors, leaders, teams, and writers. To this end, she has penned six books which have been translated internationally. Darlene and Mark live in the beautiful Central Coast of New South Wales with their family: Amy and her husband Andrew, Chloe and her husband Hosanna, Zoe and her husband Matthew and their six beautiful grandchildren Ava, Roman, Ruthie, Thea, Elias and Nora. MORE ABOUT “TESTAMENT”, DARLENE’S LATEST ALBUM New album "Testament" is not just about memories, it’s a statement that worship leads to encountering Christ afresh in every moment. Australian worship leader Darlene Zschech unveils her highly anticipated studio album, “Testament.” The new release marks the milestone 30-year anniversary of “Shout to the Lord,” a song that became an anthem for the church worldwide. It is also a stake in the ground to the faithfulness of God, as the title track declares: “My testament is you.” Stirred by friends and family, Zschech crafted a collection of 25 reimagined legacy songs and five brand-new tracks. From iconic songs such as “Cry of the Broken” and “Victor’s Crown,” to fresh offerings like “Spirit of the Living God” and “Yes Again,” each song carries a powerful sound that is just as vibrant today. It also features many artists like Martin Smith, SVRICINA, Mitch Wong, and Michael W. Smith among others, as well as various choirs and the Australian Christian Orchestra, creating an expansive and eclectic project filled with the sound of praise, thanksgiving, and rich collaboration. This album embodies Zschech’s story and her experience of God’s unfailing love, not only in worship ministry but in each intricate details of her life too. It’s a family project, described by the artist as “songs that have deep meaning to my family, that have helped shape me and kept my focus heavenward.” “Testament” weaves together songs that have been the soundtrack to her children’s lives, her battle with cancer, and her adventures planting churches and starting non-profits alongside her husband. It also features multiple family members, including Zschech’s daughter, Zoe Cameron, on “Shout to the Lord.” Commenting on this central song, which was penned before Zoe’s birth, Zschech said: “I wrote it quickly while crying out to God about our future, saying that no matter what, we will follow him. I was young in age and young in God. ‘Shout to the Lord’ changed things around us, but the things that really matter never changed and never will: God is faithful and attentive to our prayers.” Harnessing this central theme of faithfulness, “Testament” communicates its close relationship to obedience and thankfulness. It’s the sound flowing out of a lifetime lived with the Lord, the very meaning of worship. Zschech is adamant that worship is not a genre but the whole of one’s life poured out for the glory of God: “I’ll always find it hard to wrap my head around the miracle of worship, music, and song. There’s really no other vehicle available to us on earth that has the ability to bring to attention our mind, auditory senses, resting our hearts, moving the soul and spirit to a point when your whole self is pointed in the one direction. Such is the power of worship as the Holy Spirit leads our heart heavenward, Jesus-ward, through the magnificent sound of sacred song.” “Testament” is not just about memories, but it’s a statement that worship leads to encountering Christ afresh in every moment. Zschech’s prayer is that this collection of songs would play a part in people’s story as they too are reminded of God’s incredible faithfulness. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice , PayPal and Venmo !…

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