As we walk into the days that follow Easter, we have such a unique opportunity to engage the truly incredible work Jesus not only did on the cross and walking out of the empty tomb, and how the world was literally turned upside down in the remaining days He was on Earth and after His ascension to Heaven and the coming of the Holy Spirit and the call to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth.   This is Dr. Bryan Litfin’s area of expertise. We’ve had a chance to talk about Dr. Litfin’s works of fiction on the podcast before, where he shares a story of an early Christian woman and a young warrior in Constantine’s army and how the trials of the time and their faiths are tested and proved, but today, we’re going to put all his various degrees to work as he shares with us about his newest non-fiction book Wisdom of the Ancients: 30 Timeless Lessons from the Early Church. Dr. Litfin is a Professor at Liberty University teaching theology and New Testament classes, and a former professor at Moody Bible Institute, and as we walk into this season that celebrates the birth of the early church, this conversation with Dr. Litfin is the perfect place to spend time. Dr. Litfin walks us through the context of what he means by “the ancient period,” which his latest book focuses on and he defines it as within the time of Christ on earth in the 1st century through the 500 years or so that would follow leading up to the Middle Ages. For a lot of western Christians in particular, we sometimes grapple with the context of the early church and get confused about what happened when, how decisions were made, and we tend to skip from the end of Revelation to the Reformation or something like that. Dr. Litfin gives us a picture of what the world looked like as the Gospel spread. Then, he shares from his latest book some specific and perhaps surprising lessons we can consider and adapt to our modern faith walks and churches, and it is truly fascinating.    Jesus is alive, He came that we would have life to the full, not always easy, but full and never alone. His passion for His family has not changed, and I pray that ministers to you today.    Connecting with Dr. Litfin: Books Facebook Website   Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Instagram Website   References: -Episode 69 and Episode 116 The other episodes featuring Dr. Litfin on the podcast  -Dr. Litfin’s fiction trilogy: Constantine’s Empire -His latest work: Wisdom of the Ancients: 30 Timeless Lessons from the Early Church -Liberty University -(Just being honest) the yuck from the top, but isn’t the heart of the university -A glimpse into Paul’s missionary journeys -The Protestant Reformation -Constantine’s rise  -Plato  -Middle Ages -Paul’s missionary journeys (geographically and timeline) -Saint Patrick and the spreading of the Gospel to Ireland -Early church in Ethiopia  -Soteriology -Jupiter -“Death Was Arrested” -The God of gods -Over the powers and principalities -Dr. Michael Heiser’s documentary about spiritual dominion and a deep dive into this -Also see his book Supernatural, and Unseen Realm and he has since passed away, but our conversation on the podcast was mindblowing.  -witness means martyr in Greek -Catacombs -Necropolis —> a cemetery (this was interesting, pardon the language) -Temple prostitutes of Rome - “The Chosen” -Christocentric and Christotelic -Life of Moses study from BSF -Sally Lloyd Jones -Episode of “The Chosen” showing the raised up snake on a pole (Season 1, episode 7) -Nicodemus’ struggle on “The Chosen (Season 1, episode 7 also lol) -Gnostic gospels -Passover / Seder  -Getting to Know the Church Fathers -Early Christian Martyr Stories -After Acts   Scripture References: Mark 16:15- Go and share the Gospel with all the world Acts 1:6-11- Jesus’ ascension  Book of Acts (a lot of Paul’s missionary journeys) Acts 1:8-The outermost parts of the Earth Hebrews 13:8-Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever Deuteronomy 10:17, 1 Chronicles 16:26, Psalm 97:7, Psalm 96:5- God is the god of gods John 14:6-Jesus is the way the truth and the life Ephesians 3:1-6-Paul calls the Gospel a mystery 1 Peter 1:12-even the angels marveled at the mystery  John 12:24-Jesus said unless a seed falls and dies it cannot grow  1 Corinthians 15:52-a trumpet will sound Matthew 27:55-61,Mark 15:40,Mark 15:47,Mark 16:1,Luke 24:10,Luke 23:49-56, Luke 8:43-48, Luke 8:1-3, John 8:1-11-Jesus mingled with women (those who followed Him and provided for Him), touched them (Bleeding Woman), and gave love to them (Mary Magdelene, woman caught in adultery) Luke 1:39-45-Jesus revealed Himself first to Mary and Elizabeth John 20:11-18-Jesus revealed Himself as a risen Savior first to a woman 2 Corinthians 3:4–6-The letter kills, the Spirit gives life Luke 24:13-35-Jesus and His followers on the road to Emmaus Genesis 22-Isaac and Abraham Hebrews 11:17-19-the book of Hebrews points out Isaac is a type of Christ Numbers 21:4-9-Moses and Aaron put snake on a pole to save Israel  John 3-Nicodemus coming to Jesus by night Hebrews 4:12-The Bible is alive and active  Exodus 12-Passover Matthew 26:17-30,Mark 14:12-26,Luke 22:7-23,John 13:1-35-Jesus’ last supper  Ecclesiastes 2:25-A time for fasting and a time feasting John 15:5-Apart from Jesus we can do nothing John 14:18-He will not leave us as orphans Hebrews 12:2-We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses   JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! 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I’m excited to start this holy week off with this sweet and encouraging episode with Will and Courtney Kassner. Will and Courtney are the writers and creators behind Crew & Co. which is their ministry and shop full of products to invite beauty into the lives of families and make Scripture a practical part of their daily lives. Recently, they released their first children’s book called When the World Wakes Up, and my daughter Nora Beth hopped on this interview to share her thoughts and ask her questions about the beautiful book! They shared with us how God inspired the story from a moment with Will and his kids, and the beauty of God sharing that moment with them. It is a visually stunning book and a sweet story that invites kids to add their voice to the Kingdom of God. In that same vein, we’ll talk in this conversation about how God takes the dreams and gifts we have and think they’ll become one thing, and He has a good plan and a purpose for all of it that we can’t even imagine because ministry comes in so many shapes and forms. We all have unique gifts to offer the world. Satan tries his hardest to shut us up but calls us to use our voice and gifts in the way He made us to. During a week where Jesus went into Jerusalem with a much bigger plan for the world and the Kingdom of God than we could ever dream of, it feels right to start with that word of encouragement, to us big kids, but especially to young hearts in a big scary world. I hope after hearing this conversation that you feel encouraged to use your voice, whatever that looks like. Create the art. Write the story. Encourage the neighbor. Have the conversation you’ve been putting off. Who knows what the Lord will do with it? No matter where you are today, I hope that you know that you matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Will & Courtney + Crew & Co.  Book: When the World Wakes Up Crew & Co. Instagram Facebook Pinterest TikTok Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube References: -The animals on “Bambi” were twitterpated lol  -Young Life -His Kids Company - Placemats  -Example of devotions Will writes on the Crew & Co. Instagram  -Their intern singing on Instagram (Emma & Annabeth!) -” The Chosen” - Episode “Two by Two” -Ellie Holcolmb’s “Sing: Creation Songs” album – this is a great resource to compliment the Kassner’s book! -Crew & Co. encouragement boxes   Scripture References: Psalm 118:24-This is the day the Lord has made  Romans 12-Ministry comes in so many shapes and forms  Proverbs 3:5-7, Joel 2:13, James 4:10-Submitting our heart to the Lord to see what He’ll do with it Hebrews 10:24-25-Spur one another one in good deeds  Matthew 10:1; Luke 6:12–13; Mark 6:7–13; Luke 9:1–2- Jesus sends out the disciples two by two Colossians 3:17,23, Romans 11:33-36-Worship is all of what we do 1 Peter 4:10-We are recipients and stewards of God’s grace Lamentations 3:22-23-New mercies every morning  Genesis 1-2, John 1:1-5, Colossians 1:16-God is the one who created us all  Romans 8:22-The whole world longs for God and to be made right Psalm 19:1-The heavens declare the glory of God 1 Corinthians 12:1-11-Using our gifts for God Exodus 31-37-Creating the Tabernacle in the wilderness Psalm 27:13-The good is not over Psalm 16:11, Psalm 30:5-There is still joy  Genesis 50:20-What the enemy meant for evil God can use for good JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog   

Taylor Turkington is an author, Bible teacher, teacher of Bible teachers. She is is passionate about training women to interpret and teach the Bible informally or formally through her ministry Bible Equipping. She has a love for the word of God that is so life giving and it pours out onto the pages of her book Trembling Faith: How a Distressed Prophet Equips Us to Trust God in a Chaotic World. Its a book that unpacks the book of Habakkuk in the Bible and offers an invitation to investigate what it means to lament.   For those of us who have ever even considered lament, we sometimes get hung up on doing it “the right way.” Whether that be in regards to formality, worrying about the right kinds of prayers or various Biblical application tools to use, or what have you. Taylor would offer however, that “lament is informal and natural and its expressing our great need because of the people that we are. Its saying this world is not right, but God, you are right and good. And there is a discrepancy here, and I need You to do something.” We unpack the gift of what lament offers in deepening our relationship with God, and coming to God with our emotions is a healthy practice. Taylor also shares the historical context of the prophet Habakkuk, the uniqueness of the book in the midst of the minor prophets, and Habakkuk’s raw sharing with God, and his belief in God’s goodness despite how messed up the world still is and how real his heartbreak continues to be.    This episode I think is such a powerful gift as many of us are approaching the last lap of Lent and are following Jesus straight into a week ripe with lament, for the joy set before the Messiah, in the days leading up to the His death, burial and resurrection. Connecting with Taylor: Book Trembling Faith: How a Distressed Prophet Equips Us to Trust God in a Chaotic World Facebook Instagram Ministry Twitter   Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Instagram Website References: -Bible Equipping -The book of Habakkuk -Learn It + Give It  -Learn It +Give It Intensives -Missiology  -There are spiritual gifts of teaching -The book of Lamentations -Sons of Josiah, staring with Jehoahaz… not good -King Jehoiakim… REALLY not good, hello Babylonian invasion -Concrete beaches of Croatia -“Katrina Babies” Documentary (and a picture of the power of community in cultures of color) -Dr. Jemar Tisby - (our episode, his podcast, his substack, his books The Color of Compromise, and How To Fight Racism he is such a powerful teacher) **Quick note- the audiobook release has been delayed! But forthcoming :)  -Resources for Trembling Faith   Scripture References: Hebrews 4:12- The word of God speaks Habakkuk  Isaiah 7:14, 52:13-15, 53:1-12- Isaiah talks about Jesus Jeremiah 29:11 Matthew 28:19-20-All believers are called to learn God’s word and share it with others  Ephesians 4:25, 1 Thessalonians 5:11- Using the Word to encourage  Acts 2- Church is a group of people who are called to minister to each other and to the world 1 Corinthians 12- You have a spiritual gift, go use it! Job 42:1-3, Proverbs 20:5, Romans 8:28- You were made on purpose for a purpose  Luke 10:27-Love the Lord your God with all your heart mind soul and strength  Luke 1:39-56- Mary and Elizabeth proclaim the King  John 4- The woman at the well goes and evangelizes Samaria John 20:18- Mary Magdelene gets to go and tell the Disciples Jesus is risen  Habakkuk 3- Habakkuk points to the choice we have in how to respond and what we choose to believe  Lamentations 2 Kings 2-23- The revival under King Josiah Psalm 102:1- Lord, please help Ephesians 5:14, Isaiah 51:17, 52:1, 60:1, Malachi 4:2, Romans 13:11- Awake, oh sleeper  Psalm 130:6- More than watchmen wait for the morning  Habakkuk 1:2, Psalm 13;1-6, Psalm 27:14, Isaiah 40:31-  Examples of “God act, wait on the Lord, how long oh Lord” Matthew 4:17, Luke 12:35-40, Luke 4:14-30,Isaiah 61, Matthew 5:43-48 -God has come in Christ and He is working now, be ready, love your enemies Habakkuk 1:1-4-Why do you make me look at violence and do nothing Job 38:4-42:6- God doesn’t explain everything to Job  Habakkuk 2:4- the arrogant won’t live, but the righteous live by their faith Habakkuk 1:3- My friends are surrounded! Help them! Exodus 22:22-23, Psalm 82:3, Romans 13:8-10, Matthew 25:40- You are breaking the Law of God when not caring for others in scripture Matthew 19:26, Romans 8:32-  We are sought after by a limitless God Psalm 147:5-God is all knowing and all seeing. Habakkuk 3:18-19-But they decide “I will rejoice in the Lord because He gives me strength” Psalm 42:7- Deep calls unto deep Psalm 10 Psalm 13 JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog 

Dr. Jessica Peck is a professor, nurse practitioner, author, and mama who has written a book called Behind Closed Doors: A Guide to Help Parents and Teens Navigate Through Life’s Toughest Issues, and it is precisely that. It's an incredible resource that talks about what Jessica sees in her office with parents and kids and teens of varying ages as well as in her own home. We are going to talk about A LOT of things today and some of them may feel kind of scary, or uncomfortable. Still, the goal of this conversation is to learn how to engage in very uncomfortable things in a “quasi-comfortable” or at the very least approachable way. Things like the mental health crisis in this country among young people, the effects of social media, living at the speed of a smartphone, conversations surrounding suicide, the drive to be perfect, and more. The goal is not for those of us who love young people as parents, ministers, doctors, nurses, teachers, coaches, aunts, uncles, or whoever you are to be scared of the world that young people are facing but to remember the hope we have in Jesus no matter what happens in this world. AND through people like Dr. Peck, we can be empowered with knowledge and equip us for what may lay ahead. I am so hopeful that you find something in this conversation for you and your relationship with the young people in your life. We cannot protect them from everything. We will not do this perfectly. But we can build healthy, honest, relationships with the young people and teenagers in our life. Remember: it is never too late to redeem a relationship, ask for forgiveness, or to change the trajectory of our decisions. I hope you find hope in that today. The Lord is not finished with your story. He has plans for a hopeful future for you, and He will carry them out until the very end. You matter, and your story matters. *Connecting with Dr. Jessica Peck: Audiobook  Book Facebook Instagram Podcast Website  References: -“Jumani”- THE OG!! -Simone Biles’ mental health decision at the Olympics -University of Tennessee of the 90’s -Eye contact secretes oxcytocin -My instagram live with Dr. Peck about Sex Trafficiking  -Human trafficking resource -Signs of sex trafficking -Lunchbox questions for kids/teens -Lunchbox jokes Harry Potter and Star Wars (Pinterest is a gold mine!)  -Cece Winans’ “Goodness of God” -Pediatric Clinic in India through Baylor Scripture References: Ephesians 6:10-18-put on the full of armor of God Ecclesiastes 3:1-8- -there is a time to reap and a time to sow Lamentations 3:22–33; Psalm 30; 2 Corinthians 8:1–9-God’s mercies are new every single morning Ezekiel 37:1-14-God’s power can raise bones from the desert 2 Corinthians 12:9-God’s power is made known in our weakness John 16:33-In this world we will have trouble, but God Psalm 84:11- No good thing will God withhold from me  Jeremiah 29:11 The Lord has plans for a hopeful future for you Philippians 1:6- He will complete the work He began in you  JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog 

Irene Rollins is the author of the book Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back. In her book and in our conversation today, Irene shares her story of adolescent addiction to alcohol that consumed her life and rewired her brain chemistry until she found herself in college, tired and desperate for life, which she found in a relationship with Jesus, and the love of a wonderful man. As they grew their family and begin to pastor churches together, the old coping strategies, shame narratives, and lure of alcohol’s offer of escape began to pull on Irene’s weary heart until she found herself steeped in functional alcoholism. Perfect wife, mother and pastor by day, passed out in the bathroom by night, Irene’s life was falling apart. In 2017, she went to rehab. After incredible amounts of recovery work, thousands of prayers and redemptive reconciliation, Irene is celebrating 7 years of sobriety. She now, alongside her husband Jimmy Rollins, lives with a renewed purpose for ministering to people struggling with addictions, how to spot unhealthy habits that we use to help us cope with pain, brain hijacking, trying to work through crises in marriage, and speaking truth to the lies of the enemy that are keeping people in the crippling cycle of toxic shame, codependency, and powerlessness, and the difference Jesus brings with a life of pursuing healing, reconciliation, repentance, and freedom in Him. We covered so much ground in this episode. Everything from types of addictions, mental health struggles, sexual abuse, toxic shame, the narratives we tell ourselves, the difference between conviction and shame, and normalizing discomfort as we learn and grow, and use our feelings as teachers and not masters. Recovery is not exclusive to alcoholism. We are called to throw off everything that hinders us. What an opportunity to examine how we can reframe the narratives in our lives and pursue God’s heart for how He sees us, allowing Him to transform our hearts and mind. Wherever you are in your story, what hinders your growth, or keeps you captive from healing, you are worth the work. Yes, we are weak. Yes, we have believed lies that have allowed people to hurt us, or we’ve hurt ourselves. But in our weakness God is strong. He has good for you in the land of the living and a future of hope. Take heart, friend. This isn’t how the story ends. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Irene: Book: Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back Facebook Instagram Their ministry: Two Equals One // Their instagram:  Website Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 6:12- I can do anything, but I must not become a slave to anything  Romans 3:23-24, James 4:17- Sin keeps us from being who we were made to be (we all have sin) 2 Corinthians 3:18, 5:17,  2 Peter 1:2-4- Jesus can transform our lives  2 Corinthians 12:9- Seeing His power be made known in our weaknesses Psalm 51:10- Create in me a clean heart Luke 10:38-42-Martha syndrome John 10:10- The enemy comes to seek, kill and destroy Romans 8:1- Therefore there is now no condemnation  John 3:16-17-Jesus died on the cross for our sins Hebrews 12:2-Focus on the joy that is set before us Luke 22:42- Jesus asked the Father to take this cup from Him, but He surrendered to His will  2 Corinthians 7:10, Romans 2:4- Conviction leads to repentance  Jeremiah 6:14-16- You can’t heal a wound you don’t see  Psalm 139:13-14-God created me in my Mother’s wombs Deuteronomy 31:6, Matthew 28:20,  John 14:16-17 God is ALWAYS with us Psalm 23- His rod and staff lead and comfort me  1 Corinthians 15:58- Nothing is wasted  Psalm 27 References: Find a therapist near you Codependcy  Reframing Your Shame Prayer Prompts (scroll to the bottom to sign up for them for free!) Alateen Alanon The Language of Letting Go App Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog  *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com

On the podcast today, I have the absolutely amazing Sara Billups. Our show’s format is very conversational and I love it that way. Truthfully I was so impressed, curious and moved by Sara’s book Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find the Way Home that this episode is a little more like a conversations with friends over dinner. It ebbs and weaves and then starts one way and moves another with the feverent pace of “oh man, you too?!” and also, “holy smokes I’ve never thought about that before.” Sara shares pieces of her story of growing up in the environment of end times prophecies being commonplace over her plate of macaroni and cheese as a child, or a booth at a milkshake shop with a friend. She unpacks huge terms like premillenial dispensationalism, how heavily focused rapture narratives held her family captive from engaging life on this side of heaven, and asking big questions like how does tradition become theology in the middle of a genuine love for Jesus and then how do things get lost in fear or just being human?   Sara would define an orphaned believer as someone who looks around the American church or just general broad strokes Christian culture and doesn’t know where they belong. Or they are people like myself and Sara who sometimes struggle with what they’re experiencing with many beloved brothers and sisters in Christ who are not acting like the Jesus we have experienced or of the Gospel. In that tension, how do put our eyes back on who God has always been and who He always will be? How do we pursue and embrace what role or gifts God has for us in this journey of healing? How do we allow God to use suffering, doubt, and confusion to draw us closer to Him no matter how much we desire to escape the pain? Its a lot, but its SO good.    Even though I was a bit of a poor conversation steward today, (my over excitement can get the best of me sometimes!) I hope and pray somewhere along the way you found a space for you in this conversation. You get to bring all of you and your questions and your broken experiences to the Jesus who knows people better than we know ourselves. He’s aware of what comes against His church, distracts His people and distorts His name. But He’s not finished. There is so much more hope to be found here on earth, and together with Him in Heaven, no matter when we get to see Him, He is coming back for us. BUT He has SO MUCH for us before He comes. That’s just one of the many gifts of the Gospel is the promise, and assurance that He will be with us no matter what happens next. You are so loved, friend. You matter, and your story matters.    PS: Guess what y’all, the podcast book club is actually going to be reading this book together, AND Sara is (hopefully!) going to come talk with us about it as well because there’s just so much more to unpack. So be sure and check out how to join us for the book club in our show notes, website or link in social media bios! Connecting with Sara: Book: Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find Their Way Home Instagram  The Bitter Scroll Substack Website   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   References: The Late Great Planet Earth- Hal Lindsey “The Late Great Planet Earth” movie  The rapture Pre-millienial dispensationalism  The Cold War  Cessationism Mars Hill Church John Mark Comer This Cultural Moment podcast  Rise and Fall of Mars Hill story (via podcast) Mark Driscoll (Proceed with caution on this website…) Real time article of Mars Hill Church disbanding  TO Fuller State Park in Memphis  Schools of thought on when the rapture will take place  John Nelson Darby Social Gospel Period Left Behind Series- authors Tim LaHaye, and Jerry Jenkins L. Ron Hubbard books Scientology beliefs (-- proceed with caution on any Scientology websites, y’all. My personal favorite resources for learning about Scientology are either “Going Clear” or “Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath”) The Chronicles of Narnia - C.S. Lewis “All My Favorite People” - Over the Rhine  Christian Nationalism  “Wedding Dress”- Derek Webb  Caedmon’s Call  Redeeming Love -Francine Rivers  Lectio Divina  Religious Icons Taylor University  Jay Kesler  “As Good As It Gets” (the tuna salad scene) Eschatology Black eschatology Black Coffee with White Friends Dr. Amy-Jill Levine and our episode  Jacob from the Insurrection and his response later in retrospect    Scripture References: Daniel 7:9-10-, Matthew 24:36-44, Acts 2:37-39, 2 Peter 3:3-4, 2 Timothy 3:1-5 The End Times” -These are taken straight from scripture. The end of days is spoken about a ton in various locations in scripture, but they need A LOT of context. Here is a continued list, but I encourage you to proceed with Holy Spirit-led discernment. There is much to be studied, but the general point is: Jesus is coming back, we don’t know when, we’re called to live for Him like every day is our last, but to walk with trust and hope in the abundant life Jesus came, died and rose again to give us, and it’ll get real messy, but God is a purely holy, good God and righteous Judge. The Ancient of Days is trustworthy with our futures. - xo, Em Revelation 13:15-18- The mark of the beast  Revelation 6:1-16:21- The 7 year tribulation Ezekiel 38-39- The battle of Gog and Magog The book of Revelation- A brief teaching on it part 1 and part 2 from the Bible Project John 14:18-”I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you.” 1 John 1:8-9, Hebrews 13:8- Jesus’ mercy never runs out  Matthew 28:19- Jesus left us with the church  The book of Hosea Romans 8:15, Ephesians 1:6, 1 John 3:1-I am beloved because the Lord says so  Lamentations 3:22-23- God’s mercies are new every morning  Ephesians 5:22-23, Revelation 18-22- The church is called the Bride of Christ  Matthew 16:17-19- The gates of hell cannot stand against it  Matthew 5-7- Sermon on the Mount  Genesis 3:8-24- When Adam and Eve left the garden  Psalm 23 Luke 4:14-21, John 3:16- Jesus came for all people  Revelation 21:4- Every tear dried  Acts 15, see also Galatians 5:2-6- The book of Acts and whether or not you had to be Jewish  Luke 15- The Lost Sheep  John 1:5- The Light of the world has come and darkness has not overcome it Psalm 107:2-The redeemed of the Lord tell their story  Acts 6:1–1- (and John 14:18) Jesus is coming back for us   JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog  *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com

Blake Guichet, better known as the Girl Named Blake, is the host of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian Podcast, and the author of her book with a similar title, Confessions of a Crappy Christian Real-Life Talk About All the Things Christians Aren’t Sure We’re Supposed to Say and Why They Matter to God. Blake shares a little bit of her story of growing up at war with herself because she felt like she didn’t fit anywhere, and the journey of making her faith her own as she grew up. She began asking big questions like who is God really? Who does he say that I am? What have I culturally believed is true and what do I actually believe is true because God’s Word says its true? In the middle of that season, she tried all the things that seemed like the next right step for a woman with a voice who loved Jesus, but hustle culture took a devastating toll on her mind, body, and heart. Then, the Lord had to meet her in that place and to trust Him and His timing to be the One who would lead her to what it meant to work and minister for His glory, and to live from her heart for Him from all the platforms He’s given her. We talk about what it means to to have self confidence and also posses humility, and how to honor God in the way He designed us. Trying to peel away the stigmas that surround big topics everyone faces, and normalize Christians talking about mental health, shame, being female and maybe not the “typical” and “expected” Christian female, Blake’s reckoning with the Proverbs 31 woman, not the one from the tote bags, but the one that was written in the original language of scripture, all of it is on the docket, and you won’t want to miss it! I hope that in this conversation you can find some piece of yourself in it. No matter how God made you, no matter whether you feel like you fit in or not, you matter to the Lord, and your story matters.   Connecting with Blake: The Girl Named Blake Website : Home for all her services, the podcast, etc. Facebook Instagram Podcast Instagram Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Resources: Confessions of a Crappy Christian Podcast Confessions of a Crappy Christian  Ann Swindell Adrenal Failure Ennegram 8 Hard work is Biblical  Kāḇôḏ (Honor) (from Psalm 62:7)-  'iššâ (woman or wife) or ḥayil (valor)  Doris Day Katharine Hepburn Ash Abercrombie first episode with her and the second one Mary Magdelene “Vulnerability hangover”- Brene Brown-ism Scripture References: John 1:16-The fullness of grace  Ecclesiastes 3-There is a time to tear down and to build  Gensis 32:22-32- Wrestling with the Lord 1 Corinthians 12- Spiritual Gifts Psalm 62 Genesis 31- Laban is angry at Jacob  Genesis 41:41-46-Joseph being elevated  Exodus 13:20-22, 33:1-23- Shekinah Glory (God’s presence in the Exodus and Wilderness) Galatians 2:20-I died and it is Christ who lives in me  Philippians 4:8-9- (whaatever is true, whatever is lovely) Ephesians 6:10-18, John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:8- Spiritual attack Colossians 3:3- You are hidden in Christ Proverbs 31:10-31- The Proverbs 31 Woman  Judges 4-5- Deborah  Judges 4:17-21- Jael - the tent peg killer ;)  Acts 18, 1 Corinthians 16:19, 2 Timothy 4:19- Priscilla and Aquila 1 Corinthians 12:12-27- The body of Christ needs all its parts for it to work Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2, John 19:25-27- Mary Mother of Jesus Genesis 2-3- Eve Ruth the Moabite Gensis 12:11-13-Sarah- we’re gonna do what now?? (Just one example) Genesis 6:22-Genesis 9- Noah’s wife Gensis 19- Lot’s wife Genesis 1:29-31- Eve was the crown of creation  Proverbs 7:4-23- If wisdom is a woman  Ephesians 5:22-33- The church is the Bride of Christ  Psalm 145:9, 103:8- God is good 1 Peter 4:10-God has gifts for me  Exodus 34:29-35- Moses’ face shining from encountering God’s glory Esther 4:14- For such a time as this Judges 6:36-40- Gideon putting out the fleece  Judges 6- ALL the signs Gideon asks for Psalm 23 Matthew 11:28-30-Come all you who are weary and heavy laden Mark 6:30-34 - has sent the disciples out two by two, and then afterward, he pulled them away to rest Exodus 31:15-Dishonoring the Sabbath has a severe punishment  1 Kings 19- Elijah- snack and a nap Ecclesiastes 3:1-11- There’s a time to fight and a time to rest Exodus 14:14- Let the Lord fight for you, be still John 4:5-42- The woman at the well  Psalm 27:13- “What would have become of me had I not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living?” Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life) Facebook Twitter Blog  *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com  

I am so delighted to share with you my conversation with author, Christian communicator and teacher Wendy Speake. In this episode, she shares with me her journey of God calling her into a life of using her words for His glory and honing her craft as a storyteller, God meeting her as she mothers her 4 boys, rubbing elbows with others in the trenches, and it is such an encouraging word. Wendy is passionate about God’s word and encouraging others to learn how to engage it and identify what keeps them tripped up and triggered in their relationship with Him, His word, and with other people. She pushes us to ask ourselves HARD question such as: How do we respond when we fail? How do we grow to be more like Christ so we get triggered and tripped up less? How do take our triggers to the lamplight of God’s word and how do we do right when “they”- whoever they is in our life- do wrong? A lot of these questions she offers in the context of parenting, but isn’t that a call for all relationships? We cannot control anyone’s actions or reactions towards us, but we can step into the process of God sanctifying our own story, and see where He is calling us to grow, and what our triggers are so that we can heal and grow and become more like the parents, spouses, friends, and neighbors God made us to be.  We’ll talk about fasting and how Wendy has found in her own journey that fasting from various things in her Instead of moving from high to high, sugar, social media, shopping, whatever it is that is tripping us up and that we chose to reach for so we can cope with what’s happening in our life, the process of fasting can point to the Most High God and offer opportunity to feast on His word.  Friends, I hope you walk away from this conversation encouraged and open to the invitation to engage God’s word so that you can find nourishment and healing. No matter where you are in your relationship with Him, or His word or His church, He is always present and near to us. No matter where you are in your story friend, the Lord is with you. Closer than you even realize. Ask Him to make Himself known to you, because you matter to Him, and your story matters.  Connecting with Wendy: Facebook Instagram Website   Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.  References: MOPS Amber Lia Amber and Wendy’s work together Triggers: Exchanging Parents' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses Parenting Scripts The 40 Day Sugar Fast  The 40 Day Social Media Fast “Gilmore Girls” – “Oy with the poodles already!” The 40-Day Feast: Taste and See the Goodness of God’s Word Jesus Storybook Bible The Serenity Prayer David Thomas and Sissy Goff of Daystar Counseling - “Raising Boys and Girls Podcast” David Thomas’ episode with me! (Epiosde 134) DT’s Instagram live with me Tyndale Bible William Tyndale’s story The 40 Day Fast Journal   Scripture References: John 3:16- God loves you  Psalm 119:105-God’s word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path Proverbs 22:6-Training a child up in the way they should go Becoming more like Christ (a whole list of verses!) Book of Proverbs (Video for insights and overview) Book of Matthew (Video for insights and overview) Genesis 2:16-17, Joshua 24:15,John 8:36, 1 Corinthians 6:12, Galatians 5:16-17, Revelation 3:20-  God values us enough to give us free will  Mark 12:31-Love our neighbors Psalm 139:14-We are uniquely and wonderfully made John 1:1-5-Jesus is the light that the darkness cannot overcome  Deuteronomy 11 Romans 12:21- Do not overcome evil with evil, but overcome evil with good Psalm 34:8-Taste and see that the Lord is good James 1:22- Don’t just be readers of the word, but be doers of the word Matthew 21:12-13,Mark 11:15-18- Turn over the tables  Psalm 147:3-God binds up the brokenhearted Matthew 11:28-Come to me when you’re weary and heavy laden Psalm 61:2, Psalm 94:18-19- Go to God when you are overwhelmed  Psalm 107:20-“His word was sent to heal us”  The book of John (Video for insights) The book of Psalms (Video for insights!) Psalm 1 Joshua 23:14, Proverbs 30:5- You can take God at His Word Luke 8:43-48- The woman with the issue of blood Exodus 4:10-31- Bringing Moses and Aaron together in the desert   Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)FacebookTwitterBlog  *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com

Rachelle Starr is the founder of Scarlet Hope, which is a ministry designed to share the hope of Jesus with women in the adult entertainment industry. She is also the author of Outrageous Obedience: Answering God’s Call to Shine in the Darkest Places. The month of January is sex trafficking awareness month. Rachelle knows firsthand from her work with Scarlet Hope, spending the last 15 years loving on and building relationships with women who work in strip clubs, and the world of porn and prostitution, and shares with us some of what she’s seen, how a woman finds herself entrapped in such a situation, and what its like to see their lives totally changed by Christ and having some of their physical needs addressed for them to experience rescue holistically as well. Rachelle’s book is a galvanizing experience full of questions for each of us who are called to love like Jesus, and her passion for Christ, and for the hurting is contagious. Buckle up, you guys, this is one story you won’t want to miss hearing, and perhaps the Lord even has something just for you and your story in it. If you are interested in connecting with Rachelle or looking into the ministry of Scarlet Hope, be sure and follow them and see if there is a local chapter near you!  There is hope for our stories, and He’s not finished with any of us. Connecting with Rachelle Starr AND Scarlet Hope Buy a copy of Outrageous Obedience Facebook Instagram  Rachelle’s Website Scarlet Hope  Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube   JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.  *References: Crazy Love by Francis Chan Scarlet Hope Bakery  Scarlet Hope career development program  Passion Conference End It Movement Christine Caine and A21  Sex Trafficking story from Atlanta // AG A similar situation in Florida Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers  “Filthy Rich” documentary on Netflix about Jeffrey Epstein Paul Tripp “Pretty Woman” Signs to look for in airports and public spaces  Dr. Jessica Peck *Scripture References: -The book of Esther (quick overview!) -The book of Ruth (quick overview again ;)) Genesis 1:27-You were created in God’s image 1 Peter 2:9, Colossians 1:6, Jeremiah 29:11 -He’s created you for a purpose and for Himself  Romans 2:3-4-God’s kindness leads people to repentance and relationship with Him  Matthew 25:36-40-When have you seen me naked? John 10:10-The enemy comes to steal kill and destroy and Jesus came to give us life Lamentations 3:22-23-Mercies are new every morning  John 8:1-11-Who of us can cast the first stone Matthew 9:36-Jesus saw them like sheep without a shepherd James 1:22-25-we don’t want to just be full of knowledge  John 14:15-being obedient to God’s call Isaiah 6:8-Here I am send me  John 14:26, Acts 1:8, 1 Corinthians 2 -Listening to the Holy Spirit  Luke 16:10-(she) who is faithful in little is faithful in much  Ecclesiastes 3:1-There is a season for everything 1 Corinthians 15:58-The Lord wastes nothing 1 Corinthians 2:1-5-2 Corinthians 12:9- The Lord makes Himself known in His weakness John 10:11-18-The Lord is a good shepherd 1 Peter 2:9-We have been called into His marvelous light  *Questions to ponder: -what have You saved me for and who have You saved me for? -can we ask God to have your heart softened for those inside the walls of a place you want to look away from Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)FacebookTwitterBlog  *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com

Welcome back to the Simply Stories Podcast! I’m thrilled to be back with new episodes and heading into season 4 with author and educator Danielle Hitchen of Catechesis Books. Danielle is passionate about sharing her love of church history and the tools we have at our fingertips by way of the church calendar in order to offer encouragement and connection with God and with one another in every season of life. She is the author of a series of baby believer primer books, and creates all kinds of content that help teach the tenets of the faith and helps us disciple our time, ourselves, and our families in our faith and with hope.  Today Danielle shares with us what exactly catechesis is, where some of these practices come from, why liturgy can be such a gift, and how these patterns and practices of the early church can minister to us today. Now Danielle nor I want to add something to your already long to do list. These tools she has created and shared, and this conversation are simply opportunities to connect with the Lord and remind us of who He has always been. There is grace for all the seasons, Jesus Himself experienced all of the seasons, and we’re going to explore how to provide intentional opportunities to engage God uniquely where we are and maybe learn some things we didn’t know before which perhaps could breathe life into the ancient, but familiar.  What a sweet way to start the new year, yeah? I know we’re surrounded by resolutions and gym membership flyers, but personally, I’ve just been trying to get out of bed, and remember what day it is. I love the grace and gentle invitation the church calendar offers us, as a way to connect with the ever-present always faithful God, and I love Danielle’s mission to help us find our place in whatever season we are in. Friends, I’ve missed you. The Lord was so kind to me in my sabbatical, and I am full of anticipation about what God has been doing and curious to see what He does next. I’m so honored that you are here in it with me. Remember, friend. You matter, and your story matters.  Connecting with Danielle: Baby Believer Primers (her board books for kids!) Facebook Instagram  Newsletter Sign Up  Podcast Website Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube References: -C.S. Lewis -Joan of Arc -The Protestant Reformation  -Martin Luther -We’ve talked about this a little bit on the podcast before! Check out episodes with Dr. Bryan Litfin (Part 2 also) -The Apostle’s Creed -The Nicene Creed -The feast of Pentecost  -The “church” was growing, book of Acts -What William Tyndale did to allow access to scripture for others  -Invention of the printing press -The role of religious icons -Kayla Craig’s episode, and the role of liturgy -Liturgy for Parents -A Long Obedience in the Same Direction- Eugene Peterson -The Jesse Tree  -Jesus Storybook Bible -The story of Ruth  -Candlemas- February 2nd -Feast of the Annunciation- March 25th “Lady Day” -”Lady Day” waffle day! -To Light Their Way- Kayla Craig -Every Moment Holy -Feast of Saint Lucia  -American Girl story with Kirsten celebrating Saint Lucia’s Day // Kirsten’s Surprise -Saint Nicholas Day Scripture References: Psalm 24:1/Psalm 135:6-7-The Lord is sovereign over all  Acts 1:9-12-Jesus ascended Acts 2- the Holy Spirit came Matthew 2:12--The Magi coming to Jesus Matthew 3:13-17-The voice of God declares Jesus as His Son at His baptism  Matthew 17-The transfiguration of Christ Luke 2:52-Jesus grew in wisdom and stature with God and with men Matthew 4:1-11-Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness Matthew 26-28-Jesus’s death and resurrection Ephesians 2:8-By God’s grace we are saved Exodus 32-Another golden calf  Luke 1-2-Luke and the Christmas story  Luke 2:22-38-The story of Jesus in the temple meeting Simeon and Anna Luke 1:26-38-Gabriel coming to Mary Luke 1:46-55-The Magnificat JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.  Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)FacebookTwitterBlog  *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com