Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, Dr. Lynn Wicker and guest Stacie Gentry explore the relevance of God's Word in their lives. Stacie shares her spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of being 'on call for God' and how her past experiences of feeling captive led her to discover true freedom in Christ. They discuss the significance of Isaiah 61:1, which speaks to the mission of Jesus to set the captives free. The conversation highlights the need for encouragement in the community and the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire others. Stacie also introduces her upcoming blog, 'The Warrior Babe,' aimed at empowering others through her experiences and insights.

Takeaways

The importance of being 'on call for God' in daily life.

Understanding one's past experiences can lead to spiritual freedom.

Isaiah 61:1 emphasizes Jesus' mission to free the captives.

Seeing others through the lens of Jesus can transform interactions.

Sharing personal stories can encourage and uplift others.

Obedience to God often comes with challenges and oppression.

The message of being 'enough' is vital for self-worth.

Community support is essential for spiritual growth.

Starting a blog can be a way to share one's journey and insights.

Humility is key in following God's calling.

Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, Dr. Lynn Wicker explores the concept of fasting from a biblical perspective. She discusses its significance as a spiritual discipline, the various types of fasting, and the purposes behind it. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-denial and redirecting one's focus towards God, while also providing practical tips for those interested in incorporating fasting into their spiritual practice. Dr. Wicker shares examples from scripture to illustrate the transformative power of fasting in a believer's life.

Takeaways

Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that transforms our relationship with God.

Biblical fasting is about voluntarily abstaining from something for a spiritual purpose.

Fasting can amplify our prayers and show God our seriousness about our petitions.

There are different types of fasting, including food-related and non-food-related fasts.

Fasting helps us seek God's guidance during significant decisions.

Fasting can express grief and draw us closer to God during times of loss.

Fasting can lead to spiritual breakthroughs in tough situations.

Motive matters when fasting; it should be between you and God.

Fasting reveals our true spiritual condition and dependencies.

It's not about earning God's favor, but about drawing near to Him.

Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, Lynn Wicker emphasizes the importance of seeking God's kingdom first as we enter a new year. She explores Matthew 6:33, discussing how prioritizing God can transform our lives and provide for our needs. Lynn offers practical steps for listeners to incorporate seeking God into their daily routines, highlighting the significance of prayer, community, and generosity. The episode encourages a commitment to living out God's Word boldly in everyday life, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from aligning our lives with God's will.

Takeaways

God sees you and wants you to know His joy.

Starting the year with a focus on God is crucial.

Seeking God's kingdom means prioritizing His will in our lives.

The word 'seek' implies earnest pursuit of God's kingdom.

God's provision comes when we focus on Him first.

Success is not defined by material wealth but by our relationship with God.

Daily choices should reflect our commitment to God.

Influence and generosity are key aspects of living out our faith.

Community support is essential in our spiritual journey.

Seeking God is an ongoing, daily commitment.

Summary

In this conversation, Lynn Wicker addresses the feelings of anxiety and worry that many individuals experience in today's uncertain world. She emphasizes the importance of pivoting from fear to faith, focusing on God's word, and trusting in His character as a source of peace and understanding.

Takeaways

Some of you today find yourself feeling some anxiety.

We need to pivot from that fear.

Fix our eyes on God.

We have to know His word.

Trust His character.

Anxiety can stem from personal struggles.

Understanding God's word helps alleviate worry.

Jesus exemplifies God's character.

Finding peace is a process of learning.

Faith can guide us through uncertainty.

Summary

In this conversation, Lynn Wicker discusses the importance of resilience in the face of challenges, emphasizing the need for faith and trust in God. She highlights how perseverance is essential for spiritual growth and maturity, enabling believers to make a meaningful impact in God's kingdom.

Takeaways

Maybe you're in something very difficult and challenging right now.

It's getting tough to stick to your biblical convictions.

You're tempted to give up.

You're tempted to accuse God of not caring or not listening to you.

God calls us to a life of faith and trust.

He needs to develop resilience in us to make us stronger.

Without perseverance, we would simply stagnate.

With perseverance, we can keep growing into mature believers.

Mature believers can really make a difference.

We can impact God's kingdom.

Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, host Lynn Wicker explores the theme of resting in God's faithfulness through a deep dive into 1 Corinthians 1:1-9. She discusses the context of the Corinthian church, the importance of grounding oneself in God's character, and practical steps to live out faithfulness in daily life. The episode emphasizes the significance of grace, spiritual gifts, and the assurance that God is always faithful, encouraging listeners to trust in His promises and find peace amidst life's challenges.

Takeaways

Resting in God's faithfulness is essential for spiritual peace.

The Corinthian church faced many challenges similar to today.

God's grace is the foundation for our peace.

We are sanctified and set apart for God's purpose.

God's faithfulness does not depend on our perfection.

We can rely on God's strength in our weaknesses.

Living in God's grace means we don't have to earn His love.

Practical steps help us rest in God's faithfulness.

Community with other believers is vital for support.

Sharing our stories of God's faithfulness can encourage others.

Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, Lynn Wicker explores the theme of patience as described in James 1:4. She discusses how patience is not merely waiting but an active process that shapes our character through trials. Lynn emphasizes that God uses challenges to target our weaknesses, leading to spiritual growth and maturity. She provides biblical examples, practical steps for embracing trials, and encourages listeners to trust God's timing in their lives.

Takeaways

Patience is an active process that shapes us.

Trials are opportunities for spiritual growth.

God uses challenges to target our weaknesses.

We can choose to opt out of God's work.

The cycle of trials and growth continues throughout life.

Scripture encourages us to count it all joy in trials.

Community support is vital during challenging times.

Trusting God's timing is essential for growth.

We must allow God to identify our weaknesses.

Each trial prepares us for future challenges.

Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, Lynn Wicker explores the transformative power of spending time with Jesus, as illustrated through the lives of Peter and John in Acts 4:13. The discussion emphasizes the importance of courage, wisdom, and love that stem from a relationship with Christ, encouraging listeners to reflect His presence in their daily lives. Practical steps for spiritual growth and sharing one's transformation are also highlighted, culminating in a call to live out one's faith boldly and authentically.

Takeaways

We are called to live God's Word out loud.

Spending time with God's Word transforms our lives.

Peter and John were ordinary men marked by Jesus' presence.

Courage comes from knowing Jesus, who conquered death.

Wisdom is gained through abiding in Jesus and His Word.

Love for God and others drives our actions as believers.

Transformation is a process that requires intentionality.

We should examine our hearts and seek God's guidance.

Sharing our stories of transformation encourages others.

Living out our faith can impact our communities significantly.

Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, Lynn Wicker explores Psalm 73, focusing on the themes of envy, God's justice, and finding peace in His presence. The discussion highlights Asaph's struggles with envy towards the wicked and the importance of seeking God's perspective on justice. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the significance of God's presence as a source of peace and strength for believers.

Takeaways

Be honest with God about your doubts and struggles.

Envy distorts our perspective and shifts our focus from God's goodness.

God's justice is real, but it operates on His timeline.

We should pray for those who seem to prosper in wickedness.

Finding peace in God's presence is essential for spiritual growth.

We can shift our focus from the temporary to the eternal.

Seek God's perspective on life's injustices through prayer and scripture.

God's presence is our greatest treasure, surpassing worldly success.

Trust God's goodness and faithfulness in all circumstances.

Engage in uninterrupted time with God to experience His peace.

Summary

In this episode of Living the Word Out Loud, host Lynn Wicker explores the age-old question, 'Did God really say that?' originating from Genesis 3. She discusses how this question has been used by the enemy to instill doubt in believers and offers practical strategies to combat these doubts through knowledge of scripture, prayer, community, and understanding God's character. The episode emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and trusting in God's truth.

Takeaways

The question 'Did God really say that?' is a tactic used by the enemy to instill doubt.

Doubt can lead to disobedience, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve.

Knowing God's Word is essential to combat lies and deception.

Prayer for discernment is crucial in recognizing the enemy's lies.

Staying in community helps to combat isolation and deception.

Testing everything against scripture is vital for truth.

Focusing on God's character can strengthen faith and trust.

Memorizing scripture can help reinforce truth in our hearts.

Believers are equipped with the Holy Spirit to stand firm against lies.

Taking actionable steps in faith can lead to spiritual victory.