Small Steps with God

59 - Faith in the Christian Journey

Today, I'll discuss various aspects of faith and finding peace with God. As I explore these topics, I want to remind you of the importance of understanding sin and its consequences, as well as the temptations that the world.

I talk about the book by Billy Graham Peace with God which says to reject sinful behaviors and strive for a life focused on God's teachings. Being born again is a powerful transformation that faith can bring to your life. And let's not forget the role of repentance and forgiveness in the Christian journey. It's not enough to simply turn away from sin. We need to trust in God's plan for salvation fully. I highlight the significance of the blood of Christ in redeeming and cleansing believers. As Christians, we face challenges in the world, including the pressures to conform to societal norms and the temptations of the flesh. But when we prioritize the love of God and others over worldly desires, we can overcome these challenges.

Have faith, engage in prayer and Bible study, and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide your life. And don't forget, we have a call to action as believers. We need to be witnesses for Christ and spread the message of God's love and salvation. Living a life centered on God's teachings, guided by faith, and filled with love for God and others is the key to finding true peace.

https://bookstore.billygraham.org/steps-to-peace-with-god-pack-of-25-red-version.html

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=376

Jill’s Links
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill

https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

58 - Finding Lasting Peace

Today, I’m sharing my thoughts on the book “Peace with God” by Billy Graham and the impact on all of us who are seeking to understand and draw close to God. I found it incredible and inspiring. It helped me understand what God wants from us and how to navigate an age of anxiety.

While politics and science and our own efforts have their place, they are not the ultimate solution to finding peace. Instead, the message of Jesus Christ is presented as the pathway to everlasting peace and a meaningful life.

The uniqueness of each individual and how God reveals Himself to every person in a way that speaks to them personally. But it makes us wonder why there is evil in the world and how it emphasizes the importance of freedom of choice in our relationship with God.

The complexity of God and the role of each part of the Holy Trinity in our Christian walk. We’ll explore how to find peace with God in a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, and the significance of the Bible as a guidepost.

Take small steps in your spiritual journey and seek a deeper understanding of God’s purpose for your life. Together, let’s explore how to find peace with God and live a meaningful life.

https://bookstore.billygraham.org/steps-to-peace-with-god-pack-of-25-red-version.html

smallstepswithgod.com/?p=373

Jill’s Links
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill

https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

57 -Creating a Peaceful Atmosphere

I dive deeper into the meaning of hygge beyond just creating a cozy atmosphere in our homes. We take inspiration from Jamie Erickson's book, "Holy Hygge: Creating a Place for People to Gather and the Gospel to Grow," and discuss how we can cultivate gratitude and contentment in all aspects of our lives.

We explore how aspects of hygge is inspired by Jesus' example of finding solace in prayer while also caring for and connecting with others. We should limit negative influences and prioritize time for reflection, prayer, and rest.

By creating a comfortable and peaceful environment within our homes and incorporating elements of simplicity, organization, and meaningful decor that bring comfort and evoke warm emotional memories. The atmosphere of hygge is not solely about aesthetics but rather cultivating a mindset of gratitude and contentment.

Hygge extends beyond the physical space of our homes and emphasizes the importance of cultivating an atmosphere of faith, love, and kindness. Finding joy in the midst of discomfort, reframing our perspectives, and embracing gratitude. We present hygge as a way of life that encompasses not only our surroundings but also our mindset and interactions with others.

Let's create a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere in our homes, while also fostering a mindset of gratitude, simplicity, and kindness. By embracing the attitude of hygge, we can find solace, build connections, and experience a sense of contentment in all aspects of our lives.

https://jamieerickson.com/holy-hygge

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=366

Jill’s Links
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill

https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

56 - Finding Peace and Hospitality through Hygge

Today, we will explore the Danish practice of hygge and how it can bring comfort and warmth to our Christian lives. We'll dive into Jamie Erickson's book, "Holy Hygge: Creating a Place for People to Gather and the Gospel to Grow," and examine how we can incorporate hygge into our daily routines. Creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere allows us to slow down and appreciate the little things in life.

Throughout the episode, we'll highlight hospitality's significance and how it can foster relationships and a sense of community. We'll also draw parallels between hygge and Christian values, emphasizing the importance of rest, reflection, and prayer in our spiritual lives.

So sit back, grab a warm beverage, and join us as we explore the concept of hygge from a Christian perspective. We hope you'll be inspired to create intentional spaces that bring peace and comfort to your life and those around you.

https://jamieerickson.com/holy-hygge

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=363

Jill’s Links
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill

https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

55 - The Power of Words Spoken with Authenticity

We're going to explore the power of our words and the responsibility we have in presenting God's message. In his book Don’t Drop the Mic, TD Jakes emphasizes the importance of making our presentations timeless, relatable, and authentic, ensuring that our message resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. It's not about the size of our audience but rather the passion and authenticity with which we deliver our message.

Jakes encourages us to "tilt the mirror" when communicating our message, finding ways to make it relatable and impactful without directly blasting or alienating our listeners. He urges us to inherit and innovate, taking the timeless message of Christ and adding our unique perspective to it. By broadening our thinking and focusing on common ground, we can galvanize people and bring them together through our message.

Bishop Jakes reminds us that we have been called to share this message and that God is with us, guiding and empowering us to reach others. He challenges us to embrace our calling, celebrate the gifts God has given us, and communicate His message with passion and purpose. Let's make our presentations timeless, relatable, and authentic and have a lasting impact on people of all ages and backgrounds.

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=359

https://shop.tdjakes.org/products/td-jakes-dont-drop-the-mic-book

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

54 - Communicating the Word of God with Impact

Today we discuss the book Don't Drop the Mic, The Power of Your Words Can Change the World by T.D. Jakes and Dr. Frank Thomas, where we're diving into the art of public speaking and how it can be used to communicate the Word of God in a powerful way. We'll be exploring the importance of building connections and trust with your audience, adapting your communication style to different groups of people, and staying true to your own values and brand.

We'll uncover the secrets to delivering impactful messages that resonate with your listeners. We'll explore the role of charisma and audience connection and how Jesus himself used these tools to create lasting impressions on his followers.

But it's not just about being charming and charismatic - preparation and practice are key to delivering a smooth and well-timed speech that truly captures your audience's attention. We'll delve into the need for agility in public speaking and how to adapt and respond to your audience's feedback.

And finally, we'll wrap things up by discussing the importance of letting go and being yourself during your presentations. By owning your message and speaking with energy and passion, you can connect with your audience on a deeper level and truly inspire them. We'll also touch on using body language and physicality to enhance your overall delivery and leave a lasting impact on your listeners.

So whether you're a seasoned public speaker or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice that will help you effectively communicate your messages and create a lasting impact on your audience. Let's see how you can use these tools to make a difference in the world truly.

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=356

https://shop.tdjakes.org/products/td-jakes-dont-drop-the-mic-book

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

53 - Harnessing the Power of Speech to Change the World

We dive into the fascinating world of communication. We draw inspiration from T.D. Jakes' book "Don't Drop the Mic" and explore the power of words and their impact on the world. In today's world, where our voices are our primary means of communication and now, it's more important than ever to articulate our thoughts effectively.

We also discuss the fear of public speaking, a fear that is more common than you might think. But why is it so important to overcome this fear? Well, because every voice matters and the world loses something when we choose not to speak up. That's why we encourage you to venture out of your comfort zone and make your voice heard.

Authenticity is key when it comes to communication, and we encourage you to speak from the soul, convey emotions, and break the rules if it means being true to yourself. We also explore the potential pitfalls of written communication and how they can often lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.

Ensure your communication is compelling, has a clear message, and reaches out to people effectively. Ask yourself the two key questions: "Who cares?" and "So what?" to ensure your speech is relevant and matters.

https://shop.tdjakes.org/products/td-jakes-dont-drop-the-mic-book

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=353

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

52 - A Recap of the Past Year

I want to take a moment to reflect on the past year of our podcast and share some of the main concepts and lessons we've discussed. First off, let me say THANK YOU! I appreciate you being on a journey of exploring the Bible and learning more about it. It's been a great adventure with God's help!

2 - Better Than Eden - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=65

3 - Going Home - The Journey’s End - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=67

4- Fear Not - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=90

6 - Christ At Home in Your Heart - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=105

7 - Hidden Christmas - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=114

10 - Use Quiet to Make Room for God - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=130

11 - Steps to Quietness - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=137

12 - Canon From The Start - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=143

13 - What the Red Sea Means For Us - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=148

14 - Red Sea Rules Shows Us The Way Out - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=152

15 - Demons Plot to Wreck a Man - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=156

16 - Demons Start with Small Steps Too - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=161

21 - Forty Days to Being Closer to Jesus - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=179

24 - Wigged Out Saturday- https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=211

25 - Chicken Method of Sharing the Faith - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=215

29 - Faith and Star Trek - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=241

31 - God’s Miracle of Nature - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=247

32 - Lost and Found in Translation - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=251

’33 - Exploring the World of Bible Translation - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=256

34 - Moving Beyond Lukewarm Christianity - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=261

35 - A Radical Kind of Love - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=268

37 - Dolly Parton’s Wisdom on Achieving Your Dreams and Helping Others - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=279

39 - 3:16 The Numbers of Love - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=281

40- Embracing God’s Love - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=290

41 - Pursuing Jesus in a Social Media-Obsessed World - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=298

42 - Navigating Social Media as a Christian - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=300

43 - Exploring Cancel Culture and Authenticity - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=303

48 - The Challenge of Dangerous Prayer - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=333

49 - Lead Like Jesus: Embracing Humility, Love, and Connection - https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=337

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

51 - Transforming Your Life Through Bible Study

We explore the importance of studying the Bible and how it can deeply impact our lives. God wants to communicate with us through His written word even in the 21st century. Studying the Bible helps us grow personally, mature spiritually, and equip ourselves to fulfill God's purposes.

We reference the book "10 Principles for Studying Your Bible" by Charles F. Stanley, which serves as a guide for understanding the benefits of studying the Bible. Through studying the Bible, we can learn from the experiences of biblical figures and gain insight into how God works in our lives. When we surrender to God's will and trust Him, we can align ourselves with His plans and discover our purpose.

The Bible has transformative power that can turn our grief into peace and joy. It's important to apply the promises found in the Bible to our daily lives. Studying Scripture helps us develop a closer relationship with God, and through prayer, meditation, and obedience, we can experience His presence, find contentment, and strength in His Word.

In conclusion, we encourage you to actively engage with the Bible, not just as a book to read, but as a source of guidance and instruction for daily living. Remember, studying the Bible is not just about acquiring knowledge, it's about transforming our lives and becoming instruments in God's story.

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=346

https://faithgateway.com/products/10-principles-for-studying-your-bible

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]

50 - The Emotions of God and How They Impact Our Relationship with Him

Today, we're going to dive deep into the emotions of God and how they impact our relationship with Him. You'll learn that God experiences a range of emotions, just like we do, including anger, compassion, joy, grief, and even jealousy. These emotions reveal God's deep involvement and care for humanity, and it's fascinating to explore them further.

As we journey through this episode, we'll highlight various instances in the Bible where God's emotions are evident. You'll see His anger towards idolatry and injustice. His compassion towards the repentant and His joy in acts of faith. It's incredible to see how God's emotions guide His interactions with us and how we can learn from them to shape our behavior.

Ultimately, our journey with Jesus encompasses a range of emotions, but it ultimately leads to love, just as God's emotions guide His interactions with us. We'll explore the profound love of God as a central theme, highlighting how it's demonstrated through His actions, such as sending Jesus to die for humanity's sins.

https://smallstepswithgod.com/?p=330

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/SmallStepsPod

Email the podcast at [email protected]