Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

Stephanie welcomes renowned singer and worship artist Beckah Shae, whose journey is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ. Her music’s intimate melodies have the power to touch the human spirit in deeply profound ways. Her story is one of undeniable beauty, resilience, and victory in the face of life’s trials, encapsulating the transformative and redemptive power of faith and friendship with God. Beckah’s cultural influences, shaped by an upbringing focused on survival and gratitude, shine through as she reflects on her Jewish heritage. She shared how her relationship with Jesus has brought a newfound richness to these memories, opening her eyes to deeper layers of faith and gratitude.

Beckah Shae’s childhood was marked by chaos and upheaval, which shaped her understanding of God as a friend who provided solace and security amidst uncertainty. Her mom was a source of strength and comfort. Beckah’s challenging upbringing led her to establish a profound and authentic relationship with God, whom she found to be her unwavering source of peace, comfort, provision, and protection. Through it all, she saw God as a refuge rather than someone to fear.

Throughout the conversation, Beckah Shae emphasizes her calling and purpose as a worship artist, and invites us to enter into our own callings! She resonates with the idea that utilizing her gift of song to worship is her natural vocation, a source of boundless joy. The emotional significance and newfound depth that her old songs have taken on in recent years underscore the transformative impact of music intertwined with the Spirit of God.

Beckah candidly shared her journey of facing criticism early in her music career and the pivotal decision to focus on following God’s plan for her life. This vulnerability and unwavering commitment to staying true to God’s voice amidst external influences serve as a testament to her enduring faith and steadfast resolve. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of trusting in God’s plan despite life's uncertainties and challenges.

Both Stephanie and Beckah discuss into the challenges of guiding their daughters to forge their unique spiritual journeys and cultivate profound relationships with God. Their shared insights underscore the delicate balance between providing guidance and allowing space for their daughters to pursue their individual paths, while nurturing a genuine connection with God.

Beckah Shae’s deeply resonant journey of faith, perseverance, and spiritual growth serves as a powerful testament to the unyielding strength found in a relationship with God. Through her openness, vulnerability, and unwavering commitment to God's plan, Beckah Shae inspires us towards profound faith and resilience, serving as a beacon of hope for all of us as we navigate our own unique spiritual journeys ever deeper into Christ.

GET IN TOUCH WITH BECKAH SHAE

On her website: https://www.beckahshae.com

Exclusive way to experience all of her worship albums:

Shae Shoc Stock - USB Flash Drive (Every Album & Music Video) - https://store.beckahshae.com/collections/music/products/shae-shoc-stock-usb-flash-drive

Looking for an exclusive event? Consider Beckah’s Living Room Concerts: https://www.beckahshae.com/living-room-concert

Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/beckahshae

YouTube: https://youtube.com/beckahshae

Email: [email protected]

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

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!

I invite you to continues our exploration of the French words for hope, "espoir" and "esperance," and to dive deeper into their biblical and cultural significance.

Scripture draws parallels between the biblical story of Babel in Genesis 11 and the unifying power of hope in Christ. God orchestrated Scripture to be translatable in all languages, which reverses the curse of Babel and offers the potential in Christ to unite us under the banner of hope.

As I was researching the connections between "espoir" and "esperance," I was blown away to discover two verses in Scripture that hold both verses together. They have much to tell us, as we too hold both "espoir" and "esperance" in our own hearts. The first, in the Old Testament, unveils the significance of Job's despair and his quest for true hope; the second, in the New Testament, highlights Paul's profound insights into the essence of hope. These complementary perspectives on hope, stemming from Job, the oldest book in the Bible, and 1st Timothy, one of Paul's last letters, ground us deeply in our King and Savior, Jesus Christ.

But Esperance is fading from the French landscape. So, I asked both Christian and non-Christian French friends and family members about the influence of Esperance in their lives today. The answers are striking, and I want to invite you to discover them with me – so that you too can form your own informed experience of Esperance in Christ. It has much to do with a deeply felt experience of despair apart from Esperance.

Next, I invite you to (re)discover a famous French thinker and author, Blaise Pascal, to embrace the delicate interplay between reason, faith, and mystery. Through Pascal's eloquent words and profound insights, let’s see what we can learn about the transformative potential of faith and reason working in harmony. The emphasis on humility, the coexistence of science and faith, and the acknowledgement of the limitations of human understanding in the life and work of Blaise Pascal inspire contemplation and introspection, encouraging us to explore the depths of our beliefs with open hearts and minds.

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

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/

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 [email protected]. 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

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie here! I'm welcoming you into a conversation where we kick off talking about the Olympic games. My guest, Vera Schmitz, used to train to go to the Olympics. She'll tell us how that worked out, and how the Lord led her in a very different way with her sister Natalie to be the cofounder of Dwell Differently. It's a truly vibrant online community, committed to memorizing God's Word together every single month. Vera tells us what happens when we have God's word in our brain all the time, stored in our hearts, deep in our soul, at the tip of our tongue. It's not just about memorizing verses, but about being radically transformed by the power of God's word. When we engage in deep devotionals and discussions, we apply the truth practically and experience life change. In a world where truth is often subjective and ever-changing, the importance of being tethered to the rock-solid truth of Scripture cannot be understated. The Bible's reliability provides an unwavering foundation for our lives. Investigate it, stand on it, and allow it to shape your reality!

Vera and I also discuss the significance of not being afraid and finding courage in God's promise to be with us. Through prayer and community, we can overcome challenges and find strength in Christ. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us when we struggle to find the words, and prayer becomes a vessel for His work.

MORE ABOUT THE BOOK

What if you had God's words with you all the time? Not just on your phone, but deep in your soul and on the tip of your tongue? It may sound daunting, or even impossible.

Knowing how hard Scripture memorization can be, Dwell Differently founders Natalie Abbott and Vera Schmitz created a simple, creative, and smart way to memorize Scripture and keep God's promises in your heart. Natalie and Vera not only reveal the importance of having a mind built on God's Word, they actually give you the tools necessary to defeat negative thoughts. In doing so, they help you:
· fight lies with truth
· replace fear with peace
· focus your heart on what really matters
In a world filled with negative voices competing for our attention, just one word from God is more powerful than any other. It's time to store up a wealth of them.

MORE ABOUT VERA SCHMITZ

Sisters. Friends. Jesus peeps. That's us.

We’re Natalie and Vera—sisters from a big fat family of seven with so many similarities. We look the same—no we aren’t twins! We love the same food—homemade tortillas with LOADS of butter. And we share the same passion—helping people connect with God through his Word. That’s why we do what we do over here, showing up each month, memorizing a new verse. We talk about it on our weekly podcasts and devos and on Instagram every day… BECAUSE, we really believe that the God of the universe loves us and has spoken to us in the Bible. And when we are in it, we can know him and experience freedom and life and transformation. Won’t you come along with us? — Natalie & Vera

https://dwelldifferently.com/ 

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

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!

Hope is a transformative force, capable of providing comfort and strength amidst life's challenges. The Bible says much about the impact of hope on the heart, shedding light on the intricate relationship between hope and the human spirit. So today I invite you deep into the nuances from Scripture in French to spark fresh hope, and reignite embers of disappointed hope for you. French offers subtle yet profound differences between two words both translated “hope” in English: "Espoir" and "Esperance."

"éspoir" is more like wishful thinking, while "espérance" is all about rock-solid promises. It's a bit like the difference between fleeting daydreams and unwavering faith – and it's deeply rooted in biblical truth. Scripture really hones in on the truth of "espérance," painting a vivid picture of the steadfast assurance and unwavering faith it embodies in the Christian faith. This isn't just about fleeting hope; it's about rock-solid confidence in the promise of eternal salvation.

Scripture gives us context as it explores how hope coexists with fear and uncertainty. It's an inspiring call to rise above fleeting "éspoir" and embrace the unshakable hope that comes with faith in Christ. We explore how the use of "éspoir" and "espérance" shifts between the Old and New Testaments. It's like peeling back layers of a story – and it all ties into concealed and revealed hope throughout Christ.

And so, I invite you to reflect on your own hope, encouraging you to consider the transformation  from "Espoir" to "Esperance" made possible through Christ.  Together, let’s unveil the cultural and biblical significance of "Esperance," with its prevalence in the New Testament and its profound certainty and confidence in Christ.

The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!

https://www.gospelspice.com/merch

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

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 [email protected]. 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

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Today I welcome Holley Gerth, who advocates for pursuing hope in the midst of pain and grief. We need to recognize the need to grieve losses, big and small – including losses of our dreams, and losses in relationships. Peace stems from surrendering to God's will, rather than fixating on specific outcomes. So, we ask: how do we transition from controlling outcomes, to finding peace in God? We discuss the pivotal role of faith in understanding and working through the pain and unmet expectations in life. How do we navigate the process of transitioning from a broken narrative to a new story under the guidance of God?

Holley shares five profound questions aimed at advancing the healing process, focusing on identifying and challenging the lies believed, embracing the truth that God desires to instill, and crafting a new life narrative infused with hope and grace. This approach offers a roadmap to find peace and healing in the midst of our struggles. Additionally, we acknowledge the significance of acknowledging and grieving everyday, smaller griefs, emphasizing the human need to surrender and find solace in God during these moments.

Holley offers a brand new course on overcoming heartache, tailored for anyone struggling with grief, and those supporting others through similar experiences. The course particularly resonates with individuals facing relational grief, offering practical guidance to navigate the journey from hurt to healing, drawing from Holley’s personal experiences with trust issues and subsequent healing. This highlights the transformative power of pain and the potential to become healers ourselves, a concept that can bring hope to many navigating their own healing journeys. If you are interested in this course, remember to sign up for the Gospel Spice newsletter to receive an exclusive 25% discount code on this course at https://www.gospelspice.com/signup

We want you to remember this in your grief: amidst the struggles of pain and grief, there lies an opportunity to find lasting peace in surrendering to God's will.

BONUS | FIVE QUESTIONS TO PROGRESS TOWARDS HEALING

Holley provides a roadmap for healing through these 5 questions:

1.     What lies have I believed?

2.     What truth does God want to replace them with?

3.     What is the new story that God has for me?

4.     What unmet desires and expectations do I need to address and grieve?

5.     How can I surrender these to God and find peace in His plan?

CONNECT WITH HOLLEY GERTH

https://holleygerth.thinkific.com/courses/heal

25% off Discount Code: sign up for newsletter to receive your discount code for the course! Keep in mind that we offer all sorts of goodies to our mailing list subscribers – you literally get a valuable, free gift each month. So signup today for free at https://www.gospelspice.com/signup

https://holleygerth.com/introverts/

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

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!

Through the lens of the French language in our current series, I invite you today to explore the concept of the "parole" of Christ and its significance in the Christian faith. This uniquely French perspective sheds light on the depth of freedom offered through Christ's sacrifice, especially when you combine it with the gratitude expressed through the word "merci."

Note | You are invited to go deeper by using our extensive digital book that includes, for each of our 12 episodes in the series, a listening guide, questions to ponder, key takeaways and key quotes, topics to go deeper, and more. Go to gospelspice.com/french for the details and to download a free sample.

Understanding Christ as our ultimate parole invites us to embrace the freedom offered through His sacrifice, leading to a life characterized by gratitude and the pursuit of justice. May we delve deeper into the significance of Christ's parole and cultivate a heart of gratitude, acknowledging the mercies and graces bestowed upon us through His immense love and sacrifice.

For starters, I invite you to consider the concept of the "parole" of Christ by examining a combined French translation of John 1:1, emphasizing the significance of how Christ is our parole. This uniquely French perspective invites us to ponder the richness of Christ's role as our freedom and parole, offering a fresh understanding of the depth of His sacrifice.

Understanding that Christ is our ultimate parole unlocks the meaning of the promise of release from the sentence of eternal separation from God. This biblical truth underscores Christ's sacrifice, offering an invitation to embrace freedom from the bondage of sin and death. The significance of Christ as our parole prompts a shift in perspective, inviting us to acknowledge the immense freedom bestowed upon us through His grace.

Then, let’s draw parallels between the French word "merci" (thank you) and the concept of mercy in the Christian faith. Through this connection, we explore the essence of expressing gratitude to God for His mercy and grace. This encourages deep reflection on the distinction between justice, mercy, and grace, highlighting the profound impact of Christ's sacrifice in granting us mercy and freedom.

So, let’s get practical. How do we express gratitude and advocate for justice in our daily lives? It starts with cultivating a heart of gratitude, acknowledging both the significant and seemingly small mercies in our lives. Additionally, Scripture challenges us to seek ways to practice justice and promote a better world in alignment with the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing the interconnectedness of gratitude and justice.

We live in the age of grace, where the freedom offered through Christ's parole transcends the constraints of the law. Grasping the enormity of Christ's sacrifice leads to a renewed appreciation for the mercies and grace present in our lives. The call to cultivate gratitude and embrace freedom becomes a pivotal aspect of living in alignment with Christ's teachings.

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

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/

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 [email protected]. 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

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

What if an ancient prayer book proved the most relevant and up-to-date tool to embrace intimacy with God in completely fresh ways? As we race to work in the morning, have coffee with a friend, or fall into bed exhausted, we want to feel God's presence, to sink into his grace. Yet too often he feels aloof, absent. Our prayers feel trivial. But as Julie Lane-Gay discovered, the Book of Common Prayer is designed for just this purpose: to root Christians in the riches of God's grace. So, she and Stephanie have an intimate, vulnerable, authentic conversation today, aiming to invite YOU to enter into the world of this ancient book to draw closer to God.

Julie Lane-Gay has written “The Riches of Your Grace” to share the treasures she has found in the Book of Common Prayer. It's not a history of the prayer book nor a guide (though it will certainly help readers get their bearings). Instead, using stories from her own life, Julie Lane-Gay shows what it means to live in the prayer book: to allow its prayers and patterns to shape an ordinary Christian life.

Discover how the Book of Common Prayer can anchor us―our prayers, our daily lives, our hearts―in Christ. The Book of Common Prayer is mostly taken straight from Scripture – Julie explains that 86% of it is pure Scripture. It means, it is theologically sound, trustworthy, safe, and protective!

The Book of Common Prayer can be a lifeline in life's storms. Julie shares how the Book of Common Prayer provided her with solace and comfort during a challenging time when her son was born prematurely. The specific prayers for women who have just given birth became a source of strength, nurturing her faith and shaping her as a Christian. It serves as a safe theological foundation, offering a healthy perspective on God's presence and grace amidst life's challenges.

The Book of Common Prayer fosters community and the power of intimate spiritual connection. From weekly Compline services helping a friend heal from spiritual dryness to a neighbor hosting a Compline for the neighborhood, Julie witnessed the profound impact of communal prayer. These simple, predictable, and comforting prayers have served as a space for honesty, debriefing, and spiritual rejuvenation, drawing in new attendees and providing a space for the Holy Spirit to work.

Could the Book of Common Prayer become a tool to share the gospel in our generation? Julie and I discuss this tantalizing prospect. The prayer book isn't just a personal tool for spiritual growth but also a powerful means for evangelization. Julie's book, "The Riches of Your Grace," provides practical ideas for using the prayer book at home, demonstrating its potential to nurture faith, bring comfort, and draw in those who have never experienced the Church.

About the Author

Julie Lane-Gay is a freelance writer and editor. Her work has appeared in a range of publications including Reader's Digest, Fine Gardening, Faith Today, Anglican Planet, and The Englewood Review of Books. She teaches occasional courses at Regent College and also edits the college's journal, CRUX. She lives with her husband, Craig, in Vancouver, British Columbia, and is active in her local Anglican church.

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 [email protected]. 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

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Bonjour! Stephanie here. There is nothing quite as mesmerizing as the worth of God – the very word “worship” comes from the ancient English worth-ship and recognizes the ultimate worth of God. So today I invite you down the lane of another French word which, I pray, will allow you to enter fresh, deep worship. That French word is “Valeur.” So, drawing from the biblical concept of intrinsic worth, subjective value, and objective worth, let’s dive into the multifaceted aspects of this word and how it relates to our understanding of worthiness, valor, and the intangible qualities that draw us to God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ found in Scripture.

We begin by unveiling the nuanced meaning of "Valeur." Exploring the layers of value, worth, and valor, we will highlight the intricate connection between these concepts. By pondering the biblical perspective on value, we will examine how our worth is ultimately defined by God's opinion of us. This foundational understanding shapes our perception of self-worth and value, inviting us to recognize our intrinsic worth as valued and cherished children of God.

Deeper still, let’s ponder with fresh awe and reverent worship the intrinsic worth of God, emphasizing that His supreme worthiness is what sets Him apart as the ultimate and only worthy Being. This will inspire us to acknowledge the objective worth of God, anchoring our appreciation of His supreme value and dignity.

Next, I invite us into the exploration of Christ's valor. Scripture paints a poignant picture of Jesus as our valiant Savior, weaving together His humility, sacrifice, and love in the face of the Cross. Through this, the Bible inspires its readers to embrace the valor of Christ within ourselves, recognizing that the same valor is made available to us through the Holy Spirit.

Shifting focus to the intriguing French expression "je ne sais quoi," I hope to show you its resonance with the intangible qualities that draw us to the Gospel, inspiring us to live out our faith in a way that embodies the gospel to the world, thus attracting others to the beauty and magnetism of Christ in our own lives. As such, we have a responsibility to steward that divine "je ne sais quoi”: as recipients of God's unmerited favor, we are called to cultivate and manifest these intangible qualities in our lives. Scripture compels us to exude Christ's aroma, drawing others to the undeniable allure of the Gospel through our actions, character, and faith. We will talk about what it looks like, and how to do that.

So, today let’s enter Scripture reverently, because it invites us to not only recognize our intrinsic worth through God's eyes, but also to embody that captivating "je ne sais quoi" that draws others to the beauty of Christ's love and grace. Scripture unveils the intrinsic worth and valor of the Gospel, and compels us towards the unfathomable beauty and depth of hope and redemption found in Christ Jesus.

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.

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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)

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 [email protected]. 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

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

There are books we should all have a copy of, to give to our beloved ones in need. Today's conversation is about such a book. It is a whimsical, poetic, God-centric little marvel of a book, so pretty and giftable. It will encourage your loved one who is going through a rough time. It can be for you, too, but I suspect it will find its way in your tool belt of go-to books to equip those around you who are finding themselves unable to put words to their struggles. Lauren Fortenberry has penned 90 short devotions that read like prayers. She puts words in the mouths of women who find it difficult to tell God how they feel, what they are going through, or who simply can't muster the strength to talk to God at all. This book reminds them that they are not alone. They are prayed for. They are met by the One who sees them. God is less than one prayer away. He is right there with them.

Find hope when you need it the most with this gorgeous 90-day devotional for women who need a reminder that God can bring you past your broken beginning, through the messy middle, and into a faith-filled future.

When you're at the edge of what your heart can handle. When you can't see the road ahead. When you wonder if the hurt is beyond healing. One Prayer Away by Lauren Fortenberry is for every moment of the journey.

Each day invites you to begin in the brokenness and finish with more faith. To speak to God about what keeps you up at night. To know that in every single thing you carry today, you do not need to carry it alone. 

MORE ABOUT "ONE PRAYER AWAY"One Prayer Away includes:

90 meditations of hope and encouragement in Lauren's signature poetic style

Prayers to receive for yourself or to pray for others

Bible verses relevant to each day's needs like hope, mercy, and surrender

Inspirational quotes and soothing photography to create a place where your soul can rest

This beautiful devotional is a thoughtful gift for:

A friend who needs encouragement in times of uncertainty, anxiety, loneliness, and loss

Women's prayer groups or Bible studies

Mother’s Day, birthdays, or simply to say "I'm thinking of you"

Any woman who desires to grow spiritually

Whether you are struggling or seeking, flying or failing—God is with you. You can trust Him to hold you through it all.

MEET LAUREN FORTENBERRY

https://laurenfortenberry.com/

Lauren Fortenberry is a writer, speaker, and influencer whose greatest passion is fearlessly and faithfully encouraging women through the love of Jesus Christ. She is a writing instructor at the University of Mississippi, and her writing has been featured by NBC's TODAY Show, Good Morning America, and a variety of other media outlets and blogs. She currently resides in Oxford, Mississippi, with her husband and two kids.

A word from Lauren:

"Welcome to my greatest passion: fearlessly and faithfully encouraging women through the love of Jesus Christ. I want to point every Sister’s heart to God’s promises and healing.

I started blogging back in 2015 when I was a full-time college lecturer with two littles at home, and, truly, I had no idea where God would take my words (or my life).

Now, over eight years later, my ministry encourages Sisters across the globe to live their best lives, and my first book, One Prayer Away, will be ours to share in April 2024. And I am reminded that God has this beautiful way of disrupting our plans to illuminate our greater purpose.

My writing has been featured by NBC’s TODAY Show, Good Morning America, Her View From Home, Love What Matters, and For Every Mom. Additionally, I have also published research on maternal and child health.

When I’m not writing, I can most often be found playing with my kids, running, or serving in my local church in Mississippi.

I haven’t lived a perfect life, but God teaches me daily how to use the hardest of life for His glory.

This hope is what I long to share with you.

Across the digital miles, I invite you to join in this Sisterhood.

God loves you.

And I’m so glad you’re here!

To reach out with a speaking or interview inquiry, please contact me here.

Big hugs and blessings always,
Lauren"

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

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!

Today we continue diving deep into our trials and testings, and how God invites us to change our perspective, so that we will more readily experience His, rather than our own!

Epreuve – a French word that encompasses the essence of proving, testing, and trials. In the context of spiritual growth and Christian faith, Epreuve delves into the very core of our relationship with God. This word carries multifaceted meanings that unfold to reveal the path of testing, emotions, and ultimately, the shaping of our identity in Christ.

In our last episode, which was the first of our two in our study of this French word, we saw that Epreuve bears the duality of meaning: proof and test, trial and opportunity. Epreuve serves as an invitation to unveil our inner authenticity. Trials become the mirror that reflects our true character, our faith, and our response to circumstances.

Peter, acquainted with countless tests and trials, highlights the significance of these experiences. The tested genuineness of our faith, more precious than gold, illuminates the enduring nature of trials. Herein lies the parallel between the refining of gold through fire and the refinement of our faith through trials. In essence, Epreuve emerges as a conduit for unveiling the authenticity and purity of our faith, anchoring it as a central tenet in our journey of spiritual growth.

Going deeper, Epreuve enters the realm of emotions. From resolute emotions of hate and fear to the profound joy that is intrinsic to our spiritual journey, Epreuve encompasses powerful emotional sentiments that shape our core. In essence, emotions become the internal trials that reflect and shape our identity in profound ways.

Epreuve extends beyond momentary trials to encompass a season of probation. This resonates with the very essence of spiritual growth. We are invited to walk through these periods not to prove our worthiness, but to experience the grace and freedom inherent in our relationship with God. Understanding that our future in Christ is unwavering, we embrace the freedom to navigate the journey of growth, understanding that it is through these seasons of probation that we continually evolve into the fullness of Christ.

The culmination of Epreuve leads us to our guaranteed heavenly future of sin-proofness, through the spiritual journey of the follower of Jesus toward becoming a reflection of Christ's glory. Through the lens of Epreuve, we comprehend that while we may face tests and trials in this earthly sojourn, they serve as the crucible that tempers us into growing sin-proofness. Furthermore, our emotions, when experienced through the prism of faith, become gradually more and more similar to the fruit of the Spirit, leading us to increasingly reflect His glory as if in a mirror.

That French word Epreuve weaves a narrative that surpasses mere linguistic boundaries. It exemplifies the intricate and transformative journey of spiritual growth, the testing of faith, and the unveiling of our true identity in Christ. As we embrace the epreuves of life, we encounter the testing and refining of our faith, the depth of our emotions, and the season of probation, all converging to carve us into increasingly sin-proof reflections of Christ's glory. Let us embrace this journey with eyes fixed on Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith, who will prove the irrevocable grace we have received as approved children of God.

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

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/

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 [email protected]. 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

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!