Beneath The Fig Tree | Cultivate a Devotional Life You Love

In this episode of 119 Bible Bootcamp, we explore two simple and powerful Bible study methods—topical Bible studiesand word studies—and how they naturally work together.If you’ve ever wondered where to start when studying Scripture, or felt unsure whether to zoom out to a bigger theme or zoom in on a single word, this episode will help you get oriented. You’ll learn what each method is, when to use them, and how following curiosity can turn Bible study into a genuine treasure hunt with God.This episode is designed for listening audiences and pairs with separate, step-by-step walkthrough videos on YouTube.Key Takeaways* Topical Bible studies help you look across Scripture to see what God says about a theme or subject as a whole.* Word studies help you slow down and explore the meaning of a single word that keeps standing out.* These two methods often work best together, not separately—one naturally leads to the other.* You don’t need to follow every step every time; small, Spirit-led steps still count.* Bible study isn’t about mastering information—it’s about noticing what God is inviting you to see and respond to.What You’ll Learn in This Episode* What topical Bible studies and word studies are (in simple terms)* When to use each method in real life* How a topical study can lead you into a word study* Why curiosity and repetition matter when studying Scripture* How to approach Bible study without pressure or overwhelmCompanion Resources📄 Free Companion ToolkitA simple, printable companion to help you practice topical and word studies at your own pace.👉 Link to Toolkit / Resource Hub🎥 YouTube Walkthrough VideosPrefer to watch the steps in action? Check out the separate walkthrough videos for:* Topical Bible Studies* Word Studies119 Bible Bootcamp Playlist🌿 Figs Community Facebook GroupPractice Bible study in community, ask questions, and share what you’re noticing.👉 Link to Facebook GroupEpisode Series ContextThis episode is part of 119 Bible Bootcamp, a grace-filled series designed to help you cultivate a devotional life you love—without pressure, perfectionism, or feeling behind.Next EpisodeComing up next, we’ll continue exploring study methods as we move into character studies, chapter studies, and book studies, building on the tools and practices you’re learning here.Closing EncouragementYou don’t need to know everything to study the Bible well. You just need to follow curiosity when it shows up—and trust that God is already at work in the noticing.Let’s cultivate a devotional life you love. Like, really love. Because it is possible—and it’s often simpler than we think. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Hey there, Figs — welcome to Week 4 of our special 4-week Advent series, He Came for Me.This series was born from Brandon’s original song From Glory to a Stable, written over a decade ago.What began as a melody he carried in his heart has become a way for us to slow down and remember the intentional, reigning love of Jesus.Today, Brandon reads his Week 4 devotional, He Came to Reign — The Love That Still Holds Me, inviting us to remember that the story didn’t end in the manger or at the cross.The Savior who came near now reigns.The King who bowed low now carries all authority.The Love that laid itself down now holds our lives steady.As you listen, breathe deep and let this truth settle in:Because He came to reign for me, His love still holds me in every season, battle, and unknown.In This Episode* The reigning love of Jesus — a Kingdom rooted in goodness, not fear* How His victory over sin and darkness changes the way we live today* Why His reign gives us confidence to trust Him with what feels shaky or uncertainCompanion GuideIf you want to linger with this throughout the week, grab the free Advent companion guide. Inside, you’ll find gentle invitations to Write, Pray, Declare, and Dwell with the truth that He came near.📓Download🎵 Music Credit“From Glory to a Stable”Written and performed by Brandon Jordan© 2011 Brandon Jordan Music. Used with permission.📖 Scripture ReferencesColossians 2:13–15 | Colossians 1:13 | Romans 8:37–39 | Revelation 5:9–10 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Hey there, Figs — welcome to Week 3 of our special 4-week Advent series, He Came for Me.This series was born from Brandon’s original song From Glory to a Stable, written over a decade ago.What began as a melody he carried in his heart has become a way for us to slow down and remember the unexpected, intentional way Jesus came for us.Today, Rose reads her Week 3 devotional, He Came Willing — The Savior Who Gave Himself for Me, inviting us to reflect on the love that didn’t hesitate.The Savior who wasn’t forced.The King who wasn’t cornered.The Son who chose surrender so that we could know freedom.As you listen, breathe deep and let this truth settle in:Because He came willing for me, I can trust Him with every place in my life that feels weighty, uncertain, or costly.In This Episode* The willing surrender of Jesus — love that chose the cross* Why His obedience is the doorway to our redemption* How His willingness reshapes the way we understand surrenderCompanion GuideIf you want to linger with this throughout the week, grab the free Advent companion guide. Inside, you’ll find gentle invitations to Write, Pray, Declare, and Dwell with the truth that He came near.📓Download🎵 Music Credit“From Glory to a Stable”Written and performed by Brandon Jordan© 2011 Brandon Jordan Music. Used with permission.📖 Scripture ReferencesJohn 10:17–18 | Romans 5:6–8 | Isaiah 53:4–12 | Matthew 26:39 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Hey there, Figs — welcome to Week 2 of our special 4-week Advent series, He Came for Me.This series was born from Brandon’s original song From Glory to a Stable, written over a decade ago.What started as a melody he carried in his heart has become a way for us to slow down and remember the unexpected, upside-down way Jesus came for us.Today, Rose reads her Week 2 devotional, He Came Low — The King Who Chose the Manger, inviting us to consider the humility of Christ’s arrival.The God who deserved a throne chose a feeding trough.The King who commands heaven wrapped Himself in weakness.His first breath on earth wasn’t taken in a palace but in a place no one would have chosen.As you listen, breathe deep and let this truth settle in:Because He came low for me, I can trust Him with every low and hidden place in my life.✨ In This Episode* The humility of Christ’s coming — the King who chose the lowest place* Why the manger matters for our own stories* How His lowliness reveals the depth of His love🌿 Companion GuideIf you want to linger with this throughout the week, grab the free Advent companion guide. Inside, you’ll find gentle invitations to Write, Pray, Declare, and Dwell with the truth that He came near.📓Download🎵 Music Credit“From Glory to a Stable”Written and performed by Brandon Jordan© 2011 Brandon Jordan Music. Used with permission.📖 Scripture ReferencesMatthew 28 : 20 | John 1 : 14 | Psalm 73 : 28💬 Share the MomentIf this episode encourages you, share it with a friend or tag @beneaththefigtree so we can walk through Advent together. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Hey there, Figs — welcome to Episode 1 of our special 4-week Advent series, He Came for Me.This entire series grew out of a song Brandon wrote over a decade ago called “From Glory to a Stable.”What started as a melody he carried in his heart has become the framework for these four weeks of preparing room for Jesus.Today, Brandon reads his Week 1 devotional, He Came Near — The God Who Stepped Into My Story, inviting us to remember the miracle of a God who didn’t stay distant. He stepped into the world He created — into our dust, our laughter, and our need — so we would never doubt His nearness.As you listen, take a slow breath and let this truth settle in:Because He came near for me, I am never outside His reach.✨ In This Episode* The wonder of the incarnation — God with us* What it means that Christ chose proximity over distance* Why His nearness still reshapes our daily lives🌿 Companion GuideIf you want to linger with this throughout the week, grab the free Advent companion guide. Inside, you’ll find gentle invitations to Write, Pray, Declare, and Dwell with the truth that He came near.📓Download🎵 Music Credit“From Glory to a Stable”Written and performed by Brandon Jordan© 2011 Brandon Jordan Music. Used with permission.📖 Scripture ReferencesJohn 1 : 1–14 | Philippians 2 : 5–8 | Isaiah 9 : 6–7💬 Share the MomentIf this episode encourages you, share it with a friend or tag @beneaththefigtree so we can walk through Advent together. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Have you ever laughed while reading the Bible?If not—you might be missing some of its best surprises.In this episode, you’ll hear a few of the Bible’s most unexpected and laugh-out-loud moments—from talking donkeys to prophets negotiating with God about cow dung.Rose is joined by her husband Brandon (who sees the funny in just about everything) to help you read Scripture with fresh eyes, a lighter heart, and full permission to be surprised.Because laughter doesn’t distract from your Bible study—it might actually draw you deeper.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways🗝🗝· The Bible is full of unexpected, human, and hilarious moments.· Humor in Scripture isn’t random—it often points to deeper truth.· Reading the Bible with curiosity (and a sense of humor!) opens up joy and insight.· Laughter helps us slow down and pay closer attention to the text.· You don’t have to be “serious” all the time to take the Bible seriously.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Studying the Bible doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or complicated. In this episode, we’re kicking off the Reading the Clues compass point by exploring some of the best digital Bible study tools. You’ll learn how resources like YouVersion, Blue Letter Bible, Bible Gateway, Bible Hub, and even a simple Google search can make Scripture clearer. We’ll also talk about how ChatGPT can be a helpful study companion (with discernment). Think of this episode as your trail map—and then catch the step-by-step YouTube walkthroughs for each tool in the weeks ahead.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways🗝🗝· You don’t have to be a scholar—just a seeker with a few simple tools.· Digital Bible study tools can help you read, compare, and dig deeper into Scripture.· Even simple resources (like Google or ChatGPT) can help you find verses, explore context, and generate insights—while remembering that the Holy Spirit is the true Teacher.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Bible study tools explained—without the overwhelm. In this episode, we’ll walk through what a lexicon, interlinear, concordance, commentary, cross-references, and footnotes actually are, and how they can help you study Scripture with more clarity. Whether you’ve never used a tool before or just need the terms simplified, this guide will give you confidence for the journey ahead.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways🗝🗝· Learn what common Bible study tools—like lexicons, concordances, commentaries, and interlinears—actually mean.· Discover the simple helps already in your Bible, like footnotes and cross-references.· Hear a story about how a single footnote opened up Scripture in a whole new way.· Gain gentle guardrails for using study tools wisely, without letting them replace the Word itself.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

In this episode of Beneath The Fig Tree, we continue the 119 Bible Bootcamp by exploring what it means to build rhythms of Bible study that truly last. Instead of striving for picture-perfect quiet times, we’ll talk about what makes a rhythm sustainable—for you, in this season of life. You’ll hear honest stories from my own journey, learn how Psalm 119 models rhythms with God, and discover a simple framework to help you find a pattern that’s rooted, realistic, and renewing.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways 🗝🗝· A sustainable rhythm isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.· Psalm 119 shows us rhythms that weave God’s Word into every part of life.· Rhythms shift with seasons of life; God meets you in each one.· Common “quiet time rules” can create pressure, but God invites freedom.· A simple framework: Rooted, Realistic, and Renewing.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

In this episode of the 119 Bible Bootcamp, we get real about the struggles that show up once you actually open your Bible. From distractions and doubts to lack of time and questions about whether it’s making a difference—these struggles don’t mean you’re failing. They simply mean you’re a learner. And God delights to teach learners. You’ll discover practical, grace-filled ways to keep going, even when Bible study feels hard.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways 🗝🗝· Why struggles in Bible study are normal—and what they reveal about your growth.· Practical ideas for finding “even 5 minutes” to spend in Scripture.· What to do when distractions take over or when you don’t feel anything.· How to respond when you don’t understand what you’re reading.· Encouragement for applying Scripture and building consistency over time.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

It’s easy to underline verses, take notes, and feel inspired by what you read in Scripture—only to realize days later nothing has really changed. In this episode, Rose shares practical ways to bridge the gap between reading and living, so God’s Word takes root in your everyday life. You’ll discover how small, Spirit-led steps can move truth off the page and into your heart and habits.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways 🗝🗝· Applying Scripture isn’t about copying every example—it’s about drawing out the principle.· Small, specific steps help truth take root more than vague intentions.· The Holy Spirit leads application, so transformation is about partnership, not striving.· Revelation without application rarely leads to transformation.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Memorizing Scripture isn’t about perfect recall—it’s about letting God’s Word settle so deeply in you that it’s ready to speak into your life at just the right moment. In this episode of the 119 Bible Bootcamp, part of the Gathering Your Gear series, Rose shares why memorization matters, how to let go of performance pressure, and practical ways to “hide” God’s Word in your heart—whether you remember it word-for-word or just enough for it to echo when you need it most.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways 🗝🗝· Memorizing Scripture makes God’s Word portable—you carry it with you into every part of life.· Even fragments of a verse can anchor you in truth and point you back to the whole passage.· You don’t have to memorize like everyone else—experiment with creative and traditional methods to find what works for you.· The more ways you engage with God’s Word, the more it becomes a part of you.· Jesus modeled Scripture memory, responding to temptation with verses stored in His heart.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

What if you could interrupt the cycle of negative thinking—not with empty positivity, but by speaking what God has already said is true? In this episode, Rose shares how biblical declarations can reshape your perspective, anchor your heart in truth, and even transform your prayer life. You’ll hear the story of how declarations became part of her journey, find practical examples from Psalm 119, and discover simple ways to start using declarations in your own devotional rhythm.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways 🗝🗝· Declarations aren’t magic formulas, but a way to align your words with God’s Word· Speaking Scripture out loud can help shift your focus and anchor your heart in truth· Psalm 119 offers powerful starting points for personalized declarations· Declarations can be used in prayer, journaling, and topical study· Community support is available—share your declaration needs in the Figs Community to get help crafting Scripture-based lists📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

In this episode, we explore gentle, everyday ways God can invite us into His Word—sometimes through devotionals, podcasts, a lyric, or a note in the margin. You’ll discover how simple resources can become gentle nudges toward deeper Bible study and help you learn to love the Bible, one step at a time.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways 🗝🗝* Bible studies, devotionals, and podcasts can all be doorways into deeper engagement with Scripture—no pressure, just invitation.* The “tools” themselves aren’t the point; it’s about staying open to God’s gentle invitations, wherever you find them.* God can use ordinary moments—a phrase from a sermon, a lyric in a song, or notes from a podcast—to spark fresh encounters with His Word.* You don’t have to do it alone. The Resource Hub, Companion Toolkit, and Bible Caddy are there whenever you need inspiration.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community* Explore the Bible Caddy (resources & recommendations)* How to Start a Whispers Section in Your Journal📃📃 Transcript 📃📃LINK https://beneaththefigtree.org/bible-studies-devotionals-podcasts/🩵🩵If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp!Don’t miss a single episode—be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or YouTube so you’re always up to date. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Ever sit down to pray and find your mind blank, or the words just won’t come? You’re not alone, friend. In this episode, we explore how praying Scripture can become your lifeline on the days when your own words feel tangled or tired. Learn how to let God’s Word give voice to your prayers, and discover gentle ways to practice this in your real, everyday life.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways 🗝🗝o Praying Scripture isn’t about formulas or magic words—it’s about letting God’s truth settle into the places where we need it most.o When you’re not sure what to pray, God’s Word gives you a starting point (and sometimes, that’s all you need).o Realigning your prayers with God’s promises anchors your heart in His faithfulness—even on days when your prayers feel stuck or distant.o There’s no script or “right way”—just honest conversation with the One who already loves you.o Simple practices, like reading, pausing, and turning verses into prayer, can transform your devotional life—one small step at a time.📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃LINK🩵🩵 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

In this episode, we’re stepping into a new section of the 119 Bible Bootcamp—Gathering Our Gear. We’ll take a closer look at the different kinds of Bible translations, why there are so many, and how each one can help you connect with God’s Word in your everyday life. If you’ve ever felt confused by all the options, this is your invitation to breathe easy and find the tools that work for you.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways🗝🗝* Why new Bible translations exist and how language shapes our understanding of Scripture* The three main types of English Bible translations—and how they differ* How Psalm 119:130 sounds in different translations and what that means for you* Permission to try more than one translation, depending on your needs* A visual guide to translations included in the free Companion Kit📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜* Download the Companion Kit & get access to the Resource Hub — Free* Join the Figs Community📃📃 Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

In this episode, we’ll explore the life-changing power of God’s Word. You’ll hear why the Bible is so much more than an ancient text—it’s a living invitation to renewal, growth, and deeper connection with the One who wrote it. If you’ve ever wondered how Scripture can practically shape your everyday life, this conversation will encourage you to open your Bible with fresh expectancy.🗝🗝 Key Takeaways🗝🗝* The Bible renews your mind and transforms your perspective.* God’s Word equips you to live with purpose and hope.* Scripture isn’t just information—it’s a catalyst for real change.* When you spend time in the Word, you become more like the Author.📜📜 Companion Resources 📜📜➡️ 119 Bible Bootcamp Resource Hub☕ Join the Figs Community📃📃 Full Transcript 📃📃Full Transcript🩵🩵 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

In this episode, we’ll explore how the mindset you bring to Bible reading can either open your heart or keep you stuck. You’ll learn to recognize common thought patterns that create pressure, comparison, or guilt —and discover how to trade them for a posture of grace, curiosity, and relationship.🗝🗝Key Takeaways🗝🗝· Why your mindset shapes how you experience God’s Word· Common thoughts and beliefs that make Bible reading feel like a chore· Simple truths to help you show up curious, not pressured· A gentle invitation to notice what you’re carrying—and trade it for something better📜📜 Companion Resources📜📜· Download the Companion Kit & Get Access to the Resource Hub — Free· Join the Figs Community📃📃 Full Transcript 📃📃🩵🩵 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

The Bible isn’t just a collection of stories—it’s one unfolding narrative of God’s love, redemption, and restoration. In this episode, Rose walks you through the big story arc of Scripture, from Creation to Restoration, and helps you see where your own story fits within God’s.Key Takeaways· The Bible tells one unified story across four landmarks: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration.· When you see the big picture, Scripture feels more connected and less overwhelming.· You’re not just reading the story—you’re living in it.Companion Resources· Download the Companion Kit & Get Access to the Resource Hub – Free· Join the Figs CommunityTranscriptFull TranscriptRelated Episodes· Episode 40: Welcome to 119 Bible Bootcamp· Episode 41: How the Bible is Structured and Why It MattersIf this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com

Have you ever opened the Bible and felt overwhelmed by where to begin? In this episode of the 119 Bible Bootcamp, we’re breaking down how Scripture is organized—and why understanding its structure can make your reading feel more approachable and less intimidating. You’ll learn how the Bible is more like a library than a single book, and why that simple shift can help you read with clarity and confidence.🗝🗝 KEY TAKEAWAYS 🗝🗝· The Bible is a collection of 66 books grouped into sections—Law, History, Poetry, Prophets, Gospels, and Letters.· Knowing what kind of writing you’re reading helps you set expectations and avoid confusion.· You don’t have to memorize everything—having a simple map makes exploring Scripture feel easier.📜📜 COMPANION RESOURCES 📜📜Download the Companion Kit & Get Access to the Resource Hub – FreeJoin the Figs Community📃📃 TRANSCRIPT 📃📃Full Transcript: https://beneaththefigtree.org/bible-structure/🎙📽RELATED EPISODES 🎙📽🩵 Episode 40: Welcome to 119 Bible BootcampIf this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more women discover the Bootcamp! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rosejordan.substack.com