No Dusty Bibles

Determined Study - Week 4, Day 2: Luke 9:21-50

Opening:
Today's episode dives into the challenging concept of releasing our earthly expectations in favor of embracing a life fully aligned with Jesus. Heather shares a deeply personal reflection on her own struggles with expectations following a life-altering diagnosis, setting the stage for a discussion on living in the tension between the now and the not yet.
 
Scripture Reading:
Luke 9:21-50
 
Big Idea:
The central theme of today's discussion is that true fulfillment and joy come from releasing our grip on life's expectations and instead, living in eager anticipation of Jesus' promises. This shift in focus from our plans to His plans for us is crucial for experiencing the abundant life Jesus offers.
 
Devotional:
Heather discusses the concept of living joyfully in the present while awaiting the fullness of God's Kingdom, even when our current circumstances fall short of our expectations. She encourages listeners to find solace in Jesus, the constant and ultimate answer to our heart's deepest questions and source of our true satisfaction.
 
Embracing Present Joy:
Surrendering Expectations: Insight into how our expectations can act as barriers to experiencing the fullness of life that Jesus promises.
Finding Satisfaction in Jesus: Encouragement to seek fulfillment in Jesus rather than in the fulfillment of our earthly desires and plans.
Living Fully in the Present: Suggestions for focusing on the present blessings and lessons, as taught by Jesus in Matthew 6, to cultivate a life of gratitude and trust.
 
Questions to Ponder:
Reflect on a time when your expectations were drastically altered. How did you navigate that season?
Discuss your current life expectations with Jesus. How can you align your dreams and aspirations with His will?
How can you find joy in the present, despite unmet expectations or ongoing challenges?
 
Wrap-Up:
In closing, Heather challenges us to live each day fully immersed in the present, trusting Jesus to lead us step by step. This mindset allows us to experience the abundant life He promises, even amid uncertainty or disappointment.
 
Join us tomorrow for Week 4, Day 3 of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, as we continue to explore what it means to follow Jesus with an open heart and mind, ready to receive all that He has in store for us.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Determined Study - Week 4, Day 1: Luke 9:18-20

In today's episode, we delve into the profound significance of Jesus' identity as the Anointed One, exploring the pivotal moment when Jesus questions His disciples about the public's perception of Him. This inquiry leads to a deeper exploration of what it means to acknowledge Jesus not just as a historical figure but as the Messiah, the Savior of humanity. Drawing inspiration from Corrie ten Boom, we're reminded of the power of God's promises as we navigate life's challenges.
 
Scripture Reading:
Luke 9:18-20
 
Big Idea:
Today's central theme is the transformative power of recognizing and accepting Jesus as the Messiah in our lives. This acknowledgment is not merely an intellectual assent but a declaration that invites healing for our past and hope for our future with Christ.
 
Devotional:
Hannah emphasizes the distinction between believing in Jesus and believing Him—between holding an opinion of Him and having a conviction about His true nature and mission. She reflects on Jesus' question to His disciples and its implications for us today, urging us to consider our own response to who Jesus is. This declaration marks a division between our past and our future, offering us a pathway to healing and a renewed life in Christ.
 
Embracing Jesus' Healing:
Understanding Jesus as the Anointed One: A deeper appreciation of Jesus' role as the Messiah and its significance in the context of Israel's history and our personal faith journeys.
The Journey from Past to Future: Insights into how acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah invites us to let go of our past and step into a future marked by His healing and grace.
Living in Conviction: Encouragement to move beyond merely believing in Jesus to deeply believing His promises, thereby experiencing the fullness of life He offers.
 
Questions to Ponder:
Reflect on aspects of your past that you need Jesus to heal. How can recognizing Him as the Messiah impact this healing process?
Consider society's current perception of Jesus. How does this align with or differ from your understanding of Him as the Anointed One?
Share a personal experience of receiving a "do-over" or second chance in life. How did this experience reveal God's grace and transformative power in your life?
 
Wrap-Up:
As we conclude today's discussion, we're invited to make a determined choice to proclaim Jesus as the Messiah of our lives, stepping into the abundant life He promises. This declaration is more than an acknowledgment—it's an invitation to experience His healing, grace, and hope for the future.
 
Join us tomorrow for Week 4, Day 2, of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, as we continue to explore the implications of living a life deeply rooted in the reality of Jesus as our Messiah and Savior.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Determined Study - Week 3, Day 5: Luke 9:1-17

Today, Heather draws from Corrie ten Boom’s wisdom, reminding us that God's promises are our guiding light through life's challenges. We explore the necessity of not just believing in God but believing Him and His word, especially when balancing our responsibilities and the need for spiritual rest feels like a Herculean task. Through Luke 9:1-17, we learn that reliance on Jesus empowers us to overcome our limitations and address the needs of others, even when resources seem scarce.
 
Scripture Reading:
Luke 9:1-17
 
Big Idea:
The central theme today is our call as Jesus' followers to identify and meet the unmet needs around us, relying on His strength and provision. This passage teaches us that with Jesus, we can accomplish much more than we can on our own, highlighting the limitless nature of His resources.
 
Devotional:
Heather shares a relatable perspective on the disciples' experience, emphasizing their ordinary human nature and how their journey with Jesus reflects our own spiritual walk. The feeding of the five thousand is not just a miracle of multiplication but a lesson in God's abundant provision and our role in extending His compassion and care to others. By acknowledging our weaknesses, we open ourselves to Jesus' miraculous strength and resources, enabling us to serve those in need effectively.
 
Recognizing and Resourcing Needs:
Embracing Our Weaknesses: Understanding that acknowledging our limitations allows Jesus' power to work through us.
Operating from Jesus' Abundance: Encouragement to rely on Jesus for the resources we need to serve others, trusting in His sufficiency.
Practical Ways to Serve: Suggestions for contributing financially, serving tangibly, and motivating others to join in meeting the needs of our communities and beyond.
 
Questions to Ponder:
Reflect on whether you tend to rely on your own strength or seek God's strength in your daily tasks. How can you shift towards relying more on Him?
Consider the disciples' reaction to the crowds in Luke 9. What does this reveal about human nature, and how can we apply their lesson to our lives?
Have you ever felt so depleted that you believed you had nothing left to give? How does Jesus’ example in this passage challenge that feeling?
Share a moment when Jesus' abundance was evident in your life. How can you express gratitude for His provision today?
 
Wrap-Up:
In closing, Heather challenges us to lean into Jesus' strength and abundance as we look to meet the needs around us. This weekend, let’s ponder how we can apply today's lessons to become more effective servants of Christ, recognizing that with Him, we are equipped to make a meaningful impact in our world.
 
Join us on Monday for the start of Week 4 of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, as we continue to explore what it means to live a life deeply connected to Jesus and His mission. Have a restful and rejuvenating weekend!
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Determined Study - Week 3, Day 4: Luke 8:40-56

In today’s episode, we delve into the difference between merely believing in the existence of God and actively placing our faith and trust in His promises and character. Through an exploration of Luke 8:40-56, we're invited to consider how deep belief in Jesus transforms our relationship with Him from acknowledgment to intimate fellowship.
 
Scripture Reading:
Luke 8:40-56
 
Big Idea:
The key message today is that cultivating a deep and personal relationship with Jesus stems from choosing to believe what He says, not just acknowledging His existence. This belief leads to intimate fellowship and a faith that actively trusts in His word and character.
 
Devotional:
We're presented with two powerful examples of faith in action: Jairus, a synagogue leader who seeks Jesus' help for his dying daughter, and a woman suffering from a chronic illness who believes that touching Jesus' garment will heal her. Both stories highlight the transformative power of believing Jesus to change our circumstances, emphasizing that true faith goes beyond mere belief in His existence—it's about trusting in His ability to act in our lives.
 
Embracing Deep Faith:
Understanding True Belief: An exploration of what it means to truly believe Jesus, highlighting the distinction between intellectual assent and heartfelt trust.
The Power of Faith: Insights into how faith not only changes our circumstances but deepens our relationship with Jesus, making us aware of His presence and activity in our lives.
Intimacy with Jesus: Encouragement to pursue a closer relationship with Jesus by taking His words to heart and living as though they are real and tangible.
 
Questions to Ponder:
Reflect on moments when Jesus has healed or intervened in your life. How did those experiences affect your relationship with Him?
Do you see a difference between believing in God and believing God? How does this distinction impact your faith?
Consider times you've struggled with unanswered prayers. How can revisiting those conversations with Jesus today encourage you in your faith journey?
 
Wrap-Up:
Today's discussion challenges us to deepen our faith by not only believing in Jesus but also believing what He says. This shift from acknowledgment to active trust fosters a closer and more personal relationship with Him, transforming our lives in the process.
 
Join us tomorrow for Week 3, Day 5, of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, as we continue to explore the life-changing implications of a faith that truly believes Jesus and takes His promises to heart.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Determined Study - Week 3, Day 3: Luke 8:26-39

Today's episode shines a spotlight on Luke, the meticulous historian and physician who penned the Gospel of Luke and Acts. Heather explores Luke's unique narrative style, emphasizing his focus on the inclusivity of Jesus' compassion and the determination to share the transformative stories of Jesus' ministry with the world. We dive into a particularly moving account in Luke 8:26-39, where Jesus, the Divine Chain-Breaker, liberates a man from his demons, offering a profound message about legacy-making.
 
Scripture Reading:
Luke 8:26-39
 
Big Idea:
The core message for today is that by following Jesus, the Divine Chain-Breaker, we are empowered to create lasting legacies. Through the story of Jesus healing the demon-possessed man, we're reminded of Jesus' unparalleled power to free us from the unseen chains that bind us, enabling us to live abundantly and leave a meaningful impact.
 
Devotional:
Heather shares her personal struggle with anxiety, drawing a parallel between her experiences and the broader human condition of being shackled by various forms of bondage, whether it be anxiety, fear, doubt, or sin. By examining the account of Jesus healing the man in the region of the Gerasenes, we're encouraged to see Jesus as our healer and liberator. Heather reflects on how Jesus transforms places of isolation and despair into sanctuaries of healing and renewal.
 
Embracing Our Role as Legacy-Makers:
Understanding Jesus as the Chain-Breaker: A deeper look at how Jesus frees us from the chains that prevent us from experiencing and contributing to the fullness of life.
The Power of a Rescued Life: Exploring the impact of Jesus' healing and liberation on our ability to influence the world around us positively.
Creating a Legacy of Faith: Encouragement to live out our gratitude for Jesus' intervention in our lives by spreading His message of hope and salvation.
 
Questions to Ponder:
What does "abundant life" mean to you? How does Jesus' act of breaking chains contribute to this concept?
Consider who in your life might need encouragement to break free from their own chains. How can you support them?
Reflect on the areas within your community that could benefit from acts of service inspired by Jesus' love.
Who in your circle needs to hear about Jesus' life-changing power and love?
 
Wrap-Up:
In closing, today's episode challenges us to view our lives through the lens of being legacy-makers, inspired by the ultimate legacy of love and freedom Jesus has set for us. By following Jesus, the Divine Chain-Breaker, we're invited to participate in His work of transforming lives and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those we touch.
 
Join us tomorrow for Week 3, Day 4, of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, as we continue to explore the profound implications of living a life aligned with Jesus' teachings and example.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Determined Study - Week 3, Day 2: Luke 7:36-50

In today's discussion, we delve into a poignant moment from Luke 7, contrasting the setting of a Pharisee's dinner party with what might be a more familiar dinner party setting for us. Hannah highlights the cultural context of dining in Jesus' time and ponders the reasons behind Jesus' invitation by Simon the Pharisee. The episode emphasizes the transformative encounter between Jesus and a woman whose act of devotion exemplifies a heartfelt response to Jesus' call for the weary to find rest in Him.
 
Scripture Reading:
Luke 7:36-50
 
Big Idea:
Today's core message is that genuine gratitude towards Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins cultivates deep devotion. The narrative showcases a woman's act of washing Jesus' feet with her tears and anointing them with perfume as a powerful expression of her gratitude and love, highlighting the impact of recognizing and receiving Jesus' forgiveness.
 
Devotional:
Hannah paints a vivid picture of the woman's departure from the Pharisee's home, transformed and at peace after her encounter with Jesus. This transformation is a testament to the profound relief and joy that comes from being forgiven. Martin Luther's description of the woman's tears as "heart water" underscores the depth of her gratitude and the unbreakable affection that arises from acknowledging the gift of forgiveness. Hannah encourages us to cultivate a similar heart of gratitude through daily practices of thankfulness.
 
Embracing Gratitude:
Cultivating a Grateful Heart: Suggestions for infusing our daily lives with gratitude towards Jesus for His blessings and forgiveness.
Devotion Through Gratitude: Exploring how gratitude can lead us to a more devoted and fulfilling relationship with Jesus.
Practical Steps: Ideas for incorporating gratitude into everyday life, including prayer, journaling, and Scripture meditation.
 
Questions to Ponder:
How do you understand "soul rest," and can you share a moment when you sought rest for your soul?
Reflect on your response to forgiveness from Jesus. Does humility come easily or is it a challenge?
What does "going in peace" mean to you, especially after receiving forgiveness for sins?
 
Wrap-Up:
As we close today's episode, we're reminded of the transformative power of forgiveness and the peace that follows true repentance and humility before Jesus. The story of the woman's devotion to Jesus encourages us to approach Him with a grateful heart, recognizing the profound love and forgiveness He offers.
 
Join us tomorrow for Week 3, Day 3, of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, as we continue to explore the depth and breadth of living a life aligned with Jesus' teachings and example.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Determined Study - Week 3, Day 1: Luke 7:1-35

In today's episode, Heather tackles the complex topic of God's attitude towards humanity, addressing the common dichotomy people often perceive between a God of grace and a God of punishment. Sharing from her personal life, Heather opens up about her struggles with a terminal genetic disorder and how these challenges led her to question God's care and presence in moments of despair. Through Luke 7, she finds answers and a deeper understanding of Jesus's compassion for humanity.
 
Scripture Reading:
Luke 7:1-35
 
Big Idea:
Today's main message is that our actions of compassion towards others are a powerful way to demonstrate God’s tender love for humanity. Through the account of Jesus in Capernaum and Nain, we see Jesus acting out of deep compassion, challenging us to do the same in our lives.
 
Devotional:
Heather discusses the scene where Jesus encounters a widowed mother in Nain, about to bury her only son. This story, although brief, is potent in its demonstration of Jesus's spontaneous compassion towards someone in dire need. Heather highlights the significant moment when Jesus tells the mother not to cry, an action that reflects His heartfelt response to human suffering. This encounter not only showcases Jesus's empathy but also foreshadows His own destiny as the only Son who would die to save humanity.
 
Embracing Compassion:
Understanding Compassion: Compassion is about noticing someone's pain and taking steps to alleviate it. Jesus's example teaches us that compassion is a call to action, prompted by a moved heart.
The Impact of Compassion: Through Jesus's compassionate acts, we're reminded of the profound impact our kindness can have on those around us, revealing God's love in tangible ways.
Living Compassionately: Heather admits that compassion does not come naturally to her but expresses a desire to grow in this area because it aligns with Jesus's commands. This honesty opens a pathway for listeners to reflect on their own capacity for compassion.
 
Questions to Ponder:
Reflect on your own nature - do you consider yourself compassionate? Why or why not?
Consider why Jesus felt compassion for the widow. What does this tell us about His character?
Can you recall a time when you were on the receiving end of compassion? How did it affect you?
Think of ways you can extend compassion today. What are some practical steps you can take?
 
Wrap-Up:
As we conclude today's episode, we are reminded of the power of compassion in reflecting God's love to the world. Through our acts of kindness, we can help others see God not as a distant or punishing deity but as a compassionate Father.
Join us tomorrow for Week 3, Day 2, of *Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment*, as we continue to delve into Jesus's teachings and how they challenge us to live a life marked by love, compassion, and grace.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Bonus Episode: How to Incorporate the Habits of Worship, Word, Pray, & Obey into Daily Life

Today, we're diving deep into the heart of daily, determined living through the lens of Luke's Gospel, exploring the foundational habits of Worship, Word, Pray, & Obey. Join us as we unwrap practical tips to integrate these life-changing practices into your everyday life, transforming your walk with God.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction: Heather welcomes listeners and sets the stage for a journey through the book of Luke, focusing on the sustainable template for kingdom impact discovered in the first week of the Determined study.
The Four Habits: An exploration of the habits of Worship, Word, Pray, & Obey. These practices are not just acts of faith but a lifestyle that echoes Jesus's journey and teachings.
Worship: Unpacking the essence of worship and sharing actionable tips to weave worship into the fabric of our daily lives, from morning prayers to creating a worshipful environment at home.
Word: The importance of staying anchored in God's Word, with advice on setting a regular Bible reading time, using a Bible reading plan, and journaling insights to deepen understanding and connection with Scripture.
Pray: Guidance on making prayer an integral part of your day, including praying throughout the day, using prayer reminders, keeping a prayer journal, and praying in community.
Obey: Turning faith into action through practical steps like serving others, practicing generosity, living out your faith in the workplace, and staying connected with a community of believers.
Resource Highlight: Introduction of the Worship, Word, Pray, & Obey Journal, available on Amazon and our online shop. A special discount code for listeners is shared.
Bible Bracket Challenge: An exciting invitation to participate in the Bible Bracket Challenge, a fun and insightful way to engage with the Scriptures during March Madness, with details on how to join and the mega-giveaway for participants.
Additional Resources:
Worship, Word, Pray, & Obey Journal: Order on Amazon* or use code NODUSTYBIBLES for 10% off at our online shop.
Bible Bracket Challenge: Sign up at therescuedletters.com/2024biblebracket to participate in the challenge and for a chance to win the mega-giveaway.
*If you decide to shop using this link, it doesn't cost you anything extra but it does help to support my family and this ministry. You rock and I am super thankful.
Closing Thoughts:
Heather wraps up the episode with encouraging words for listeners to embrace the habits of Worship, Word, Pray, & Obey in new ways, inviting questions and engagement through hello@therescuedletters.com. She emphasizes the living, breathing relationship with God through His Word and looks forward to continuing the journey in Luke next week.
Join Us Next Week:
Don't miss our next episode, where we'll continue our exploration of Luke with Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment. Remember, every step taken in understanding and living out God's Word brings us closer to a life of no dusty Bibles.

Determined Study - Week 2, Day 5: Luke 6:27-49

In today's episode, we continue to explore the radical teachings of Jesus as He delves into the heart of His upside-down kingdom. Following the challenging instruction to love our neighbors, Jesus pushes the boundaries even further by commanding us to love our enemies. This concept, revolutionary at the time and still challenging today, calls us to embrace a profoundly different way of living.
Scripture Reading:
Luke 6:27-49
Big Idea:
Our focus is on Jesus' call to respond to hostility with love, showcasing a selfless posture that mirrors His own. This instruction challenges our natural inclinations, urging us to adopt a distinctly Christian kind of love, agape, which seeks the greatest good for another, regardless of their feelings toward us.
Devotional:
Hannah shares a common struggle with being disliked and the discomfort that comes with conflict. She reflects on the nature of agape love as unconditional, benevolent, and intentional—the kind of love Jesus exemplified and calls us to extend even to our adversaries. This act of love is not something we accomplish on our own but with divine assistance, relying on the strength of heaven to love those we find difficult.
Embracing Jesus’ Selfless Posture:
Agape Love: A deeper look into the essence of agape love and its significance in our relationships, especially with those who oppose or dislike us.
Heavenly Help: Acknowledging our need for God's help to love unconditionally, we are reminded that Jesus does not expect us to navigate this challenge without His support.
Reflecting Jesus: The importance of displaying Jesus' love through our actions, especially in how we treat our enemies, as a testament to the transformative power of the gospel.
Questions to Ponder:
How does Jesus' instruction to love our enemies challenge your current understanding of love?
In what ways can loving our enemies serve as a testimony to the power of Jesus' love?
Reflect on the concept of pursuing enemies with agape love. What practical steps can you take to embody this kind of love in your daily interactions?
Consider tangible actions you can initiate today to show love to someone you might consider an adversary or who poses a challenge to you.
Wrap-Up:
As we wrap up today's episode, we are encouraged to put Jesus' teachings into practice by dedicating time to pray for those we find difficult to love. This commitment to loving our enemies as Jesus loves us not only transforms our hearts but also serves as a powerful witness to the world around us.
Join us tomorrow for a bonus episode on how to utilize the Worship, Word, Pray, & Obey journal effectively. Then, we'll return on Monday to dive into Week 3 of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, continuing our journey through the radical, transformative teachings of Jesus.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.

Determined Study - Week 2, Day 4: Luke 6:12-26

In today’s episode, Heather invites us to confront the distractions and disruptions of our lives with faith rather than fear. She shares a perspective-shifting view on discipleship, underscoring that our circumstances should not dictate our attitudes. As Jesus prepares to deliver a masterclass on the true essence of discipleship, we learn that embracing His "upside-down kingdom" enables us to navigate life's storms with unwavering peace.
Scripture Reading:
Luke 6:12-26
Big Idea:
Today's profound message highlights the radical nature of Jesus’ teachings on the kingdom of God. Unlike worldly expectations, those who fully embrace the teachings of Jesus find themselves on a path that is radically productive in kingdom-building efforts. This path challenges conventional notions of blessing and productivity, offering instead a divine perspective that transforms obstacles into opportunities for faith.
Devotional:
Heather discusses the modern-day misconception of the word "blessed," often associated with material wealth or luck, contrasting it with Jesus' teachings in Luke 6. From a level place, Jesus outlines the true markers of blessing—conditions like poverty, hunger, sorrow, and persecution—which are viewed through the lens of kingdom values. This inversion of worldly standards serves as a reminder that our ultimate stability and satisfaction come from our faith in God, not our external circumstances.
Engaging with the Upside-Down Kingdom:
Redefining Blessedness: Encourages listeners to embrace Jesus’ definitions of blessedness, rooted in spiritual realities rather than material conditions.
Faith Over Circumstances: Challenges us to prioritize Jesus' perspective over our immediate situations, finding peace and purpose in the midst of trials.
Radical Commitment: Calls for a wholehearted commitment to the kingdom of God, even when it entails hardship, emphasizing the eternal rewards over temporal satisfactions.
Questions to Ponder:
Reflect on your understanding of being "blessed." How does this align or contrast with the way Jesus defines blessing in Luke 6?
Consider the ways in which the concept of blessing is often misunderstood in contemporary culture. How can we reclaim its biblical meaning?
Jesus presents a radical view of blessing that focuses on spiritual realities over physical circumstances. How can adopting this view change your response to challenges and difficulties?
Wrap-Up:
Heather concludes with an invitation to view ourselves as blessed through the eyes of Jesus, regardless of our external conditions. This radical acceptance of Jesus’ upside-down kingdom not only shifts our perspective on our own lives but also empowers us to contribute meaningfully to God’s work in the world.
Join us tomorrow for Week 2, Day 5, of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, as we continue to explore the transformative teachings of Jesus and how they apply to our daily lives.
 
Final Bits:
Purchase the workbook here (affiliate link) for our Spring Bible study of Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, a six-week study of Luke by Heather M. Dixon. Sign up here to receive content and reminders by email. 
No Dusty Bibles Community: We're more than just a podcast; we're a community committed to keeping our Bibles open and active. Dive deeper into God's Word and connect with fellow believers who share your passion for Scripture.
Weekly Email Sign-Up: Interested in getting more out of your Bible study? Sign up to receive our weekly email at No Dusty Bibles. Every Monday we’ll send you a weekly reading plan and extra resources to enhance your understanding of the Bible.
The Rescued Letters Collective: Learn more about our broader mission at The Rescued Letters Collective. Visit this link for more information and to follow us on social media. Stay connected with us and be part of a movement that brings hope and healing through the power of God's Word.
 
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your insights, questions, or prayer requests. Join our online community for supportive and engaging discussions or email us at hello@therescuedletters.com.
Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.
Portions of today’s episode are adapted from Determined: Living Like Jesus in Every Moment, by Heather M. Dixon, © 2019 by Abingdon Press, all rights reserved. 
In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.