Written Spoken
Written Spoken
Esther W. Wright
Author, Esther W. Wright, shares curated blog posts and other content to encourage and refresh you, and challenge you to focus on the Word, the One who spoke this world into existence and became flesh to redeem us.
Help: There is a Problem
In this opening episode of the new 5-part series, we explore the first step in seeking God’s help: acknowledging the problem and naming it honestly. Through the stories of the widow of Zarephath, Philip and Andrew, the man at Bethesda, Elijah, and the pilgrims approaching Jerusalem, we discover how honesty becomes the doorway to divine intervention. This episode invites you to lift your eyes to the hills in your own life and begin the journey of receiving the help that comes from the Lord.Scripture References (Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture References are from the NKJV):Psalm 46:1 (ESV). Psalm 54:4 (NIV). Psalm 33:20-22 (ESV). Psalm 124:8. 1 Kings 17:8-12. Psalm 27:12. Psalm 57:4. Psalm 51:4. John 6:4-9.  John 5:1-8. 1 Kings 19:1-10. Psalm 121:1 (AMP).Resource Mentioned: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reflection Questions: What problem in your life needs to be named honestly before God right now? Consider where you may have minimized, ignored, or carried something alone for too long.Where do you feel inadequate, overwhelmed, or unable to meet a need with your own strength? Reflect on how God might be inviting you to acknowledge your limits so He can reveal His help.Who in Scripture do you most identify with at this moment—the widow, Philip and Andrew, the man at Bethesda, Elijah, or the pilgrim—and why? Let their honesty guide your own.
Jul 12
22 min
The Holy Gift of Play
In this episode we return to the simple, sacred practice of play. Through childhood memories, Scripture, and gentle reflection, we explore how play loosens what life has tightened, awakens creativity, strengthens connection, and restores the soul.Jesus’ invitation to “become like little children” opens a pathway back to wonder, trust, and delight — not as childishness, but as childlikeness. Play becomes a spiritualpractice, a doorway into healing, and a reminder that God created us not only for work, but for joy.RESOURCES REFERENCED IN TODAY’S EPISODE:Scripture References:John 10:10 (AMP). Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV). Psalm 139:14 (NIV). Mark 2:27 (NIV). Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NIV).Other Resources:As One BeingTaught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Josh Spurlock, Unlocking Joy and Well-Being: EmbracingPlay in the Modern Christian Life.REFLECTION QUESTIONS:What childhood memories of play still bring you joy?Where has adulthood tightened your spirit? What form of play feels life‑giving to you today? How might practicing play help you experience Jesus’ invitation to become like little children? What small act of play could you choose this week as a spiritual practice?
Jun 28
18 min
Tire-Blowout Season: A Spiritual Reflection
In this episode, we explore the surprising connection between tire‑blowout season and the spiritual life. Just as heat, distance, and heavy loads can push a weakened tire past its breaking point, the pressures of life can strain us when we are spiritually depleted, overloaded, or shaken by unexpected “potholes.”Through Scripture, practical insight, and a closing prayer, we examine:What causes tire blowouts—and how those causes mirror spiritual challengesHow to avoid “underinflation” by strengthening the inner manHow to stay within your God‑given load indexHow to navigate spiritual potholes with God’s helpHow God heals and restores us during our own blowout seasonsMay this episode encourage you, ground you in truth, and remind you that God provides everything you need for the journey ahead.RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE:Scripture References:Proverbs 18:14 (MSG). Ephesians 3:16-19 (AMP).  James 1:5 (VOICE). 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV). Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV). 1 Corinthians 10:13 (AMP). Psalm 139:1-16 (NLT).Other Resources:Ward Cushman, Christian Living - 4 Tips to Watch for Spiritual Potholes As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reflection Questions:*Underinflation: Spiritual DepletionWhich spiritual practices (prayer, Scripture, worship, gratitude) most consistently replenish your inner strength?What practices have you neglected recently, and what small step could you take this week to re-engage? Overloading — Carrying More Than God DesignedWhat signs of overload—fatigue, irritability, anxiety—have you noticed in yourself lately?Where might God be inviting you to release something that He never asked you to carry?Potholes — Spiritual DisruptionsWhat “spiritual potholes” have you encountered recently—unexpected challenges, disappointments, or disruptions?How does 1 Corinthians 10:13 encourage you when you face temptation, pressure, or discouragement?Reflection Questions generated by Copilot from podcast episode.
Jun 14
20 min
Resurrection Encounter: Peter’s Restoration and Transformation
In this final episode of the Resurrection Encounter series, we focus on the encounter several of the disciples and Peter had with Jesus near the Sea of Galilee. This encounter freed Peter from the shame of his three-time denial of Jesus the night Jesus was arrested, and fully restored him. Through this encounter we see that Jesus’ questions to us are never to gain information or condemn us but are invitations to reflect and respond honestly. opening the way for transformation.RESOURCES REFERENCED IN TODAY’S EPISODE:Scripture References: Acts 2:1-41 (NIV). John 21:1-19 (NIV).  Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reflection Questions: Jesus posed two questions to His disciples, and we need to know that His questions are never an attempt to gain information or condemn us. His questions are invitations to reflect and respond honestly, processes that open the door for Him to transform us. The question Jesus asked the group of disciples was, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” Fish can symbolize something we desire and are pursuing. What is Jesus asking you to acknowledge that you desire but currently lack? The question Jesus posed specifically to Peter three times was, “Do you love me?” What is your honest response to this question?Poll questions and responses generated by Copilot.
May 31
13 min
Resurrection Encounter: Behind Shut Doors X2
What happens when fear locks the door and doubt takes over? In this episode, we look at Jesus’ appearances to His disciples behind closed doors—encounters that turneduncertainty into peace and disbelief into worship. Join us as we reflect on the truth that God still meets us in our own locked places, bringing transformation and hope right where we need it most.RESOURCES REFERENCED IN TODAY’S EPISODE:Scripture References: Luke 24:32–49 (NKJV). John 20:24–29 (NKJV).Other Resources:As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠REFLECTION QUESTIONS:Are there areas of your life where you might be “behind locked doors”? How might Jesus be inviting you to open them?What makes relying on the Holy Spirit essential tounderstanding Scripture and living out our faith?What does it mean to you to know that Jesus comes to meet us where we are with compassion, not condemnation? 
May 17
13 min
Resurrection Encounter: Two Plus One on the Road to Emmaus
When hope fades and faith feels distant, Jesus still walks beside us. In this episode, we journey with two disciples on the road to Emmaus—confused, heartbroken, and unaware that the risen Christ is right beside them.Through storytelling and reflection, discover how God meets us in the ordinary moments we often overlook. This episode invites you to see divine presence in your daily life and reignite your hope through Scripture, conversation, and prayer.Resources Referenced in Today’s Episode:Scripture Verses (Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture references are from the New King James Version [NKJV]):1 Corinthians 15:5-8 (NIV). Luke 24:13-21, 25-31. John 2:19-21. 2 Timothy 3:16 (HCSB). 1 Corinthians 13:9.Other Resources:As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Steven Baker, What Do We Know about Cleopas, the Man Who Saw Jesus on the Road to Emmaus?Lisa Degrenia, “Where Do I Meet You?”, www.revlisad.com Five Prayers Inspired by The Road to Emmaus – Luke 24 – Rev. Lisa Degrenia (Used with permission).Reflection Questions:Jesus could have revealed Himself immediately. Why do you think He revealed Himself gradually, beginning with Scripture?How might recognizing Jesus’ presence in everyday moments transform how you see and respond to challenges? When you feel confused or disappointed by events, how could you deepen your understanding of God’s revelation so you interpret life through His truth? This episode is a revised version of an episode published in 2025."Resurrection Encounter: Two Plus One on the Road to Emmaus.” ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Written Spoken Podcast, created by Esther Wright, Season 20, Episode 4, 2026. Copilot. "Episode Description." Microsoft, 2024.
May 3
15 min
Resurrection Encounters: Mary Magdalene
In this episode, we explore one of the most intimate and transformative moments following Jesus’ resurrection — His encounter with Mary Magdalene outside the empty tomb (John 20:1–18). Through Mary’s grief, confusion, and ultimate recognition of the risen Christ, we witness the depth of divine compassion and the personal nature of resurrection hope. This story invites listeners to see how Jesus meets us in our sorrow, calls us by name, and restores our purpose.Listeners will be guided to reflect on how resurrection is not only a historical event but a present reality — one that reshapes how we see ourselves, others, and God’s ongoing work of renewal in the world.Resources in Today’s Episode:Scripture Verses (Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture references are from the New International Version [NIV]): John 20:1-18 (ESV). 1 Corinthians 15:5-8. Luke 8:1-3, Mark 16:9. Matthew 14:26-27.Other Resources:As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Carla Harding’s devotional, “Clinging to the Past.”Levi Lusko’s devotional, “Easter People: A 4-Day Easter Devotional.” Reflection Questions:When you think of the emotions Mary Magdalene was experiencing before Jesus revealed Himself to her, which do you identify with at this time in your life?Jesus knew Mary Magdalene by name, and He knows you by name. What does this mean to you?Jesus did not chastise Mary Magdalene for not recognizing Him. What does this reveal to you about His character? This episode is a revised version of an episode published in 2025."Resurrection Encounters: Mary Magdalene.” ⁠⁠ Written Spoken Podcast, created by Esther Wright, Season 20, Episode 3, 2026. Copilot. "Episode Description." Microsoft, 2024.
Apr 19
12 min
Living the Resurrection of Christ Jesus in Daily Life
In this episode, we reflect on what Christ Jesus accomplished through His death and resurrection—and what it truly means to live out the Resurrection in our everyday lives. Drawing from Scripture, insights by Matt Perman, and practical examples, we explore how ordinary moments become sacred when surrendered to God. This episode invites you to place your daily life—your routines, responsibilities, and relationships—before God as an offering, and to walk in the transforming power of the risen Christ.RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODEScripture References: Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, New King James Version: Hebrews 10:4 (AMP). John 1:29. Isaiah 53:6. Hebrews 9:26b. Hebrews 2:17. 1 John 4:10. Romans 5:10-11. Galatians 3:13-14. Romans 3:24. 1 Peter 1:18-19. Colossians 2:15. Romans 4:25 (AMP). Romans 5:8. Galatians 2:20. Isaiah 53:5-6. 1 Corinthians 15:14-20. Galatians 2:20 (AMP). John 14:15-18 (AMP). Romans 12:1–2 (MSG). James 5:17 (AMP). 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (AMP).Other Resources:  Matt Perman’s article, “6 Things Christ Accomplished by His Death.”William R. Newell, “At Calvary” (1895). Public Domain.Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God.As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reflection Questions:When you think about the Resurrection of Christ Jesus, which aspect of His work — expiation, propitiation, reconciliation, redemption, or victory over darkness — feels most personal to you right now? Why?Galatians 2:20 says Christ lives in you. What would change in your daily life if you truly lived from that reality instead of striving in your own strength?Where do you sense the Holy Spirit inviting you to “place your everyday, ordinary life before God as an offering”?Brother Lawrence practiced the presence of God in simple tasks. What ordinary moments in your day could become opportunities for communion with God?What cultural patterns or habits tend to pull your attention away from God, and how might you “fix your attention on Him” more intentionally?In what area of your life do you need to trust the resurrection power of God — the same power that raised Jesus from the dead — to strengthen, guide, or transform you?How does remembering that Elijah “was a man with a nature like ours” encourage you in your own walk of faith?What is one practical step you can take this week to “no longer live for yourself, but for Him who died and was raised”?
Apr 5
22 min
Every Step: The Long Walk to the Cross
In this episode, we focus on Holy Week, a sacred stretch of days that, in 2026, begins on Palm Sunday, March 29, and concludes on Easter Sunday, April 5. We explore a revised version of the blog post, “Every Step,” tracing the intentional, redemptive path Jesus walked from His birth to the Cross to willingly pay the incomprehensible cost to redeem us.RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODEScripture References: Luke 19: 8-42. Zechariah 9:9-10. Matthew 1:17 (NIV). Galatians 4:4-5 (AMP). Luke 2:41-47. Matthew 3:13-17. Matthew 4:1-22. John 2:1-11. Matthew 4:23. Matthew 5:1-7:29. Matthew 8:5-15, 28-34. Luke 8:41-56. John 4:1-42. John 11:1-44. Matthew 21:12-13. Mark 14:32-41. Luke 22:39-46. John 18:1-14, 28-40. Mark 15:16-20. Isaiah 52:14. Mark 15:21. Matthew 27:46. Luke 23:32-46. Matthew 27:57-61. Romans 5:8.Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ “If That Isn’t Love,” by Dottie Rambo.Reflection Questions:Use these prompts to guide your Holy Week meditation:What part of the Palm Sunday narrative stands out to you this year?Which “step” in Jesus’ earthly journey speaks most deeply to your heart right now?How might you slow down this week to honor Christ’s sacrifice?What is God inviting you to repent of, release, or receive during Holy Week?What step is God inviting you to take this Holy Week—repentance, gratitude, forgiveness, worship, slowing down? How can you create space this week to reflect more deeply on Jesus’ sacrifice?
Mar 22
17 min
The True Light Is Already Shining: The Darkness is Passing
In this final episode of our 5‑part series on the sweeping biblical theme of light vs. darkness, we explore one of the most hopeful declarations in the New Testament: “The darkness is passing and the true light is already shining” (1 John 2:8). When the world feels heavy, confusing, or shadowed by fear, Scripture reminds us that darkness is not winning—because Jesus has already secured the victory. We unpack what it means that darkness is passing, how believers can walk in the light, and why love, obedience, and honesty are essential markers of a life shaped by Christ. My prayer is that this episode will offer practical encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world or the weight of their own circumstances.RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE Scripture References:1 John 2:8-9. John 1:5. John 8:12. Ephesians 5:8.Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Reflection Questions:Use these for personal meditation, journaling, or small‑group discussion.Where do you most feel the weight of darkness in your life right now?In what ways have you seen the “true light already shining” in recent days?Which marker of walking in the light—love, obedience, or honesty—feels most challenging for you at this moment?How might Christ be inviting you to let His light shine through you in a specific relationship or situation?What would it look like this week to take one small step toward walking more fully in the light?
Mar 8
14 min
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