This week, we are exploring the profound truth that remaining in Christ is essential for bearing fruit in our lives. This concept is rooted in Jesus' teaching in John 15:5, where He states, "I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit. Apart from me, you can do nothing." This powerful statement highlights the necessity of a deep, abiding connection with Christ for spiritual vitality and productivity. Let's dive deep into John 15 together. 

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

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Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, Nicole dives deep into John 14, particularly the profound statement made by Jesus in John 14:6, where He declares, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." This declaration is not merely a philosophical assertion; it serves as a foundational truth for those seeking direction and purpose in their lives.

What's The Backstory?

Right before this, Jesus made it clear that he was going to leave them. This must have been very discouraging and confusing. In the midst of this, Jesus offers them comfort and a path forward.

I Am The Way, The Truth, The Life

He is the way. Jesus is making incredible claims about himself. He gives them relationonal, directional, and intentional answers. Let's unpack what each of these mean, together.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

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Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this week's episode, we read through the story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet in John 13. In this incredibly powerful chapter, Jesus gives us these living metaphors and these pictures because he wants us to have a new idea in our mind, a new understanding of what reality truly is. Because from those places in us where reality truly is, when we ask the question, okay, what does this mean for us? What does this mean? That reality is Jesus reshaping the concept of what matters in life. He's reshaping the activity that leads to joy. He's saying love plus security plus humility equals joy.

What Does It Say?

Jesus loves them to the end

Jesus’ power - “He knew he had all power” - what would you do next if you knew you had all power? No one would pick the thing that Jesus does next. Because Jesus knew all these things, SO he got up, and washed his disciple's feet.

Backstory -

Footwashing was a common act of hospitality in that time, usually performed by a slave. If someone of standing were to do it, it would have been seen as an ultimate act of honor.

What Does it Mean?

Jesus’ foot washing was a metaphor, an image of what love means - settled, confident, secure love. Service with humility and sacrifice. He's doing a menial act, but what he's really doing is saying, “if you want to be a part of me, this is what he says to Peter, if you want to be a part of me, you have to let me do this.” 

What Does It Mean for Me?

If you want to experience life with Jesus, you have to let him love you. You have to let him care for you. You have to let him see you for who you really are, which is a person who does need to be cleansed, right? And Jesus is saying to them, like, hey, you don't need to do this over and over again. It's not like a baptism over and over again. You already know me, you're clean and you're in me, but this is an act of me caring for you. This is an ongoing, this is what ongoing relationship looks like with me. What I'm doing for you, I am asking you do to for others.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Backstory

The episode begins by establishing the setting of John 12, which takes place just before the Passover in Bethany, where Jesus shares an intimate dinner with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. This gathering is not just a meal; it is a moment filled with deep significance as it marks the beginning of the Passion Week—the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry leading up to His crucifixion. The atmosphere is celebratory, yet it foreshadows the impending sacrifice of Jesus.

Mary’s Extravagant Worship

Mary’s act of anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume is highlighted as a lavish display of love and devotion. The fragrance of the perfume fills the house, symbolizing the beauty of worship and the acknowledgment of Jesus’ impending death. This act stands in stark contrast to Judas Iscariot’s utilitarian perspective, where he questions the wastefulness of such an extravagant gesture, suggesting that the money could have been better spent on the poor.

The Aroma of Christ

The podcast draws a parallel between Mary’s act and the metaphor of aroma found in 2 Corinthians 2:14-16, where believers are described as the aroma of Christ. This metaphor serves to illustrate the dual nature of following Jesus: for some, it is a fragrance of life, while for others, it represents death. Nicole points out that Mary’s devotion brings life and joy, while Judas’ reaction embodies the disgust and misunderstanding that can accompany a life devoted to Christ.

What Does it Mean? The Reality of Following Jesus

Following Jesus often leads to persecution and misunderstanding. She reminds listeners that being a follower of Christ means embracing the tension of love and rejection. Just as Mary faced criticism for her extravagant worship, believers today may encounter similar responses when they express their faith. The call to love, even in the face of persecution, is a central theme in the episode, reinforcing the idea that true devotion to Christ may not always be understood or accepted by others.

Balancing Individual Piety and Social Activism

The episode also touches on the need for balance between individual piety and social activism. Nicole highlights that while caring for the marginalized is essential, it should not overshadow personal devotion to Christ. Jesus’ response to Judas underscores this balance; He acknowledges the importance of caring for the poor while also affirming Mary’s act of worship as significant and worthy.

What Does It Mean for Me?

In conclusion, the podcast encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can embody the aroma of Christ in their daily interactions. Nicole poses thought-provoking questions: How can we worship extravagantly like Mary? How do we respond to persecution or misunderstanding in our faith journey? By embracing both the beauty of devotion and the challenges of following Jesus, believers can live out their faith authentically, becoming a fragrant offering to God and a light to the world.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, we're digging into a story of grief and joy in John 11, the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. We'll see the profound ways in which Jesus interacts with individuals experiencing grief and sorrow, demonstrating compassion and understanding by meeting each person where they are in their emotional journey.

What Does It Say?
Read along with us in John 11.

What’s the backstory

it's really important here to notice that we're in a sorrowful moment of an untimely death. This is a hard reality, a hard truth happening in this world right now. And what's more with Mary and Martha to lose Lazarus, their brother, who, you know, likely was supporting them and providing them with safety in a home because that's how it was in that culture. They've lost their brother whom they love, but also, this is an untimely death, and they really believe that Jesus could have done something about it. And yet these days have gone by. Lazarus has been in the tomb for four days. The four is important a little bit in the backstory because some would say that Jewish leaders would maybe say the soul would hang around a body for a while, maybe try to reenter the body. So they're like, it's like four days is not just kind of dead. It's really dead. It's like a long enough that, okay, now it's time to really say goodbye. This is permanent.

What does it mean?

Two things that came to mind that really stood out for me this week in this passage. The first is this: there's more to this life than sorrow and death. All the time, there's always more going on than just the sorrow and death that we might see. That's the first thought, just to challenge you in your mind. The second one for me, and of course there's many principles you can pull out from this passage, but the second principle for today, Jesus doesn't just lead us to the resurrection, he is the resurrection. Like, that is a mystery to ponder, to pray on, to ask, like, what does that mean for my life?

What does it mean for me?

Two things that came to mind that really stood out for me this week in this passage. The first is this: there's more to this life than sorrow and death. All the time, there's always more going on than just the sorrow and death that we might see. That's the first thought, just to challenge you in your mind. The second one: Jesus doesn't just lead us to the resurrection, he IS the resurrection. Like, that is a mystery to ponder, to pray on, to ask, like, what does that mean for my life?

Second: the disciples were disappointed and disconcerted by Jesus's choices. Martha's disappointed, but intellectually trying to process the why. Mary is just lost in her grief, lost in her emotions. How do you react to your struggles? How do you handle sorrow? How do you handle pain? What's your response? Do you try to control it? Do you try to fix it? Do you try to solve it? Do you find yourself spinning up on all of these different plans and all of these different contingencies that you yourself are going to figure out? Or do you slow down enough to actually bring God your sorrow? Have you thought about taking that burden before him and just saying, Lord, are you here? You feel absent to me in this thing. Because in many ways, that's what Mary and Martha said. Both of them said to him, if you'd been here, Lazarus wouldn't have died. You've disappointed me. Why is it this way? Why were you absent in my time of need? If you have that question, bring it to the Lord. He can handle it. 

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hey friends, we're pausing our walk through John to speak to the moment we're in, at the beginning of January, to answer a question that I often get asked: What does God want for my life? How can I discern his will for me?

To that end, this week, we're studying Romans 12:1-2 and Proverbs 3:5-6.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, in the final episode of our Advent and Christmastide series, we are studying Mary and her response to God's call on her life, and how that response can so inform the way we truly go into 2025.

1. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE PASSAGE SAY?

Luke 1:28-30; 38: The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.

38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

Maybe true for Mary, but is it true for us?

2. WHAT'S THE BACKSTORY?

What do we know about Mary:

-She knew some scripture
-She was faithful
-She was among the believers [not venerated, but in community]

Acts 1:14 (They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.)

Mary had no qualifications for being chosen.

This beginning also mirrors our beginning when it comes to receiving the good news.

All of the good news is contained here:

You who are highly favored.

In the context of the world, she is not highly favored. When we think of what makes someone highly favored, we tend to think of the examples we have in the world. But that wasn’t Mary at all. 

3. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Accepting the incredible surprise of the good news means releasing control.

Receiving the gift of our favor means opening our hands to everything God gives. “I am the Lord’s servant, may your word be fulfilled.”

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us…that we would be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1

4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ME?

What sets Mary apart is her radical acceptance of God’s invitation, and what defines us as children of God is our radical acceptance of the same invitation.

Radical Acceptance:

God has not given up on me, no matter how I feel.

I do not need to try harder.

My pain and struggle is not wasted.

 

My false self protects me with:

I am what I do.

I am what I have.

I am what others think of me.

 

My true self:

I am. (I am worthy)

I am the Lord’s. (I belong)

I am the Lord’s servant. (I have purpose)

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Redemptive Story of Bathsheba

This week, we're diving into the life of Bathsheba, a significant yet often overlooked figure in Jesus' genealogy. Bathsheba's story is one of tragedy, power dynamics, and, ultimately, redemption. 

Background of Bathsheba

Bathsheba is mentioned indirectly in the genealogy of Jesus: "David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah." A title that emphasizes her relationship with her husband rather than her own identity. This choice of wording is significant; it highlights the injustice she faced and the power imbalance in her life. Bathsheba was not a woman of power or agency. In the patriarchal society of her time, she had no vote, no property, and little control over her own life.

The Scandal of King David

The narrative of Bathsheba is intertwined with King David's actions. David, driven by lust, summoned Bathsheba to his palace, knowing she was married to Uriah, one of his chief warriors. This act of adultery led to a series of tragic events, including Uriah's orchestrated death on the battlefield. The fault lies squarely with David, who abused his power and acted against God's law.

Consequences and Redemption

The consequences of David's sin were severe. The first child born to Bathsheba and David died, poignantly reminding us of the fallout from David's actions. However, Bathsheba's story does not end in despair. After mourning, she bore another son, Solomon, who would become a pivotal figure in Israel's history, known for his wisdom and for building the temple that David longed to construct.

Bathsheba's role evolved from victim of circumstance to powerful figure in the royal court. She became an intercessor for Solomon, advocating for his heirship. This transformation illustrates the theme of redemption that runs throughout her story.

What Does It Mean?

While we may not choose our backgrounds or the hardships we encounter, we do have the power to decide how we respond to those challenges. Bathsheba's journey from victimhood to a position of influence serves as a reminder that God can redeem even the most difficult situations.

Suffering and redemption are found in the stories of other women in Jesus's lineage: Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth. Each of these women faced significant trials but ultimately became part of God's redemptive plan.

This week, meditate on 1 Peter 5:6-11: cast your anxieties on God, who cares for you. God is intimately involved in your struggles and is committed to restoring you. The promise of restoration is a central theme in the lives of the women discussed, including Bathsheba.Scripture Referenced:

Matthew 1:6
1 Kings 1:28-31
Titus 3: 4-6
1 Peter 5:6-11

What Does It Mean for Me?
God’s plan is uncomfortable--if we didn’t know it before with Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth - are we getting it by now? Do not count yourself out -- you are not your own judge!

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Help Us Partner with Samaritan’s Purse! Our goal is to raise $3000 as a How to Study the Bible community! samaritanspurse.org/study

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

There is so much pain and hopelessness in our world. Men or women, young or old, rich or poor—pain doesn’t discriminate, and the problem of addiction is prevalent. It can feel like there’s no way out.

Whether you are in a dark valley or walking with someone through theirs, the Bible can be your companion to recovery and restoration. Millions of people have chosen the Life Recovery Bible and have been led to the true source of recovery—God himself.

Within its pages, you’ll find a powerful foundation for recovery with spiritual care, practical wisdom, and the life-changing Word of God. Guidance, support, and hope are here.

The Life Recovery Bible is packed with practical notes, helps, and themes that are fully integrated with the twelve-step program and point you back to your Creator, who alone is the source of freedom, hope, and victory.

Begin your journey today at LifeRecoveryBible.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The story of Ruth and Naomi profoundly illustrates how God can work through ordinary people and circumstances to create extraordinary legacies. Nestled within Jesus' genealogy, Ruth's life underscores the significance of faith, loyalty, and divine providence in the lives of seemingly ordinary individuals.

The Context of Ruth and Naomi's Story

Naomi, a widow, returns to her hometown in a vulnerable state, having lost her husband and sons. In a society where women had limited rights and protections, Naomi's situation was dire. She was penniless and childless, leaving her without the means to secure her future. Ruth, her daughter-in-law, who was not from the Israelite community, chose to stay with Naomi despite the risks involved. This act of loyalty and love is a testament to Ruth's character and her willingness to embrace Naomi's people and God.

The Power of Sacrificial Love

Ruth's declaration to Naomi, "Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God," signifies a deep commitment that transcends cultural and familial boundaries. This covenantal relationship exemplifies sacrificial love, a recurring theme throughout the narrative. Ruth's choice to glean in the fields—a practice established by God to protect the vulnerable—demonstrates her determination to provide for both Naomi and herself.

In a world that often prioritized power and conquest, Ruth's actions reflect a different kind of strength—one rooted in compassion and selflessness. This sacrificial love not only sustains Naomi but also sets the stage for God's redemptive plan to unfold.

Divine Providence in Ordinary Circumstances

The story also emphasizes how God orchestrates events in ordinary people's lives. Boaz, a distant relative of Naomi, becomes a key figure in their redemption. His willingness to act as a kinsman-redeemer illustrates the importance of community and the laws established to protect the vulnerable. The levirate law, which allowed widowed women to be cared for within their families, is a testament to God's concern for those in need.

As Ruth and Naomi navigate their challenges, they remain faithful to one another and to God. Their story culminates in the birth of Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David, linking them to the lineage of Jesus. This extraordinary legacy emerges from their ordinary lives, showcasing how God can transform seemingly mundane circumstances into pivotal moments in history.

The Legacy of Faith: What Ruth's Story Means for You and Me

The legacy of Ruth and Naomi extends beyond their immediate circumstances. Their faithfulness and loyalty serve as a reminder that God values those who trust in Him, regardless of their background or status. The inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite woman, in Jesus' genealogy highlights God's desire to welcome all who seek Him, breaking down barriers and redefining community.

In the context of the Christmas season, this story encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the legacies we are building. Just as Ruth and Naomi's faithfulness led to an extraordinary outcome, we, too, are called to live out our faith in ordinary ways. By expressing love, kindness, and sacrificial acts in our daily lives, we contribute to a legacy that honors God and impacts those around us.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Help Us Partner with Samaritan’s Purse! Our goal is to raise $3000 as a How to Study the Bible community! samaritanspurse.org/study

A free Christmas Eve liturgy for you and your family: nicoleunice.com/christmas

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

There is so much pain and hopelessness in our world. Men or women, young or old, rich or poor—pain doesn’t discriminate, and the problem of addiction is prevalent. It can feel like there’s no way out.

Whether you are in a dark valley or walking with someone through theirs, the Bible can be your companion to recovery and restoration. Millions of people have chosen the Life Recovery Bible and have been led to the true source of recovery—God himself.

Within its pages, you’ll find a powerful foundation for recovery with spiritual care, practical wisdom, and the life-changing Word of God. Guidance, support, and hope are here.

The Life Recovery Bible is packed with practical notes, helps, and themes that are fully integrated with the twelve-step program and point you back to your Creator, who alone is the source of freedom, hope, and victory.

Begin your journey today at LifeRecoveryBible.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this special episode from Everyday Prayers, host Brook McGlothlin sits down with Kristy Graham, host of On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse. In this inspiring conversation, they discuss how to shift the focus of Christmas from receiving to giving. Brooke shares how her family uses the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Gift Catalog to help those in need, along with practical tips for making your holiday season more meaningful.

Brook and Kristy also invites you to join the Million Praying Moms Christmas Challenge, where you can feed 100 babies this December. For just $9, you can provide a meal for one baby and make a lasting difference this Christmas. Learn how you and your family can get involved, spreading love and generosity this holiday season.

Links & Resources:

• Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Gift Catalog – Make a Difference This Christmas
• Million Praying Moms Christmas Challenge – Feed 100 Babies This December
• FREE RESOURCE: Learn to Love Your Children Like God Does – A FREE 5-Day Devotion for Moms.
• Find more episodes of Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms

Discover more faith-based podcasts at LifeAudio.com or wherever you listen to podcasts!

 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.