Living On Purpose In Christ | Bible Study, Biblical Encouragement, Feeling and Feelings, Aroma Freedom (AFT), Essential Oils, Devotions

Fear can be overwhelming and paralyzing, but as Christians, we are called to live by faith in God who provides guidance and strength to overcome our anxieties and uncertainties.

• Understanding the nature of fear and its consequences on our spiritual growth
• Trusting in God's sovereignty through His promises of presence and support
• Building a strong foundation of faith through Scripture and seeking wisdom
• Embracing God's unconditional love as the ultimate antidote to fear
• 10 practical ways to stop living in fear including Scripture meditation, prayer journaling, and accountability partnerships
• Exploring a gentle technique as a Christ-centered approach to releasing fears
• Cultivating a community of believers who provide support and encouragement

Download your Bible study resources now at faithbuildingclub.com and embark on your personal journey of discovery with God. Share my Faith Building Club with another study group who might benefit from these resources, and if you have a moment, follow the show and leave us a review.

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Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

Small changes can create massive transformation in your faith journey. Isn't it remarkable how tiny shifts in our daily routines can completely realign our spiritual connection? This profound truth lies at the heart of Jesus's invitation in Matthew 11:28 where He beckons, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

The journey to meaningful spiritual practices doesn't require monumental overhauls. Even as someone who served two congregations while attending seminary, I discovered that consistent devotional time wasn't about perfection—it was about grace-filled progress through intentional micro-shifts. Whether it's incorporating a morning prayer ritual enhanced with the clarity-promoting properties of lemon essential oil, or creating evening wind-down routines with calming scents like lavender and cedarwood, these small adjustments synchronize our lives with God's natural rhythms.

Living intentionally means making conscious choices aligned with our faith values, setting daily intentions that guide our decisions and interactions. Try this week's affirmation: "I trust in God's perfect design for my life and find peace in His sustaining presence." Write it down, save it on your phone, and watch how this simple practice ripples through your thoughts and actions. Remember that establishing healthy boundaries isn't selfish—it's essential for sustainable ministry and authentic presence. By implementing these small, consistent shifts and connecting with our supportive community of like-minded women, you'll discover a transformed relationship with God built on peace rather than perfection. 

Visit BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com to join our community of women committed to living purposefully in Christ.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

Feeling bombarded by conflicting spiritual messages? Wondering how to separate truth from subtle deception? Your spiritual discernment has never been more vital than in today's complex world.

Satan's tactics haven't changed since Eden – questioning God's words, contradicting truth, appealing to desires, and misrepresenting God's character. What has changed is how these deceptions appear, often wrapped in language that sounds enlightened, progressive, or even spiritually enriching.

My personal wake-up call came when a friend shared her experience from what seemed like a Christian-aligned spiritual seminar. As we unpacked the teachings, those subtle discrepancies with Scripture became alarmingly clear. This experience reinforced what Scripture has always taught: deception thrives wherever vigilance wanes.

This episode dives deep into biblical understanding of deception, exploring its origins and manifestations while providing practical strategies for protection. We'll examine Satan's encounter with Eve as a case study in manipulative tactics that continue today, and unpack the powerful protection found in each piece of the armor of God described in Ephesians 6.

You'll discover how consistent engagement with Scripture, cultivating spiritual discernment, walking in the Spirit, practicing integrity, and maintaining accountability create multiple layers of defense against deceptive influences. As Jesus promised, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

Ready to strengthen your spiritual discernment? Download your free Bible study resources at faithbuildingclub.com and join our growing community of believers committed to standing firm in God's truth. Share this episode with someone who might be struggling to navigate today's spiritual landscape – because in a world full of deception, we need each other more than ever.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

Overwhelmed by stress? You're not alone. What if I told you that peace isn't just possible—it's your spiritual birthright?

As someone who once rated my stress at a 15 on a 10-point scale during my early pastoral work, I understand the crushing weight of overwhelm. It took me years to discover that managing stress isn't just about time management techniques or deep breathing—it's about aligning our entire approach to life with God's design for peace and purpose.

This episode walks you through a comprehensive 10-step stress-free reset plan rooted in biblical wisdom. We explore practical applications of scripture like 1 Peter 5:7, which reminds us to cast our anxieties on God, and Philippians 4:6-7, which promises peace that transcends understanding when we bring everything to Him in prayer. From identifying your unique stressors to setting healthy boundaries, practicing forgiveness, and ultimately trusting in God's perfect plan, each step builds upon the foundation of faith while addressing the practical realities of modern life.

What sets this approach apart is how it honors both spiritual truths and practical needs. We discuss the importance of delegation (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10), physical self-care (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and community support (Galatians 6:2), creating an integrated strategy that addresses stress from multiple angles. I also share personal insights from my 25+ years of ministry experience, including the transformative practices that helped me transition from pulpit to podcasting.

Ready to reclaim the peace and joy God intends for you? Listen now, and don't forget to join our community of faith-filled women at BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com where we're walking this journey together, supporting each other every step of the way.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

We explore the delicate balance between faith and doubt through the biblical story of Sarah, witnessing how God's promises are fulfilled even when circumstances seem impossible. Sarah's journey from skepticism to joy demonstrates that even our failures can be redeemed in God's sovereign plan.

• Sarah initially doubted God's promise of a child
• Taking matters into her own hands created family conflict and complications
• God changed Sarai's name to Sarah, marking her new identity
• Sarah's laughter at the impossibility of pregnancy turned to joy when Isaac was born
• God's question "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" challenges us to expand our faith
• Even when we make mistakes, God remains faithful to fulfill His promises
• Sarah's honesty about her doubts teaches us about authentic relationship with God
• Her story demonstrates that faith can coexist with questions and uncertainties

Download resources for your Bible study group at faithbuildingclub.com. If you found this episode valuable, please share it with others who might benefit, follow the show, and leave a review.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

The negative voice in your head doesn't have to win. That persistent inner critic—whispering doubt, planting seeds of fear, and questioning your worth—can be silenced through a divine blend of scripture and scent.

Many believers struggle with this internal dialogue while simultaneously finding it challenging to maintain consistent spiritual practices in their busy lives. Drawing from personal experience, including my journey through seminary while serving congregations and later transitioning into retirement, I share how the Aroma Freedom Technique provided a breakthrough that removed layers of old wounds and brought clarity to my path forward.

Scripture offers profound guidance for managing our thoughts. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us that "as he thinks in his heart, so is he," while 2 Corinthians 10:5 encourages us to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." These verses underscore the importance of recognizing and actively managing the negative voice within us. Through awareness, journaling, challenging thought validity, and replacing negativity with scriptural affirmations, we can transform our mental landscape.

Biblical boundaries serve as spiritual scaffolding that protects our inner peace and aligns our minds with God's will. Even Jesus modeled boundary-setting by withdrawing for personal renewal. The Aroma Freedom Technique, developed by clinical psychologist Dr. Benjamin Perkus, offers a unique approach that combines essential oils with focused reflection. This technique works with the brain's limbic system—responsible for emotions and memories—to support mood regulation and build resilience against negative thoughts.

By integrating natural aromas (as God created them) into prayer, journaling, and worship, we create sacred spaces where God's presence is felt more profoundly. Through these holistic strategies, you can silence the negative voice, embrace your worth, and walk confidently in faith. Subscribe to continue discovering how to live on purpose in Christ, and join our community at BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com to connect with others on this journey.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

Feeling uncertain about God's call on your life? Gideon's journey from fearful wheat thresher to mighty warrior reveals powerful truths about how God works through our weaknesses to achieve His purposes.

This episode opens with a story from my early ministry days—standing in the pulpit for the first time, legs shaking, praying desperately not to throw up or pass out. That terrifying moment laid the foundation for over twenty years of pastoral service, demonstrating how embracing God's calling requires leaning on His strength when fear threatens to overwhelm us.

The heart of this episode explores Gideon's transformation as recorded in the book of Judges. We examine Israel's oppression under the Midianites, Gideon's humble beginnings hiding in a wine press, and God's surprising greeting: "Mighty warrior!" Despite Gideon's doubt and requests for confirmation through the fleece tests, God patiently affirms His calling. Through obedience in tearing down Baal's altar and following God's counterintuitive battle strategy, Gideon witnesses a miraculous victory with just 300 men against a vast Midianite army.

This biblical account offers profound applications for today's believers: God sees potential in us beyond our self-perception, our doubts can become opportunities for growth, faithfulness in small matters precedes greater responsibilities, God's strength shines through our weaknesses, and His unconventional wisdom surpasses human understanding. The episode provides rich discussion questions and journaling prompts to deepen your personal reflection on these timeless truths.

For additional resources to enhance your Bible study experience, visit faithbuildingclub.com, where you'll find printable prayer journals, devotionals, comprehensive study guides, reading plans, as well as the printable resource for this study, designed to nurture your spiritual growth and enrich your group's faith journey.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

The weight of ministry can feel crushing—every congregation member's need resting on your shoulders, every spiritual crisis demanding your immediate attention. But what if God already provided natural remedies to help you manage this unique burden?

Get the full episode here: Soothe Your Soul - Natural Remedies for Stress >>> https://paulabehrens.com/blog/40904/sooth-your-soul-natural-remedies-for-stress 

That's exactly what I discovered during COVID-19 while pastoring two East Texas congregations. When most churches remained closed, I felt called to reopen our doors after just seven weeks, knowing many members lacked internet access for virtual services. Guided by biblical wisdom, we diffused frankincense throughout our sanctuaries—the same essence Aaron used to halt a plague in Numbers 16—and employed immune-supporting oil blends to sanitize between services. The results were remarkable: everyone stayed healthy, and hospital visits plummeted during this challenging time.

In this episode we delve into how essential oils can transform clergy stress into renewed spiritual vigor. Lavender promotes restful sleep after those late-night emergency calls. Frankincense grounds your prayers and meditation. Bergamot lifts your spirits after difficult pastoral encounters, while Ylang-Ylang helps you release work thoughts at day's end. These aren't just pleasant scents—they're powerful tools created by God on the third day specifically to support our emotional and spiritual well-being.

Remember Jesus' words about the birds of the air? "They do not sow or reap, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" The same God who provides for these creatures has given us natural remedies for the unique challenges of ministry. By embracing these aromatic gifts, we experience the abundant life Christ promises while becoming more effective servants. Self-care isn't selfish—it's essential to sustainable ministry. Your congregation deserves a pastor who's grounded, present, and spiritually vibrant. Discover how God's natural remedies can help you become exactly that leader.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

Have you ever achieved everything society says should make you happy, yet still felt an inexplicable emptiness? That was my reality—a beautiful home, loving family, successful career—and a persistent void that nothing could fill.

From being dropped off at church as a child to dropping off my own children years later, I believed adults should be self-sufficient, creating happiness through hard work and material success. That all changed one day at my desk when, feeling that familiar emptiness, I uttered a genuine prayer: "God, if you are really out there..." What followed was a heart transformation so profound I couldn't deny something beyond myself had occurred—my first real evidence that God existed.

The Freedom Formula explores how freedom in Christ liberates us from sin's bondage, legalism's constraints, and fear's paralysis. Through scriptural foundations like Galatians 5:1 and Romans 8:1, we discover that spiritual freedom isn't merely intellectual but carries profound implications for daily life—from approaching God without condemnation to loving others selflessly. We examine how embracing the mind of Christ develops character traits including love, compassion, humility, and servant leadership that reflect His nature in our lives.

My journey from church drop-off kid to ordained pastor took 12½ years, but God remained present throughout, strengthening and carrying me when necessary. True fulfillment comes not from external achievements but from alignment with our Creator. Ready to discover how filling that God-shaped void in your heart can transform everything? Download our resources at faithbuildingclub.com and join us on this journey to authentic spiritual freedom.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store

Grab the Covenant Family Resources: bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Ever rushed out the door with mismatched shoes while trying to squeeze in your devotional time? You're not alone. The struggle to balance daily spiritual practices with the demands of a busy life is real, and finding that sweet spot where faith meets emotional wellbeing can feel impossible.

Drawing from my own journey, I share how small, intentional practices transformed my relationship with God and revolutionized my emotional intelligence. This episode unpacks three powerful 10-minute devotional routines that anyone can implement—even on the busiest days.

These aren't complicated systems requiring hours of uninterrupted quiet time—they're grace-filled approaches for real people living messy, beautiful lives. Whether you choose one approach or weave all three throughout your day, these practices will empower your spiritual journey and bring greater peace to your relationships. Remember, emotional intelligence isn't just a psychology buzzword—it's a biblical principle that transforms how we show up in the world.

Want to start implementing these practices today? Click the FOLLOW button now to continue discovering how small spiritual practices yield profound results in everyday life.

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YOUR NEXT STEP:

*Accept Jesus into your heart*

Also available: 

Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour: PaulaBehrens.com/coaching1

The Story of Oils in Scripture | Class: PaulaBehrens.com/oils-in-scripture

Healing Oils of the Bible | Course: PaulaBehrens.com/healing-oils 

Weekly Biblical Encouragement Tips: PaulaBehrens.com/insider-list

Free Revelation (Part 1) printable study: PaulaBehrens.com/free-revelation-1

Bold Faith Bundle for new Christians | Printables: PaulaBehrens.com/bold-faith

In the Word — 24 free messages:  PaulaBehrens.com/in-the-word

Free 15-Minute Discovery Consult: PaulaBehrens.com/#discoverycall

Faith Membership Club | Through-the-Bible: PaulaBehrens.com/bible

The Store: PaulaBehrens.com/store