Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

Stephanie and Liz Bell Young invite you to join them for another deep, heart-to-heart conversation about Liz's book, "Let There Be Havens." Truly, it’s more about Liz’ heart and how we too can open up our homes in simple ways to welcome everyone in the name of Christ.Liz shared her childhood memory of her mom getting a blade of grass back for her, which became a beautiful symbol of self-sacrificial love and care. They also chatted about the importance of starting small, creating little havens for others, and how it's all about making people feel loved and cherished.They discussed how readers can engage with the book as a sort of companion in their daily lives, using it bit by bit and making it a part of their routine. It's all about fostering comfort and gentleness in everyday life, which is so important, right?And then they delved into some deep stuff about self-worth and grace. Liz shared her personal experience of burnout and the struggle of embracing brokenness, and Stephanie totally got where she was coming from. They talked about how finding grace in Christ and from the faith community is such a game-changer. The way Liz illustrated her habit of always taking the worst eggs for herself was just so relatable. It became this symbol of self-acceptance and vulnerability, which I found really powerful.To wrap it up, they ended with a lovely prayer and some seriously inspiring words. The whole conversation was a beautiful reminder of the transformative power of love, the journey of embracing brokenness, and the profound resonance of Liz Bell Young's message in her book. It's definitely a must-listen!ABOUT “LET THERE BE HAVENS” Discover the gentle lifestyle and deep satisfaction of practicing hospitality with what you have.We all need people, places, and experiences that bring us home, feed our hope, rock us to sleep, then wish us well in the morning when we go back into the world and find others who need what we were just given. We long for these warm welcomes—and the ability to offer them to others without pretension or stress.In this exquisite tapestry of stories, beautiful photography, and both practical and creative resources, writer and designer Liz Bell Young gives us a new vision for hospitality—one where we can both create space and give space at the same time. In Let There Be Havens, she shows us how anyone and any space can be part of this gentle and hospitable way of life.Threading her life experiences in Italy, California, and Ohio—including camping events in fields and hosting friends in a van parked in the driveway—Young reveals the secrets of cultivating havens right where we are. She’ll inspire you through stories to open the heart; easy-to-follow guides for creating haven-like spaces; creative how to’s for everyday generosity and contentment; and beautiful recipes and simple menu ideas.Page by page, this powerful manifesto will give what you need to build meaningful moments, draw people in, and offer more beauty to the world—piece by piece, life by life. In Let There Be Havens, Liz Bell Young  shares stories that will inspire readers to show love to their neighbors; offers encouragement for those who want to live a creative and generous life; and discusses how to replace fear and anxiety with calmness and kindness.What is a haven?A door held open.A lamp turned on.A place prepared.This is haven: gentle hospitality.When one person reaches for another, makes an offering, and believes we all hold such worth. No matter what we have in our pockets or where we’ve been up until now, we take care of each other―whether we’re strangers on a sidewalk or families around a table. Each day, we create trails of beauty and connection. One open door opens the next. And then it happens: our streets fill with lamplight, our lives lift with spirit, and our homes become circles of gold.Let there be havens.CONNECT WITH LIZ BELL YOUNGhttps://www.lizbellyoung.com/Liz Bell Young is a writer, experience designer and collaborator in the Midwest. Her work appears in Magnolia Journal on the shelves, Artifact Uprising and Darling on the sites, Procter & Gamble in the studios, and Woman Camp in the woods. A grad of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago + University of Cincinnati, LBY takes a multidisciplinary approach to her work and home. Favorite pairings: words on index cards, words next to rolling film, words covering real paper inside real books. She also adores rocks, oyster shells, the smell of hay and gasoline, old Austrian boots, coffee in small cups. But above all: her life with Ryan and their children.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

In a world filled with hopelessness, rage, and despair, how do we, as Christians, respond with compassion and love, without eventually experiencing burnout and compassion fatigue? Stephanie is offering you today an enlightening conversation with Hal Donaldson, the founder and president of Convoy of Hope, where he shared valuable insights about the Christian responsibility to acknowledge truth while approaching it with compassion and care.In a fast-paced world that celebrates achievements over rest, author and founder of Convoy of Hope, Hal Donaldson, emphasizes that taking care of yourself isn’t optional if you want to live selflessly and fulfill God’s calling on your life. When it comes to our personal well-being, success is often more dangerous than failure.Hal Donaldson discusses the profound impact of witnessing hopelessness on a global scale. From his experiences traveling globally with Convoy of Hope, he has seen both the deep needs and opportunities for people to find hope and faith. In a world where despair can be overwhelming, Donaldson emphasizes the importance of responding to rage and disapproval with acts of compassion, mirroring the example set by Jesus Christ. Reflecting on Mother Teresa's advice to "do the next kind thing that God puts in front of you," he inspires us to embody compassion in our actions, particularly in response to hopelessness.But we must be careful: When it comes to our personal well-being, success is often more dangerous than failure. As we try to fulfill others' expectations, we deplete our time, energy, and enthusiasm and end up feeling wrung out or burned out, sometimes even flaming out in spectacular ways. It may feel like the solution is just to quit--our jobs, our passions, our ministries--but there is a way to pour into others and take care of ourselves.The conversation focuses on the pivotal role of the church in demonstrating love and compassion to all people, irrespective of their beliefs. Hal and Stephanie exchange thoughts on the Christian responsibility to acknowledge the truth while approaching it with compassion and care. This brings to light the significance of the church's role in responding to the needs of the world with a God-centered perspective. By shining a light of hope and love into the darkness of despair, the church can serve as a beacon of God’s mercy and grace to those who are hurting.Hal sheds light on embracing opportunities to address the needs of the world with a God-centered perspective. Hal Donaldson shares personal experiences and encourages listeners to see the potential for the church to make a positive impact. In a world where hopelessness seems ever-present, he emphasizes the importance of not just acknowledging the needs, but actively seeking opportunities to serve and bring hope. Through stories of his work with Convoy of Hope, Donaldson inspires a call to action for individuals and congregations to seek ways to serve in their own communities, demonstrating compassion and love to those in need.In a world where hopelessness and despair can be pervasive, Hal Donaldson provides a powerful reminder of the importance of responding with compassion and love. By acknowledging the truth with grace and demonstrating God-centered compassion, we can offer hope to those who are hurting. Through his work with Convoy of Hope, Hal Donaldson exemplifies the transformative impact of embracing opportunities to address the world’s needs with a mindset centered on God's love and mercy. As we reflect on his wisdom and experiences, let us be inspired to live out our faith by bringing God-centered compassion to a world in need of hope and healing.MEET HAL DONALDSONHal Donaldson is the president and CEO of Convoy of Hope, a global, faith-based, nonprofit organization that works with communities to address root causes of poverty and hunger.According to Forbes, Convoy of Hope is among the 50 largest charities in the United States.Through its disaster responses and community development programs, Convoy:Has distributed more than $2.5 billion worth of food and supplies.Helped more than 250 million people.Currently feeds more than 570,000 children every school day.Hal has received numerous public service awards. He has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from San Jose State University and a Bachelor of Arts in biblical studies from Bethany University.He and his wife, Doree, have four daughters.https://haldonaldson.org/ABOUT “WHAT REALLY MATTERS”When it comes to our personal well-being, success is often more dangerous than failure. As we try to fulfill others' expectations, we deplete our time, energy, and enthusiasm and end up feeling wrung out or burned out, sometimes even flaming out in spectacular ways. It may feel like the solution is just to quit--our jobs, our passions, our ministries--but there is a way to pour into others and take care of ourselves.Sharing the dramatic, true, and untold story behind the creation of Convoy of Hope, Hal Donaldson and his daughter Lindsay Donaldson-Kring pull back the curtain on Hal's journey to greater mental, physical, and spiritual health amid the all-engrossing task of starting and sustaining a ministry. They reveal the toll ministry and compassion work can take on both individuals and families, then point toward healing and wholeness.Insightful and encouraging, this book offers practical, real-world solutions to persistent problems associated with being the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world.In a fast-paced world that celebrates achievements over rest, author and founder of Convoy of Hope, Hal Donaldson, emphasizes that taking care of yourself isn’t optional if you want to live selflessly and fulfill God’s calling on your life.When it comes to our personal well-being, success is often more dangerous than failure. As we try to fulfill others’ expectations, we deplete our time, energy, and enthusiasm. We end up feeling wrung out or burned out, sometimes even flaming out in spectacular ways. It may feel like the solution is to just quit — our jobs, our passions, our ministries — but there is a way to pour into others and take care of ourselves.Sharing the dramatic, true, and untold story behind the creation of Convoy of Hope, Hal Donaldson and his daughter Lindsay Donaldson-Kring pull back the curtain on Hal’s journey to greater mental, physical, and spiritual health amid the all-engrossing task of starting and sustaining a ministry.They reveal the toll that ministry and compassion work can take on both individuals and families, then point toward healing and wholeness.Insightful and encouraging, this book offers practical, real-world solutions to persistent problems associated with being the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world.DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools given to you by Gospel Spice Ministries.In a nutshell, we exist to inspire Christ-followers to delight in God.In more details: we provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel-Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus.PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family.PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with!PAY IT FORWARD!! Would you consider supporting this show today to help others enjoy it for free? It comes to you completely free, but is labor-intensive to produce, and we want to keep putting it in the ears of people!Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. All donations above our minimal operating costs go to Christian organizations fighting human trafficking.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog(*ListenNotes ranking, 2023)Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Could there be more to your Christian faith, than what you have been experiencing so far? Have you ever wondered if you are tasting the fullness of the flavors God infused Scripture with?The Bible teaches that the goodness of the Lord is, literally, tasty (see Psalm 34:8). Has that been your experience? When you come away from your experience of church, or Bible Study, or your own time alone with God, do you feel replete and overflowing with His goodness? Do you feel full, spiritually speaking? Or, do you feel wondering if you have been feeding yourself on scraps and leftovers?Note | You are invited to go deeper by using our extensive digital book that includes, for each of our 12 episodes in the series, a listening guide, questions to ponder, key takeaways and key quotes, topics to go deeper, and more. Go to gospelspice.com/french for the details and to download a free sample.Together, let’s take a seat around Scripture, the best table that has ever been assembled for our enjoyment and delight, and for the glory of God. We aim to serve you as you feed on the Word of God to intensify your faith. It is a feast for the spiritual senses towards more of God. It answers the question, Are we tasting the fullness of the spiritual banquet of Scripture?I am truly honored and humbled that you would embark on this journey in Scripture through the French culture to grow in faith and intimacy with God by delighting in Scripture through French eyes. I am tickled to no end by our western culture’s premise that all things French are, well, maybe a bit more elegant, refined, sophisticated—maybe a tad next level. After all, what is better than vanilla or toast, except French vanilla and French toast? We’re going to unpack Scripture through the French culture that will tell you something unexpected about Christ, so that you too can experience delight in Christ.Could it be that we are missing out on some of the spiritual savors that God created us to enjoy? Are we unknowingly neglecting our spiritual tastebuds? We are created body, soul, and spirit. We cannot disassociate what God has woven together without experiencing much loss. And so, in a culture that has lost its spiritual tastebuds, I invite you to recover our Christ-centered spiritual delight in God. Make God your delight—your delicious delight. Words are to our mind what food is to our body, and Christ to our spirit.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie here!  I've welcomed Summer Joy Gross on the show a few weeks ago (episode 319) and I wanted her back to continue discussing her book, The Emmanuel Promise, with more of the practical aspects of what it looks like to walk with God in the daily life. As we continue today, we're going to talk about object permanence, repentance, Lectio Divina, imaginative prayers, as different ways that we are invited into the presence of God.Now at the end of our conversation, I'm going to read after she prays a beautiful prayer for you, which you do not want to miss. I'm going to read from the end of her book. It's a chapter called “Stewarding the presence,” and she summarizes some of the practices, the various ways that she invites us into the presence of God by His spirit.I had the privilege of welcoming Summer Joy Gross a second time on the Gospel Spice podcast, where we dove deep into the transformative power of practicing the presence of God and the impact of imaginative prayer. Here are some key takeaways for you:1. Embracing the Senses in Faith: Summer shared about using physical objects like candles and jewelry to remind herself of God's presence. She emphasizes the need to build a stronger attachment to God by engaging the senses, rather than relying solely on intellectual faith.2. Overcoming Doubt and False Beliefs: We discussed Summer's journey through doubt and false beliefs about God. Her experience of overcoming anxiety and shame through experiencing God's compassion is truly inspiring.3. The Power of Imagination in Scripture: Summer highlighted the value of utilizing imagination in communion with God, referencing the impact of media in inviting people inside biblical stories. We explored "The Chosen" TV series and its role in helping people to imagine themselves in biblical stories, leading to a deeper connection with scripture.I invite you to listen to the full episode for an enriching and insightful conversation. Let's continue to seek God's presence and experience His goodness practically, without shame.Find Summer at https://www.athirstforgod.com/ We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Bonjour! We're back for the second part of our deep dive into understanding pride from a biblical perspective. So, grab your favorite iced drink, settle in, and let's talk about humble pride rooted in the Lord and how we can navigate the delicate balance of pride and humility. Pride comes in different shapes and sizes. It's not all bad! In this episode, we unpack the distinctions between positive, humble pride rooted in God and the not-so-great, self-centered pride. Understanding this balance is key to our journey in faith. Stephanie encourages us to take pride in the impactful work we do in the name of Christ. Scripture reminds us to celebrate the positive impact of our efforts in serving the Lord and spreading his love. One nugget of wisdom that really struck a chord is the idea that we can be proud of imperfect efforts. Embracing our flaws and still finding reasons to be proud is a beautiful reminder of God's grace and how, even in our shortcomings, we can boast in the Lord through Christ. We also ponder the Biblical mandate of boasting in the Lord, breaking down the interconnectedness of boasting in various aspects of life and ultimately coming back to a boasting in and of the Lord. The Bible lays out a powerful reminder of where our true pride and joy should lie.  Stephanie pointed out something truly heartwarming – it's not just believers who boast, but God himself boasts in us and is proud of us. How amazing is it to know that the Creator of the universe feels genuine pride in his creation? This part really hit home – we are called to be humbly proud, boasting in humility and the high position we hold in Christ. It's a powerful reminder of our worth and value in the eyes of the Lord. So, there you have it – today is a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of pride, humility, and boasting in the Lord. Our key takeaway? Embracing humble pride rooted in the Lord allows us to find joy in our work, celebrate imperfection, and hold onto our worth as beloved children of God. Until next time, keep embracing that humble pride, celebrate your journey in faith, and remember to boast in the Lord through Christ. Cheers to the adventures in faith! Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie here! I am inviting you today to join me and Liz Bell Young, to share a deep, heartfelt conversation about creating havens in a world that often feels a bit upside down. It's like a warm hug for your soul. It is deeply Christ-centered, and it will fill you in places you didn’t even know you needed filled.Liz Bell Young's "Let There Be Havens" isn't just a book; it's a whole vibe about creating comfort and care for others. She talks about beaming love and light into spaces - it's pretty powerful stuff. Liz's story about beaming into a hospital room? Pure magic.NOTE!!!! Remember to join our newsletter to win one of 3 copies we are giving away! It’s a stunningly gorgeous book. Make sure to sign up at GospelSpice.com/signup Here's the thing – creating spaces of comfort and care isn’t just about making others feel good. Liz and I really dug into the whole idea that, when you nurture others, you also end up nurturing yourself. It's like a love-filled loop, where everyone gets to feel cherished.Liz and I also chatted about starting small and how those little acts of kindness can make a huge difference. Think about it – something as simple as making someone a cup of tea or sending a kind note can brighten their whole day.Liz's childhood memory of her mom going back to get a blade of grass left on a tree stump? It's a beautiful reminder that embracing imperfections is where real love happens. And when Liz shared her experience with burnout and realizing the need for self-care, it hit home for me. Maybe it will for you, too.We also touched on finding healing and support in community. Liz’s small group of women? They're her soul squad, sticking together through thick and thin. Her take on grace within the body of Christ? It’s like a big warm hug, reminding us that we’re all in this together.My chat with Liz Bell Young is a beautiful reminder of the power of creating love-filled spaces and finding comfort in community. "Let There Be Havens" isn’t just a book; it's an invitation to spread love, nurture ourselves, and build real connections in a world that often feels fragmented. It's like a great big hug in the form of a conversation, and who doesn't need more of that?I will take many moments from this conversation to ponder in the days to come. I invite you to join me. My list will start with the following… but I will add more!1. Small Acts of Kindness Matter: Liz emphasized the power of creating small, welcoming scenes to care for others and make a meaningful impact. Let's start small and plant seeds of kindness in our daily lives.2. Embracing Imperfections: Liz's story of the imperfect eggs beautifully illustrates the journey of self-worth and healing. Embracing our brokenness and imperfections is key to overcoming burnout and finding inner peace.3. Community and Grace: The value of community and grace shone through our conversation. We discussed the healing potential of the body of Christ and the need to show grace to ourselves and others. Together, let's build nurturing communities and cultivate a culture of acceptance and support.ABOUT “LET THERE BE HAVENS” Discover the gentle lifestyle and deep satisfaction of practicing hospitality with what you have.We all need people, places, and experiences that bring us home, feed our hope, rock us to sleep, then wish us well in the morning when we go back into the world and find others who need what we were just given. We long for these warm welcomes—and the ability to offer them to others without pretension or stress.In this exquisite tapestry of stories, beautiful photography, and both practical and creative resources, writer and designer Liz Bell Young gives us a new vision for hospitality—one where we can both create space and give space at the same time. In Let There Be Havens, she shows us how anyone and any space can be part of this gentle and hospitable way of life.Threading her life experiences in Italy, California, and Ohio—including camping events in fields and hosting friends in a van parked in the driveway—Young reveals the secrets of cultivating havens right where we are. She’ll inspire you through stories to open the heart; easy-to-follow guides for creating haven-like spaces; creative how to’s for everyday generosity and contentment; and beautiful recipes and simple menu ideas.Page by page, this powerful manifesto will give what you need to build meaningful moments, draw people in, and offer more beauty to the world—piece by piece, life by life. In Let There Be Havens, Liz Bell Young  shares stories that will inspire readers to show love to their neighbors; offers encouragement for those who want to live a creative and generous life; and discusses how to replace fear and anxiety with calmness and kindness.What is a haven?A door held open.A lamp turned on.A place prepared.This is haven: gentle hospitality.When one person reaches for another, makes an offering, and believes we all hold such worth. No matter what we have in our pockets or where we’ve been up until now, we take care of each other―whether we’re strangers on a sidewalk or families around a table. Each day, we create trails of beauty and connection. One open door opens the next. And then it happens: our streets fill with lamplight, our lives lift with spirit, and our homes become circles of gold.Let there be havens.CONNECT WITH LIZ BELL YOUNGhttps://www.lizbellyoung.com/Liz Bell Young is a writer, experience designer and collaborator in the Midwest. Her work appears in Magnolia Journal on the shelves, Artifact Uprising and Darling on the sites, Procter & Gamble in the studios, and Woman Camp in the woods. A grad of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago + University of Cincinnati, LBY takes a multidisciplinary approach to her work and home. Favorite pairings: words on index cards, words next to rolling film, words covering real paper inside real books. She also adores rocks, oyster shells, the smell of hay and gasoline, old Austrian boots, coffee in small cups. But above all: her life with Ryan and their children.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Welcome back to our series to experience Scripture through the lens of the French language and culture! Stephanie kicks things off today with a bang by posing a million-dollar question: Is it ever okay to be proud? She gets into the nitty-gritty, unpacking the complexities of this virtue through Scripture and linguistic nuances. Who knew that the French language actually offers a different spin on pride? Stephanie shows how the word "orgueil" in French consistently carries a negative connotation, shedding light on the often-overlooked shades of meaning within this loaded term.But is pride ever a positive thing? Through a deep-dive into the Scriptures, Stephanie tackles the age-old dilemma of whether pride is always a villain or if it has a few tricks up its sleeve. Venturing into scenarios where expressions of pride might not fit neatly into the "good" or "bad" boxes, she challenges us to think outside the box. Have you ever wondered if being proud of something you've created or accomplished is a sin? Scripture encourages us to ponder the gray areas. Paul will be a worthwhile guide, under the authority of Jesus Christ, our Lord, through the Holy Spirit at work in us.What is the connection between pride and boasting? By comparing French and English interpretations, Stephanie illustrates how understanding different languages can open up fresh perspectives on the biblical teachings we thought we knew so well. You'll be left pondering some weighty questions about how these two influencers shape our lives.Stephanie places context under the spotlight, showing how it can make or break our understanding of pride. By meticulously comparing various translations, she uncovers the power of context in discerning the true essence of pride. Scripture pulls back the curtain on humility, revealing its Christ-centered power beyond the conventional concept of humility as a doormat. Contrary to popular belief, humility is not merely about abasement. Rather, it embodies teachability, contentment, and other-centeredness. So, get ready to take a good, hard look at how pride and humility play out in your own life. It's a journey you won't want to miss!Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie here. I welcome Mary DeMuth again on the show, to talk about all the things we didn’t get to talk about when she came on the first time. We talk about deep things – church hurt, forgiveness, compassion, multifaceted journeys deep into the heart of God. We talk about daring to start a new story when it feels too late. Mary is here to tell us, it’s never too late to dream again, to trust God to write a new story out of the ashes of the old one. I love her for it.Mary loves Jesus. And really that’s the most important thing about her. It’s not writing or speaking or praying or mommying or any other -ing you can find. She flat out loves Him. Why? Because he has utterly, truly, completely re-storied her. See her testimony below.She has three adult children, and she’s been married to Patrick for 33 years now. Mary counts those relationships as the most important people in her life. In the mid 2000s, their family helped plant a church in Southern France–a difficult, but amazing experience.In her spare (ha!) time, she loves to cook, run, garden, decorate, paint, and do interior design.She’s been writing for 30+ years–half of them in obscurity. She mentored many writers during that time, and continues to do so through the Rockwall Christian Writers Group and some of her  instructional books. Since then she has written over 45 books, translated into five languages. You can see a listing of all her books on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, CBD, Lifeway and Parable.Mary pioneered a literary agency in 2022, Mary DeMuth Literary, where she shepherds writers toward traditional publishing.She currently lives in North Texas, serves in my local church alongside her husband, and she’s had the privilege of speaking around the world in places like Johannesburg, Monaco, Geneva, Munich, Port-au-Prince, Nice and Florence. Although her past story is difficult, her current story leaks adventure.Not only has Mary been restored and restoried, but she longs to see the same for you. You no longer have to live haunted. She believes your new story starts today. Carl Bard wrote, “Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending.”Paul reminds us of this important truth: “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT).Living in retrospect is a bad idea. It’s time to heal, be set free, and find the new story God has for you. Mary has experienced God turning her storm into a story, moving her from a bitter story into a bigger one. Won’t you join her on the adventure?https://www.marydemuth.com/Mary’s First Person Narrative: My story is full of deep wounds. When I was five, the cane-shaking lady next door sprayed her blackberry bushes with poison so the neighborhood kids wouldn’t eat the renegade berries that spilled over her fence into the common alley. I didn’t understand that as I popped a huge handful into my mouth.“You’re going to die! You’re going to die!” she screamed at me after seeing my purple stained cheeks.I shook and cried, flailing myself on my bed. I obviously lived, but the fear of death took root in my heart.That same year, I faced more devastation. Neighborhood boys sexually assaulted me.As a result, I felt dirty, unwanted, uncared for, and quite alone.At ten years old, my world crumbled again when my biological father died. He’d been my hero, so his sudden, tragic loss sent me reeling. My fear of death magnified. A giant hole opened up in me–a daddy-shaped hole that sat unfilled. It seemed to grow every year, and the loneliness I felt without him sometimes felt stifling. Too much. Too hard. Too much grief for a girl ten years old.I fought my emotions, tried to wrangle them into submission. But they weren’t easily managed. They stayed deep inside and erupted when I didn’t want them to.I spent my sixth grade year making a decision. I would be a success. I would fill my great big hole with academic prowess. So I worked hard. From that point on, I would get an A in every subject I took.But I still missed my father, and I clung to my stepdad and mom, hoping they wouldn’t die, all the while fearing death would nab me.During junior high, life felt unbearable and I considered killing myself--even though I feared death. My mom’s marriage to my stepdad disintegrated and I frequently broke down at school, wracked with tears. A counselor gave me a hall pass so I could leave class at any time and cry, cry, cry to my heart’s discontent. I didn’t know why I was on this earth. What could possibly be my purpose?Skinny (scrawny, really) and awkward, I longed for a boyfriend to fill that aching need, but few came, and when a boy would show his interest, I would freak out and run the other way. If a boy tried to kiss me, I would break up, not able to cope with the fear that he would do far more. I wanted love and affection, but my fear pushed any semblance of that away.I continued down the road to academic success, sang solos, and tried to fill my heart up with school. But the empty part of me remained.Then came hope!My freshman year of high school, a friend invited me to Young Life. Every time the speaker said, “Jesus,” my heart pounded. The leader ended one of his talks by asking, “What kind of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (Matthew 8:27)The question echoed through my mind throughout the summer before my sophomore year. By the time I went to a Young Life weekend camp in the fall of that next school year, my heart longed to know this Jesus. When the camp speaker spoke of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, I knew I wanted to follow Him the rest of my life.I sat under an evergreen tree that evening and looked up into the star-pocked night, searching for the face of God. In that moment I gave Him my heart, life, past, pains, countless tears, and wounds of my childhood to the Father who would never leave me, to the God who conquered death.I’ve sought after him ever since. I didn’t instantly heal, though. The road back to a re-storied, freedom-infused life has been long and tenuous. I’ve still dealt with a Daddy hole, but God is good to bring wholeness in those empty parts. I’ve been learning how to make Jesus my everything, letting Him fill everything, so I no longer have to chase lesser things. I wrote about that journey in Everything.The healing came when I chose to no longer be silent. When I decided it was time to tell my story, ask for prayer, and trust God to heal me. A life of secrets seldom heals.Today I’m still learning how to live free from the past, to rejoice in the great right now. What used to be a shameful, scary story is now my testimony of a re-storied life.I’ve written about it in my memoir, Thin Places. And I’ve chronicled my journey to healing after sexual abuse in Not Marked: Finding Hope and Healing after Sexual Abuse.I’m no longer the little girl who shuddered at the thought of death, post-berry-eating. I’m not the girl who experienced repeated rape at five. I’m not the daughter who lost a father to the specter of death. I’m not the teenager bent on destroying herself. I’m not the look-at-me-notice-me young adult who needed success to be her god.I’m simply Mary, loved wildly by Jesus. And my greatest desire and joy is to share that message of hope with you, to see you experience the re-storied life Jesus wants to give you.My prayer for you? That through my printed and spoken messages you’ll encounter this same Jesus who can take your deepest wounds, and darkest trials, and re-story them into impossible joy. I’m a walking testimony to the healing grace of God. I embody and delight in this verse:“Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God” (1 Corinthians 1: 26-29, NLT).I was powerless, despised, counted as nothing and unimportant. But God saw differently. He rescued me. He knew that scared little girl would someday grow up and tell her story of redemption.I’m utterly and profoundly grateful to my dear, dear Jesus who set me free from the fear of death and filled up my heart.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

You know that feeling when you're stuck waiting for something, whether it's a long line at the grocery store or eagerly anticipating a life-changing event? Well, today we dive into the concept of "patienting" and how it completely flips the script on waiting.Note | You are invited to go deeper by using our extensive digital book that includes, for each of our 12 episodes in the series, a listening guide, questions to ponder, key takeaways and key quotes, topics to go deeper, and more. Go to gospelspice.com/french for the details and to download a free sample.What's "Patienting" anyway? It comes from the French “patienter” which is translated “wait” in English, but encompasses so much more! "Patienting" is a super intentional form of waiting. It's not just twiddling your thumbs or feeling annoyed; it's about embracing patience as a strength, finding hope in the waiting, and actively growing through the process.Patienting also has to do with trusting God's timing when you'd rather not wait – which is much easier said than done. You ever feel like waiting is just not your thing? I invite you today to reflect on how, when we surrender to the idea of holy waiting, it's like saying, "Okay, God, I see You've got a plan here." It's all about finding peace and hope even in the midst of our impatience, thanks to prayer and trust in God's perfect timing.Scripture serves up some fascinating examples, like Job and Moses, to show how patience is something we learn through experiences, especially the humbling ones. It's like building up our patience muscles through life's ups and downs, and coming out stronger and wiser on the other side.Patience as a superpower in a fast-paced world. Being patient isn't exactly the trendiest thing, right? But when we show patience and kindness to others, especially when it's tough for us, it not only fills us with hope but also spreads that hope to others. It's like a superpower that grows the more we use it!Waiting with a purpose, ultimately, showcases the transformative power of "patienting." By shifting our mindset on waiting and embracing "patienting," we start to see waiting as a season of personal and spiritual growth. It's about sowing seeds of patience, having faith in God's perfect timing, and coming out stronger on the other side.In a world that's all about hustle and bustle, "patienting" offers a fresh take on waiting, aligning with the core Biblical truths of faith, hope, and endurance. By adopting a patient mindset and embracing the art of waiting well, we're encouraged to find strength and hope in our waiting, knowing that it will all be worth it in the end. That, too, is the gospel!We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie welcomes renowned singer and worship artist Beckah Shae, whose journey is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ. Her music’s intimate melodies have the power to touch the human spirit in deeply profound ways. Her story is one of undeniable beauty, resilience, and victory in the face of life’s trials, encapsulating the transformative and redemptive power of faith and friendship with God. Beckah’s cultural influences, shaped by an upbringing focused on survival and gratitude, shine through as she reflects on her Jewish heritage. She shared how her relationship with Jesus has brought a newfound richness to these memories, opening her eyes to deeper layers of faith and gratitude.Beckah Shae’s childhood was marked by chaos and upheaval, which shaped her understanding of God as a friend who provided solace and security amidst uncertainty. Her mom was a source of strength and comfort. Beckah’s challenging upbringing led her to establish a profound and authentic relationship with God, whom she found to be her unwavering source of peace, comfort, provision, and protection. Through it all, she saw God as a refuge rather than someone to fear.Throughout the conversation, Beckah Shae emphasizes her calling and purpose as a worship artist, and invites us to enter into our own callings! She resonates with the idea that utilizing her gift of song to worship is her natural vocation, a source of boundless joy. The emotional significance and newfound depth that her old songs have taken on in recent years underscore the transformative impact of music intertwined with the Spirit of God.Beckah candidly shared her journey of facing criticism early in her music career and the pivotal decision to focus on following God’s plan for her life. This vulnerability and unwavering commitment to staying true to God’s voice amidst external influences serve as a testament to her enduring faith and steadfast resolve. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of trusting in God’s plan despite life's uncertainties and challenges.Both Stephanie and Beckah discuss into the challenges of guiding their daughters to forge their unique spiritual journeys and cultivate profound relationships with God. Their shared insights underscore the delicate balance between providing guidance and allowing space for their daughters to pursue their individual paths, while nurturing a genuine connection with God.Beckah Shae’s deeply resonant journey of faith, perseverance, and spiritual growth serves as a powerful testament to the unyielding strength found in a relationship with God. Through her openness, vulnerability, and unwavering commitment to God's plan, Beckah Shae inspires us towards profound faith and resilience, serving as a beacon of hope for all of us as we navigate our own unique spiritual journeys ever deeper into Christ.GET IN TOUCH WITH BECKAH SHAEOn her website: https://www.beckahshae.comExclusive way to experience all of her worship albums:Shae Shoc Stock - USB Flash Drive (Every Album & Music Video) - https://store.beckahshae.com/collections/music/products/shae-shoc-stock-usb-flash-driveLooking for an exclusive event? Consider Beckah’s Living Room Concerts: https://www.beckahshae.com/living-room-concertFacebook Page: https://facebook.com/beckahshaeYouTube: https://youtube.com/beckahshaeEmail: beckah@beckahshae.comWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!