Today, we are diving into the inevitable twists and turns of unpredictability when following God's plans. We make our plans and often want control, but God is sovereign. Today, we learn that while we make our plans, the Lord appoints our steps. We can learn to trust God on the mountaintops and valleys. We do this well when we practice a few key ideas.

Today, we are diving into the theme of rejection. Rejection is a part of life for all of us and affects us socially, romantically, and professionally. The emotional toll of rejection has even been tied to physical pain based on neurological studies. However, Jesus experienced profound rejection in his life and is our guide to remain steadfast even in the face of rejection. Jesus does NOT reject us; he selects us out of the world. We can apply the truth of our focus verse to help process the pain of rejection.

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

Today’s episode is an exploration of a passage of scripture where Jesus encourages his disciples to pray boldly. Maybe your prayer life has grown flat, boring, or powerless. The encouragement from Mark 11:22-24 emphasizes having faith in God, speaking to mountains without doubt, and the assurance that believing in prayer’s fulfillment makes it a reality!

In this episode, we dig into the challenging topic of "Courageous Compassion" and its relevance to the parable of the Good Samaritan. Compassion is defined as "suffering together" and involves actively working to alleviate the suffering of others. Jesus tells a shocking story to illustrate what this looks like. The episode emphasizes that demonstrating this courage consists in caring for and helping those not like us, even when it challenges the status quo or disrupts power dynamics.

In today's episode, we discover the transformative power of authenticity. We all can struggle to be genuine, but the consequences of compromising one's identity are serious. Drawing from the biblical passage of 1 Samuel 16:7, we explore how God values the heart over appearances.

In this episode, we chat about the concept of having the courage to disappoint others and break free from people-pleasing tendencies. People-pleasers often receive praise for their accommodating nature, but this can come at the cost of neglecting their well-being. The negative consequences of perpetual people-pleasing are discussed, including self-neglect, passive aggression, increased stress, and being taken advantage of. Those of us who struggle with wanting to keep others happy can learn a little bit from the passion of the apostle Paul!

In this episode of The Nerd of the Word, we dive into the challenging yet liberating act of confessing one's wrongdoings. It can be incredibly difficult to admit when we have messed up. It becomes exponentially harder when what we have done causes shame or embarrassment. However, as Christian’s confession is the gateway to true freedom.

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

This week, we're tackling the heart-pounding panic that life's unexpected challenges can bring. We've all been there, right? That moment when you're lost or when a loved one goes missing, and the world seems to spin out of control. But take a deep breath because we've got a powerful lesson from 2 Kings 6:16-17. Elisha, a supernatural spy of his time, faced an overwhelming situation.

In this episode, we delve into the spine-tingling world of childhood fears, especially the fear of the dark. Join us as we explore the scriptural solution found in 2 Timothy 1:7 and uncover the powerful meaning behind each word in this verse.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring message of Psalm 27:14 and explore the courage it takes to wait patiently, especially during moments of high-stakes uncertainty. Join us as we uncover this scripture's historical and modern-day significance, providing practical insights on how to wait well with hope, humility, and expectancy.

How Jesus is our good shepherd? What benefits do we experience as his sheep? What does it mean to be a shepherd, and how does allowing Jesus to lead us to change our confidence in life? These are the questions we will attempt to explore today in the last episode of our confidence series!

Our WORDS have power!

Today’s focus passage is popular for and for a good reason. It’s all about how what we SAY can positively or negatively affect our lives. While external feedback can temporarily boost our confidence, the reality is it lasting change comes from within. It comes from our thoughts and our words.

Let me ask you if you have ever been ignored. I have two teens, so I am incredibly familiar with being ignored. If I ask for the dishes to be done, it is as though I have said nothing or I’m speaking a foreign language.

When this happens, it causes me to feel unheard, disrespected, and at times unloved.

We are continuing our confidence theme as it relates to burnout. Today’s passage gives us hope and confidence that we don’t have to strive, rush, and be perfect in order to satisfy Jesus. Our hustle-and-hurry culture has many of us worn out, depleted, and spiritually desperate.  We can become discouraged that we are not doing enough, serving enough, or worthy enough.

Friendship is vital to our mental, physical, and spiritual health. Pastors and Doctors agree that having a healthy support system contributes to a happy, full life of contentment and joy. However, it can be difficult to make new friends or get involved.

In light of the relatively recent coronation of King Charles, I thought it would be fitting to discuss our own adoption as sons and daughters of God. Don’t get FOMO if you are not part of the British monarchy…

Last week, we talked about humility and anxiety, which sort of ties in perfectly with our topic and passage this week. What has to do with imposter syndrome? So let me ask you, have you ever felt like you were invited somewhere you didn't belong?