So Much More: Scripture Meditation (Lectio Divina)

In this final meditation of the Fully Known, Fully Loved series, we return to the very heart of the gospel: God’s love. Through the familiar but powerful words of John 3:16–18—read from The Message—we’re reminded that God didn’t send Jesus to accuse or condemn, but to rescue. To restore. To love. Whether you’ve known Jesus for decades or are still exploring what faith means, this meditation invites you to slow down and let the truth of God’s extravagant love settle deeply into your soul. In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll be invited to:• Reflect on how you first came to know Jesus• Thank God for the people who led you to Him• Lift up someone you’re praying for who doesn’t yet know Christ• Rest in the truth that you are fully known and still fully loved Let the words of this passage remind you:God loves you deeply, completely, and eternally. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for the Fully Known, Fully Loved series hereThis journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Passage: John 3:16–18, The Message TranslationThis is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again.Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When joy feels hard to find, pause for a few moments and pray. This short Advent prayer for joy will help you breathe deeply, refocus your heart, and remember the joy Jesus brings. Even in the middle of life’s mix of joy and sorrow, His presence remains steady.Take a deep breath and rest in the joy that comes from being with Him. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Advent here.This beautiful guide includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you   Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Advent invites us to slow down, quiet our hearts, and prepare for the coming of Christ.In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll reflect on Scripture and rest in God’s presence as you anticipate the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Be Still: Advent Meditations for Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love helps you create space in this busy season to experience the presence of Christ and the peace, hope, and joy He brings. Download your FREE Advent Guide here. This week, we focus on joy—the joy Jesus brought when He came to earth and the joy we will experience in fullness when He comes again. Our passage today, Psalm 16:8–11, is a prayer of trust and safekeeping. As you meditate, you’ll be invited to keep your eyes on God, rest secure in His presence, and remember that lasting joy is found in Him alone. Take a few quiet moments today to be still and let the Lord fill you with His joy. Helpful Links:Download your FREE Be Still Advent guide here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you   Find out more information and purchase the Guided Retreat at https://www.jodieniznik.com/guided-retreat Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Scripture: Psalm 16:8–11 (NIV) 8 I keep my eyes always on the LORD.With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;my body also will rest secure,10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead,nor will you let your faithful one see decay.11 You make known to me the path of life;you will fill me with joy in your presence,with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This short Advent prayer for peace will help you breathe deeply, release what you’re carrying, and remember that Jesus came to bring peace. Peace with God.Peace within yourself.And peace with others. Take a deep breath and rest in His presence today. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Advent here.This beautiful guide includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you   Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Advent invites us to slow down, quiet our hearts, and prepare for the coming of Christ.In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll reflect on Scripture and rest in God’s peace as you anticipate the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Be Still: Advent Meditations for Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love helps you create space in this busy season to experience the presence of Christ and the peace He brings.Download your FREE Advent Guide here. This week, we focus on peace—the peace Jesus came to bring.Peace with God.Peace within ourselves.And peace with one another. In this meditation, we’ll move slowly through several short passages that remind us of the peace Jesus offers—peace that’s not the absence of trouble but the presence of His Spirit with us in the midst of it.Take a few quiet moments today to be still and let His peace settle over you. Helpful Links:Download your FREE Be Still Advent guide here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Scriptures Read in This Meditation Luke 2:13–14 (NIV)Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” John 14:27 (NIV)Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 16:33 (NIV)I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. Revelation 21:3–4 (NIV)“Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them.They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This Advent season can be full and hurried, which is exactly why we need moments to pause and be still with God. In this short, guided prayer, you’ll return to Psalm 62:5–8, the passage from this week’s meditation on hope. Together, we’ll breathe deeply, rest in God’s presence, and ask Him to renew our hope—trusting that the One who came once will come again. Take a few quiet minutes to center your soul on Jesus and let His peace steady you today. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Advent here.This beautiful guide includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you   Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Scripture: Psalm 62:5–8 (NIV) 5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.7 My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.8 Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Advent invites us to slow down, quiet our hearts, and prepare for the coming of Christ.In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll reflect on Scripture and rest in God’s peace as you anticipate the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Be Still: Advent Meditations for Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love helps you create space in this busy season to experience the presence of Christ and the peace He brings. Download your FREE Advent Guide here. The first week of Advent, we focus on hope—the hope we have because Jesus came once and the hope we hold because He will come again.In Psalm 62, David reminds his own soul to rest and trust in God alone. As you meditate on these verses, you’ll be invited to do the same—to find rest, peace, and renewed hope in the God who keeps His promises. Because this season can be hectic, I’ll release a short guided prayer each Wednesday during Advent to help you pause midweek and stay grounded in God’s peace. If you loved the music this week, it was used by permission of the artist Simon Wester. You can find more of his excellent music on Spotify here. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Advent here.This beautiful guide includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Scripture: Psalm 62:5–8 (NIV) 5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.7 My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.8 Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This Christian Scripture meditation is the final episode in our 12-Step meditation journey. While the first 12 meditations followed the steps directly, this last one serves as a benediction—a blessing and prayer to carry with you as you continue your journey of transformation with God. Paul prayed Ephesians 3:16–21 over the church in Ephesus, and today we pray them for ourselves. They remind us that we are strengthened by the Spirit, rooted and grounded in love, and carried forward by God’s power to do more than we could ever ask or imagine. In this guided Lectio Divina meditation, you’ll be invited to: Trust God more deeply Thank Him for how He’s revealed His love to you Ask Him boldly for what you need Rest in the truth that He can do more than you could ask or think As you listen, may you be reminded that God’s love is your foundation, His Spirit is your strength, and His power is more than enough for whatever lies ahead. If this series has blessed you, would you take a moment to pass it on to someone else who might benefit? Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Passage:  Ephesians 3:16–21, NLTI pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This Scripture meditation on Matthew 5:14–16 uses the lectio divina model to help you pause, breathe, and listen for God’s voice. Step 12 of the 12 Steps invites us to live out the hope and healing we’ve received and to share it with others. It says, Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others and to practice these principles in all our affairs. When we experience the transforming grace of Jesus, the natural response is to let it overflow and share it with others. Or as Jesus said, “Freely you received, freely give.” In this meditation, we’ll reflect on Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount, where He calls His followers the light of the world. Even the smallest light can break through darkness, and God’s invitation is simply to shine the light He has already placed within you. As you listen, you’ll be invited to: Reflect on what it means to be a light in the world. Notice how God may be calling you to share His hope and love. Rest in the truth that your light is enough, because it comes from Him. Take a deep breath, quiet your heart, and let Matthew 5 guide you into God’s presence. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you   Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.   Meditation Passage:  Matthew 5:14–16, NLTYou are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This bonus episode was recorded with the podcast But Jesus Drank Wine and Other Stories that Keep us Stuck.  The hosts, Meade and Christy, are two “retired over-drinkers” turned Jesus-loving sobriety coaches. On the BJDW podcast, they dig into the stories and beliefs that kept them stuck in the cycle of over-drinking, including the ever-popular, “But Jesus drank wine?” Through grace-filled conversations about faith, sobriety, and life beyond alcohol, Meade and Christy bring honesty, humor, and vulnerability to every episode. Their goal? To help women discover that freedom is possible—not just from alcohol, but from any habit, hurt, or hang-up holding them back. You can find our more here: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community And you can order Christy’s book: Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why head knowledge isn’t enough, and how Scripture meditation moves truth from your mind to your heart and hands. The difference between Eastern “empty your mind” meditation and biblical “fill your mind” meditation. The brain science behind creating new grooves for peace instead of spirals of anxiety and craving. How to begin (even if you’re busy or intimidated!) with just five minutes a day. Why slowing down is essential for real transformation, and simple ways to start. How to help your kids recognize God’s voice and discern His leading. A sneak peek at the practices Jodie will teach live inside our community this October. The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. Connect with Jodie: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This Christian Scripture meditation is rooted in Step 11 of the 12 Steps:We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. Step 11 is at the heart of spiritual formation. Through guided reflection and meditation on God’s Word, we will create space to listen for God’s voice, rest in His presence, and seek His will. In this episode, we’ll slow down with two short but powerful passages: Psalm 46:10 — Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 23:1 — The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. As you listen, you’ll be invited to: Rest in stillness before God. Receive His invitation to trust Him more deeply. Respond with prayer and openness to His Spirit. This meditation is a reminder that God’s ways are better than our own, His presence is with us, and His provision is enough. Take a deep breath, slow down, and let these Scriptures guide you into peace, trust, and renewed hope.   Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you  Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Passages:  Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation on Proverbs 4:23–27 invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reflect on God’s Word through the practice of Scripture meditation and Lectio Divina. Step Ten of the 12 Steps says: We continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it. This step is about keeping short accounts—paying attention when we wander from God’s path and returning quickly. The good news? God’s mercy never runs out. As Lamentations reminds us: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Every day, every moment, can be a new beginning with Him. When we notice we’ve stepped away, His grace meets us right there. In this Scripture meditation on Proverbs 4, you’ll be guided to: Notice what God is drawing your attention to in His Word Reflect honestly on where you’ve wandered Rest in the truth that His mercy is always new Take a deep breath and let this meditation remind you to walk with God one step, one day, one moment at a time. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.   Meditation Passage: Proverbs 4:23–27 (NIV) Above all else, guard your heart,for everything you do flows from it.Keep your mouth free of perversity;keep corrupt talk far from your lips.Let your eyes look straight ahead;fix your gaze directly before you.Give careful thought to the paths for your feetand be steadfast in all your ways.Do not turn to the right or the left;keep your foot from evil. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This Christian meditation on Luke 6:31–36 invites you into a guided Scripture reading using the Lectio Divina model. You’ll have space to pause, reflect, and listen for how God is inviting you to love others with compassion — even when it’s difficult. Step Nine of the 12 Steps says: We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Making amends goes beyond saying “I’m sorry.” It’s about seeking restoration with love and wisdom, while also trusting God to guide us in situations where direct amends aren’t possible. In this meditation, we’ll reflect on Jesus’ words in Luke 6 and open our hearts to the Spirit’s invitation toward compassion, humility, and courage. Take a few deep breaths, settle in, and let’s step into this time of Scripture meditation together. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Passage: Luke 6:31–36 (NLT) Do to others as you would like them to do to you.If you love only those who love you, why should you get credit for that? Even sinners love those who love them! And if you do good only to those who do good to you, why should you get credit? Even sinners do that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, why should you get credit? Even sinners will lend to other sinners for a full return. Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation is an imaginative prayer on Luke 19:1–10. Together, we’ll pause for Scripture meditation and reflection, entering the story of Zacchaeus and experiencing the transforming love of Jesus. Step Eight of the 12 Steps says: We made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all. It’s not easy to admit the ways we’ve caused harm — especially when it feels easier to remember how others have hurt us. But this step invites us to own what’s ours, and to ask God for the willingness to make things right. In this meditation, we’ll reflect on the story of Zacchaeus, a corrupt tax collector. We’ll enter the scene through imaginative prayer — first as one of the townspeople and then as Zacchaeus himself. As you listen, you’ll be invited to ask God to guide you toward the next gentle step He is inviting you to take. Take a deep breath and join me in this amazing grace-filled story. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Passage: Luke 19:1–10 (NLT) Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way. When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled. Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!” Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation on James 4:6–8, 10 invites you to pause, breathe, and make space for God to meet you with His generous grace. Step Seven of the 12 Steps says: “We humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings.” Once we are ready for God to change us (Step Six), the natural next step is to come before Him in humility. Not with promises we can’t keep, but with open hands, asking Him to do what we cannot do for ourselves. That’s the heart of this meditation. James reminds us that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” As you listen, you’ll be invited to notice where your loyalties are divided between God and the world, and to bring those shortcomings humbly before God.  Humility doesn’t press us down or leave us in shame — it draws us close to God. And as James promises, when we come close to Him, He comes close to us. He doesn’t push us away but lifts us up in His love and honor. Take a deep breath and let this meditation guide you into a posture of humility, honesty, and hope. God’s grace is generous, and He is ready to meet you right where you are.   Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Passage:  James 4:6-8, 10, NLT And (God) gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say,  “God opposes the proud  but gives grace to the humble.”  So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world…. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This guided Christian meditation on Ezekiel 36:25–27 invites you to pause, breathe, and open your heart to God’s transforming work. Through Scripture meditation, reflection, and guided prayer, you’ll be reminded that God promises to remove our stony, stubborn hearts and give us tender, responsive ones. This meditation connects with Step Six of the 12 Steps, which says: “We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.” Step Six is all about willingness — being ready for God to do what only He can do. Transformation doesn’t come from trying harder or following a self-improvement plan. It comes from opening ourselves to the Spirit and allowing God to change us from the inside out. Even though God does the transforming, we still have a part to play. We participate by showing up, making space for Scripture meditation, confessing to someone trustworthy, and surrounding ourselves with people who point us to Jesus. But the heavy lifting belongs to God. He is the One who changes hearts. Take a deep breath, and let this meditation on Ezekiel 36 remind you: God is bigger than your sin. Jesus is better than every substitute we chase. And the Spirit is stronger than anything that pulls us away.  God is ready to transform even the most hardened parts of your heart into something new and tender.   Helpful Links: Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.   Meditation Scripture: Ezekiel 36:25–27 (NLT) “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols.And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What do you do with the parts of yourself you’d rather hide? This Christian meditation podcast offers space for Bible meditation, scripture reflection, and guided prayer shaped by the 12 steps. Step Four says: “We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of our lives.” That can sound intimidating. But this meditation isn’t about doing a deep dive into every detail of your past or present. Instead, it’s an invitation to rest in the truth that God already knows everything about you — and He still loves you. Hebrews 4 reminds us: “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.” But it also shows us the good news: Jesus is our great high priest. He knows what it is to be human. He empathizes with our weakness. And because of Him, we can “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” In today’s meditation, you’ll pause with Hebrews 4:13–16 and be reminded that there is nothing in you that surprises God — and nothing He cannot redeem. You’ll be invited to come honestly and boldly into His presence, and to receive the mercy and grace He longs to give. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s meditate on these truths together. Helpful Resources Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 4:13–16 (NIV) Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Turning our will and our lives over to God is never easy. But it’s always good. This Christian meditation podcast offers space for Bible meditation, scripture reflection, and guided prayer rooted in the wisdom of the 12 steps. Step Three says: “We made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.” Step One reminded us: I can’t.Step Two gave us hope: God can.And Step Three invites us to surrender: I think I’ll let Him. Today’s meditation is from Jeremiah 17:5–8. This poetic passage paints a vivid picture of what happens when we rely on our own strength versus when we place our hope and confidence in the Lord. One life ends up like a stunted shrub in the desert. The other is like a flourishing tree with roots reaching deep into the river. Through guided reflection, you’ll be invited to notice where you’re relying on yourself, and where God is asking you to trust Him more fully. Then you’ll rest in the truth that God wants you to be like that tree — deeply rooted, resilient through hard seasons, and bearing fruit that blesses others. Take a few deep breaths, settle in, and let’s meditate together. Helpful Resources Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Scripture: Jeremiah 17:5–8 (NLT) 5 This is what the LORD says:“Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans,who rely on human strengthand turn their hearts away from the LORD.6 They are like stunted shrubs in the desert,with no hope for the future.They will live in the barren wilderness,in an uninhabited salty land.7 “But blessed are those who trust in the LORDand have made the LORD their hope and confidence.8 They are like trees planted along a riverbank,with roots that reach deep into the water.Such trees are not bothered by the heator worried by long months of drought.Their leaves stay green,and they never stop producing fruit.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever believed and doubted at the same time? You’re not alone. This Christian meditation podcast offers space for Bible meditation, scripture reflection, and guided prayer shaped by the 12 steps. Step Two says: “We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” If Step One was I can’t, Step Two is the hopeful turn toward God can. In this imaginative prayer, you’ll enter the story of a desperate father who brings his son to Jesus for healing. He longs to believe God can help him, yet struggles with doubt. His words echo the tension so many of us feel: “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” This meditation invites you to step into the scene and experience Jesus’s compassion in the very places where faith and doubt live side by side. Where do you need God’s help today? He knows exactly what you are facing — and He wants to help. Take a deep breath and let this meditation remind you that while we can’t, God can. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Today’s Scripture: Mark 9:20–24 (NLT) So they brought the boy. But when the evil spirit saw Jesus, it threw the child into a violent convulsion, and he fell to the ground, writhing and foaming at the mouth.“How long has this been happening?” Jesus asked the boy’s father.He replied, “Since he was a little boy. The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can.”“What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.”The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in patterns you can’t seem to break, you aren’t alone. This Christian meditation podcast offers space for Bible meditation, scripture reflection, and faith‑based guided prayer. This series is shaped by the twelve steps—a time‑tested path to spiritual healing and transformation—because we all have hurts, habits, or hangups that hold us back. Whether or not you consider yourself an addict, these meditations are for you. We all long for lives characterized by freedom—lives rooted and grounded in God and His goodness. But the truth is, we all struggle. Step One helps us admit what we feel but don’t want to name: we are powerless over our deepest problems and our lives can become unmanageable. That honest admission isn’t despair; it’s the threshold of grace—the place we discover that while we can’t, God can. And He wants to. In today’s meditation, we sit with Romans 7:21–25, where Paul wrestles with the push and pull we all know—the desire to follow God and the struggle with sin. You’ll be guided to listen, reflect, respond, and rest, opening your heart to the healing and wholeness God wants to bring. Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here.   Here's todays meditation Scripture: Romans 7:21–25 (NLT) I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death?Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.