We’re so glad you’re joining us for this 4-part mini-series in our 1 John study, Abide and Thrive.

In this series, we’ll explore how pride often hides behind fear and control—and how God’s love gently unmasks us, inviting us into deeper trust and freedom through humility.

There’s a downloadable study guide available to help you go deeper, whether on your own or with a group.

www.WomeninChristianLeadership.org

https://www.womeninchristianleadership.org/back-porch-bible-study

In this final episode of Part 1, we pause to reflect on eight expressions of abiding faith drawn from 1 John 1–2. More than a set of behaviors, these are the natural outflow of a heart that desires to remain in Jesus—a life transformed through an intimate union with Him.

Abiding isn’t passive. It’s a responsive, growing relationship where we learn to stay close, walk in His light, trust His truth, and live in step with His love. Debra brings clarity and warmth as she reminds us: the life Jesus offers isn’t something we achieve—it’s something we receive as we remain in Him.

So settle in on the Back Porch and listen in. This episode will help you see the fruit of abiding—and stir a hunger for the deeper life still to come in Part 2.

www.WomeninChristianLeadership.org

In this episode of Back Porch Bible, we step into the heart of 1 John to hear a fatherly warning filled with urgency and love. As false teaching crept into the early church, John reminded believers—and reminds us today—to stay anchored in the truth. We’ll unpack how Gnosticism distorted the gospel, how the spirit of deception still operates, and why knowing Jesus and abiding in Him is everything. If you’ve ever felt unsure of your faith or pressured by spiritual performance, this message will ground and encourage you.

For more information:

www.WomeninChristianLeadership.org/back-porch-bible-study

The pull of the world we tell us it is worth it. But the world will leave us spinning on the dance floor. Abiding in God is like a beautiful dance, with a lead who always has our best at heart. He gently guides us through the He specifically choreographed for us individually. But the world cares little about our heart, it just wants to cut in and steal the lead.

Join us as we discover the beauty of being led by One who loves us completely.

⁠WomeninChristianLeadership.org

The Evidence of Abiding: A Life of LoveWhat does real love look like—and where does it come from? In today’s episode of Back Porch Bible, we explore how love is not just a command but the evidence that we are truly abiding in Christ. Drawing from 1 John 2:7–14, we’ll see how abiding leads to love that surprises even us—love that forgives, serves, and overflows from God’s Spirit within us. Whether you're new in your faith or walking with Christ for years, John offers encouragement for every stage of the journey. Join me on the back porch as we discover how love becomes the light that overcomes darkness—and the proof that we are His.

⁠WomeninChristianLeadership.org

In Part 2 of Episode 6, we move from the comforting truth of Jesus as our Advocate to a practical look at what it means to walk with Him. John gives us a spiritual mirror—not to cause doubt, but to help us see the fruit of truly knowing Christ.

Obedience isn’t about striving to earn God’s love; it’s the natural result of abiding in Him. Like breathing, abiding is continual and life-giving. And as we breathe in His Word and Spirit, our lives begin to reflect His.

Join us as we explore how walking in obedience is not perfection, but the overflow of life with Christ.

WomeninChristianLeadership.org

What do you do when you stumble—when sin feels too heavy, and shame whispers that you're too far gone? In those moments, Scripture reminds us of something profound: we have an Advocate.

Jesus stands before the Father on our behalf—not because of anything we've done, but because of everything He has done. His perfect life, His sacrificial death, His ongoing intercession—it’s all Him. He doesn’t plead our case based on our good intentions or our promises to do better. He pleads it based on His own righteousness and the power of His atoning sacrifice.

In this episode, we’re looking at 1 John 2:1–2 and the incredible comfort and confidence that comes from knowing Jesus is our Advocate. It’s not just a theological concept—it’s a lifeline. Because He stands for us, we can stand with the Father—fully accepted, deeply loved, and completely free.

WomeninChristianLeadership.org

In today’s episode, I want to begin with a story --my story. It was one of the most pivotal moments in my relationship with Jesus—when I finally realized I wasn’t in control, and yet, I had never been more secure. That moment changedeverything.

Trying to keep all the plates spinning, thinking that if you just plan well enough, pray hard enough, prepare thoroughly, or schedule accurately, you can keep everything—and everyone—you love safe and steady?

Have you ever been there?
But what if thriving isn’t about holding on?
What if it’s about who we hold on to?

For the STUDY GUIDE please go to

⁠WomenInChristianLeadership.org

Trusting God’s Life-Giving Power

In John 15, Jesus invites us to abide in Him—an invitation to remain connected to the source of life itself. Abiding isn’t about striving harder or doing more. It’s about staying close to Jesus, drawing our strength and life from Him.

This study will explore what it means to live in that deep, ongoing connection with Christ. It’s through the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to abide in Him, allowing our hearts, minds, and lives to be transformed. Whether you are new to the faith or have walked with Jesus for years, this study will deepen your understanding of what it means to simply abide.

Let’s explore together how we can abide in the True Vine and experience the fullness of life He offers.

For the STUDY GUIDE please go to

WomenInChristianLeadership.org

What does it mean to abide in the light? In this episode of the Back Porch Bible Podcast, we explore how abiding in Christ is more than just staying connected—it’s about walking in His truth, experiencing real fellowship, and allowing His holiness to transform us.

Scripture teaches that God’s light purifies us, not just at salvation but continually as we remain in Him. Join us as we study the beauty of abiding in His presence and living in His light.

For the STUDY GUIDE please go to

⁠WomenInChristianLeadership.org