Simply Stories Podcast

Today on the podcast is the oh so lovely, Kristen Strong. Kristen’s most recent book Back Roads to Belonging: Unexpected Paths to Finding Your Place and Your People, provides really intentional insight from her experience as a military wife and how she often had to pick up and start over with relationships and figuring out exactly where it was she belonged as they changed locations, as she entered the different seasons of motherhood and just navigated the sheer challenge that is adult friendships. Back Roads to Belonging is a great read for anyone trying to navigate meaningful relationships, but I think this conversation in tandem with pieces of her book brings some great thoughts to the forefront as we navigate how to feel a sense of belonging to the Lord and to others during this pandemic where we can’t physically be together, but we can still be part of one another’s lives. 

Relationships matter, even though they are hard work. As we figure out what reentry into society and the process of discerning the next right steps looks like, remember that even if it takes work to press in and reconnect with your people, don’t give up if it feels funky or hard. Press in. Pray. There’s still room at the table, you belong, even if we’re still figuring out how to set it in this season. It matters that you are here. You matter. 

Kristen and I, and mostly I, want to ask for some grace on this episode because we were battling some major technological and internet issues, but I promise it's worth sticking with us! Find ways to hear the episode, check out Kristen’s books and more below!

References:

Annie F. Downs episode with Kristen Strong 

 Back Roads to Belonging: Unexpected Paths to Finding Your Place and Your People

Jane Pauley

Katie Couric

Girl Meets Change: Truths to Carry you Through Life’s Transitions by Kristen Strong

“Gladiator” - “we will meet again but not yet”

None Like Him: 10 Ways God is Different From Us (and why that’s a good thing)  by Jen Wilkin 

Max Lucado Coronavirus Checkins 

Katelyn’s episode and story of hope and surviving cancer - Part 1 and Part 2

Passover

OK to Wake Clock

“Darkness fell. His friends scattered. All hope seemed lost. But Heaven just started counting to three.” - Bob Goff

Scripture:

Job 36:22-24. "God's power is unlimited. He needs no teachers to guide or correct him. Others have praised God for what he has done, so join with them."

Psalm 16:5-6 - “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places”

Hosea 3:5- His goodness is the end

Psalm 84:11- No good thing does the Lord withhold 

Proverbs 16:4-14- (MSG) Everything has a purpose

Luke 24 - The first Easter there was just scared people in a house

Hebrews 13:5- He will never leave us or forsake us

1 Peter 1:3- He died to give us hope

John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart

Exodus 12: Passover story

Esther’s story (you can also hear a reading of it on our podcast!) 

Isaiah 42:16-I will lead the blind by ways they have not known before

Psalm 27:13- We land on the hope of God

Hebrews 6:19- We cling to the anchor of our soul

Connecting with Kristen:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories:

More episodes

Blog

Facebook

Instagram (Podcast) // Instagram (Writing, Family, and other general shenangians) 

Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com 

It's a really fun day over on the podcast because the fabulous Lori Beth Auldridge is on! Lori Beth is a podcaster and blogger who started her life on the mainland, but now resides on the beautiful island of Maui in Hawaii with her family and baby goats! Lori Beth is passionate about connecting Mommas and engaging motherhood from the heart of sisterhood. We talk about where this heart comes from, how we are attempting to navigate this crazy world of covid19 and walk through big feelings and confusion with our children, and how to process not just the “what ifs, but the what is.” I am so grateful for Lori Beth’s willingness to share her story of growing in her faith, how we face and process fear, and choose to be the light during the times that just feel so dang dark. 

Motherhood can create bonds of shared experiences through the power of storytelling and bearing with one another in love. Or by choosing to live in silence and isolation, it can choke out the potential beauty of even the hardest parenting day and steal our joy and our potential connection with others because of assumption and comparison. Lori Beth and I talk about the importance of coming to the table with our full selves, authentically, and with open hearts as we live in the motherhood community, and I hope it is an encouragement to you. She does such a beautiful job in the Ya-Ya Mamas world and on the Elevating Motherhood podcast of asking the hard questions, but making space for Mothers in all seasons to process from their unique perspective. Be sure you are following Lori Beth and check out her podcast as well as her blog for a great source of encouragement and a wide range of topics on living this crazy Momma life.

There also happens to be a very cute special guest appearance in the first few minutes of the podcast. ;)

References:

-the island of Maui

-“opt outers”

-YMCA before and after school program

-Marriott Maui

-Ya Ya Mamas

-Elevating Motherhood

-ABLE : “Be the Light” necklace

-Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

-Right Now Media

-Trillia Newbell

-Indigenous Birthworker Movement

-De-colonizing your cuisine

-Elevation Church

-Hillsong Church

-“The Blessing” - Elevation Worship

-“Graves into Gardens”- Elevation Worship

- Article on “do not fear” being said more than any other command in scripture

Scripture References:

-Matthew 22:37: love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul

-Numbers 23:19- There are no human motives attached to the heart of God

God is the sustainer of all creation

Romans 1:19- He makes himself known in creation

Psalm 19:1-6- The heaven declares the glory of God

-Colossians 1:17- He is before all things and holds all things together

- 1 Peter 1:3-5- We can have hope in Him

-Deuteronomy 7:9- May his favor be upon a thousand generations

-Hebrews 4:16- boldly approach the throne of grace

-Matthew 26:36-46-Garden of Gethsemane

-Isaiah 43:1- Do not fear

-Isaiah 43:2- When you pass through the waters

-John 1:5- The light cannot be overcome by the dark

-Luke 6:45- Out of the mouth the heart speaks

-Ephesians 5:14- Wake up o sleeper

-Genesis 9 -Rainbow of God’s promises

Matthew 14:23-33- Jesus walks on the water

Connecting with Lori Beth:

Podcast

Blog

Facebook

Instagram 

Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories:

More episodes

Blog

Facebook

Instagram (Podcast) // Instagram (Writing, Family, and other general shenangians) 

Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com 

Today I am talking with best-selling author, speaker, and just incredible woman of faith, Carol Kent. I loved this conversation with Carol because it felt like I got to sit and talk with a woman further along in life than me and talk about all that is going on around us right now and how it's impacting our relationships, our hearts, as well as it is impacting the hidden hurting in our society. She and her husband, Gene, along with two of their dear friends, Cindy and David Lambert have just recently released an incredibly timely book called Staying Power: Building A Stronger Marriage When Life Sends Its Worst. In this book and in our conversation today, Carol shares practical advice about how to commit to each other when life comes at you. I’m so grateful for Carol’s honest sharing of what they’ve experienced with their son’s incarceration, as well as how God has changed his life and theirs. Her practical insights about choosing to build up instead of tear down come from an authentic heart who has lived in the trenches, and we need those voices now more than ever.

This conversation also presented a beautiful opportunity for us to discuss how to encourage those around us who are experiencing this pandemic in a totally different way than we might be. Easter was just a few days ago, and I cannot help but think about all the people that encountered Jesus that day on Golgotha, the place of the skull, where He was crucified. Some were afraid, some were angry, some were in awe of Him, some just wanted to embrace the spectacle. And yet in that place, the last person He spoke to forgiveness and eternal life, was the condemned criminal beside him. Jesus modeled that in our darkest hours, we can still look for the Light, and share that Light with others. 

To connect with all the different resources that Carol mentioned in our conversation, please be sure and check out our show notes or hop over to my blog. There you can also find tons of links there for you if you felt led to pursue one of the books or studies she mentioned, or ways to get involved with loving some of the least of these. All of our stories matter to the One who made us, including yours, dear one. Take heart.

Product Spotlight for this episode:  Freedom : Productivity Tool

References:

Staying Power: Building A Stronger Marriage When Life Sends Its Worst

Speak Up ministry/conference

Men of Valor

“Death Was Arrested”

Dr. David Jeremiah

International BSF in Port Huron

BSF (Bible Study Fellowship)

When I Lay My Isaac Down

Speak Up for Hope

The Gavel Club

Waiting Together (for families of the incarcerated)

Praying on Facebook for the prisons and dealing with covid 19

Scripture References:

1 Peter 1:12- The angels rejoice and marvel at the work is the Gospel

Hebrews 12:1-We’re called to throw off every hindrance

Luke 4:18-/ 2 Corinthians 3:17- Rejoicing in our freedom

Psalm 46:10- Be Still : Cease Striving

Hebrews 12:2- The author and the creator

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18- Pray without ceasing

2 Corinthians 4:16-18- Don’t lose heart

Acts 16:25-40- Prison guard and the salvation of his household

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12- Two are better than one

Judges 6- Gideon and the altars of his Father

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8-There’s a time to tear down and a time to build

Esther 4:14- Such a time as this

Genesis 50:20- What the enemy means for evil, the Lord will use

1 Corinthians 15:58-He wastes nothing

Luke 23:39-43- Jesus on the cross, and when His grace for the criminal beside Him

Connecting with Carol:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Website 

Other books by Carol can also be found on her website, or by this link here!

Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:InstagramFacebookBlogSign up for our newsletter!

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I love that we’re getting to hang out twice this week! It is one of the best weeks ever after all, so it deserves a little extra love, especially this year. Today is what we know as Good Friday. Because of God’s great love, His Son Jesus, who was fully God and fully man, chose to die on a cross for our sins, and that is what makes this Friday good. 

We’re picking up on a conversation I was having with my precious friend Katelyn who in part 1 shared about her experiences of enduring a brutal cancer, infertility, health crisis in her first born, and how the Lord was present and made Himself known in all of her various seasons of suffering. Today, Katelyn continues on with the rest of her story, where things have still been hard in her healing, the broken hallelujahs, their journey with adopting their third baby after she had an emergency hysterectomy during her cancer battle, and the way God has woven hope within it all that speaks so poignantly to the season we are walking in around the world right now. I wish we were having coffee for this one, friends, because this part 2 is our declaration of hope to try and help beat back the darkness that threatens to overwhelm and our encouragement for all our brothers and sisters in Christ. 

I hope and pray that wherever you are, you can walk awy from this conversation knowing that Sunday is coming. Whether you hear this on Easter weekend or not, the tomb is still empty and is still Good News. As my friend Katie says "In the face of your present circumstances, what is hard for you to believe is still true about God." My greatest prayer is that this conversation would open your heart to the place where you can meet with the Lord, no matter where it finds you. Look for the light, dear ones. Look for the light. You are SO loved, and you matter. Happy Easter. He. Is. Risen. 

If you are looking for a place to engage Easter this weekend, there are going to be TONS of churches live streaming all around the world! You will have no shortage of options, but consider this my personal invite to hang out with me for Easter via my church’s service! Fellowship Bible Church will start its live stream at 11am(CST) on Sunday. You can watch via the website or facebook! (I’m actually leading worship so we can literally virtually hang!) :) 

Resources:

None Like Him - Jen Wilkin

Tornado in Middle TN

"You Came" (Lazarus' Song)- Johnathon David & Melissa Hesler

"Glorious Day"- Kristian Stanfill

Scripture References:

John 1:5- Dark cannot put out the light

2 Corinthians 1:10- God rescues us from despair

Matthew 18:3- Childlike faith

Hebrews 2:14-15-No fear in death

Hebrews 6:19- Anchor of the soul

1 Peter 1:6- Trials for a little while

Matthew 27:51- The veil is torn

Luke 11:33- The darkness cannot hide my Light (put a lamp under a bushel)

The Easter Story

Lamentations 3:21-23- This I call to mind and therefore I dare to hope

John 16:33- Christ has overcome everything

Isaiah 41:10 / 1 Chronicles 28:20-  You’re never alone

Psalm 130:6 - More than watchmen for the morning

2 Corinthians 4:8-12- Hard pressed on every side

Job 37:16- God is all knowing

The Great Physician

Hebrews 10:23- We hold fast to His word

Isaiah 63:9/ 1 Peter 2:21-  He suffered too

1 Peter 5:7- Cast all your anxieties on Him 

John 11:35- Jesus weeps

Matthew 5:4- Blessed are those who mourn

John 11: Lazarus’ tomb

Romans 8:19-23- All of creation groans with longing

Psalm 31:24- Take heart

Hebrews 6:10- God has not forgotten you

Psalm 139:15/Jeremiah 16:17- You are not hidden

1 Timothy 6:12- Fight the good of fight

Romans 8:26-27- the Holy Spirit groans for us

Psalm 27:13-14- believing we will see the goodness of the Lord 

Connecting with Katelyn:

Instagram

Blog

*Photo from Episode Graphic was taken in celebration of Luke Liles’ official adoption into their family by Adara Events and Photography

Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:InstagramFacebookBlogSign up for our newsletter!

*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com

When I was thinking and praying through about how the Lord would lead us during Holy Week on the podcast, I couldn't stop thinking about one of my dearest friends in the whole world and how the Lord used Easter and the Good News of the Gospel to revolutionize her faith during a time of her life plagued with fear and uncertainty. Katelyn Liles and I have been friends for over 15 years and have seen a whole heck of a lot of life together. During our conversation, you will hear about Katelyn’s journey to trust the Lord and place her hope in Him through deep valley seasons such as hopes and plans differed, miscarriage, infertility, miracle babies, and battling a rare cancer that nearly claimed her life.

During this current time of extreme uncertainty, the loss of dreams, mourning expectations, and even grieving the traditional ways of celebrating Easter as the body of Christ, Katelyn’s testimony of how the Lord met her in these dark seasons and how He continues to make Himself known to her and her family shines a needed light into weary hearts. There were so many stories to tell, and so much to unpack on how to apply where she has been to where we are now, we had to split this episode into two parts. So today, you’ll hear part one, and then you’ll get part two on Good Friday. 

I find it hard to believe that it's coincidental that so much of this pandemic has taken place during these days that lead us to the Cross. Jesus came so that while He knew we would have trouble, we can take heart because He died and rose again to overcome the world. That does not mean we won’t feel the broken, but we are no longer broken apart from Him. He is with us. He is alive. The blood of the lamb that was slain covers you, and though this season may feel awfully dark, He is the Light of the world and in Him there is no darkness at all. Hold the Light, friends. Hold the Light. 

Resources:

Alpha Delta Pi  (OBIC! )

Miscarriage Information (resource for Mom’s who have miscarried or experienced infant loss)

The dangers of the prosperity Gospel

Choriocarcinoma

Chad Sparks // Providence Church in Knoxville, TN 

Passover

Lent

Scripture References:

John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble 

Isaiah 40:31-Run and not grow weary

John 3:16- God so loved the Lord He gave His Son

2 Thessalonians 2:16 - Gave us his grace and His love

Isaiah 12:2- God is trustworthy

Romans 8:28-30 -He uses all things for His glory and our good

Producing Perseverance (From Romans, James, and 1 Peter)

1 Timothy 6:12- Fight the good fight

Psalm 34:18-  The Lord is close to the broken-hearted

Lamentations 3:22-23- Dare to Hope

2 Timothy 1:7 - God did not give us a spirit of fear

Hebrews 12:2- He is the Author and finisher of our faith 

Psalm 39:4 / Psalm 139:16- He knows the days of your life

1 Peter 1:6-9- Obedient in suffering as we are in our joy

The Lord knows all things

Exodus 12- The story of Passover

Connecting with Katelyn:

Instagram

Blog

Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:InstagramFacebookBlogSign up for our newsletter!

*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com

Today my conversation is with Heather Lobe Johnson. Heather is a writer who is passionate about sharing stories of freedom found in the redemption of Christ and celebrating the beauty that rises from the ashes of broken experiences. During our conversation, Heather and I talk about growing up with a perception of the Lord that His love was contingent on her instead of on Him. She bravely shares with us about the parts of her story that God has carried her through, everything from experiencing sexual abuse in college, a toxic marriage that ended in divorce, years of single parenting and pursuing healing by redefining her identity through who God says she is. As Heather says, “It’s not about having it all together, it’s about bringing your broken to Him and letting Him redeem it and bring wholeness to emptiness.” 

I’m so grateful for how she shares her story, the practical wisdom she shares for those who may be able to relate as well as the hope she offers us through this season of incredible uncertainty, what is helping her as she faces the anxiety of our days head on, and how to process what you can and can’t control. Almost like a benediction to our conversation. Heather prayed incredibly sweet blessing over all of us during this crazy time that just washed over my soul and I hope it does for you too.

No matter where you are today, I hope this time with Heather and I blesses you. No matter who you are, or what you have been through, there is still more. The hope that is found in Christ is worth it. Believing that He has good for your life is not about getting what you want, it's about having faith that the One who made you has good, truly, divinely good, purposes and plans for your life. Plans of peace and your truest well being, and that can see who you truly are and who you were made to be. 

I want you to know that whoever you are on the other side of the speaker, no matter where you are when you hear this episode, in the throws of this pandemic spanning the globe, or long after it is over, this is not how the story ends. You are truly loved. You matter. Don’t lose hope. We’re all in this together.

Resources:

Hope Writers

Kissed the Girls and Made Them Cry: Why we lose when we give in- Lisa Bevere

Britney Thompson’s episode on Simply Stories (where we discuss toxic relationships)

Celebrate Recovery- find a meeting near you!

The Serenity Prayer (also see my blog for a printable graphic of this!)

Enneagram 2, wing 3

Grounding exercises

Marco Polo

Voxer

Looking for Lovely: Collecting the Moments that Matter by Annie F. Downs

Scripture References:

Joel 2:25- Restore the years the locusts have eaten

1 John 4:7-21-God is loving

Titus 3:4-6-God is kind

Ezekiel 36:26-Heart of stone for a heart of flesh

Philippians 1:6-He will complete the work He began

Joshua 1-5 -Israel going in to the promised land with new responsibilities

Matthew 6:34-Tomorrow will worry about itself

Psalm 139:1- The Lord knows me

Deuteronomy 31:6- He will never forsake me

Philippians 4:8 - Whatever is true, whatever is lovely.. think about these things

Genesis 1:27- All are made in the image of God

John 16:33- In this world you will have trouble, but take heart

Psalm 37:24- We will not be overwhelmed

Lamentations 3:22-23- Because of His love I will not be consumed

Isaiah 61:1-3-Beauty for ashes

Exodus 12:7- The blood of the lamb on the doorpost

Psalm 27:13-14- What would have become of me had I not believed

Romans 8:28- God works for the good of those who love Him

Jeremiah 29:11- God has plans for hope and your future, not to harm you

Product Shout Out from the Episode:

The Daily Grace Co. - shop via this link to support Simply Stories

Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and subscribe to their podcast as well!

Connecting with Heather:

Blog

Facebook

Instagram

Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:InstagramFacebookBlogSign up for our newsletter!

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Today is the day we get to talk all things enneagram over on the podcast with my friend and enneagram coach, Chelsea Bastoky! If you’re unsure of what the enneagram is, the enneagram is a self- awareness tool that helps us understand how God wired us and where parts of our personalities can trip us up, or help us grow. This episode will give a quick look of what it is and how it is (and is NOT) helpful, but instead of an overview of the nine types and how they each work, this is a deeper look into parts of the enneagram that are often misunderstood such as wings, triads, and what it means to act out of stress and growth.

If might be helpful if you’re not as familiar with the enneagram to pause, and seek out one of the resources in the show notes to get you caught up on what it is. OR pull up a chair and take a deep dive with us and learn along the way. Chelsea does such a fantastic job breaking down big concepts and portraying them in tangible pictures of application. I love her heart for the Gospel and to encourage others to grow in to who God has made you to be.

During this time where many of us feel overwhelmed and isolated, this could be the perfect time to unpack how God made you and what habits you have developed to respond to the world around you. Chelsea has created an incredible resource where she breaks down what she discusses with us in this episode as a free download! (Thank you, Chelsea!) You can find ways to download that here. Since most of us are having to move our conversations to video and phone chatting as it is, let me also suggest that Chelsea offers her coaching services via those same resources and it would be a worthwhile and timely investment.

My ultimate prayer is that today someone walks away from this knowing that God made them to be who they are on purpose. We all have room to grow, and these kinds of tools can help us find ways to do just that. You are worth the work, friend. 

Resources:

-Enneagram

-Ruth Graham’s story

-The Road Back to You by Ian Cron and Suzanne Stabile

-The Voice of the Heart- Chip Dodd

-Parenting with Heart- Chip Dodd and Stephen James

-Beth McCord

*Scripture References:

-John 16:33 -in this world you will have trouble

-2 Samuel 11-David is supposed to be at war, then he sees Bathsheeba

-John 15:12- love one another

-Psalm 139:14- You are uniquely and wonderfully made

-1 Corinthians 12- we all have spiritual gifts

-Psalm 130:1- out of the depths I cry to you

-Jonah 2:2- from Sheol I cry to you

-Genesis 2- life in the Garden with the Lord

-Genesis 3- the Fall

-John 11- Jesus weeping at Lazarus’ tomb

-Deuteronomy 31:8- He goes before you

-Ecclesiastes 4:12- a cord of 3 strands is not easily broken

*Podcasts to Introduce you to the Enneagram:

-Emerge Podcast w/ Beth McCord

-Annie F. Downs’ Enneasummer Series

-Typology

*Chelsea has created an incredible resource that outlines the things she covers in this episode with wings, moving to places of growth and stress, and triads. You can find that here! *

Connecting with Chelsea:

Instagram

Website 

Facebook

Connecting with Em and catching up on episodes:

Instagram

Facebook

Blog

Sign up for our newsletter!

*Intro and Outro music by audionautix.com

Today’s conversation is with actor, writer, director and producer Kevin Downes. Kevin has been part of the film industry in these various roles over the last 20 years and has most recently been a part of movies like “Woodlawn,” “Mom’s Night Out,” and “I Can Only Imagine.” His most recent project in partnership with the Erwin Brothers, is called “I Still Believe,” starring: KJ Apa, Britt Robertson, Shania Twain, and Gary Sinise. This beautiful movie tells the story of Christian artist Jeremy Camp’s life and faith journey as he faced incredible heart ache, and also incredible hope. 

Who would have thought that when Kevin and I had this conversation just a couple of weeks ago, what the world would look like today. Kevin and I talk all about following God in your calling, and the value of stewarding stories that highlight the truth that we don’t know what will happen, but His hope and his love are big enough to take our questions. Right now, we are in the throws around the world of a time that feels incredibly uncertain and unknown. Many of us feel completely out of control, are struggling to see how this is all going to pan out and feel trapped in a sea of uncertainty. Dear ones, look around and press in to the stories around you. Take this opportunity to ask God to show you how to weather this wilderness we are ALL walking in, and support and spur one another on. Even as we take a steps back, that doesn’t mean we have to live totally isolated. We can press in from a far. We can look more fully into the faces of the ones in our homes. And together, we will cling to His promises. One of my current favorites is this: “I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 Take care of yourselves, take care of each other. You matter. We all matter. 

Since the recording of this episode, almost all the theaters across the U.S. have decided to close in order to protect people in light of the covid-19 pandemic. BUT, this conversation still couldn’t be more timely. AND praise the Lord, when the movie came out, it had an incredible opening weekend at the box office! If you have a way to go see it, GO! You will not regret it. If not, hang out with us here on the podcast today, and pray for all of the industries affected by the pandemic. We are all walking in ways we have not known before, but we are not walking alone. 

Find ways to connect with Kevin, the movie, references from the podcast below.

----

References: 

Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, CA

Erwin Brothers

“I Can Only Imagine”

Jeremy Camp

“Woodlawn”

“I Still Believe” (the song)

KJ Apa

Nashville tornados

Shari Rigby’s episode of the Simply Stories Podcast

“Overcomer”

“I Still Believe” (the movie)

Check your local theaters on whether or not they are open due to the covid-19 pandemic. 

Scripture References: 

John 17:16- In the world not of it

Matthew 18:12- Leave the 99, the parable of the lost sheep

Ephesians 4:14- Not being tossed by the wind

Romans 8:28-He works all things for good

John 2:1-11-Water into wine

Psalm 34:18- He’s close to the broken-hearted

Psalm 30:1-5- Joy comes in the morning

Esther 4:14- For such a time as this

Deuteronomy 31:6- He will never leave us or forsake us

Connect with the “I Still Believe” movie:

Website 

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Hashtag: #IStillBelieve

Connect with Kevin: 

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Connect with Emily & catch up on the Simply Stories Podcast: 

Instagram

Facebook

Blog

Sign up for our newsletter!

Today is such a fun and unique day on the calendar as well as on the podcast.

Across the world today, Jewish communities are celebrating a holiday known as Purim. So, I thought it would be fun to celebrate Purim with you. Happy Purim!!

What is Purim you ask? I honestly had never heard of it until about 10 years ago, when I was able to participate in Beth Moore’s study of the book of Esther. I’ll give you the spoiler first: Purim is the celebration that honors the victory for the Jews found at the end of the book of Esther. The Jews in Esther’s story were on the edge of absolute destruction. What happens to the Jewish people in the account of Esther is no less the recording of a miracle through the events and actions of brave people placed by God exactly where they were for such a time as this.

Growing up in church, I had heard the story of Esther, but I was drawn to the idea of getting to know more about one of the only two women who had books of the Bible named after them. And ever since then, God has used this unique book over and over and over again in my life to make Himself known in the most unlikely of places.

One of, if not the most, unique thing about the book of Esther is this: God’s name is NEVER mentioned within its pages. Not once. But as Beth often says “His Name is all over it.” If anything, the way that the events in this book played out are the ultimate picture of what kind of storyteller God really is. It is full of “it just so happened” moments. So many people are at the right place at the right time.

The celebration of Purim is actually created during the book of Esther, (in chapters 9, 10) and it derives its name from the lots, or the “pur” which were the dice type items, that were thrown to decide what day the destruction of the Jews would take place. The date, by the way, just so happened to be the day before Passover. Another moment in time where the Jews were miraculously rescued in a foreign land from pending destruction by the Lord.

(I sort of went off on a historical bunny trail during the episode here, and honestly, I may not have said everything correctly as I humbly admit I am not a Biblical scholar, but you can read more and do you own research about the things I mention like the Diaspora, the captivity of the Jews and their carrying off by King Nebuchadnezzar, their time in exile, and the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem and the Temple. These are all hard, beautiful, important and fascinating parts of Israel’s story, but like the events that unfolded in the story of Esther, God is faithful to restore His people, and keep His promises no matter how grim it may appear to be or how grim it may appear to become again.)

Now, you may be asking yourself, “How do people celebrate Purim, Em?” Well. First of all, they have a ton of fun with it. There are traditional desserts that are tied to Haman, the enemy of the Jews, called hamantaschen, and other amazing food items to create a feast.

The most fun part, to me anyway, is that they gather together for a reading of what i called “the whole Megillah” Heard that term before? Megillah is the Yiddish term for “the entirety of something, especially something that is an entanglement of intricate arrangements or a long, complicated story.” And Esther certainly fits that bill. And so, the people of Jewish communities gather together for a reading of the whole story of Esther, or, the whole Megillah. Many of the kids dress in costumes, people wear masks and they use something called a grogger, which is a spinning noise maker for when every time Haman, the reeeeeally bad guy in this story’s name is mentioned, they spin their grogger, stomp their feet and drown out the sound of his name.  

And so, to celebrate this Purim, we decided to read the whole Megillah for you! With the help of some of my friends and family, you’re about to hear a reading of the whole book of Esther! You can enjoy this reading of the Word just for you or share it with friends and have your own version of a Purim festival!

Here are some links to recipes lists of Purim feast items, for my fellow gluten-free peeps, here is a recipe to make the Haman Hats/Ears or hamantaschen cookies gf! Grab some masks, princess crowns, don your stomping shoes or make your own grogger!

Then, when all is said and done, take some time to reflect on some of these questions on your own, with your kids, or whomever you share this experience with.

-“Where have you seen God show up in the most unlikely of places?” -”Where have you thought there was no way things were going to work out, and then they did? Can you look back and see the moments everything changed for the better?” -”Are you living in a season where you feel like God has forgotten you? Does Esther and the Jews of Persia story encourage you at all?” -”Are you living in a season of your calling that you don’t understand? How can you lean in to who God is to remind you He will complete the work He began?” -”Are there any people at your school/work who treat others differently because of how they look or what they believe? Do you think that’s OK? How can we remind everyone that we are all made in the image of God?”

My beloved sister is a Hebrew Bible scholar and she shared a book with me that taught me the blessing that is said before and after the reading of the Megillah on Purim, and so I wanted to share those blessings with you.

To be read before the reading:

Blessed are You, Source of the Universe, who has sanctified our lives through His commandments, commanding us to read the scroll of Esther

Blessed are You, Source of the Universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors, in those days, in this season.

Blessed are You, Source of the Universe, for giving us life, for sustaining us, and for helping us reach this moment.

To be read upon the completion of the reading:

Blessed are You, Source of the Universe, who has championed our cause and passed judgement on our behalf. Praised are You, who saves the people from all enemies, for You are redemption.

Happy Purim, friends. Your story isn’t finished. It all matters. You matter, for such a time as this.

---- I want to say a BIG thank you to my friends Karleigh Perry, Kevin Perry, Chris Teague and my brother in law, Adam Brett for sharing their voices to share this beautiful story. And HUGE shout out to my wonderful husband, Andrew, who edits all the episodes, but graciously pieced this one together. Grateful for all of you and how you say yes no matter the risk. xo - Em ---- *Intro and outro music by audionautix.com

This week’s episode is with the fantastic Jill Eileen Smith. Jill has written a number of Biblical Fiction books as well as one non-fiction work based on stories of women in scripture. Listen. This is one. wise. woman. The way she speaks about the Word of God and its role in her life, and the way she shares insight into the  history of God and His people is just incredible. This conversation is a bit like stepping into an Old Testament master class and it is AWESOME. If you’ve never read the Bible before, or if you’ve never really thought the Old Testament was for you, I hope you’ll give this episode a listen. I think you’ll find some hidden treasure just for you. 

When I get the chance to hear men and women, just like Jill, who have studied the Bible indepthly, talk about the people that lived their lives within its pages, and the God who weaves it all together, it makes me so hungry to know more about the Bible. That’s the biggest reason I really enjoy Biblical fiction is because it takes stories I may know or may have never even heard and brings them to life in a way that ignites a sense of curiosity in me to dive deeper into the Word. Her newest book, Star of Persia: Esther’s Story, is the perfect picture of how to do just that. 

The book of Esther is such a unique book of the Bible, ripe with details, but absent of one notable detail: the name of God. God’s name is NEVER mentioned throughout this epic tale, but as Beth Moore says “His name is all over it.” Jill does such a beautiful job diving into this familiar tale and bringing history and the activity of God and his people to life! Star of Persia just released this week so be sure and grab a copy!

And just a little heads up… Jill’s book and drawing our eyes to the story of Esther is PERFECTLY timed as the celebration that is found at the end of the story, Purim, is just around the corner! We have something really special planned to celebrate and dive in to this story a little bit deeper, so be sure you’re subscribed and following along! 

Find ways to get Jill’s book, listen to the conversation and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts at the link in bio!

Resources:

Beth Moore’s David study (called A Heart Like His)

My Heart Christ’s Home  by Robert Boyd Munger // Here is a digital copy that is free for anyone to read!

The Crimson Cord :: Rahab’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith 

When Life Doesn’t Match Your Dreams: Hope for Today from 12 Women in the Bible by Jill Eileen Smith

Story of Joseph waiting on his dreams to come true 

Story of Abraham waiting on his son

Story of David waiting to be King 

Two from Galilee: The Story of Mary and Joseph by Marjorie Holmes

Michal in the Bible // Michal’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith // Also a great blog by another amazing author, Liz Curtis Higgs, on Michal

Abigail in the Bible // Abigail’s Story by Jill Eileen Smith 

The Heart of a King by Jill Eileen Smith 

David and Bathsheeba (Uriah’s Wife) (also see her story by Jill Eileen Smith)

Story of Abner

Story of Abishag 

The Queen of Sheba

The Shulamite from the Song of Solomon 

The Loves of King Solomon Ebook novellas by Jill Eileen Smith 

BSF (Bible Study Fellowship)

“Every story whispers His name” SLJ/ JSBB

This Present Darkness by Frank Perreti

“Any amount of theology can now be smuggled into people's minds under the cover of fiction without their knowing it.”- C.S. Lewis

Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis (audio book I mentioned)

Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien“The world does not need more Christian literature. What it needs is more Christians writing good literature.” - C.S. Lewis

John Williams

Mesu Andrews

Hinds Feet on High Places by Hannah Harnard

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers 

The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

Miriam

Samson’s Mother

Guideposts

Star of Persia - Esther’s Story - the latest from Jill Eileen Smith!

Scripture References:

Matthew 18:2-4 Faith like a child

Luke 15:11-32- Prodigal story

Philippians 4:6-7-by prayer and petition make your requests known to God

Luke 12:7- Knows every hair on our head

Hebrews 4:16- Come boldly before the throne of grace

2 Corinthians 12:7-10-Thorns in our flesh

Galatians 6:7- What you reap you sow

2 Peter 3:18- Grow in the knowledge of grace

Woman who anointed Jesus with oil in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John 

Don’t eat the meat offered to idols // 1 Corinthians 10:28 // Exodus 32:6 // Numbers 25:2 // Revelation 2:14

Esther (Bible and Commentary)

Philippians 1:6- He who began a good work will carry it out

Hebrews 12:1- Cloud of witnesses

Matthew 6:11- He gives us daily bread

Psalm 51:17- Broken and contrite heart He will not despise

Hebrews 13:15- A sacrifice of praise

Connecting with Jill:

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