This is the final episode of season two! Thank you all for being here; I am so grateful for your support and time. Today, we are diving into the inevitable twists and turns of unpredictability when following God's plans. We make our plans and often want control, but God is sovereign.

Today, we learn that while we make our plans, the Lord appoints our steps. We can learn to trust God on the mountaintops and valleys. We do this well when we practice a few key ideas.

Focus Passage:

Proverbs 16:9 - In their hearts, humans plan their course,

    but the Lord establishes their steps.

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Lord Jesus,

Thank you for loving us so much that you won’t give us what we cannot yet handle. Help us embrace change as we surrender our own ideas to your careful plan. Lord continue to be faithful to remain with us on the journey as we learn more and more about what it means to praise you on the mountaintops and the valleys. 

In Jesus name,

Amen

Asbury Bible Commentary

Asbury Bible Commentary Copyright © 1992 by The Zondervan Corporation.

Etymology - ⁠https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h3824/kjv/wlc/0-1/⁠ Faith Spilling Over Tips to Deal with Change - ⁠https://faithspillingover.com/2018/04/10/when-god-changes-your-plan/⁠

Today we are diving into the theme of rejection. Rejection is a part of life for all of us and affects us socially, romantically, and professionally. The emotional toll of rejection has even been tied to physical pain based on neurological studies.

However, Jesus, experienced profound rejection in his life and is our guide to remain steadfast even in the face of rejection. Jesus doesn't reject us, he selects us out of the world. We can apply the truth of our focus verse to help process the pain of rejection.

Focus Passage:

John 15:18-19 - 18 If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. NIV

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Dear Jesus,

You were rejected by those closest to you and understand the pain of rejection well. When we face rejection, please remind us that you chose us, you call us beloved, and you sent your HS to equip us in our time of need. Help us speak life-giving words over ourselves and others when we are healing from the hurt of rejection. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen 

Rejection triggers physical pain area in the brain - ⁠https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14551436⁠ 

Effects of Rejection - ⁠https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/conquering-codependency/202106/4-strategies-cope-rejection⁠ 

How the 12 Apostles Died - ⁠https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/timeline/1-300/whatever-happened-to-the-twelve-apostles-11629558.html⁠ 

Believer's Bible Commentary

Copyright © 1989, 1990, 1992, 1995, 2016 by William MacDonald.

Dr. Leslie Baker-Phelps - Bouncing Back from Rejection: Build the Resilience You Need to Get Back Up When Life Knocks You Down - ⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/1684034027⁠ 

Daily Biblical Affirmations - ⁠https://sunshynegray.com/daily-christian-affirmations/⁠ 

Do you find it easy to discuss your faith with your family and loved ones? It can be tricky, even daunting, especially if they don't openly prescribe to your beliefs. However, in today's episode, we will dive into an inspiring passage of scripture about having courageous conversations about our faith.

We are equipped and encouraged to share our personal stories about how God is working in our lives. Furthermore, we are meant to show restraint and respect so that others may see the light of Christ through us.

Focus Passage:

1 Peter 3:15 ESV - but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Dear Jesus,

It can be tough to face our family and friends who don’t understand our faith. Help us to have a calm and gentle spirit even as we face persecution, skepticism, or slander. Lord, only you change hearts, minds, and attitudes. We pray for all of our family members and friends who don’t have a relationship with you, and we ask that they encounter your hope, your peace, and your spirit this season. 

In Jesus name, 

Amen

Show Notes:

When was Jesus really born? ⁠https://www.jewsforjesus.org.au/articles/when-jesus-was-really-born⁠ 

⁠https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/5-simple-tips-for-sharing-your-faith.html⁠ 

⁠https://newspring.cc/articles/evangelism-isnt-an-argument...-its-a-way-of-life⁠ 

Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): New Testament

Copyright 2004.

Welcome back, NOTW Listeners! Today's episode is a dive into the transformative power of bold prayers. Maybe your prayer life has grown flat, boring, or wimpy. Today Jess shares part of her personal experiences where prayer turned impossible situations around.

Jesus gives us some encouragement in Mark 11:22-24, where He emphasizes having faith in God, speaking to mountains without doubt, and the assurance that believing in prayer's fulfillment makes it a reality. The crucial aspects of praying with courage involve our wholehearted faith, rooted in scripture, and expecting fruitfulness in our lives.

Focus Passage:

Mark 11:22-24 

22 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23 “Truly[f] I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Dear Jesus,

I pray for every listener right now that you would stir their hearts with a prayer that is beyond their ability, imagination, or resource. Place in their minds in this moment something they are afraid to ask you for. Give us a boldness to ask for big, audacious, miraculous things and help us to keep those prayers aligned to your WORD. Jesus, I rebuke and cancel the spirit of doubt at work in our minds so that we may pray with full faith. Help us in our unbelief. Let us not be content with safe, predictable prayers, we desire a courageous spirit that will believe in the unbelievable!

In Jesus Name,

Amen

https://www.crossway.org/articles/10-key-bible-verses-on-prayer/ 

Believer's Bible Commentary

Copyright © 1989, 1990, 1992, 1995, 2016 by William MacDonald.

Keys to Believe Big, Think Big, and Pray Big - 

https://guideposts.org/prayer/bible-resources/deepen-your-faith/3-ways-to-believe-big-think-big-and-pray-big/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CWhatever%20you%20ask%20for%20in,(John%2015%3A7). 

David Guzik Commentary - https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/matthew/matthew-21.cfm?a=950021 
Brother Andrew Story - https://www.opendoorsuk.org/about/our-history/brother-andrew/

In Episode 8 of the Nerd of the Word podcast, we dig into the challenging topic of "Courageous Compassion" and its relevance to the parable of the Good Samaritan. Compassion is defined as "suffering together" and involves actively working to alleviate the suffering of others. Jesus tells a shocking story to illustrate what courageous compassion looks like.

The episode emphasizes that courageous compassion involves caring for and helping those who are not like us, even when it challenges the status quo or disrupts power dynamics.

Focus Passage:

Luke 10: 36-37

36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”

Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Dear Jesus,

Help us be motivated to show compassion to those around us who are suffering. Let us see them with the eyes of faith and be courageous enough to serve, heal, and resource people who we don’t always see eye to eye with. May we be fearless in our compassion as you were fearless in placing value on the outcasts of your time. Help us to be more like you every day. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Show Notes:

Africa Bible Commentary

Africa Bible Commentary, Tokunboh Adeyemo, General Editor. Copyright © 2006, 2010, and 2022 by ABC Editorial Board.

Compassion defined - https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/compassion/definition#:~:text=Compassion%20literally%20means%20%E2%80%9Cto%20suffer,though%20the%20concepts%20are%20related

Luke as historian - Asbury Bible Commentary

Asbury Bible Commentary Copyright © 1992 by The Zondervan Corporation.

Priests vs Levites

https://ww.bibleodyssey.org › people › main-articles › pr…

In today's episode, we discover the transformative power of authenticity. We all can struggle to be genuine, but the consequences of compromising one's identity are serious. Drawing from the biblical passage of 1 Samuel 16:7, we explore how God values the heart over appearances. Using the story of King David as an example, we uncover the benefits of authentic living. Some of these include deeper relationships, resilience against peer pressure, and the pursuit of one's true purpose. You are more interesting than your mask!

Focus Passage:

1 Samuel 16:7 

7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, 

Help us to live a life of authenticity. Help us to be true to ourselves, and who you made us to be. We know that when we have the courage to be ourselves, we experience more fulfilling lives, and stronger relationships, and we stand to impact our world in a greater way. Help us see our uniqueness as a gift to us and to others.  

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Show Notes:

Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): Old Testament

Copyright 2004.

McGee, J.V. (1982) Through the Bible with J. Vernon McGee (vol. II, Joshua-Psalms). California: Thru the Bible Radio. 

Dr. Stephen Joseph - Benefits of Authenticity https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-doesnt-kill-us/201912/why-are-authentic-people-happier 

In this episode, we chat about the concept of having the courage to disappoint others and break free from people-pleasing tendencies. People-pleasers often receive praise for their accommodating nature, but this can come at the cost of neglecting their own well-being. The negative consequences of perpetual people-pleasing are discussed, including self-neglect, passive aggression, increased stress, and being taken advantage of.

Those of us who struggle with wanting to keep others happy can learn a little bit from the passion of the apostle Paul!

Focus Passage:

Galatians 1:10 ESV - For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Dear Jesus,

It is difficult to disappoint others, especially when they are close to us. However, we want to please you over all others. Give us the courage to disappoint others when it means we are following your plans, purposes, and healthy rhythms of life. Help us continue to serve others with a happy heart and remind us when we feel taken advantage of or bitter that we might have fallen into a space of people-pleasing. Set us free from seeking the approval of man over that of God. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen 

Fears that hold us back -

⁠https://www.cnbc.com/2022/02/10/the-3-biggest-fears-that-hold-people-back-in-life-and-how-to-overcome-them.html⁠ 

Galatians Overview - ⁠https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/galatians/⁠ 

How much it costs to buy papyrus - ⁠https://testamentpress.com/ancient-money-calculator.html⁠ 

Softer ways to say no-

⁠https://www.betterup.com/blog/how-to-say-no⁠ 

In this episode of The Nerd of the Word, we dive into the challenging yet liberating act of confessing one's wrongdoings.

Jess includes a gripping reference to the movie "Luther, The Fallen Sun," which underlines the crucial role of confession in preventing dire consequences. Shame often drives us to maintain secrecy, making it clear that confession requires immense courage, from admitting minor childhood transgressions to more significant, deeply painful secrets. The central idea is that confession is an integral aspect of living a fulfilling life in Christ, echoing Jesus' call for repentance.

Focus Passage:

1 John 1:9 - If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Main Takeaways:

Prayer:

Jesus,

We need your help to confess our sins. When we are tempted to hide our wrongdoing, please convict us through the Holy Spirit. Lead us to safe people when our hearts need a face-to-face confession, and help us walk in the freedom you purchased on the cross.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Show Notes:

Courage to confess- https://christianworkingwoman.org/broadcasts/courage-to-confess/ 

Africa Bible Commentary

Africa Bible Commentary, Tokunboh Adeyemo, General Editor. Copyright © 2006, 2010, and 2022 by ABC Editorial Board.

Believer's Bible Commentary

Copyright © 1989, 1990, 1992, 1995, 2016 by William MacDonald.

Confess Definied - https://www.dictionary.com/browse/confess 

Steps to get up the courage to confess - https://www.regenerationministries.org/5-ways-to-get-up-the-courage-to-confess/ 

In this episode of the "Nerd of the Word" podcast, we dive into the challenging topic of giving when financial resources are scarce. We dig into the innate generosity embedded within our very beings, drawing from biblical wisdom and modern scientific research. As we navigate life's stresses and challenges, such as financial difficulties, the act of giving can seem daunting. Yet, it's precisely during these tough times that our faith and courage are put to the test.

When the piggy bank is empty, it’s hard to give. Even when we consider non-monetary giving of our time and talents, it becomes difficult because we often can leverage that time and effort to gain resources for ourselves. It is far easier to be generous when we have plenty of resources.

We are made in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26-31), and have the very DNA of generosity baked into our being. Jesus himself said it is better to give than to receive (Acts 20:32-35) 

It’s so cool that modern science is starting to catch up to what the bible has been saying for centuries. Research is confirming that people who demonstrate generosity live a fuller, healthier, and happier life.

Our focus passage today gives us a powerful picture of what it looks like to have the courage to give even when we have very little.

Focus Passage:

Mark 12:41-44

41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”

Main Takeaways:

- The poor widow gave all she had to live on in faith

- The courage to give comes from a deep trust in God

- Not all of us will be asked to give everything we have to live on, but some will be tested in this way

- God never asks us to give what we don't have, but He often asks us to give what is in our hands

Prayer 

Lord Jesus,

Help us to grow in faith and trust in you as our provider. When we face seasons when money is tight, help us to be like the poor widow and seek to give and serve others. For those listening who are in need, I pray that you would provide miraculously. I ask that you make a way where there seems to be no way and strengthen their faith. Help us become a people marked by generosity, whether our season is one of abundance or hardship. You, Lord, honor those whose trust and hope are in You. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Show Notes

Definition of Generous - ⁠https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generous⁠ 

Ascent Study “It Pays to Be Generous” - ⁠https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/research/study-it-pays-be-generous/⁠ 

8 Biggest Benefits of Being Generous - ⁠https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/banks/articles/8-biggest-benefits-being-generous/⁠ 

The Gospel of Mark Summary - ⁠https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/mark/⁠ 

NIV Application Commentary - Copyright © 1996 by David E. Garland.

Tendai Story - ⁠https://www.premierchristianity.com/features/5-stories-of-miraculous-provision/2166.article⁠

In this episode of the podcast, we delve into the topic of finding courage in the midst of panic. Many of us have experienced moments of sheer panic, whether due to personal challenges, financial crises, or the unexpected twists of life. These situations can leave us feeling overwhelmed, fearful, and unsure of how things will work out. However, through the power and authority of God at work, we can develop faith and spiritual awareness as we learn to combat panic.

We are continuing our courage series this week and talking about having courage when you are panicking. Have you ever been lost? Or maybe your child got lost, and you didn’t know where they were. The type of real, unfiltered panic in those moments catches your breath while simultaneously causing your heart to beat like a racehorse. 

Here are some of the most common “freak-out” triggers we experience in life, according to Benenden Health:

One of the main reasons we tend to feel a heightened sense of overwhelm is because we fail to see how things are going to work out. Being a Nerd of the Word has helped me realize that even as we face uncertainty…we serve an unseen trustworthy and powerful God.

Focus Passage:

2 Kings 6:16-17 

So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, and said, “Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 

Main Takeaways:

- We panic when we cannot see God working through our circumstances

- Spiritual awareness and trust in God keeps us in a place of courage no matter what we face

- Spending time with other believers can open our eyes to God at work around us

- Meditating on God's word is vital to understanding the character and power of God Almighty

Prayer 

Lord Jesus,

We pray for eyes that are open to what God is doing in us and through us. Let us not shrink back in fear when we face uncertainty and circumstances where we feel outnumbered and outgunned. We know that when we surrender our entire existence to your plans and purposes, you promise to go before us. We need only be still and let the Lord fight for us. Help us to release any outcomes or expectations to you. Lord, give us spiritual awareness every day so that we can courageously follow you. 

In Jesus name,

AmenShow Notes

Beneden Health - Major Stress Triggers

⁠https://www.benenden.co.uk/newsroom/top-ten-most-stressful-life-events/⁠

Africa Bible Commentary

Africa Bible Commentary, Tokunboh Adeyemo, General Editor. Copyright © 2006, 2010, and 2022 by ABC Editorial Board.

New Bible Commentary

Copyright Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship, Leicester, England, 1953, 1954, 1970, 1994↵All rights reserved. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Hodder and Stoughton Ltd and Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved.