Stéphanie welcomes Os Guinness back again on the Gospel Spice podcast. Os offers his analysis of the critical juncture facing Western civilization, particularly America, and provides a trustworthy framework for Christians to understand and thoughtfully respond to today’s unique social, cultural, and political challenges. Os Guinness’s recent book, Our Civilizational Moment, gave Stephanie a framework to understand the current news headlines, including the assassination and memorial service of Charlie Kirk, a devoted follower of Jesus who died for his beliefs. She and Os discuss the events as Os provides a uniquely courageous and nuanced perspective. Os urges Christians to think deeply, be courageous, and avoid simple partisanship. He advocates looking back to the biblical foundations—faith, family, education—and promoting them through partnership with like-minded individuals, including Jews. Christian maturity means engaging with nuance, confession, and humility, rather than tribalism or reactionary politics. He also hopes for a significant national conversation and rededication, especially approaching America’s 250th anniversary, rooted in prayer, repentance, and recommitment to core biblical principles. THE CONVERSATION MORE IN DEPTH Os Guinness defines the concept of a “civilizational moment,” which is a critical point in a civilization’s history when its foundational principles are either renewed, replaced, or lost, leading to decline. For the West, this moment involves deciding whether to return to its Judeo-Christian roots or continue on a path shaped by secular Enlightenment thought and radical ideologies. Every civilization faces a time when it must choose—renew what made it great, replace it with something else, or decline and fall. Os describes four major “waves” or movements currently undermining the West from within: · The Red Wave: Rooted in cultural Marxism, this movement has transitioned from economic revolution to influencing culture and institutions over decades. · The Rainbow Wave: The sexual revolution, driven not just by recent pop culture but by deep philosophical roots aiming to overturn centuries of Judeo-Christian and Jewish values about humanity and sexuality. · The Black Wave: Radical Islamism, which has allied itself with the other movements to destabilize Western civilization. · The Gold Wave : A nod to economic and technological factors, less emphasized during the conversation, but brilliantly explained in the book. Os explains their convergence—especially the surprising alliance between radical left movements and Islamism—as an effort to dismantle the traditional Western order. These movements often work together, despite their differences, because they share a goal of undermining the Christian-influenced foundations of Western civilization. Guinness reminds listeners that the West owes its structure to the Christian faith, rooted in Judaism. Other influences (Greek, Roman) contributed, but it was the biblical worldview—especially covenantal thinking from the Old Testament—that shaped institutions and ideals. A loss of conviction in these roots leads to confusion about identity and direction, both culturally and politically. America in particular is experiencing: · Ideological Polarization: A deep divide between visions anchored either in the American Revolution (biblical) or the French Revolution (secular, Enlightenment). · Institutional Polarization: Growing distrust between elites and ordinary citizens. · Crisis of Words: The breakdown of truthful, respectful communication, leading to increased violence and mistrust. Os cautions against seeking solutions purely through power or politics, whether from the left or right. Both extremes, if detached from biblical truth and justice, are dangerous. Hope is found in trusting God, returning to biblical truth, and joining together, beyond politics, to seek the good of society and witness to the gospel. Our “civilizational moment” requires discernment, wisdom, and Christ-centered courage. Christians are called to be salt and light—engaging culture thoughtfully, grounded in truth, and seeking both the renewal of their nation and the flourishing of humanity worldwide. Os helps us identify the key cultural forces at play, and explore how Christians can wisely and courageously navigate this pivotal time. MORE ABOUT “OUR CIVILIZATIONAL MOMENT” Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Our-Civilizational-Moment-Waning-Worlds/dp/B0DL3LW558/ Where do you find the great civilizations of the world? In ruins, in museums, and in history books. Each one in its time rose, flourished, and then declined and fell. Is the West facing its own civilizational moment today? A civilizational moment is a critical transition phase in the rise, course, and decline of a civilization when a civilization loses its decisive connection with the dynamic that inspired it. Such a moment must then issue in one of three broad options: a renewal of the dynamic that inspired the civilization in the first place, a successful replacement of the original dynamic by another, or the decline of the civilization. In sum, the issue for a civilization in a civilizational moment is its vision of ultimate reality: Is the civilization in living touch with the ideas, ideals, and inspiration that created it in the first place and that it needs to continue to flourish? Or, with its roots severed, is it destined to decline and die? Guinness’s analysis is wide-ranging and hard-hitting, but he ends with hope. This book is for all who care about the state of the world, who strive for a human-friendly future, and who are ready to make a stand for what matters. MORE ABOUT OS GUINNESS Os Guinness is an author and social critic. Great-great-great grandson of Arthur Guinness, the Dublin brewer, he was born in China in World War Two where his parents were medical missionaries. A witness to the climax of the Chinese revolution in 1949, he was expelled with many other foreigners in 1951 and returned to Europe where he was educated in England. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of London and his D.Phil in the social sciences from Oriel College, Oxford. Os has written or edited more than thirty books, including The Call, Time for Truth, Unspeakable, A Free People’s Suicide, and The Global Public Square. His latest book, Last Call for Liberty: How America’s Genius for Freedom Has Become Its Greatest Threat, was published in 2018. Since moving to the United States in 1984, Os has been a Guest Scholar at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Studies, a Guest Scholar and Visiting Fellow at the Brookings Institution, and Senior Fellow at the Trinity Forum and the EastWest Institute in New York. He was the lead drafter of the Williamsburg Charter in 1988, a celebration of the bicentennial of the US Constitution, and later of “The Global Charter of Conscience,” which was published at the European Union Parliament in 2012. Os has spoken at many of the world’s major universities, and spoken widely to political and business conferences across the world. He lives with his wife Jenny in the Washington DC area. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Stephanie welcomes singer-songwriter Melanie Penn for a heartfelt conversation about faith, creativity, and the power of redemptive storytelling through music. Faith, worship, and creativity are deeply intertwined. Whether through music, storytelling, or daily life, God calls us to partner in bringing beauty from brokenness, to be honest in our journeys, and to recognize His redemptive hand at work even in the darkest moments. Melanie Penn shares her unique journey as a worship leader, pointing out that this role can mean different things in different church settings. While she served in a traditional PCA church, at Redeemer Presbyterian under the leadership of late Tim Keller, where the “worship leader” guides congregational singing and scripture, Melanie emphasizes that her primary calling has become storytelling through faith-driven songwriting. She encourages us to widen our understanding of worship leadership—it extends beyond church walls and formal titles, and anyone whose art or actions point others to God partakes in worship leading. Every song Melanie writes is an act of faith. She explains that there’s an element of doubt in the creative process, but she repeatedly experiences the Holy Spirit’s presence as inspiration and ideas unfold. She calls creativity a “faith-building experience,” mirroring how God brings something tangible from nothing. Melanie invites us all to see all life’s creative acts, whether songwriting or problem-solving, as incarnational—reflecting God’s own creative nature. Drawing on her earlier album “Immanuel,” Melanie shares how God transformed her loneliest, most painful Christmas into a season of inspired songwriting. It’s a personal testament to how God brings beauty from brokenness. However, she wisely cautions against oversimplifying suffering, acknowledging that some redemption stories are not resolved in this life—but faith keeps us trusting. Melanie’s latest album, “The Rising,” is a musical journey from Christ’s burial to Ascension, told through first-person narratives of biblical characters. The creative sequencing is intentional: each song not only unfolds chronologically but also layers meaning—from Creation to New Creation, as Stephanie observes. Songs like “The Morning” (personifying the resurrection dawn) and “The Man on the Middle Cross” (based on the thief’s encounter with grace) invite listeners to see themselves in the redemptive story. Songs spotlighting characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas reflect deep emotional truths. Melanie explores Peter’s restoration with gentleness, suggesting Jesus’s threefold question—“Do you love me?”—is not punitive but restorative. In the story of Mary Magdalene encountering the risen Christ, the intimacy of Jesus calling her by name is set to music that leaves sacred space for silence and wonder. Thomas's doubt gives voice to modern “deconstruction” struggles, reminding us that doubt and faith often walk hand-in-hand. Melanie’s creative process is prayerful and open, often sparked while walking and reflecting with God. She emphasizes the importance of discernment—knowing which ideas to share or hold private—and the value of collaboration in shaping the final message. As Melanie Penn’s music invites us, let us step into the biblical narrative, find ourselves in its grace, and join the ongoing song of resurrection and hope. MORE FROM MELANIE PENN Melanie Penn is a classically trained vocalist and songwriter now based in Nashville, TN. For many years she was part of New York’s theater scene, and portrayed Sandy in the Broadway national tour of Grease! where she starred alongside legendary actor and entertainer Frankie Avalon. Penn also served as a worship leader at the city’s Redeemer Presbyterian Church under the leadership of the late bestselling author and theologian Tim Keller. Penn has released multiple albums in collaboration with producer Ben Shive, including Wake Up Love (2010), Hope Tonight (2015) and More Alive Volume 1 and Volume 2 (2020/2022). Her critically acclaimed 2017 concept project, Immanuel, a journey through the Christmas story, reached #1 on Amazon’s Christian, Worship and Holiday Download charts. The Rising: A Resurrection album is her latest project and expected to release throughout 2025. Here is her Christmas worship album (one of Stephanie’s favorites!): https://www.melaniepenn.com/immanuel More about Melanie and her latest album, “the Rising”: https://www.melaniepenn.com/ "The Rising" presents a unique artistic approach to one of history’s most significant events, with each song written from the first-person perspective of biblical figures who witnessed the resurrection firsthand. Through the voices of Peter, Thomas, Mary Magdalene, and others, Melanie crafts an intimate musical narrative that brings ancient accounts into contemporary focus. The album draws exclusively from Gospel writings, offering listeners an immersive experience that bridges the gap between biblical history and modern worship. Melanie’s approach transforms familiar resurrection accounts into personal testimonies, allowing listeners to experience these pivotal moments through the eyes of those who lived them. The Rising features eleven songs, including: Man of Sorrows, Roll That Stone Away, Let There Be Light, Man on the Middle Cross, The Gardener, and I will Come Back for You. Website: https://www.melaniepenn.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniepenn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melaniepennsings/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/melaniepennnyc Album: The Rising – A Resurrection Album, releasing September 19, 2025 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Welcome to the first week of the Gospel Spice Podcast's series, "Identity in the Battle," where we embark on a journey through the book of Ephesians. In this lesson, we'll dive into the heart of Ephesians chapter 1, focusing on what it means to have our identity rooted "in Christ." As we walk through Ephesians, we’re encouraged to "taste and see that the Lord is good"—embracing the variety and richness that God offers. Overview of Ephesians Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians while in prison around AD 60–62. The key purpose of this letter is to urge believers to walk as fruitful followers of Christ, serving in unity and love, particularly in challenging times. Paul’s guidance in Ephesians is deeply relevant to our own spiritual journeys today. The book can be split into three main parts: Chapters 1–3: Who we are in Christ (our identity). Chapters 4–5: How to walk out our calling (practical Christian living). Chapter 6: How to face spiritual battles with the armor of God. Identity: In Christ, Adoption, and the Holy Spirit Paul uses the expression “in Christ” (or similar) ten times in the first fourteen verses of Ephesians. This repetition emphasizes that our identity is rooted not in our achievements, background, family, or appearance—but solely in who Jesus says we are. What matters is God’s perspective of us, not the world or even those closest to us. Stephanie highlights that understanding our identity is a lifelong process, with four main steps: Discovery: Learn who God is, what He’s done, who He says you are, and what He calls you to do. Acceptance: Move from mere head knowledge to heart-level acceptance. Truly taste and see that God is good. Transformation: Let your understanding of God begin to change you from the inside out—your thoughts, your self-image, and your relationships. Daily Living: Live in your new identity daily, relying on the Holy Spirit and the Christian community for support. Adoption into God’s Family Paul employs the metaphor of adoption—a process which, in both Roman law and today, requires moving from one family to another, with full legal recognition and new rights. As Christians, we were once “children of wrath,” but God chose to bring us into His family, giving us full rights as His sons and daughters. This legal and spiritual transformation means that our old “family” (the world and sin) no longer defines us, and we now receive an eternal inheritance with Christ. The Holy Spirit: Our Seal and Guarantee Paul says we are “sealed by the Holy Spirit,” who is the guarantee of our inheritance. This sealing means we belong to God forever, and the Spirit empowers us to live out our new identity and purpose. Application and Encouragement As new members of God’s family, we are called to let go of old habits and embrace the rights, intimacy, and inheritance God offers us in Christ. This transformation is possible because of the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, who assures us that we are deeply loved, accepted, and called. Take time this week to reflect on these truths. Discover, accept, and step into your identity in Christ—chosen, adopted, and sealed for a purpose far greater than you ever imagined. Discussion Questions: What does it mean to you to be “in Christ”? How does understanding spiritual adoption change how you see yourself? In what ways do you need to daily embrace your new identity and release your old one? Join the Gospel Spice community for resources, Bible studies, and deeper fellowship as you walk out your true identity in Christ! ----- IDENTITY IN THE BATTLE WORKBOOK ------ You have the option to go beyond listening to this series, and to participate actively. This exclusive Gospel Spice Ministries resource is available at gospelspice.com/identity . You will receive a downloadable, printable workbook containing listening guide for each of the 6 episodes in this series, space for note taking, and discussion questions if you want to do this study with a friend! What better way to enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend this season, than to discuss your identity in the battle together? So, grab a friend or family member, or someone to mentor or be mentored by, and signup together. Every week, Stephanie shares truth from Scripture and invites you to dig deeper in your faith to delight in the glory of God. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! Find out more at gospelspice.com Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup 2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you! 4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you! So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions: 1- signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2- find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel! 4- and finally, tell us how we can pray for you! 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 Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil. Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways: 1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too! 2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app; and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today! Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Stephanie sits down with author Hannah Brencher to discuss the practical power of unplugging from technology to deepen our connection with God, others, and oneself. Drawing from her book, The Unplugged Hours, and her personal journey, Hannah shares practical insights and spiritual wisdom that offer a clear pathway for anyone feeling overwhelmed, distracted, or disconnected. Unplugging is less about abandoning technology and more about reclaiming the present, deepening contentment, and embracing our true identity in Christ. Through practical disciplines, humble self-awareness, and a commitment to delighting in God right where we are, we find the spacious, unhurried lives that our souls crave. 1. Recognizing the Need to Unplug Hannah recounts her realization that constant connection to her phone was leaving her exhausted, burnt out, and spiritually depleted. She felt a persistent need to always be “on,” a sensation many people can relate to in today’s always-online world. Symptoms that signal it might be time to unplug include: Feeling tired and perpetually “on” Burnout and lack of creativity Scattered attention and apathy towards loved ones False sense of control by consuming endless information Numbing and anxiety, worsened by exposure to social media algorithms designed to keep us engaged through fear or desire Unplugging, for Hannah, didn’t mean abandoning her phone entirely, but initiating a conscious journey toward better habits and rhythms. 2. The Power of Contentment and Presence Hannah acknowledges and embraces the struggle—and ultimately, the spiritual discipline—of contentment. Social media and the internet constantly convince us that fulfillment is elsewhere, which removes us from both the present moment (time) and from our current environment (space). Hannah draws from the Apostle Paul’s words about learning contentment, framing it as a dance that takes practice and humility. For example, Hannah’s practice of “grounding” by jotting down details of the present moment (in a notebook, not a phone) helps her drop into her actual life, savoring little joys, and affirming that “this is enough.” Unlike capturing moments for others to see on social media, this form of slow documentation, she says, nurtures personal satisfaction and removes the compulsion for outside validation. 3. Rethinking Productivity and Success Stephanie and Hannah highlight the toxicity of equating productivity with worth. Hannah shares how unplugging redefined her sense of value from accomplishment and approval to simply being present with God. True productivity, she discovered, isn’t about checking boxes, but about what God is cultivating within us through periods of stillness—patience, peace, faithfulness. Success, then, transforms from external achievement to delighting in God and being aware of His presence. Hannah echoes Stephanie’s insight that “a successful life is a succession of days and moments where I’m delighting in God.” 4. Practicing Stillness and Receiving God’s Presence Jesus’ example comes alive as the epitome of unhurried purpose—accomplishing all the Father’s will without rushing. Unplugging isn’t just for personal peace, but to become truly available to God, hearing His voice and responding with readiness and openness (“Here I am, Lord”). Through intentionally slowing down and savoring “vegetable moments”—Hannah’s metaphor for embracing the slow, nourishing parts of life—we open ourselves to the real rewards: deeper relationship with God and others. MORE ABOUT HANNAH BRENCHER Hannah Brencher says, “I love teaching individuals how to build intentional lives they love through the power of habit and meaningful routines. I am the founder of The World Needs More Love Letters, author of 4 books, a TED Speaker, and an online educator teaching others how to establish important disciplines within their lives. Words are my everything and nothing fires me up more than getting to teach people about the power of discipline. Establishing better discipline was an essential piece in dealing with depression and I love seeing the freedom it unlocks in others as they establish better habits and rhythms in their own life. I’m a proud New Englander living in city of Atlanta with my husband Lane and our little girl Novalee. You can find us trying out new restaurants across the city, getting dangerously cutthroat over playing Battleship, playing at the park, and cozying up to watch a thriller (or Moana if Novi gets to pick) with our rescue pup Tuesday.” More at https://hannahbrenchercreative.com/ MORE ABOUT “THE UNPLUGGED HOURS” Join the Challenge: One Thousand Unplugged Hours in One Year Former social media addict, Hannah Brencher discovered first-hand that turning off her phone had a substantial impact on her mental health, relationships, time management, and outlook on the world. Like so many of us, Hannah had been turning to her phone to cope with life in a time of isolation and uncertainty. But those coping mechanisms had become habits she didn't know how to break until she truly committed herself to one simple yet profound act: log 1,000 phone-free hours in a year. Now, in The Unplugged Hours, she demonstrates how the act of powering down and reducing the habit of a constantly plugged-in lifestyle can change your entire life. No matter what you do for a living, how much time your apps save you, or how much entertainment your phone brings, it is possible to unplug—and rediscover the richness of life on the other side. A powerful weaving of memoir, cultural commentary, and spiritual insights, this life-changing book will help you: Reclaim your ability to be present and engaged with the world around you. Swap the hurried, constant pace of technology for a steadier, more rooted way of living. Establish your own unplugged rituals and rhythms in daily life. The Unplugged Hours gives you the practical ideas and spiritual inspiration you need to stop scrolling and start living. So join the challenge: put your phone down and live your life. 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Welcome to our final lesson in the Book of Malachi! We explore the myriad questions posed in the book, that feel a bit like a courtroom-like dialogue between God and the Israelites. The timeless nature of Malachi’s message resonates across eras by highlighting Israel's pattern of unfaithfulness and connecting it to our own lives. The dense concentration of questions throughout Malachi, up to chapter 3, starkly contrasts with chapter 4 which contains no questions, signaling a shift from inquiry to God’s final judgment. Acknowledging God’s love, as outlined in Malachi, encourages us to see the ongoing work of God in our lives and the world around us. The Israelites questioned God’s love and justice, despised worship practices, and failed to honor God in their daily lives. The answers to the questions in the book of Malachi reveal their shortcomings and guide us towards a faithful relationship with God. The book of Malachi further explores the theme of justice versus grace; as Scripture teaches us, true justice is met only through the grace offered by Jesus. Repentance and confession are essential to understand God’s grace. Justice is found through Jesus. The crucial question “How shall we return to You, Lord?” encapsulates the hope of returning to God by recognizing His unchanging nature and engaging with scripture. Stephanie discusses the path to God through spiritual disciplines, offering a free video course, "Pathways to God's Presence,” to deepen this understanding. Make sure to grab your full video course at https://www.gospelspice.com/pathways In the context of the intertestamental period, Malachi’s teachings reverberated through four hundred years until John the Baptist's emergence. Stephanie reminds us of historical insights, drawing parallels with significant events and figures like Alexander the Great and the Roman conquest, to contextualize Malachi’s message within the fabric of time. Through Malachi 4, God promises ultimate justice and restoration, symbolized by the "sun of righteousness." Here, the imagery of wings is a protective symbol throughout Scripture, which we will compare it to Jesus’ teachings. The notion of God’s impending judgment is juxtaposed with the promise of protection and healing for those who revere God’s name. In the context of the upcoming silence of four hundred years, God’s last words offer a solemn warning blended with hope. Through Jesus, who embodied the curse and offered grace, our path was paved for redemption. Malachi invites us to ponder whether we stand beneath the protective wings of the Savior, or risk facing the blazing sun of righteousness without His grace. Malachi today challenges us to live as messengers of faith, rooted in grace through Christ, and eager to spread God’s love. 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!
Stephanie Rousselle welcomes Elle Cardel, author of “She Delights”, a book about experiencing delight in God, even during seasons of suffering. Elle offers insight into cultivating deep faith, biblical joy, and intimacy with God. True delight in God is cultivated through deep engagement with Scripture, honest and continuous prayer, and a perspective of gratitude. The spiritual strength to endure hardship flows from knowing God delights in us, not for what we do, but because of Christ. The legacy the believer leaves is a testimony that “nothing satisfies like Jesus”—a lesson to pass on in both word and life. Elle Cardel emphasizes that shallow faith—one reliant on mere Sunday attendance, occasional Bible verses, or inspirational talks—cannot sustain us through life’s inevitable hardships. True resilience in faith comes from immersing ourselves in God’s Word, not just secondhand knowledge from others. Elle describes this as becoming “Bible geeks”—students eager to soak up the living and active Word of God so that, when suffering comes, our roots are deep, and we know God is with us. This depth equips us to see suffering as an environment where God delights to meet and transform us. Elle distinguishes joy from happiness. Happiness fluctuates with circumstances, whereas joy is a fruit of the Spirit and accessible to us at all times, especially when we choose it. Elle shares a deeply personal story about her daughter Selah’s medical crisis, during which Elle discovered that grief and joy can coexist. Through vulnerability and seeking God in her private pain, Elle experienced God’s palpable presence—realizing that delighting in God amid suffering is an act of worship, not the result of easy circumstances. Stephanie and Elle discuss the importance of savoring life—choosing to rejoice in what is, rather than fixating on what is not. They encourage us to approach life with the mindset of “savoring,” which, in French, connects closely to both delight and deliciousness. This means joy is something to be tasted and experienced, even in dark valleys, by recognizing God’s blessings and presence in small, everyday moments. Spiritual disciplines such as regular Bible reading and prayer should be established before crisis hits. These practices are like the roots of the tree in Psalm 1, deep and sustaining even in seasons of drought. Elle acknowledges that motivation may wane, but real change comes from choosing to meet God in His Word, pushing past feelings of laziness or intimidation, and allowing scripture to transform us over time—just as food nourishes the body slowly. Elle describes prayer as both lifeblood and lifeline—a means of connecting honestly with God. Prayer need not be formal or perfect; it’s about bringing every emotion and mundane task before God and seeking His presence in all aspects of life. She recommends practical habits like breath prayers and attaching prayer to daily activities, making prayer natural and constant. Elle stresses that all intimacy and delight with God are rooted not in performance, but in grace— through “imputed righteousness:” We are loved and delighted in by God because of what Jesus accomplished. Our spiritual effort doesn’t earn His acceptance; instead, we respond in joyful obedience out of gratitude for His love. Our identity as beloved children of God is secure in Christ. Delighting in God is not a shallow cliché. It is a sustaining, daily posture, rooted in His delight in us and nourished by intentional habits, steadfast faith, and the overwhelming grace found in Jesus. MORE ABOUT ELLE CARDEL Hi! I’m Elle Cardel (yep, it rhymes!), a sinner saved by God’s great redeeming love and grace, wife to my college sweetheart, Michael, and mother to our two little loves, Selah and Aidan! I was born and raised in the south and live in the heart of middle Tennessee with my family. (Although, some may find that hard to believe since I cannot stand the taste of sweet tea.) I’m a full-time coffee-sipper, word-writer, friend-hugger, book-reader, shower-singer, and DIY-dreamer. Most importantly, I delight in encouraging women of faith to be proactive in their pursuit of knowing God and delighting in the truths of His Word. I do not take this responsibility God has entrusted to me lightly. Needless to say, I’m so glad you are here and hope you will choose to stick around! https://www.daughterofdelight.com/who-we-are MORE ABOUT SHE DELIGHTS In a world that tempts us to chase after temporary joys and fleeting pleasures, the call to delight in the Lord remains firm and true. But what does it actually mean to delight in Him? And how can we cultivate a life that reflects that joy—even in the hardest seasons? She Delights: Cultivating a Heart That Reigns & Sustains is an invitation to experience the joy and strength found in abiding in Christ. Through biblical wisdom, personal reflections, and thought-provoking insights, this book will guide you toward a deeper understanding of what it means to live a life anchored in God's goodness. 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
In today’s Gospel Spice lesson, Stephanie Rousselle takes us on a historical journey to frame the Old and the New Testaments, the 400 years between Malachi’s time until the arrival of John the Baptist. This period, often referred to as the "intertestamental period," spans remarkable historical developments that are essential to understanding the world Jesus was born into. Imagine living in our day and age, but having no idea of what happened to our country, world, and culture in the last 400 years. Imagine that the latest “news” you have date back from the 1620’s or so. Would this affect our understanding of our day? In the same way, we cannot cut 400 years of Jewish history, and assume we lose nothing. Malachi delivered his message around 420BC; John the Baptist. Malachi’s successor called to “make a highway in the wilderness” to proclaim the arrival of Messiah, came onto the Judean scene in the 20’s AD. But Scripture is silent about this span of time. These "400 years of silence," as they are often called, were not so silent politically, religiously, and socially. By studying the events during this time, we gain insight into how the world was meticulously prepared for Jesus's arrival. While these events are not recorded in the Bible, they hold much significance to know Christ more. Beginning with Alexander the Great’s conquest in 333 BC, the world saw Greek culture and language take hold, influencing many aspects of life, including the translation of the Hebrew Old Testament into Greek, known as the Septuagint. This was pivotal, as it allowed for greater access to the Scriptures and laid the foundation for the New Testament to reference these texts. The era is ripe with hostile dynamics between the Hellenistic influences from Greece and the resistance that arose from the Jews, who sought to preserve their traditions. This tension is encapsulated in the Maccabean Revolt led by Judas Maccabeus, a significant event that ultimately led to the celebration of Hanukkah. Another important theme from this period is the rise of different Jewish sects, such as the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes. These groups played crucial roles in the religious landscape of Israel and were directly involved in the societal structure during Jesus’s time. These historical layers formed a backdrop against which God chose to reveal His Son. The development of Greek as a universal language and Roman infrastructure, like roads facilitating trade and communication, enabled the rapid spread of the Gospel. Our historical exploration ties to biblical prophecy, specifically how this time fits into Daniel’s prophecy of seventy weeks. This provides an eschatological perspective to the discussion. Understanding these details, as part of grasping the broader biblical narrative, challenges the modern tendency to focus solely on personal applicability of Scripture without considering its historical and theological context. Our lesson is an invitation to (re)discover this rich tapestry of history. We encourage you to use the Gospel Spice workbook and additional resources provided to further explore this period’s influence on Jesus’s earthly ministry and its legacy in the New Testament church. 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!
We all experience spiritual hunger or malnourishment at various points in our faith journey. On the Gospel Spice podcast, guest Lynn Jackson shares her story and offers practical wisdom on rekindling spiritual health through her book, The Recipe. Stephanie and Lynn explore how to find strength and closeness with God even in life’s hardest seasons—no matter how spiritually “hungry” or exhausted you might feel. If you feel spiritually weary, you are not alone—and it is not your fault. Start where you are. Open the “pantry” of God’s Bible and take a nibble. God’s Word isn’t reserved for the strong, but is nourishment for the hungry and the weak. With humility, honesty, and consistency, spiritual health is rebuilt one small bite at a time. And, as Lynn encourages, pass the “recipe” along: encourage others, share the method, and help one another discover God’s daily provision. BUY “THE RECIPE” HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Recipe-simple-workbook-spiritual-weary/dp/B0F7NCYG63 Here’s what Lynn and Stephanie discuss: 1. Understanding Spiritual Malnutrition Lynn Jackson begins by sharing her own background—growing up disconnected from God, despite church attendance, and later experiencing spiritual exhaustion as a pastor's wife. Her journey highlights that spiritual dryness isn’t unique to new believers; it affects mature Christians, too. The problem isn’t always a lack of desire, but feeling so weary, discouraged, or busy that opening the Bible itself feels impossible. Lynn discovered that many people in church are “starving” spiritually, even after years of faith. We need nourishment, but don’t know where to begin. 2. God’s Word as a Pantry—Verses as Spiritual Food Lynn describes the Bible as “God’s pantry,” full of nourishing verses—like shelves brimming with food and spices. Just as our bodies need regular meals, our souls need consistent spiritual “food.” Yet, many of us avoid the pantry, believing it’s inaccessible, overwhelming, or only for those with abundant time and energy. 3. The Importance of Taking “Spiritual Nibbles” A common misconception is that “good Christians” must spend hours in Bible study for it to count. Lynn challenges this, likening such expectations to serving someone a Thanksgiving feast when they need a simple piece of toast. If you’re malnourished or spiritually weak, feasting isn’t possible—you start with a nibble. The Recipe provides a gentle method to reconnect with Scripture, even when motivation and strength are low. Sometimes, reading and meditating on a single verse is enough. One “taste” of God’s Word can reawaken spiritual appetite and begin to strengthen your soul. 4. Permission to Be Messy Many avoid engaging with God because of perfectionism—thinking spiritual practices must be beautiful, well-organized, or profound. Lynn encourages the opposite: make a mess! She tells stories of scribbled journals and a “messy kitchen” as metaphors for the normal, chaotic process of spiritual growth. The goal is connection, not perfection. 5. The Practical Steps of The Recipe The book provides a four-week, hands-on guide. Rather than lectures, Lynn offers companionship—like inviting the reader into her kitchen to watch, then join, and finally lead in “preparing spiritual food.” The process is adaptable: maybe today you need a full meal, but other days, just a single “protein bite” (verse) to carry you through. PURCHASE “THE RECIPE” BY LYNN JACKSON Stephanie could not be clearer: she strongly, strongly invites you to purchase a copy of “the Recipe” for yourself, and maybe a few more to give away as gifts to friends and family! You will not regret it. https://www.amazon.com/Recipe-simple-workbook-spiritual-weary/dp/B0F7NCYG63 MORE ABOUT LYNN JACKSON https://journeylynn.com/about/ https://thrivelead.org/about/ Scott Jackson is the CEO & Co-Founder of Thrive Leadership Foundation. His wife, Lynn works alongside of him as Co-Founder and Partnership Development. Prior to co-founding THRIVE, they were Northeast Directors for Churches In Missions for 11 years. With CiM they trained and took teams on short term mission trips both here and abroad. Scott also served as Vice President of Administration. Prior to CiM, they served in the pastorate for 22 years at Warrington Fellowship Church in Warrington, Pennsylvania. Scott received his Bachelor Degree in Bible from Lancaster Bible College and his Masters of Divinity from Biblical Theological Seminary. Lynn received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from College of The Ozarks. Scott and Lynn have an extensive speaking ministry here and abroad. Their speaking ministries include: pulpit supply, retreats and conferences for Pastors and wives, church staff and retreats for men, women or couples as well as mission conferences. They enjoy speaking as a couple or individually. The Jacksons understand the terrain and mix of family life and answering the call of full time ministry. They have 4 adult children, 3 in-law children and 7 grandchildren. Scott and Lynn have been married for over 35 years and currently reside in Pennsburg, Pennsylvania. 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Welcome to our 4th episode in our “Malachi” series! Today we explore a rich conversation with God through the dynamics of divine justice and mercy, focusing on the relationship between God's unchanging nature and His offer of grace to humanity. Malachi offers both a picture of God’s judgment, targeting sins such as sorcery, adultery, and oppression, and at the same time, God declares His constancy, ensuring that humanity isn’t consumed. This paradox of divine justice and mercy is a central theme in the book of Malachi, since God's steadfast love is the foundation of our existence and redemption. God, speaking through Malachi, presents tithing as a practical expression of faith. Tithing symbolizes our dependence on God as an act of returning blessings back to Him. In Christ, tithing is not as a strict obligation, but a way to encourage a lifestyle of generosity and trust in God’s provision. Tithing is not about a precise percentage, but about the spirit of generosity that reflects our relationship with God. The people of Malachi’s time doubted the benefit of serving God, equating prosperity with divine favor. This prosperity gospel mindset, so prevalent in our own day and age, misses the true reward of intimacy with God, over and against mere material gain. Today, Malachi offers us a powerful reminder of God’s promise to His people, stating that those who fear Him and honor His name are cherished by Him. We come full circle when we connect Malachi’s message to its prophetic fulfillment through Jesus Christ, who offers the ultimate relationship and reward with God. Stephanie encourages reflection on this relationship and challenges us to align our actions with our faith, fostering a community that esteems God’s Name. Overall, the book of Malachi is about understanding the depth of God’s love and justice, encouraging us to return to God with open hearts, and recognizing the unparalleled reward of a close relationship with Him. Through Malachi's questions and answers, we are invited to explore our own faith, rooted and established in Christ. We are invited to seek God's presence and promises in our generation, in the context of historical Scripture. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Cindy DeBoer joins Stephanie to share her story of transformation—from living the American dream to pursuing a life of simplicity and deep faith. Cindy’s family motto sums it up best: “We chose to live simpler so that others can simply live.” Whether that means downsizing, shifting how you spend time, or offering your unique talents, the ultimate goal is the same—living in tune with God’s melody for your life, allowing Him to enrich and use you far beyond what the culture’s definition of “success” could offer. Cindy’s candid memoir offers practical lessons for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the relentless pursuit of “more” or sensing a disconnect between their faith and daily life. Cindy shares the story of her family choosing to live simpler so others can simply live. She asks, What does it look like to glorify God with our finances? In her new book, Far, far better things, she shares that, in the first 12 years of her marriage, she and her husband, although faithfully attending church and following Jesus as best they knew how, were still very focused on "getting ahead," building their bank account, striving to have the best of everything - including having the best house and the best kids. They pushed themselves nearly to the breaking point. She tells us what (who?) stopped that trajectory and got them to turn their lives around and specifically, start asking the question, "What if we lived what we say we believe?” From Success to Surrender: A Life Re-examined Cindy’s early adult life was marked by what her community celebrated as success: marriage to her high school sweetheart, good jobs, a dream house with luxury amenities, and busy, achievement-packed schedules for their four children. Despite following what seemed like a “formulaic path,” she and her husband felt empty and exhausted. Their faith, although present, was largely intellectual and routine—church attendance and mealtime prayers—but lacked genuine heart engagement. The turning point came when brave friends challenged them to question, “Where is God in all of this?” This gentle but persistent questioning—along with new friendships, books, and volunteer work—sparked a series of soul-searching prayers: Were they truly living out what they professed to believe? What might God be asking of them that they’d never considered? Small Steps Lead to Big Changes Change didn’t happen overnight. Cindy and her husband began with small, tangible acts of obedience, like reaching out to a homeless family from their child’s classroom—a move that transformed their understanding of compassion and shifted their mindset from “helper” to “learner.” These steps emboldened them to pursue adoption, welcoming a daughter from Guatemala. The process opened their eyes further to global poverty and injustice, stirring a passion for others that wouldn’t have developed in their comfortable status quo. A defining lesson came as they downsized their home—moving from their “dream house” to the “little brown mansion.” This reduction in material possessions brought unexpected peace and joy, as it freed up energy, time, and resources for giving and serving. Most importantly, Cindy observed the positive impact such choices had on their children, making them more resilient, empathetic, and adept at hearing God’s voice. The Heart of the Lesson: Simplicity Isn’t Poverty—It’s Purpose Cindy insists her story isn’t prescriptive—not everyone is called to move overseas or adopt a child. Instead, her encouragement is this: Hold your life loosely before God. Ask the courageous question: “Am I truly living what I say I believe?” Trust that God honors even the smallest steps of faith. Simplicity, as Cindy has learned, is not about deprivation, but about creating space for what truly matters—intimacy with God, sacrificial community, and authentic love for others. Cindy’s family motto sums it up best: “We chose to live simpler so that others can simply live.” Whether that means downsizing, shifting how you spend time, or offering your unique talents, the ultimate goal is the same—living in tune with God’s melody for your life, allowing Him to enrich and use you far beyond what the culture’s definition of “success” could offer. Key Takeaways: · True transformation often starts with honest self-reflection, hard questions, and small acts of obedience. · Simplifying life creates freedom—to serve, give, and connect with God and others more deeply. · God’s blessings are not just material or circumstantial—they are rooted in intimacy with Him and being part of His work in the world. · Every step towards living out your faith, no matter how small, can create ripples of hope, change, and fulfillment. Let Cindy’s story be an invitation: dare to ask what God might want to do with your “ordinary” life, and trust that His far, far better things await, one simple step at a time. ABOUT “FAR FAR BETTER THINGS” What happens when you’ve reached all your earthly goals and you’re only twenty-eight years old? What if you’ve realized the American Dream, and although you’re pretty confident it’s all a big blessing from Jesus, you still feel miserably lacking in purpose and fulfillment? What makes a reasonably well-off American Christian family walk away from their perfectly scripted life—prestigious careers, dream home, lake house, nice cars, kids’ sports, frequent travel, perfect church, tons of family and friends—and follow God to the ends of the earth? How would any young family have the courage to leave all the things the world tells us to strive for and instead choose a life of intentional simplifying, serial downsizing, and two major moves overseas? Cindy’s memoir chronicles their family’s unorthodox Christian journey that began as a result of praying in earnest: “Lord, help us to live what we say we believe.” Follow along as the DeBoers, a typical average suburban family, finds the courage to subvert a safe and comfortable life for a risky and riotous ride that led them to far, far better things. Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Far-Better-Things-Surrendering-American/dp/1625863128/ Get a signed copy directly from Cindy: https://cindydeboer.com/the-book/ ABOUT CINDY DEBOER Cindy DeBoer is a blogger, psychiatric nurse, and recovering “un-missionary.” She and her husband, Paul, are passionate about demystifying Islam for Christians, working with development organizations in Central America, and partnering with several local ministries that serve under-resourced people. Today, living in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, they delight in their four grown children, three children-in-love, two grandchildren, and the ability to walk everywhere—especially to their small community church (back in the Reformed tradition!) just six blocks away. More at https://cindydeboer.com/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
For this third lesson in our series, Stéphanie Rousselle invites us back into the book of Malachi, exploring its lively conversation between God and the Israelites. She likens the dialogue to a "ping pong, tennis match" that embodies a series of question-and-answer exchanges, both from God and His people. This format inspires reflections on the nature of prayer as an honest and open dialogue with God. You are invited to purchase the workbook that contains everything you need to take your experience of the Book of Malachi deeper! For each of the six lessons, you will find a complete listening guide, questions to go deeper (on your own, with a friend, or a group), as well as a worksheet to study further themes. Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/malachi for more. The book of Malachi teaches us about the depth and authenticity required in prayer. It challenges us to ask hard questions, ones that reveal our true desires and convictions, paralleling the Israelites who inquire about justice and God's presence in difficult times. This lesson focuses on understanding these questions within the context of Malachi chapters two and three. A key point discussed is the Israelites' question about justice, "Where is the God of justice?" This is a pivotal inquiry situated within a broader narrative of self-awareness and repentance among the Israelites. They grapple with topics such as their faithlessness, particularly in the context of divorce, which Scripture frames as a profound societal betrayal within their culture. Stéphanie draws connections between the book of Malachi and other Old or New Testament teachings, such as those found in Micah and Romans, highlighting themes of justice, grace, and God's redemptive love through Christ. The Israelites, through their treacherous actions towards one another, reveal a deeper spiritual unfaithfulness to God. The prophetic role of Malachi points to John the Baptist, the latter of whom prepares the way for Jesus, the ultimate messenger. We are invited to consider our own calling as modern-day messengers of God, akin to John the Baptist, as we share the gospel and prepare for Christ's return. Stéphanie discusses the contrast between justice and grace, illustrating that while justice, in its purest form, would condemn us, it is through grace, offered by Jesus, that we are saved. This grace is of utmost importance in the spiritual life, echoed through Scripture and the personal prayers of faith leaders like King David. Closing, in prayer Stéphanie asks for a renewed sense of gratitude and reverence for God’s grace and for guidance to be faithful messengers of His word, underlining a central message of the book of Malachi: finding the God of grace in Christ and extending His message of redemption to the world. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
This episode marks a milestone—400 episodes of Gospel Spice! In this special group conversation, Stéphanie Rousselle welcomes Angel Omoruan, Ros Evans, and Lindsay Sterious to reflect on God’s enduring goodness, the landscape of inner growth, and the beauty of vulnerability within Christian community. Stephanie and her friends reflect on the importance of serving “the one,” being open to “hidden spaces” where ministry might not be grand but is deeply significant. God’s presence is not limited to moments of solitude or to times of communal support. Both are necessary, and God moves in each. Big announcement! Sign up for our Prayer Course at gospelspice.com/prayer The Power of Community: The “Turtle Formation” Ros kicks things off by revisiting her journey toward understanding her true nature as an introvert. Despite often appearing energetic and talkative, she recognizes that she draws strength from solitude. She introduces the term “turtling”—retreating inward to recharge. Introversion isn’t a weakness or escape, but a necessary, God-given rhythm for many. The “turtle formation” provides a picture of believers locking arms, forming a shield for one another in times of attack or weakness. Lindsay and Ros share stories of community prayer sustaining them in difficulty. Ros notes, “find the people who are willing to turtle with you…that is needed to stand firm in truth.” “Turtling” can become unhealthy when it turns into disengagement and numbness. While retreating is sometimes needed for healing and reflection, it must be balanced with healthy connection to God and others. In prolonged withdrawal, we risk isolation and disconnection from the very relationships that God uses for our spiritual growth. God’s Lessons through Life Transitions and Challenges Angel relates to Ros’s introversion, recounting how recent life changes exposed emotions she hadn’t faced before. Like Ros, she found that retreating—turtling—was partly God’s way of protecting her and prompting introspection. However, she also describes God’s gentle promptings to re-engage with others, learn to lament, extend grace, and embrace vulnerability. Angel brings in the “turtle formation” used by Roman soldiers. This image of locked shields captures how Christian community can protect and carry one another. There’s wisdom in both knowing when to retreat for healing and when to rejoin the ranks for mutual encouragement. Community as Spiritual Armor Lindsay adds her own testimony of being “carried” by her community through a difficult season involving her daughter’s health. She describes a profound experience of being prayed for—allowing herself to be vulnerable, supported, and reminded that the body of Christ is meant to shield one another. This spiritual “turtle formation” is a source of strength, comfort, and tangible experience of God’s care. The Value of Vulnerability Angel reflects on the difficulty—and gift—of being vulnerable, especially when God calls us to serve. She shares that being present and obedient in the small, unnoticed moments often becomes a blessing, not only for others, but for ourselves. By being honest, especially when we struggle, we open space for God to work uniquely through us. Ros sums it up: “when you know the Holy Spirit has you at a place in a moment, you forget about everything…and by the time I finish, the person's getting blessed and I'm getting blessed too.” Stephanie highlights how we often wait for “big” moments, but Jesus values our faithfulness in serving the “one”—whether a child, a mentee, or a congregation member. She remarks, “let's just focus on what really, really matters,” echoing the importance of focusing on small daily acts of love and service. God in the Quiet and in the Crowd The Christian walk is not about perfection, but humility, honesty, and interdependence. Whether you’re serving quietly, struggling privately, or standing “in turtle formation” with others, God sees, sustains, and works through it all. Be encouraged to walk vulnerably, faithfully, and together. Key Takeaways: Embrace your God-given temperament (introvert or extrovert). Healthy retreats (“turtling”) are vital, but must be balanced with intentional connection. Vulnerability—within safe community—unveils God’s love and the power of prayer. Spiritual battles are not fought alone; we lock shields through fellowship and humility. God uses both quiet moments and community engagement to reveal His goodness and grace. Challenge: This week, ask God where you might need a healthy retreat—and where you might need to step back into community to “lock shields” with others. Practice vulnerable honesty, and remember that God is present both in your shell and on the battlefield. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Stephanie Rousselle welcomes back author and speaker Katie Reid. They dive into practical faith lessons rooted in Katie’s Bible study, God, What Do I Do?, which explores the first five chapters of Judges—a book that surprisingly offers deep insights for navigating life’s uncertainties. Transitions—graduations, moves, empty nesting—often prompt us to ask, “God, what do I do?” Katie Reid begins with the importance of remembering God’s past faithfulness. Just as God’s people in Scripture set up literal memorial stones to help future generations recall His mighty works, we’re called to do the same in our own way. When facing the unknown, look back: Has God ever provided when you couldn’t see the way forward? Remembering builds faith for the present and the future. Katie offers a practical tip: Share stories of God’s provision with your family or community. This strengthens everyone’s faith and creates a culture of expectation for God’s continued faithfulness. A common misconception is that God’s rules are restrictive. However, the Book of Judges and Katie’s personal example remind us that God’s guidance is meant for our protection and ultimate freedom. Just as parents warn children out of love, God sets boundaries to spare us unnecessary pain and lead us to fuller life. Katie invites us: Consider a time you resisted God’s leading, only to discover later that His way was truly for your good. In Judges 1, the Israelites start out strong in obeying God, but falter when they encounter intimidating obstacles (“iron chariots”). Katie shares from her own experience—facing a daunting move to Florida without knowing all the details—that sometimes God asks us to walk forward in faith before providing the full picture. Partial obedience or giving in to intimidation can rob us of experiencing God’s best. Katie suggests, Ask yourself: What are your “iron chariots”—those fears or obstacles tempting you to stop short? Where might God be inviting you to complete, not just partial, obedience? Prayer is our lifeline, especially in confusing times. The Israelites often forgot to inquire of the Lord, leading to trouble. Katie urges that “SOS prayers” (“God, help!”) are not only acceptable, but powerful. Lean into God honestly—He delights in our dependence, not our performance. So, in moments of overwhelm, pause and simply pray. No fancy words needed. Dependence is what God desires. Both obedience and disobedience set ripples in motion for generations. Testifying—sharing what God has done—points others to His ongoing goodness. Judges 5 models this with a “testimony song,” celebrating God’s victories. Here’s an idea: Write down or verbally share a recent “God moment” with a friend or family member. The Book of Judges isn’t just a cautionary tale; it’s an invitation to deeper trust and practical obedience. Remember what God has done, trust His commands, move forward in faith—even without all the answers—and don’t be afraid to cry out honestly in prayer. Celebrate small wins, and share what God is doing. This is how uncertain times become seasons of spiritual growth and fresh clarity. Throughout the study, Katie invites us to apply these lessons in our transitions, decisions, and daily walk, trusting that God leads, remembers, and is always faithful. Stephanie mentions the Gospel Spice course “In the Footsteps of Jesus” which take you right into First-Century Israel to experience Jesus like never before. More here: https://www.gospelspice.com/footsteps - make sure to sign up to receive the first lesson for free! MORE ABOUT KATIE REID Katie M. Reid is a Bible teacher, author, and podcaster. Trained in education, Katie teaches around her kitchen table, in the classroom, and around the country. She cohosts The Martha + Mary Show and runs the Martha + Mary Show Sisterhood group on Facebook. Katie is a pastor's wife and worship leader. Following Jesus, marrying her husband, and being a mom to five are the best decisions she's made. Find Katie at http://katiemreid.com/ MORE ABOUT THE BIBLE STUDY “GOD, WHAT DO I DO?” Uncertainty about the future--even the very next step--can keep you from making important decisions and cause you to second-guess every decision you do make. You may feel pressured by others to act before you're ready. You just want to be sure that each choice is the right one. But how do you know? And what if you're wrong? Drawing from the story of the Israelites during the time of Deborah and other early judges, Bible teacher Katie M. Reid shows you how to move forward in times of transition and trial when you don't know what to do and God's voice seems silent. Through timeless truths mined from Scripture, personal stories, and accessible study questions, you'll learn six simple guiding principles to help you make good decisions with confidence and clear-headed focus. As you journey through this study, you'll find a sense of peace in decision-making you never thought possible--even when the stakes are high and life feels overwhelming. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Welcome to our journey through the book of Malachi, and specifically, lesson two of this six-part series. This lesson focuses on the challenging question, how do we respond when God confronts us with uncomfortable truths? Malachi's message wasn't easy for the Israelites who received it, as God accused them of despising Him. The crucial question we explore is: "Lord, how have we despised you?" Despising, in this context, means dishonoring God, which is the opposite of what we were created to do. We must self-reflect to ensure we're not unknowingly guilty of this offense. You are invited to purchase the workbook that contains everything you need to take your experience of the Book of Malachi deeper! For each of the six lessons, you will find a complete listening guide, questions to go deeper (on your own, with a friend, or a group), as well as a worksheet to study further themes. Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/malachi for more. We will focus heavily on the concept of the "Lord's table," a term used to describe the sacrificial altar in Malachi's time, but for us in Christ today, it represents the communion, or Eucharist. The Israelites were reprimanded for offering blemished and stolen sacrifices, reflecting their lukewarm devotion. This challenges us to examine the quality of our own offerings to God and whether we're fully honoring Him in our lives, in Christ through the Holy Spirit. Taking communion should be an act of sincerity and reverence. We must avoid taking it lightly or infrequently, as that's akin to despising God's hospitality. Approaching the Lord’s table requires self-examination to avoid judgment. It's not just about receiving but giving ourselves to God in gratitude. In Malachi's time, the priests were supposed to be gatekeepers of the temple, ensuring proper offerings were made. However, they were complicit in the people's unfaithfulness. This serves as a warning for us since, in Christ, we're all part of a royal priesthood. We're reminded of our responsibility to honor God with our best, engaging in lives of qualitative generosity. We also talk about the dangers of theological arrogance, encouraging us to approach mysteries of faith with humility. Misunderstanding or despising the Lord's table isn't just a personal error, but it can lead to broader consequences for our community and ourselves, as evidenced by Paul's warnings to the Corinthians. God always intertwines His rebukes with hope and grace, and nowhere more than in Christ Jesus, our Savior and King. Despite His people's failures, He offers a path back to Him, emphasizing His desire for sincere worship and devotion. The message from Malachi remains relevant, inviting us to rediscover the joy of truly honoring God in all aspects of our lives. We conclude with a prayer, asking for humility and repentance where we've failed to honor God as He deserves. By recognizing and addressing these areas, we're given the opportunity to mature in faith and deepen our relationship with Him, reflecting His glory in our lives. Amen! 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Stephanie welcomes back author Margaret Feinberg to explore Margaret’s journey to better understand and personally experience the Holy Spirit, and share insights about how God’s Spirit works in our everyday lives. Margaret’s new book, "The God you need to know” invites us into a deep dive in the Person and Work of God’s Holy Spirit. Many people think the Holy Spirit first appeared in Acts 2 (Pentecost), yet the Spirit has been active throughout the whole Bible. In the Old Testament, the Spirit is present from the very beginning, hovering over the waters in Genesis. The Holy Spirit empowers people in many diverse ways, such as giving wisdom to artisans like Bezalel or clothing Gideon with courage. Realizing this deepens our appreciation of God’s ongoing presence and reminds us that spiritual experiences aren’t limited to the extraordinary—they are woven throughout the ordinary. Margaret says, the story of the Spirit didn’t start at Pentecost, and it doesn’t only happen in dramatic moments. Where might you miss the Spirit at work in your daily routines? Margaret describes her research into how people experience the Holy Spirit, and discovered that there is no “cookie-cutter” approach. Some feel a nudge or inner voice, others recall Scripture, some sense physical warmth, and others have dreams or receive guidance in mundane activities. The Holy Spirit’s creativity matches our unique personalities and learning styles. Together, Margaret and Stephanie wonder, How might God communicate with you in a way that matches your temperament? Are you overlooking His voice because you expect it to look a certain way? Margaret expands the definition of miracles from the spectacular to “the kindness of God on display.” She shares examples like God guiding someone home when lost or prompting a generous act. Sometimes miracles are obvious, but often, like at the wedding in Cana, they remain hidden to many—yet are miraculous all the same. So, together, they ask, What small moments in your life might be God’s quiet miracles—His kindness breaking into your routine? Drawing from the story of Bezalel, Margaret points out the Spirit’s role in empowering creativity. Making art, plans, connections, and even daily tasks can be inspired by God. We’re all invited to “make” with the Spirit’s inspiration, whether it’s a beautiful loaf of bread or a supportive friendship. She prompts us to wonder, What is God inviting you to create or offer today? Margaret encourages us to pray simple prayers for the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance daily—paying attention to coincidences, inspirations, or “nudges.” While engaging with the Spirit may seem mysterious or even intimidating, it leads to freedom, peace, and transformation. She challenges each one of us: For the next week, ask, “Holy Spirit, help me notice Your presence today.” Journal what you sense, feel, or notice—especially in small ways. The Holy Spirit is alive and active—sometimes dramatic, often gentle, always personal. By lifting our expectations and slowing down to notice, we can discover God’s kindness in new places and learn to walk more closely with Him, trusting that He meets us right where we are. Embrace God today, the God you need to know! MEET MARGARET FEINBERG Margaret Feinberg, one of America’s most beloved Bible teachers, speaks at churches and conferences. Her books, including Taste and See and Fight Back With Joy, along with their corresponding Bible studies, have sold more than one million copies and received critical acclaim and national media coverage from the Associated Press, USA Today, the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, and more. She was named by Christianity Today as one of fifty women most shaping culture and the church today. Margaret savors life with her husband, Leif, and their superpup, Zoom. Zoom makes an appearance in the interview on Gospel Spice, and you can catch him on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice Now that you’ve read the official bio, here’s the kick off your shoes and drink iced tea on the back porch version: Margaret spends most mornings with her good friends Coffee and God. Without Coffee, mornings would be difficult. Without God, life would be impossible. You’ll often find Margaret (puppy-in-tow) adventuring outdoors—she enjoys hiking, river rafting, and scanning the night sky for the Northern Lights and shooting stars. She boasts an exceptionally dry sense of humor that she attributes to her Jewish father. Little known secret: He was recently inducted into the Surfer’s Hall of Fame, and her mom earned her captain’s license for 60-ton ships. They’re pretty amazing. You’d like them. Married to Leif for more than a decade, Margaret’s known for losing things like her sunglasses on her head, keys in her hand, or her phone for the 12th time in the same day. Luckily, Zoom hasn’t been left anywhere… yet. Always up for an adventure, Margaret is known to drive 50 miles to chase down a food truck. She prefers watching comedies and laughing until her tummy aches over doing sit ups. More about Margaret here: https://margaretfeinberg.com/ ABOUT “THE GOD YOU NEED TO KNOW” Discover answers to your biggest questions about the Holy Spirit--and invite the Spirit to move in your life in powerful, real, tangible ways. The topic of the Holy Spirit can be…well, spirited…and one that sparks passionate discussion, especially among the most devout religious circles. What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit? Are spiritual gifts still relevant today? Was the move of the Holy Spirit reserved for a specific age in history – or is the Spirit active now? The book traces Margaret’s personal search for the Holy Spirit’s work in her own life, rooted in childhood experiences and theological study. She unpacks the Spirit’s role in the lives of biblical figures like Gideon, David, Ezekiel, and Bezalel, showing how God’s presence has never been limited to a single moment in history. “Over the last few years, I’ve embarked on a deep exploration of the Holy Spirit prior to Pentecost, Margaret writes. “When we simply skip forward to the displays of the Spirit at Pentecost, we miss the faithful ways the Spirit of the Living God has been present and active with people throughout history. That’s why we must explore the Holy Spirit on the road to Pentecost. The Spirit is not just the God we want to know; this is the God we need to know.” Everyone has questions about the Holy Spirit. If faith in Jesus provides my connection to God, then what role does the Holy Spirit play? How is the Spirit part of my day-to-day relationship with Christ? And why doesn't the Spirit's work play out in my life the way it seems to in the Bible? Why do other believers seem to have a connection to the Spirit, and I don't? Even longtime Jesus followers can feel stymied and confused. In The God You Need to Know, Margaret Feinberg, the bestselling author of Fight Back with Joy and Scouting the Divine, takes you on a journey through the Old Testament on the road to Pentecost to find answers to your burning questions about the Spirit. You will discover: The Spirit still working powerfully in unexpected places How to respond to spiritual promptings that often go ignored A deeper understanding of the Spirit's role in biblical events, especially the Old Testament How to encounter the Holy Spirit in fresh and practical ways Spiritual renewal through companionship with God The Holy Spirit's appearance on the Day of Pentecost was not a grand debut; it was the culmination of the Spirit's work since the beginning of time. You can experience a vibrant life with the same powerful flame. It's time to discover the God you need to know. 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Welcome to "Messenger to Messiah," our exploration of the timeless message of Malachi on the Gospel Spice podcast. In this first lesson of our six-part series, Stephanie Rousselle, our teacher, walks us through the timely relevance of the Book of Malachi for our contemporary generation. Our series aims to dive into the intricacies of Malachi's message, with an emphasis on its pertinence to today's societal landscape. Stephanie approaches this study with humility and the hope that it serves you meaningfully! You are invited to purchase the workbook that contains everything you need to take your experience of the Book of Malachi deeper! For each of the six lessons, you will find a complete listening guide, questions to go deeper (on your own, with a friend, or a group), as well as a worksheet to study further themes. Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/malachi for more. And BONUS! We're giving you all the workbook content for THIS EPISODE, the first in the series, completely for FREE! Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/malachi to download it as our gift to you. The Book of Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, addresses the pressing question, "Lord, how have you loved us?" This question, emerging from a context of hardship and perceived abandonment, resonates with the existential uncertainties we often face. This inquiry transcends time, mirroring our own struggles to see God's love during difficult times. Malachi's name, meaning "my messenger," underscores the significant role of his prophecy. The etymology of the name is echoed in Malachi’s life, calling and message. Its implications draw parallels between earthly and angelic messengers throughout the Old Testament. We are also offered a detailed historical backdrop, mapping the trajectory from Moses through the judges, kings, and the era of Babylonian exile, leading to the restoration under leaders like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah. This historical perspective enriches our understanding of Malachi's audience—people who had endured a tumultuous past yet stood at the cusp of spiritual revival. Malachi interprets the juxtaposition of God's love for Jacob and rejection of Esau. The discourse around love ('ahav' in Hebrew) emphasizes God’s unwavering choices and the perceived enmity of Esau’s lineage, the Edomites, against Israel. In looking forward, Malachi's prophecy foreshadows the role of messengers like John the Baptist, preparing the way for Jesus, who is the ultimate Messenger. This anticipation reflects our own call to serve as messengers in the world today, spreading God’s love and laying the groundwork for spiritual awakening in the Name of Jesus, our Christ and King. Stephanie concludes by encouraging us to recognize God’s love in both blessings and adversities. She challenges us to list God’s blessings, seeing His hand in every circumstance, much like Paul’s thorn that became an opportunity for divine glorification. This series is an invitation to embrace the words of Malachi not merely as historical accounts, but as vibrant truths applicable in our lives. Malachi urges us to become aware of our roles as God’s messengers today. You are invited to journey with us through this series and to seek to understand how God’s love permeates every aspect of our existence. 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Stéphanie welcomes Ann and Dave Wilson, the hosts of global ministry and syndicated radio show FamilyLife, to discuss key insights from their decades of marriage and ministry. The title of their new book says it all: "How to speak life to your husband when all you want to do is yell at him." What if one small shift—like choosing encouragement over criticism—could change the tone of your whole marriage? Real people in real relationships have real problems, but with God’s help, you can heal and sustain your marriage for a lifetime. The Wilsons, through vulnerability and wisdom, highlight how Christian spouses—particularly wives, though the lessons are universal—can profoundly impact their marriages by transforming their mindset and the words they speak. Recognizing Shifting Cultural Dynamics Ann shares that over 45 years of marriage and ministry, she’s observed a cultural shift. Dissatisfaction and unrest in marriages seem more common, with a tendency for spouses—especially wives—to see their partners as adversaries or projects for improvement. Ann notes the escalation of negative speech and a belief that critiques or reminders will motivate change. In reality, frequent criticism often demotivates the other partner. The Power of Words A pivotal story shared by Ann involves her realization that her well-intended feedback sounded like constant “booing” to Dave. Ann genuinely believed her critiques would help Dave become a better husband, father, and man. However, after an honest conversation and prayer, Ann discovered that her negative words were discouraging him more than anything. This revelation led her to a critical self-examination and a commitment to use her words to encourage rather than to correct. The Path from Critique to Affirmation Ann’s journey involved asking God for conviction—not condemnation—and humbly examining her attitude. She confronted her own pride, recognizing the difference between thinking "I failed" (which God forgives and restores) and "I am a failure" (which is condemnation and shame). With this shift, she chose to focus on what was good and praiseworthy in Dave, believing that God calls spouses to be each other’s chief encouragers. The Science Behind Positive Illusion Ann references Dr. Helene Fisher’s research, which found that happy, long-term marriages are characterized by a “positive illusion”—focusing on what you like about your spouse, intentionally rewiring your mindset to notice and affirm the good. This is supported by brain science and aligns with biblical instructions about renewing your mind. Practical Outworking and Challenges Practically, Ann began to express gratitude and appreciation—starting with simple thanks for Dave’s hard work. Dave testifies that these words of encouragement were more powerful than any affirmation he received elsewhere. This shift motivated him to grow into the person Ann saw in him. A Revolution of Respect and Gratitude Ann frames this approach as a “rebellion” against a culture that devalues respect. By choosing respect and gratitude—whether verbally, in writing, or through a daily journal—wives can breathe life and hope into their husbands, families, and homes. Dave affirms that authentic encouragement, rather than critique, draws men toward home and transforms family culture. The God-Given Power of Influence Through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, any spouse can become a speaker of life in marriage. This transformation is not about being passive or suppressing truth but about courageously choosing love, hope, and affirmation as radical acts of faith—ultimately reflecting God’s heart for us. How might shifting from critique to encouragement change the atmosphere in your closest relationships? What step can you take today to practice the “positive illusion” in your marriage or family? ABOUT THE BOOK “HOW TO SPEAK LIFE TO YOUR HUSBAND WHEN ALL YOU WANT TO DO IS YELLE AT HIM” Discover the marriage you’ve always hoped for. With practical tools to help you communicate more effectively, you’ll learn to speak the language of love and grace that will encourage and strengthen your husband at every turn. Buy the book here: https://shop.familylife.com/product/how-to-speak-life-to-your-husband-when-all-you-want-to-do-is-yell-at-him/ Ann Wilson spent more than a decade longing for a better marriage and for her husband to be more attentive, more involved, more helpful, and just all-around better. And every chance she got, she told him so. Where she thought she was being helpful, she was instead badgering him with constant critiques until all he heard was, “Boo! Boo!” when they were together. It almost broke their marriage. But Ann discovered the power that God has given wives. No matter how long you’ve been married, you don’t need to spend another minute hoping and wishing for things to be different. They can! And the power is in your hands. In this motivating, honest new book, Ann–marriage coach and bestselling author with her husband, Dave–shares how she breathed new life into her marriage by stewarding one of the most powerful gifts believers inherit from the Creator: encouragement. God has given wives a superpower to influence their husbands and homes, and you can use that power to build up and encourage your man to be a better husband, father, and man of God while still speaking truth to him. Relatable, encouraging, biblical, and funny, Ann shares stories from her own life, as well as valuable insights from Scripture, to help you: · Address the ways you process and justify your communication patterns · Seek spiritual and relational (re)alignment with both your husband and God · Learn to exercise self-control and demonstrate radical grace in conversations with your husband · Begin to cheer more than boo–in a way that isn’t put on, fake, or inauthentic · Learn to speak truth in a way your husband can really hear you · And, ultimately, cultivate a grace-based marriage that thrives · Real people in real relationships have real problems, but with God’s help, you can heal and sustain your marriage for a lifetime. MORE ABOUT ANN AND DAVE WILSON Dave and Ann Wilson are hosts of FamilyLife Today®, FamilyLife's nationally-syndicated radio program on more than 1,300 radio outlets in all 50 states. They are also cofounders of Kensington Church, a national, multi-campus church that hosts more than 14,000 attendees every weekend. Since 1993, they have been featured speakers at FamilyLife’s Weekend to Remember® marriage getaways and have also hosted their own marriage conferences across the country. The Wilsons live in the Detroit area where Dave served as the Detroit Lions chaplain for 33 years. Dave and Ann have three grown sons, CJ, Austin, and Cody, as well as three daughters-in-law and four grandchildren. 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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
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!
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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
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/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from