Gospel Spice
The podcast that spices up your time with God! Life is too short for tasteless food. Is staleness lurking in the pages of Scripture? Could the Christian faith prove spicier than you’ve experienced? If you’re a spiritual foodie looking
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for a flavor explosion in your journey with God, Gospel Spice is your new secret ingredient. The entire Bible is seasoned with exotic Middle Eastern spiritual spices long lost to our twenty-first century Western palate. Join Stephanie Rousselle and her guests, and follow Jesus to discover the original Jewish cultural flavors as He intended! Every week, Stephanie shares truth from Scripture and invites you to dig deeper in your faith to delight in the glory of God.
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- 361Making sense of AI, transhumanism, and gender ideology | with Abdu MurrayTogether, Stéphanie Rousselle and Abdu Murray explore some of today’s most pressing concerns surrounding identity, truth, and technology—offering a Christian worldview on navigating these cultural shifts. At the heart of this conversation are two concepts Abdu Murray terms “bioclasm” and “AI mania”:Bioclasm is a cultural movement that, much like the "iconoclast," seeks to smash the traditional pillars of biological identity—such as gender and humanity itself—and reconstruct reality based on feelings and preferences, rather than facts. It is rooted in a post-truth culture, where personal feelings often outweigh objective truth.AI Mania refers to the society-wide rush to embrace artificial intelligence and technology without critical thought. Abdu Murray is careful to distinguish healthy technological use from unchecked enthusiasm, warning that overreliance on AI can blur boundaries between machine and human, making us question what it means to be truly human.Together, these movements lead to a "collapse of reality," where personal perception threatens to override the givenness of biological and moral truths.Navigating the tsunamis of bioclasm and AI mania requires discernment, compassion, and a return to the ultimate source of truth. The Christian hope is not in technological transcendence or personal autonomy, but in the God who creates, redeems, and sustains our true identity.Abdu Murray explains transhumanism as the ambition to overcome human limitations (including death) by merging with machines or uploading consciousness to digital forms. While proponents of this vision believe it offers hope for immortality, Abdu Murray points out its weaknesses—especially that all physical systems eventually succumb to entropy, or decay, and that technological "immortality" is a myth. True creativity, meaning, and relationship cannot be distilled into data or algorithms.Underneath the drive for identity autonomy (being your own authority) and technological transcendence is a deep longing for meaning, stability, and transcendence—what the Bible describes as being made in the image of God. The Christian faith urges us to find our core identity not in fleeting markers or technological advancements, but in relationship with our Creator.Abdu Murray draws parallels between today’s quests for sovereignty and the biblical stories of Eden and Babel: humanity’s attempts to become ‘like God’ on their own terms have always resulted in loss, not gain. The hope, he says, lies in returning to the thick, robust understanding of what it is to be human: a living soul, created and loved by God.So, how can we engage culture with both conviction and compassion? Abdu challenges believers to answer each person, not just their arguments, and to see every conversation as an opportunity to remind others (and ourselves) of our true worth and purpose—anchored in God, the unchanging source of truth and identity.MORE ABOUT ABDU MURRAYAbdu Murray speaks internationally about the intersection of Christian faith and the questions of culture. He is the author of several books, including Saving Truth, Grand Central Question, and More Than a White Man’s Religion. For most of his life, Abdu was a proud Muslim until a nine-year historical, theological, and scientific investigation pointed him to the Christian faith. Abdu lives in the Metro Detroit area with his wife, Nicole, and their three children.MORE ABOUT “FAKE ID”This groundbreaking exposé of how artificial intelligence and gender ideology undermine our view of reality helps us cut through the chaos and find the hope we’re looking for.We hear that technology will set us free and that identity is whatever we choose. What we’re not being told is how these promises unravel reality itself, leaving us restless and confused in a world where we can no longer tell what is true.Christian thought leader Abdu Murray shows us how the ancient, yet timeless wisdom of Scripture anchors us to transcendent truth as we navigate today’s cultural tsunamis. This fascinating book empowers us to:Think critically and ethically about AI and gender identityUnderstand why we are neither biochemical machines nor gods of our own makingDiscern what is real apart from cultural influence and pressureBe who God calls us to be rather than who culture tells us to beApply biblical truth to our understanding of what it means to be humanA compassionate guide to finding scientific and moral clarity, Fake ID equips us to think clearly, love deeply, and live with unshakeable hope.Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 362Have you noticed how those who hate Christ can become strange bedfellows? (8th lesson from Luke)Stephanie beckons us to continue our way through the gospel of Luke by experiencing alongside Jesus what it feels like to be attacked by enemies. With His usual meekness and boldness, He addresses their needs and ignores the facades they seem to put up to trap Him. What does this tell us about how we are called to behave?Have you noticed how people of different opinions can suddenly unite against a common foe? It's uncannily relevant to our current news; this feels ripped out of today's headlines!But it's nothing new; the enemies of Christ have always united against Him, and His people. Our generation is no exception. We see it happen today when 4 distinct people groups, who mutually hate and despise each other, come together in unity against their foe - Jesus Christ, who claims to be Messiah. Pharisees, Sadducees, Herodians and Scribes unite to attack Him. We can still see such strategies in our world today. So, when you behold people who seem to be divided on every issue, suddenly unite together against Christ--you know something is up. Jesus role-models for us what a good response is. And it has to do with love--yes, love.We are in Luke 20-22 today, and we hope to tie in these seemingly unrelated passages to show the seamlessness of Jesus' message and love--yes, even for His enemies.Stephanie takes us on a journey through Luke chapters 19-21. We’re entering the Easter Season with Palm Sunday. Today, we’ll explore the significance of time and the events leading up to Jesus’s crucifixion, the unity of His opponents, and the deeper invitation to know God personally.Stephanie invites us to celebrate the unique ability of Scripture study: the opportunity to both dig deep into the details of a passage and also to step back for a broader perspective. This week’s focus is on the approaching final days of Christ in Jerusalem, viewed through the lens of Luke—the Gospel writer most committed to chronology.Luke offers a chronological account, helpful for readers wanting to piece together the order of events in Jesus’s life. Contrasting Matthew, who organizes by theme, Luke’s western approach caters to our familiar way of thinking about time. The ancient Jewish (and Greek) concepts of time are richer: where “chronos” means sequential time, “kairos” refers to those moments when God breaks in—a divine appointment. Both are crucial to understanding the Gospel’s narrative.When Jesus enters Jerusalem (Luke 19:41), he weeps over the city’s inability to understand what would bring peace. Often, we’re so bound by everyday “chronos” time, we miss the “kairos”—special moments when God reveals Himself and His plans. Jesus’s lament invites us to seek understanding of God’s heart, even if we cannot know everything about His future plans.Luke describes four major groups who opposed Jesus: Pharisees (spiritual leaders), Herodians (political/wealthy elites), Sadducees (rationalists denying resurrection), and Scribes (religious legalists). These groups despised each other, yet their opposition to Jesus brought them into unity, if only for a moment: the rejection of Christ can unite even the most unlikely groups, and she asks: “If only you knew whom you are rejecting.”· Pharisees: Jesus challenges their authority using parables about the vineyard and fig tree, symbols deeply meaningful to all Israelites.· Herodians: Their materialism is confronted with the “give to Caesar what is Caesar’s” lesson, turning the focus to what truly bears God’s image—us.· Sadducees: Their attempt to trap Jesus with a question about resurrection is overturned as Jesus points to God as the God of the living.· Scribes: Jesus warns against hollow religious showmanship.Jesus’s prediction of Jerusalem’s destruction in Luke 21 receives both a historical fulfillment in AD 70 and a future prophetic event. Early Jewish Christians escaped Jerusalem before its fall by heeding Christ’s warnings—a model for attentive faith.Ultimately, the gospel of Luke invites us to step beyond superficial knowledge and into deep relationship with God. We’re challenged not to be like Christ’s opponents, who knew what they rejected, but like the disciples—flawed but transformed into “the spice of the Gospel.” Don’t miss your kairos moment. Seek not just to know about God, but to truly know Him.Reflection: Ask yourself—do you merely know facts about Jesus, or do you know Him personally? Where is God inviting you into a kairos encounter this week?NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/startWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:Identity 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!
- 363When Jesus turns and sees us: the powerful gaze that changes everything (9th lesson from Luke)Can we disappoint God? Stephanie takes us on a journey through Luke 22, focusing on the theme: If Only We Knew—the truth of who God is, and how that knowledge radically shapes our lives. Peter’s failure prepared him to carry the burden of leadership in the early Church. Our own failures, too, can become the soil where God’s grace and purpose grow. We are called to trust that God sees, turns towards us, and forgives lavishly."If you only knew...", Jesus tells His disciples. What would you change in your life, if you only knew?, He asks us today. "If you only knew what I have in store for you; if you only knew how much the Father loves you; if you only knew who you are in His sight; if you only knew how truly breathtaking in glory and splendor and meekness I am..." Jesus has much to teach us about how to see ourselves, and God, in His light. We begin by examining the contrast between the unity of Jesus’ enemies and the disunity among His disciples. Rather than standing together, the disciples argue about who is the greatest (Luke 22:24). Jesus responds by redefining greatness—not as domination, but as humble service. “Whoever is greatest among you must become like the youngest, and whoever leads like the one serving.” Here, we’re invited to imagine what would change in our lives if we truly understood God’s perspective and promises for our future.Next, we explore two betrayals: Judas’ overt act with a kiss, and Peter’s denial. Jesus knows both are coming, and addresses Peter: “Satan has asked to sift you like wheat. But I have prayed for you…” This moment demonstrates Jesus’ deep knowledge, compassion, and assurance that Peter’s failure is not the end.Peter’s denial unfolds just as Jesus predicted. He denies knowing Jesus three times before the rooster crows, and then—one of the most haunting moments in Scripture—Jesus turns and looks at Peter. Instead of imagining disappointment or judgment in Jesus’ gaze, we’re encouraged to see compassion, forgiveness, and love. God is never disappointed in us, because disappointment requires surprise—and God knows all things. We can grieve God, but we can never surprise Him or cause Him regret in creating us, since He knew all our choices before we ever existed. Human relationships are full of disappointment, but our relationship with God rests on His omniscience and unconditional choice.Peter’s story doesn’t end in tears. After his bitter weeping, he’s the first disciple to run to the tomb on Resurrection morning. In John 21, Peter is restored around a charcoal fire—the same setting where he denied Jesus—reminding us of the power of sensory memory and redemption. Peter’s pride and rivalry with John is acknowledged, showing that restoration is a process, not a moment. Even after being restored, Peter still compares himself to John, but Jesus gently redirects him: “What is it to you?... You follow Me.” This encouragement is for us, too: resist comparison, embrace your unique calling.Key Takeaways:· True greatness is found in service, not status.· God cannot be disappointed in us, but He desires that we grieve our sin and turn afresh to Him.· Restoration after failure is a journey, and comparison holds us back from following Jesus fully.· Our deepest failures can become the very places where God equips us for His calling.May we embrace both the bitter and sweet “spices” of the Gospel, trusting in Christ’s unwavering compassion and restoration.In this episode, Stephanie takes us behind the scenes of the two betrayals by the very disciples of Christ. Judas, of course; but also Peter. What can we learn from him? Beyond the betrayal, we will take a long look at Jesus' restoration of Peter, and extrapolate our own position as restored in, through, and by Christ. What for? Take a listen to find out! Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil. Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways:1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too!2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app;and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today!Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 364Did Jesus really claim to be God? An answer from history for skeptics | with Mikel Del RosarioStephanie Rousselle hosts Dr. Mikel Del Rosario, professor at moody Bible Institute in Chicago, and expert in Christian apologetics. The conversation centers on how we can answer the question of whether Jesus clearly claimed to be God, especially when it is asked by skeptics or by Christians seeking a deeper, confident faith.Correctly understanding Jesus as fully God and fully man is foundational to Christian faith—if he’s not divine, he can’t forgive sins or save. The resurrection, backed by historical evidence, cements the truth of his claims.One common question is, “Why didn’t Jesus plainly say, ‘I am God’?” Mikel Del Rosario explains that Jesus’ audience was steeped in Jewish theology, where claiming to be God could easily be misunderstood as claiming to be God the Father or as a rival deity. Instead, Jesus reveals his identity incrementally—and profoundly—using language and concepts (like “Son of Man” and allusions to Daniel 7 and Psalm 110) his contemporaries would eventually understand.A major stumbling block for many is the problem of evil—if God exists, why is there suffering? Mikel Del Rosario encourages compassionate, courageous responses, recognizing that both emotional and intellectual issues are at play. Importantly, he frames Christian hope as a guarantee rooted in the reality of Jesus’ resurrection—something unique to Christianity.Some people genuinely don’t understand how God could allow evil, while others flatly reject God’s existence because of evil. Mikel Del Rosario explains the importance of discerning which type of questioner you are engaging. For seekers, gently showing how Christianity makes sense of evil is key; for rejectors, it’s valuable to ask how they reached their conclusions and what evidence supports their claim.Anyone making a truth claim—atheist or Christian—shares the burden of proof. For example, if someone claims “Jesus never said he was God,” it’s appropriate (and helpful!) to clarify what they mean and what specific evidence or misunderstandings might be at play.In Mark 2, Jesus forgives a paralyzed man’s sins. This act isn’t just compassion—it’s a claim to divine authority. No Jewish priest, prophet, or miracle worker ever forgave sins as Jesus did. The religious leaders recognize this as a claim only God can rightly make.In Mark 14, before the high priest, Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man” seated at the right hand of God and coming on the clouds—directly combining messianic and divine imagery from Jewish scriptures. This is why the blasphemy charge is leveled, leading to his crucifixion.Whether engaging skeptics, seekers, or fellow believers, Mikel Del Rosario urges us to listen first—distinguishing between theological, historical, or literary misunderstandings. Rather than just insisting, “The Bible says so,” we should explain how Jesus’ words and deeds in context are unique and credible claims to divinity.Honest questioning, careful listening, and deep understanding of historical and cultural context equip us to both strengthen our faith and share it wisely with others. Jesus’ claims are profound and unique—and the hope he offers is certain, not wishful thinking. Jesus is fully God and fully man. He died for our sins, and rose again. This is the central truth of our faith, and it is solidly established through historical research.MORE ABOUT DR. MIKEL DEL ROSARIODr. Mikel Del Rosario helps Christians find clear answers to tough questions about Christianity and explain their faith with courage and compassion. He is a Professor of Bible and Theology at Moody Bible Institute and the author of Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? Making Sense of His Historical Claims. (IVP Academic).Previously, he taught Apologetics and Religion at Jessup University and Digital Media at Dallas Seminary. He has published 31 journal articles on apologetics and cultural engagement in Bibliotheca Sacra.He holds an M.A. in Apologetics from Biola University, a Master of Theology (Th.M) and a Ph.D in New Testament from Dallas Theological Seminary where he served as Cultural Engagement Manager, producing and hosting The Table podcast. He has also ministered in the Philippines as a missionary professor with Converge Worldwide and a youth pastor in California. Follow him at ApologeticsGuy.com, the Apologetics Guy YouTube channel, and his podcast, The Apologetics Guy Show.More at https://apologeticsguy.com/ MORE ABOUT THE BOOK, “DID JESUS REALLY CLAIM HE WAS GOD?”How to Make Sense of Jesus' Divine ClaimsDo you ever wonder if Jesus really claimed to be God? Maybe you've heard people say, "Jesus never said he was God," or you've been asked, "Why believe Jesus is divine if he never claimed it?" These challenges aren't just from non-Christians―they show up in church, too. Even if you're not coming from a place of skepticism, you might still question how well church teachings about Jesus match up with what he actually said. So, did the historical Jesus really claim to be divine?This book is here to give you confidence in the historicity of Jesus' claim to divinity. It's designed to help you explain your faith in a world that increasingly doubts the Bible's portrayal of Jesus. Instead of focusing on what Jesus' followers believed, this book takes a different approach―it looks at what Jesus' enemies thought. How did they interpret his words and actions? Their perspective can help you understand the historical validity of Jesus' divine claim.In this book, biblical scholar Mikel Del Rosariouses historiography to examine claims about Jesus' divinity,analyzes ancient Greco-Roman, Jewish, and biblical sources to understand how Jesus' words and actions were interpreted by his adversaries and followers, andargues that Jesus claimed divine authority, a claim supported by strong historical evidence.If you're a Christian, this book will equip you to defend your faith against theories that suggest Jesus only claimed human authority, not divine. If you're someone who sees Christianity differently, this book offers a serious investigation into the claims of the historical Jesus, providing evidence that any theory of his identity must address. Whether you're searching for answers to your own questions or trying to share about Jesus with others, this book will help you communicate Jesus' divine claim with clarity and confidence.NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/startWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:Identity 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!
- 365From the Cross to your heart | Why Jesus’ 7 statements matter today (10th lesson from Luke)We are entering deep into the Easter season with two episodes to take us at the feet of the Cross through the gospel of Luke. The cross is more than a historical event—it’s an invitation to forgiveness, intimate relationship with God, and sacrificial love for others. Christ’s suffering secured what we could never earn, and we’re called to respond with gratitude, surrender, and trust, especially in difficult times. The work is finished; we are loved and forgiven—let’s live in the light of that truth.Today, we ponder the seven statements that Jesus made from the cross. You may be familiar with them, but we sprinkle fresh gospel spice on these seven famous sentences today--and you just might be poised for an explosion of fresh flavors that will usher you into a worship experience of our crucified Lord.Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. That's the first statement from the cross. Father, into Your hands I entrust My Spirit. That's the final statement. Between them, five more statements that will awe you anew.This is the Easter story. It is true, and it will transform your life in unalterable ways. Come and worship today as you ponder the meaning of the cross through this lesson Stephanie taught to a large online gathering.Jesus spent six agonizing hours on the cross, from 9am to 3pm. This was remarkably brief compared to the usual multi-day suffering of crucifixion victims. These hours split into two crucial phases:9am – 12pm: The "wrath of men"—physical pain, mocking, emotional abandonment.12pm – 3pm: The "wrath of God"—spiritual darkness, separation from the Father.Let’s reflect on each of Jesus' seven statements and their profound meaning.1. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34)Jesus’ first words show radical forgiveness. He asks for mercy not only for the Roman soldiers and Jewish leaders but for all of us—everyone guilty of sin. True freedom and resemblance to Christ begin with a heart willing to forgive, even in pain.2. "Today you will be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)Jesus speaks this to the repentant thief beside Him. It is a picture of pure grace: the criminal could not earn salvation, yet Christ welcomes him. We too, receive forgiveness and access to heaven by grace, not by our own works.3. "Woman, behold your son… Behold your mother." (John 19:25-27)Here, Jesus cares for His mother Mary and His friend John, ensuring they are cared for after His death. This highlights our family in Christ—spiritual relationships are as deep, if not deeper, than biological ones. Jesus challenges us to look beyond ourselves, serving others even in hardship.At noon, creation reacts – darkness falls and the earth quakes. Extra-biblical sources confirm these events, proving the historical truth of Jesus’ sacrifice.4. "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46)This marks the beginning of the spiritual agony. Jesus, quoting Psalm 22:1, experiences separation from God in His human spirit—not in His divine nature. It’s a spiritual suffering we can’t comprehend; that’s the very point—Jesus endured what we could not so we’d never have to.5. "I thirst." (John 19:28)On the surface, it’s physical need. Spiritually, it reflects Jesus’ inner anguish. He thirsts so we don’t have to—He exchanges places with us as seen in the story of the rich man and Lazarus from Luke 16.6. "It is finished." (John 19:30)One of the most triumphant statements in history. The Greek "tetelestai" means "paid in full." Our debt is completely erased; Jesus’ mission accomplished. Nothing we do can add—or subtract—from God’s love for us.7. "Father, into your hands I entrust my spirit." (Luke 23:46)Jesus’ relationship with the Father is restored. He dies physically only after spiritual resurrection. In trusting God with His spirit, He models our own surrender—reminding us that, through the resurrection, eternal life is our promised hope.The cross is more than a historical event—it’s an invitation to forgiveness, intimate relationship with God, and sacrificial love for others. Christ’s suffering secured what we could never earn, and we’re called to respond with gratitude, surrender, and trust, especially in difficult times. The work is finished; we are loved and forgiven—let’s live in the light of that truth.DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES BEHIND THIS EPISODEGo to gospelspice.com for more info about Gospel Spice Ministries, the umbrella ministry over the podcast. You will discover our partners and the various services we offer, such as in-depth Bible studies with interactive conversation groups, a couple of times a year. Contact us on the website or at contact@gospelspice.com to send us your prayer requests (we pray for you as a team every week!) and let us know how we can come alongside you.DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 366How do we know that the resurrection actually happened? (11th lesson from Luke)Many of us know the fact of Jesus’ resurrection from childhood, but familiarity can dull its impact. Stephanie challenges us to see how the resurrection should continually change us—and to recognize when we might be taking it for granted. In this final episode on the Gospel of Luke, Stephanie ponders how we ground our faith in reason and in miracles both. We tackle TEN REASONS that prove the resurrection true. From the anchoring in Jerusalem, to the disciples' testimonies--our humble prayer is that you will discover an angle that you have not yet considered, and that it will draw you deeper in worship of Christ as our true, risen Lord. We invite you to look beyond familiarity with the Easter story and rediscover why the resurrection is truly “mind-blowing” and transformative. So, here are 10 reasons the Resurrection matters:1. Rooted in Reality, Not Myth | Unlike legends, which are set “once upon a time in a land far away,” the resurrection whispers began in Jerusalem—among people who could verify or refute them. Myths lack dates and places; the resurrection is grounded in real time and space.2. Grounded in Historical Time | The rumors of resurrection started immediately, on Easter morning, with eyewitness accounts such as the road to Emmaus (Luke 24). Truth claims have time-stamps; myths don’t.3. The Empty Tomb | Both opponents and followers agreed the tomb was empty. The authorities couldn’t produce the body. If Jesus hadn’t physically risen, showing His corpse would have instantly silenced the movement.4. The Unlikely Founders | The first Christians were devout Jews—least likely to start a new religion. Their culture fiercely protected their faith, but they radically shifted their weekly day of worship from Saturday to Sunday, honoring the risen Lord.5. Martyrdom Without Collusion | The apostles died alone—often persecuted—refusing to recant their faith. Unlike cults that die together under peer pressure, these men faced solitary deaths, pressured by enemies to live if only they denied the resurrection. Yet each chose fidelity to truth over self-preservation.6. Peter’s Radical Change | Peter, who denied Jesus even after witnessing the transfiguration, was transformed by the resurrection. Only after seeing the risen Lord did Peter become a bold leader, willing to die for his faith.7. Paul’s Complete 180° | Paul, once a zealous persecutor of Christians, became their champion after encountering the risen Christ. He made it clear: If Christ had not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith ( from 1Corinthians 15).8. Embarrassing Honesty | If early disciples were inventing a story, they would not have highlighted their failures—like Peter’s denial or the men’s fear and confusion. These accounts signal authenticity, as people rarely expose their own flaws unless they’re recounting truth.9. Diversity of Witness Accounts | Multiple Gospel authors describe resurrection events differently, as eyewitnesses would. Perfect consistency signals collusion, not reality—historical truth is always a bit “messy” in its details.10. Women as First Witnesses | Women, whose testimony carried little societal weight, are listed first as witnesses. A fabricated story in that culture would spotlight influential men. Instead, the Gospel places women—signaling a commitment to truth and reflecting Jesus’ radical affirmation of women.Conclusion and ChallengeThe resurrection isn’t just a spiritual metaphor. It’s anchored in credible history, powerful testimony, and unexpected inversion of cultural norms. Let its truth deepen your faith and transform your life—grounded both in reason and the miraculous love of God. Jesus is the Christ, our risen Lord, and is worthy of all our worship and adoration!Reflection Questions:· Which reason resonated most with you?· How does anchoring faith in the resurrection challenge or encourage you today?· Where might you need to ask God for deeper conviction or understanding of this truth?----DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES BEHIND THIS EPISODEIf you enjoyed this episode, we invite you to discover more about how God is at work at Gospel Spice Ministries, and even to join in His work! There are 3 easy ways to do that:PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the show with friends and family: https://www.podcastics.com/podcast/38/link/PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially: gospelspice.com/payitforwardPRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with!Go to gospelspice.com for more info about Gospel Spice Ministries, the umbrella ministry over the podcast. You will discover our partners and the various services we offer, such as in-depth Bible studies with interactive conversation groups, a couple of times a year. Go to gospel-spice.com (with a "dash"!) to join the Gospel Spice Podcast community and interact with us!Contact us on the website or at contact@gospelspice.com to send us your prayer requests (we pray for you as a team every week!) and let us know how we can come alongside you.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!
- 367Art, Hospitality, and Seeing Like Jesus: the secret to the beautiful life | with Jennifer TraftonLilias Trotter was a woman who did not fit the mold of her Victorian era. Born in 1853 into upper-class England, she was an exceptionally gifted artist mentored by John Ruskin, one of the most prominent art critics of her time. Yet, rather than pursuing conventional success and artistic fame, she chose a path of surrender—one that blended beauty, compassion, and deep spiritual vocation. She has much to teach us about a life of joyful surrender to God’s gentle leading.Did you know? Lilias Trotter inspired the famous hymn, Fix Your Eyes Upon Jesus – yes, so that “all things will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”Stephanie welcomes Jennifer Trafton, who just released “If only we could see”, a wonderful new biography of Lilias Trotter. Jennifer explains how she became captivated with Lilias, whose “adventurous, interesting, fascinating life” radiated with childlike delight, generosity, and profound love for God. Victorian artist and missionary Lilias Trotter teaches us much about the practice of “seeing”—both literally and spiritually— and how it transforms us and the world around us.Lilias’s training as an artist under Ruskin taught her to “see well”—not just the details of nature, but the overlooked people in her society. She moved from painting to working with the most impoverished communities in London, especially young women vulnerable in the city. In partnership with movements like the YWCA and revivalist preacher D.L. Moody, Lilias dedicated herself to listening, serving, and providing safety and practical help for working-class girls and women subject to exploitation and trafficking.Her artistry was inseparable from her love for people. This “way of seeing”—attentive, joyful, and present—became her creative and spiritual calling. Lilias’s vision challenges us to integrate our gifts and passions into practical love for others.A key metaphor for Lilias’s life is the dandelion—“full face to the sun” (representing Christ), then surrendered as seeds blown by the wind of the Holy Spirit to places and purposes beyond our control. Lilias did not chase worldly success. Lilias believed in offering her life freely to God, trusting Him to use every skill, experience, or seeming detour for His glory. The measure of a “successful life” is not accomplishment or recognition, but faithfulness and openness to the Spirit.The lesson of Lilias’s life is that we are all called to both see others as Christ sees them, and to rest in the assurance that we ourselves are fully seen and loved by God. Her legacy is less about artistic fame and more about the deep creative, transformative hospitality she brought to every relationship.Lilias Trotter’s “beautiful life” continues to inspire because she shows that to be fully present, fully surrendered, and fully attentive is to live in step with God’s purposes. Whether you’re an artist or not, her story invites you to open your eyes and your life, so that God’s glory and gladness shine out through you, in Christ Jesus.Next Steps for You!· Practice seeing: Pay attention—to beauty, to overlooked people, to God’s presence in the present moment.· Surrender your gifts: Offer your unique talents, passions, and opportunities to God without demanding a particular outcome.· Root yourself in your belovedness through Christ: Know that, like Lilias, your worth is secure in being seen by God—which frees you to serve, love, and see others anew.· Let your life be scattered as seed, trusting Christ’s Holy Spirit to bear fruit, however and whenever God chooses.MORE ABOUT “IF ONLY WE COULD SEE”“God only knows the endless possibilities that lie enfolded in each of us.” – Lilias TrotterIn the late 19th century, Lilias Trotter stood at the threshold of artistic fame, her extraordinary talent praised by the renowned critic John Ruskin. Yet, at the height of her promise, she made a radical choice that would define the course of her life. Turning away from worldly recognition and social convention, she forged her own path—one that led her through the roughest streets of London and, ultimately, to the deserts of North Africa. There, her artistic and spiritual journeys intertwined as she expanded the many-colored canvas of her creativity to embrace not only the sweeping vistas of the Sahara, but also the lives of the Arab people she loved.Blending biography, personal engagement, and theological reflection, Trafton takes readers on an intimate journey with Lily as her friends knew her – a visionary who saw the world with an artist’s eye and a missionary’s heart, and whose imaginative empathy and creative compassion transformed the lives of those she encountered. More than the story of one remarkable woman, this book is an invitation to experience the beauty of creation with fresh wonder, to look at our neighbors through new lenses, and to discover what “beautiful possible life” awaits each one of us as we follow the call of the Divine Artist.MORE ABOUT JENNIFER TRAFTONJennifer Trafton is a storyteller and artist with a passion for exploring the intersections of faith, creativity, and the arts. She studied church history and theology at Wake Forest University, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and Duke University, focusing on the 19th-century writer George MacDonald and his influence on Christian views of the imagination. After serving as managing editor of Christian History & Biography magazine and a curriculum writer and editor for the StoneWorks Global Arts Initiative, she has been a regular conference speaker, writer, teacher, editor, and illustrator for the Nashville-based Rabbit Room creative community for over a decade. Her first two novels for children, The Rise and Fall of Mount Majestic and Henry and the Chalk Dragon, received starred reviews and multiple award nominations, and she has since collaborated on or contributed to a wide array of projects including The Wingfeather Tales, The Lost Tales of Sir Galahad, Every Moment Holy, Vol. III: The Work of the People, and J. R. R. Tolkien and the Arts: A Theology of Subcreation. She recently illustrated Glad and Golden Hours: A Companion for Advent and Christmastide by Lanier Ivester (Rabbit Room Press, 2024).Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 368From birth to glory | an epilogue (12th lesson from Luke)The Gospel of Luke reads like a carefully composed symphony—each movement swelling toward the unveiling of the One who enters history in vulnerability and moves inexorably toward glory. If Matthew emphasizes fulfillment and Mark pushes us into urgency, Luke invites us into wonder. His narrative carries the pulse of a journey: from manger to mountain, from obscurity to acclaim, from rejection to radiant triumph. Luke places Christ before us not as an idea or an abstraction but as the God who steps into time, wrapping divine majesty in mortal frailty so that human beings might step into the life of God. Christianity is not good advice but good news—news of a God who does for us what we could never do for ourselves. Luke gives us that news with astonishing clarity.So, in this final episode in our series "from birth to glory" rooted in the Gospel of Luke, Stephanie gives us a wider-lens perspective on the entire book.MORE ABOUT THIS GOSPELThe Gospel of Luke is the story of a God who steps into His own world and walks its roads from the vulnerability of birth to the radiance of resurrection. Luke writes with a historian’s care and a pastor’s imagination, drawing us into a journey where every scene glints with the surprising ways God works: glory wrapped in humility, authority expressed through compassion, victory accomplished through sacrifice.The story opens in obscurity—an elderly couple awaiting a child, a young girl in an unnoticed village, shepherds startled by angels. These early chapters announce the pattern that will shape the entire Gospel: God approaches the lowly to raise them, and nothing in His kingdom moves according to human rank.Jesus’ ministry unfolds as a kingdom breaking into the present. He proclaims freedom, heals the broken, and welcomes the estranged. His parables expose the heart; His miracles reveal a power that restores rather than destroys. Yet even as crowds gather, He sets His face toward Jerusalem, showing that His mission does not culminate in applause but in a cross.Luke follows Jesus into that final week—into confrontation, betrayal, agony, and an execution that paradoxically becomes the moment of enthronement. The crucified King forgives His enemies, welcomes a dying criminal, and bears judgment so His people may know peace. But death does not end His story. On the third day, Jesus rises, walks with the disillusioned, opens Scripture with burning clarity, and reveals a kingdom that cannot be contained by tombs.Luke closes with ascension, not farewell—Christ lifted in blessing, reigning in glory, sending His people into the world with news of forgiveness and hope.This Gospel invites you into that journey: to see the world remade through the One who descended for us and now reigns for us.----DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES BEHIND THIS EPISODEIf you enjoyed this episode, we invite you to discover more about how God is at work at Gospel Spice Ministries, and even to join in His work! There are 3 easy ways to do that:PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the show with friends and family: https://www.podcastics.com/podcast/38/link/PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially: gospelspice.com/payitforwardPRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with!Go to gospelspice.com for more info about Gospel Spice Ministries, the umbrella ministry over the podcast. You will discover our partners and the various services we offer, such as in-depth Bible studies with interactive conversation groups, a couple of times a year. Go to gospel-spice.com (with a "dash"!) to join the Gospel Spice Podcast community and interact with us!Contact us on the website or at contact@gospelspice.com to send us your prayer requests (we pray for you as a team every week!) and let us know how we can come alongside you.NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/startWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:Identity 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!
- 369Faith and fortitude through failure: growing our emotional endurance | with Leslie BossermanLeslie Bosserman shares powerful insights drawn from her new book, "Emotional Endurance." With Stephanie, she explores her personal journey, the necessity of emotional endurance, and practical strategies for developing this crucial skill set from a Christian perspective. NOTE | We are giving away 3 copies of Leslie's book, "Emotional Endurance." Sign up at https://www.gospelspice.com/lesliebossermangiveaway today! Leslie Bosserman defines emotional endurance as a “dynamic inner capacity to keep going and rise above your circumstances as you deal with life’s stresses and challenges”. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a set of skills and tools that can be developed and customized to each person’s needs, rooted deeply in faith, self-awareness, and lived experience.Emotional endurance is a lifelong journey—dynamic, adaptable, and deeply rooted in our walk with God. Leslie offers a hopeful, practical, and theologically rich path for us to develop greater endurance in the face of life’s challenges.Leslie’s journey began with a drastic life change: after only four weeks of marriage, Leslie and her husband moved to the Middle East to serve with a non-profit—an experience that profoundly shaped her understanding of endurance, faith, and the necessity of resilience in unfamiliar and challenging environments. Through cultural adaptation, crisis, and change, she learned the importance of inner strength, flexibility, and spiritual grounding.Leslie organizes emotional endurance into six alliterative principles, each with actionable skills:1. Fortitude to Fail: Embracing failure as a necessary step in growth; learning that God has designed us for recovery and redemption, not perfection.2. Resilience to Rise: Applying the science of resilience to rise above difficulties, using setbacks as opportunities for persistence and learning.3. Hope to Heal: Building sustainable hope, even in times of discouragement, by integrating psychological research and Christian theology.4. Courage to Change: Leaning into bravery to accept the need for change and transformation in alignment with God’s purposes.5. Energy to Engage: Managing one’s energy—both physical and spiritual—to avoid burnout and remain engaged in life’s calling.6. Purpose to Persevere: Connecting daily actions to a deeper sense of purpose and legacy, fueling perseverance in long-term challenges.Leslie Bosserman breaks each principle into three actionable skills, allowing for a customized, non-linear journey. This approach encourages small, manageable steps rather than overwhelming change. For example, an essential first step Leslie Bosserman recommends is developing margin—the space between your “load” (responsibilities and stresses) and your “power” (resources and capacity). When margin is lacking, growth and endurance become even more difficult. Cultivating healthy margins means intentionally reducing overload and creating space for God’s work in and through us.Another example is the key difference between a fixed mindset (believing abilities and circumstances are static) and a growth mindset (seeing challenges as opportunities to learn). As Stephanie says, we are “half-baked masterpieces”—in progress, growing, and continually shaped by God.By focusing on small, intentional steps and embracing both faith and self-awareness, anyone can begin building the resilience necessary to live out their God-given purpose.MORE ABOUT “EMOTIONAL ENDURANCE”Learn how to come back stronger and keep going when you experience setbacks and disappointment.Why do some people bounce back from adversity while others stay stuck? We all face stress and setbacks, but not everyone recovers the same way. What makes the difference? Executive leadership coach, educator, and TEDx speaker Leslie M. Bosserman has spent decades helping people answer that question. Through research, experience, and her own personal journey, she’s identified the key: emotional endurance.In Emotional Endurance, you’ll develop the mindset and skills to face life’s hardest moments and come out stronger, wiser, and more grounded. Based in psychological research and biblical truth, this practical and hope-filled guide offers a framework for building resilience that lasts. Soon you won’t just survive adversity; you’ll bounce back stronger with the skills to keep going.Emotional Endurance offers practical tools and transformational results, including how todevelop inner strength and grit through six core principles and eighteen actionable skills;recover from failure, turn it into a source of strength, and use it to fuel your growth;build resilience that lasts beyond a single crisis;access hope to heal from emotional wounds;replace fear and paralysis with courage and clarity;learn to manage your energy by anticipating what drains you and making space for what restores you; andfind strength to endure challenges by standing firm in your clearly defined purpose.This book is a perfect gift for anyone going through a difficult season, friends facing burnout or transition, graduates stepping into uncertain futures, small groups or book clubs focused on personal growth, or leadership retreats and team-building sessions.Real strength isn’t about avoiding hard things. It’s about moving forward with emotional steadiness when life gets tough. Emotional Endurance equips you with the mindset and resilience to keep going, keep growing, and come out stronger on the other side. Your bounce-back starts here.MORE ABOUT LESLIE BOSSERMANLeslie M. Bosserman, M.Ed., CPCC is an Executive Coach and Lifestyle Strategist for innovators and creative professionals leading dynamic and diverse teams. After working for a decade in higher education and student development, Leslie launched Lead With Intention® – a boutique coaching and consulting practice that specializes in leadership coaching, customized training, and organizational strategy for clients and their teams around the world. She collaborates with a range of creative professionals from entrepreneurs launching their startups to executive leaders at Fortune 500 Companies. Leslie is committed to enhancing her local community and co-created and launched The Makers Place™ with her husband, Joel. As the regions first coworking space with onsite childcare, this innovative multi-use space supports parents who need a professional workspace along with flexible childcare options. She also currently works as the Director and Site Supervisor of Mini Makers™ Preschool. Leslie has also served locally on the leadership team for TEDxSacramento as the Event Coordinator and volunteered as a coach for emerging female leaders through The Women's Impact Alliance (formerly The Coaching Fellowship). She has been a featured speaker at TEDxEustis with over 1.3 million views! Before becoming a Professional Coach, Leslie worked at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she taught leadership and diversity classes as well as ran a campus-wide Leadership Certificate Program for over 500 students, faculty, and staff members. She also has worked professionally in residential life and academic research at UCLA and in Public Affairs at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under the U.S. Department of Energy. Before becoming a Professional Coach, Leslie worked at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she taught leadership and diversity classes as well as ran a campus-wide Leadership Certificate Program for over 500 students, faculty, and staff members. She also has worked professionally in residential life and academic research at UCLA and in Public Affairs at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under the U.S. Department of Energy. Leslie loves to travel and explore new places and has visited over 30 countries as well as living abroad in the Middle East for a year where she volunteered at local schools with her husband, Joel. She is an avid artist who also enjoys karaoke, cooking ethnic food, supporting local coffee shops, and practicing yoga. Leslie lives in Northern California with her husband and three children, and travels internationally for coaching, organizational trainings, and retreat facilitation.https://www.lesliembosserman.com/ https://leadwithintention.com/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 370Embracing Brokenness: Prayer, Hope, and Movement in Hard Seasons | with Jenn TuckerJennifer Tucker joins Stephanie Rousselle to share her journey with prayer, mental health, and the integration of body, soul, and spirit. Jenn Tucker’s story, interwoven through her three books—Breath as Prayer, Present in Prayer, and Prayer in Motion—offers practical wisdom for deepening connection with God amid life’s hardships.NOTE! We’re giving away a full set of Jenn’s 3 books (Breath as Prayer, Present in Prayer, and Prayer in Motion) as well as 2 copies of “Prayer in Motion”. To enter, it’s simple! Go to gospelspice.com/jenntucker and follow the simple prompt.Jenn begins by describing her upbringing in faith, where prayer was a checklist item—something to do in order to be a “good Christian”. When life became dark and difficult, this formulaic approach unraveled. Even with faithful churchgoing, parental duties, and ticking all the boxes, Jenn struggled with anxiety and depression, compounded by shame for feeling that way.She slowly discovered that faith is not about perfect performance or checking off tasks, but about honest, vulnerable communion with God. Freedom begins with releasing the guilt and shame attached to struggles with anxiety, fear, or broken expectations.When her daughter faced severe anxiety and panic attacks, Jenn was forced to confront her own pain. The loss of control and the inability to “fix” things broke down years of self-sufficiency. Through “breath prayers”—simple, repeated prayers aligned with breathing—she found tethering to God possible even in crisis, when no other words would come. When you’re overwhelmed, practice breath prayers or silent contemplation. Let your prayers be honest expressions of pain, confusion, and need. God’s invitation is to commune with Him, not perform for Him.After enduring trauma and depression, Jenn discovered that both stillness and movement were vital for healing. He book Present in Prayer explores deep stillness and meditation on Scripture, fostering rootedness in God’s presence.Yet, healing also required physical movement. Jenn learned to listen to her body, recognizing that gentle motion—walking, stretching—helped lift depression’s weight, reconnecting her to hope. We are body, soul, and spirit. Movement can be prayerful—a way to invite God into every step, reminding us of His presence and goodness. Attending to your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs honors God’s holistic design.Jenn details simple grounding practices using the senses for moments of anxiety or distress: naming things you can see, hear, touch, smell, and taste. These help anchor us in the present and open us to God’s nearness. Even when bodies fail or senses are lost, God’s presence remains, and hope is available—sometimes through pivoting to find new joys in brokenness. Use your senses to regain awareness of God’s gifts, even in difficulty. Hunt for glimpses of goodness, fix your gaze on hope, and trust that your wholeness in Christ is not limited by present suffering.Jenn’s journey teaches that prayer is communion, not performance; that movement and stillness are both sacred; and that hope is sustained by trusting God’s presence through all circumstances. Every breath, every step, every struggle, and every joy can become a prayer—reminding us that God is with us, always.Remember! We’re giving away a full set of Jenn’s 3 books (Breath as Prayer, Present in Prayer, and Prayer in Motion) as well as 2 copies of “Prayer in Motion”. To enter, it’s simple! Go to gospelspice.com/jenntucker and follow the simple prompt.MORE ABOUT “PRAYER IN MOTION”Move Your Body. Quiet Your Mind. Reconnect with God.What if prayer felt less like a routine and more like a rhythm—something that flows through all the moments of your day and movements of your body?In Prayer in Motion, author and artist Jennifer Tucker invites you to experience prayer in a fresh, embodied way—where movement becomes worship, and your physical self is embraced as part of your spiritual journey.With warmth and gentle wisdom, Jennifer offers a path to deeper peace, joy, and connection through simple practices that unite body and soul. You’ll be encouraged to slow down, create sacred space, and engage in meaningful somatic movement—from stretching and breathing to dancing, drawing, and resting.Prayer in Motion offers:· Thoughtful reflections on the biblical connection between body and spirit· Helpful guides for creating daily prayer rhythms that keep you anchored to God as you move through your day· Practical tools for mindful movement and embodied prayer· Creative somatic exercises that promote rest, release, and restoration· Encouragement to embrace your body as a beautiful, God-created giftWhether you're feeling disconnected, stressed, or just longing to experience God in a new way, Prayer in Motion gently leads you toward wholeness—helping you reclaim joy, deepen faith, and find peace one intentional movement at a time.Let this be your invitation to move with purpose, pray with presence, and worship God with your whole being.Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 371Who Is Jesus? | Exploring the Bible (Part 1 of 2)We live in a world that tells us we can be anything we want. But is that even something we should wish for? What if our greatest freedom came, not from choosing who we are, but from embracing the fullness of who God made us to be? And what if God has wired us to be our freest, best selves when we become who Jesus says we are in Him? Finally, what if it took one another to discover more fully who we are in Christ, and who He is in us?In today’s and next week’s episodes, Stephanie explores how the lives of Adam and Eve, the first humans, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, serve as unexpected companions in the story of Scripture. Their experiences help us answer Jesus’s central question: "Who do you say that I am?" Together, they offer distinct perspectives that deepen our understanding of who Christ is and who we are in Him.This is Part 1 of this teaching. Part 2 will be available next week! Scroll to the bottom of these shownotes for application questions relevant to Part 1 of this teaching. Here’s more:Both Adam and Eve and Mary faced a common enemy—the serpent, the epitome of evil and deception. For Adam and Eve, the serpent was literal; for Mary, it manifested in cultural pressures and theological misunderstandings about the Messiah. We, too, face our own serpents today—temptations and misunderstandings that threaten our faith.They also were witnesses to God’s grace through forms of incarnation. Adam and Eve experienced creation, while Mary witnessed the birth of Jesus, God made flesh. Both sets of experiences pointed to the unfolding of God’s salvation story.Death and Resurrection: Adam and Eve endured the first human death—Abel’s murder—a result of their choice and the entrance of evil. Mary witnessed her son’s crucifixion, the ultimate act of innocent suffering, completing the cycle begun by Abel. Jesus’s death is portrayed as the "last death," closing the loop and offering resurrection life.Choice and Consequence: Adam and Eve chose rebellion, not foreseeing its consequences. Mary chose surrender, trusting God’s goodness even amidst uncertainty. We are reminded: we control our actions, not their outcomes.Creation and Incarnation: Adam and Eve were created but not born, bearing no belly buttons—a symbol of their unique origin. Jesus was born but not created, affirming his eternal existence. Mary bridges the two, being both a descendant of Adam and the mother of her Creator.Passing on Humanity and Sin: Adam and Eve pass on a nature of dust—sin and rebellion. Mary, as Jesus’s mother, passes on humanity, not sinlessness (contrary to some traditions), proving salvation is by grace, not works.Second Adam: Paul equates Jesus and Adam, stating Jesus is the "life-giving spirit." Mary becomes a vessel of grace, not its source, just as Adam and Eve are vessels of sin, not its origin.Garden Parallels: Adam and Eve’s failure in Eden contrasts with Jesus’s victory in Gethsemane. Where Adam was silent, Jesus faced his trials alone, faithfully surrendering.Tree of Life: Adam and Eve chose the tree of knowledge, bringing death. Jesus—born to die—offers access to the tree of life, opening paradise to believers, reversing the curse.Blessing and Curse: Mary receives both blessing and curse, echoing Adam and Eve’s experience. Yet her surrender transforms curse into blessing—her obedience stands in contrast to Adam and Eve’s blame-shifting.Conclusion | Scripture invites us to gaze at Jesus, the bridge between Old and New Testaments. Our identity is found only by answering, "Who do you say that I am?" Like Mary, we are called to surrender, transforming uncertainty into destiny. Our lives are blessed when rooted in Christ—the source of life, hope, and redemption.APPLICATION QUESTIONSHere are some questions for your time in Scripture this week, following in the footsteps of this conversation:1. How does the question Jesus asks in the Gospels, "Who do you say that I am?" resonate with you personally after hearing this lesson?2. In what ways does comparing Old Testament and New Testament figures, like Adam & Eve with Mary, help you gain a deeper understanding of Jesus?3. What common enemy did Adam and Eve and Mary face, and how does that relate to the adversities or "serpents" we encounter today?4. How do the experiences of loss—like Adam and Eve grieving Abel and Mary witnessing Jesus's death—shape our perspective on suffering and hope?5. Discuss the differences between Adam and Eve's initial response to God's command and Mary's surrender to God's will. What lessons can we draw for our own lives?Feel free to use these questions for group discussion, personal reflection, or in your quiet time through the week!GO DEEPERWalk alongside unexpected companions from Scripture who have discovered freedom in their God-given identity. They have dared to answer Jesus' question to them, "Who do you say that I AM?" and, in the process, have heard Him answer their own question to Him - "Jesus, who do YOU say that I am?"Consider our full Gospel Spice Course, UNEXPECTED COMPANIONS, available at https://www.gospelspice.com/unexpected Use coupon code HEART for 25% off this course and every course on Gospel Spice at https://www.gospelspice.com/store Imagine a conversation between, for example, Jacob and Peter about Jesus Christ. And then, imagine joining in the conversation to share your own perspective! We will approach the pages of Scripture each week by comparing and contrasting one person from the Old Testament with one person from the New Testament in order to draw parallels from their lives and experiences that we can then apply to our own lives. Of course, the Old Testament person has never technically met Jesus, but the pages of the Old Testament are replete with prophecies and types of Christ to point us to Him. So, with each session, we are inviting an unexpected pair of biblical heroes around a coffee date, and we let them chat about their own personal life experience and how it reveals God. We will find that our own experience of Jesus Christ will echo theirs in more ways than one! By the end of our time together, we will be able to give a fuller answer to Jesus’ question to each one of us—“who do you say that I AM?” We will also be able to hear His answer to our own question to Him—”Jesus, who do You say that I am?”We are intentionally choosing unexpected pairs from Scripture – someone from the Old Testament and someone from the New Testament that you may never before have thought to pair up. It will keep things spicy and interesting! Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 372Who Is Jesus? | Journeying with Him Through Scripture (Part 2 of 2)We live in a world that tells us we can be anything we want. But is that even something we should wish for? What if our greatest freedom came, not from choosing who we are, but from embracing the fullness of who God made us to be? And what if God has wired us to be our freest, best selves when we become who Jesus says we are in Him? Finally, what if it took one another to discover more fully who we are in Christ, and who He is in us?In last week’s and today’s episodes, Stephanie explores how the lives of Adam and Eve, the first humans, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, serve as unexpected companions in the story of Scripture. Their experiences help us answer Jesus’s central question: "Who do you say that I am?" Together, they offer distinct perspectives that deepen our understanding of who Christ is and who we are in Him.This is Part 2 of this teaching. Part 1 became available last week, in Episode 443! Scroll to the bottom of these shownotes for application questions relevant to Part 2 of this teaching. Here’s more:Both Adam and Eve and Mary faced a common enemy—the serpent, the epitome of evil and deception. For Adam and Eve, the serpent was literal; for Mary, it manifested in cultural pressures and theological misunderstandings about the Messiah. We, too, face our own serpents today—temptations and misunderstandings that threaten our faith.They also were witnesses to God’s grace through forms of incarnation. Adam and Eve experienced creation, while Mary witnessed the birth of Jesus, God made flesh. Both sets of experiences pointed to the unfolding of God’s salvation story.Death and Resurrection: Adam and Eve endured the first human death—Abel’s murder—a result of their choice and the entrance of evil. Mary witnessed her son’s crucifixion, the ultimate act of innocent suffering, completing the cycle begun by Abel. Jesus’s death is portrayed as the "last death," closing the loop and offering resurrection life.Choice and Consequence: Adam and Eve chose rebellion, not foreseeing its consequences. Mary chose surrender, trusting God’s goodness even amidst uncertainty. We are reminded: we control our actions, not their outcomes.Creation and Incarnation: Adam and Eve were created but not born, bearing no belly buttons—a symbol of their unique origin. Jesus was born but not created, affirming his eternal existence. Mary bridges the two, being both a descendant of Adam and the mother of her Creator.Passing on Humanity and Sin: Adam and Eve pass on a nature of dust—sin and rebellion. Mary, as Jesus’s mother, passes on humanity, not sinlessness (contrary to some traditions), proving salvation is by grace, not works.Second Adam: Paul equates Jesus and Adam, stating Jesus is the "life-giving spirit." Mary becomes a vessel of grace, not its source, just as Adam and Eve are vessels of sin, not its origin.Garden Parallels: Adam and Eve’s failure in Eden contrasts with Jesus’s victory in Gethsemane. Where Adam was silent, Jesus faced his trials alone, faithfully surrendering.Tree of Life: Adam and Eve chose the tree of knowledge, bringing death. Jesus—born to die—offers access to the tree of life, opening paradise to believers, reversing the curse.Blessing and Curse: Mary receives both blessing and curse, echoing Adam and Eve’s experience. Yet her surrender transforms curse into blessing—her obedience stands in contrast to Adam and Eve’s blame-shifting.Scripture invites us to gaze at Jesus, the bridge between Old and New Testaments. Our identity is found only by answering, "Who do you say that I am?" Like Mary, we are called to surrender, transforming uncertainty into destiny. Our lives are blessed when rooted in Christ—the source of life, hope, and redemption.APPLICATION QUESTIONSHere are some questions for your time in Scripture this week, following in the footsteps of this conversation:1. What is the significance of Adam and Eve being created but never born, and Jesus being born but never created? How does this highlight the uniqueness of both creation and incarnation?2. In what ways does the symbolism of gardens—Eden and Gethsemane—illustrate the journey from separation to restoration with God?3. How does the contrast between the two trees in Eden (Tree of Life and Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil) inform our understanding of free will and the choices we make about who Jesus is to us?4. Reflect on the concept of "paradise" or "Eden" as described in this lesson. How does seeing Jesus as the way back to Eden impact your spiritual walk?5. Mary responded to God with "May it be done to me as you will." In what areas of your life do you feel challenged to respond to God with that same surrendered attitude?Feel free to use these questions for group discussion, personal reflection, or in your quiet time through the week!GO DEEPERWalk alongside unexpected companions from Scripture who have discovered freedom in their God-given identity. They have dared to answer Jesus' question to them, "Who do you say that I AM?" and, in the process, have heard Him answer their own question to Him - "Jesus, who do YOU say that I am?"Consider our full Gospel Spice Course, UNEXPECTED COMPANIONS, available at https://www.gospelspice.com/unexpected Use coupon code HEART for 25% off this course and every course on Gospel Spice at https://www.gospelspice.com/store Imagine a conversation between, for example, Jacob and Peter about Jesus Christ. And then, imagine joining in the conversation to share your own perspective! We will approach the pages of Scripture each week by comparing and contrasting one person from the Old Testament with one person from the New Testament in order to draw parallels from their lives and experiences that we can then apply to our own lives. Of course, the Old Testament person has never technically met Jesus, but the pages of the Old Testament are replete with prophecies and types of Christ to point us to Him. So, with each session, we are inviting an unexpected pair of biblical heroes around a coffee date, and we let them chat about their own personal life experience and how it reveals God. We will find that our own experience of Jesus Christ will echo theirs in more ways than one! By the end of our time together, we will be able to give a fuller answer to Jesus’ question to each one of us—“who do you say that I AM?” We will also be able to hear His answer to our own question to Him—”Jesus, who do You say that I am?”We are intentionally choosing unexpected pairs from Scripture – someone from the Old Testament and someone from the New Testament that you may never before have thought to pair up. It will keep things spicy and interesting! Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 373Living Well in a Fractured World: Rediscovering Christian Virtue | with Dr. Alan NobleStephanie Rousselle and guest Dr. Alan Noble discuss living well in today’s world by reclaiming forgotten Christian virtues. Drawing from Noble’s book, To Live Well, let’s consider practical steps Christians can take to thrive amid cultural confusion.According to Noble, we’re surrounded by an overwhelming cacophony of voices (social media, celebrities, self-help gurus, even misguided pastors), each offering conflicting advice on how to live a meaningful life. This deluge of ideas leaves many—Christians included—feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and directionless. The key challenge: how do we discern a coherent, godly way of living amid so many broken narratives?Noble suggests reclaiming classic virtues—time-honored character strengths rooted in Christian tradition and Scripture—as a path toward living well. He points out that Protestants, in particular, have neglected these virtues, though historically theologians like Augustine, Aquinas, and Calvin all upheld their value.Practicing these virtues is not about earning favor with God. Instead, Christians live out virtue in grateful response to God’s grace, relying on the Spirit’s power, and always within community, where we are supported, challenged, and forgiven when we fail.So, let’s consider 3 of the 7 virtues Alan Noble offers in his book.1. Prudence (choosing decisively)Prudence means choosing decisively and wisely. In a world obsessed with limitless choice, prudence involves slowing down, humbly discerning reality, seeking what truly glorifies God, deliberate decision-making, and resolute action. Prudence guards against both indecision (paralysis) and the sunk-cost fallacy—stubbornly sticking with poor choices out of pride or prior investment.2. Fortitude (Suffering steadfastly)Modern culture avoids suffering at all costs, but Noble explains that fortitude is about the courage to endure or risk suffering for the sake of the good. Suffering, rightly faced, builds character and produces hope—connecting deeply to the sanctifying work God does in His people. Fortitude enables Christians to move through hardship, trusting that even suffering has purpose.Magnanimity is boldly living into the excellence and gifts God has given, for His glory and the good of others. Pusillanimity, by contrast, is timidity—hiding or burying your God-given talents out of fear. As illustrated in the parable of the talents, God calls each believer to step out in faith and use their gifts with courage.3. Temperance (living moderately)Temperance is the willful restraint from doing everything you can do, especially when surrounded with endless technological, social, and material options. Choosing not to indulge every impulse, but to order choices for God’s glory, is countercultural but vital for soul health.When we reorder our perspectives around these timeless virtues, we move from confusion and anxiety toward clarity, purpose, and peace—living as God intended, by His grace and for His glory.ApplicationSelf-examine: Where do you feel confused or pressured by the “heap of broken images” in your life?Practice virtues: Choose to cultivate prudence, fortitude, magnanimity, and temperance, seeking wisdom, courage, excellence, and self-control in daily choices.Pursue community: Remember that virtue grows in fellowship with others; seek relationships that encourage and hold you accountable.Rest in grace: When you fail, rely on God’s grace and learn from your mistakes. Embrace the freedom found in Christ’s finished work.MORE ABOUT “TO LIVE WELL”You were told to live a meaningful life. But no one ever told you how.Our lives are shaped by contradictions. Competing voices tell us who to be, what to want, and how to live. The result? A fragmented moral imagination. We're handed a thousand broken messages and left to cobble together something resembling a life. But instead of clarity, we get exhaustion. Instead of wisdom, we get anxiety.This leaves you asking yourself How can I get through when I feel alone and confused? How can I live well in this broken and chaotic world?In To Live Well, Alan Noble shows you how you can not only endure but flourish in life. Through exploring the seven virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, temperance, faith, hope, and love, you'll learn how tochoose gracefully,act justly,suffer steadfastly,live moderately,believe soundly,hope resolutely, andlove rightly.This book won't give you a ten-step plan to fix everything. It doesn't promise clarity overnight. But it will invite you into something deeper: an ancient, time-tested path of habits of heart and mind that shape who we are and how we live.With honesty, theological depth, and a mentor's heart, Noble names your confusion and offers an antidote―not by escaping the mess but by learning how to live faithfully within it. If you've ever longed for something solid in a world that just wants to sell you more temporary stuff, To Live Well is a good place to begin.Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 374Awaken Delight: Burnout, Weariness, and the Path Back to Delight in God | Episode 446In this brand-new series centered around Stephanie’s new book, we explore several ways that we lose and can recover our delight in God, rooted in His delight of us. Today, in this first episode in our series, Stephanie explores spiritual fatigue in faithful believers and guides us toward God’s invitation to restoration, not just endurance.What if you've lost your delight in God? Or you've never really experienced it in the first place? What if a season of suffering has snuffed out your joy, leaving you spiritually discouraged and emotionally numb? Delighting in God changes everything: how you experience your faith, relationships, and circumstances―and even how you see yourself. You can experience Psalm 37:4 as your daily reality: "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart."If you’re spiritually weary, your fatigue does not prove you’re far from God. You’re invited to rest in the truth that delight begins by receiving God’s delight over you. Come honestly, bring your tired self, and let God awaken delight in your soul again. Your greatest need is not more pressure, but more permission to rest and be restored as His beloved.Many mature Christians find themselves exhausted, faithfully serving God while inwardly feeling emotionally distant. Obedience becomes duty, prayer is reduced to quick requests or guilty silence, and Scripture feels like data instead of bread. Outwardly, they are strong—teaching, leading, serving—yet inside, numbness, irritability, and spiritual dehydration prevail.Our FREE gift to you today! An exclusive 30-day FREE recovery plan to rekindle your delight in God when you are feeling weary and exhausted in your faith: go to https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightthepodcast and find the form for Episode 446. Give us your email, and you will receive the full plan in your inbox immediately!Key Symptoms | When Weariness Overtakes Christians—Rediscovering Delight as God’s BelovedDuty without delight;Spiritual dryness, despite regular disciplines;Resentment towards expectations and responsibilities;Prayers and scripture reading that feel obligatory, not life-giving.Spiritual depletion rarely stems from bad theology or outright rebellion. Instead, it often results from:Years of faithful overextension;Ignored grief or disappointment;Trying to do more and more to compensate for the sense of lost delight;Living off “old oil”—past experiences with God, not present intimacy;Feeling that delight and intimacy with God are for someone else, perhaps just for earlier seasons.Weariness emerges when we serve God from muscle memory, not fresh encounter, or confuse emotional invulnerability with spiritual maturity.The temptation is to force spiritual disciplines, tightening up routines, and demanding more from ourselves. But a weary Christian doesn’t lack discipline. Oftentimes, we lack receptivity. More striving usually deepens the exhaustion and guilt, rather than reviving joy.Instead of seeking restoration, weary believers mistakenly try to manufacture delight by moral strain or performance, but delight is not manufactured by moral strain.The path back is not correction but replenishment. Stephanie urges us to “come nearer, slower, truer,” rather than to “try harder”. Restoration means:Honest lament and silence before God;Allowing ourselves to be ministered to;Sabbath, rest, and simplicity in spiritual practice;Confessing not just sin, but exhaustion, disappointment, and overextension;Even our ache for God is proof that love is alive in us, not that faith has died. Jesus doesn’t just forgive; He invites the weary to come to Him for rest.Ultimately, our delight in God is rooted in His delight in us. Before time began, God chose to love and delight in His people, even at great cost to Himself through the cross. Our identity is found not in our ministry, productivity, or others’ approval, but in God’s unwavering, delighted gaze.DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 375Awaken Delight: Cultivating awareness of God’s presence | with Jennifer RothschildDelighting in God is not another task for your spiritual to-do list—it is a dynamic, relational response to His presence and beauty. Author, Bible teacher and Conference host Jennifer Rothschild joins Stephanie to talk about true delight as awakened by God Himself within us, rather than achieved through personal effort or performance.Jennifer has kindly written the foreword to Stephanie’s new book, Awaken Delight: Satisfying your soul’s longing for God (IVP, July 2026).Ready to order Stephanie's book? Order here: https://a.co/d/0hss5sDt More about the book at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This is God's promise to you in Psalm 37:4. But many believers quietly assume it's just a poetic suggestion, or it doesn't really work here on earth. In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight in God. It's not emotional hype or religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how delighting in Godreshapes sufferingquiets restless strivinganchors your identity in God's unshakable delight of youLearning to delight in God is the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own hearts.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.We have chosen to celebrate the message of Awaken Delight by partnering with a private donor to donate up to $7,000 to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking (see list on our partners page). The final amount depends, among others, on Sales. Because delighting in God is also hands-on action.https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Order here: https://a.co/d/0hss5sDt MORE ABOUT THIS CONVERSATIONDelighting in God is not another task for your spiritual to-do list—it is a dynamic, relational response to His presence and beauty. Author, Bible teacher and Conference host Jennifer Rothschild joins Stephanie to talk about true delight as awakened by God Himself within us, rather than achieved through personal effort or performance. Together today they explore:the difference between delighting in God as duty versus delight as Spirit-awakened response.how experiencing God’s presence turns ordinary moments into opportunities for delight.practical ways to cultivate awareness of God’s activity in everyday life.the role of suffering in awakening deeper delight and intimacy with God.how worship, community, and nature reflect God’s delight and invite our response.Delighting in God is both the fruit and evidence of a heart attuned to His presence and beauty. It’s not manufactured, but awakened by the Spirit, often through worship, community, and even suffering. The invitation is to participate in this “sing along” of relationship, responding to God’s delight over us—not because we are perfect, but because we are His.Jennifer Rothschild emphasizes moving delight in God off the "to-do list" and seeing it as a response—“it's not a duty, it's a response.” Authentic delight arises from an “awareness of His presence,” not from striving to manufacture feelings or perform. Recognizing that God's nearness itself is the catalyst for delight.Examples such as listening to birdsong became moments of delight for Jennifer because she trained her mind and heart to recognize God as the giver of all beauty. This “mental paradigm and heart posture” means seeing evidence of God in everyday experiences—a child’s laughter, the taste of good food, or the beauty of creation.Delight in God can only be truly awakened by God’s own Spirit in us—not conjured by human effort. Stephanie explains why her new book is titled “Awaken Delight,” highlighting that Christians delight in God because God births that desire in us through the Holy Spirit.God delights to partner with us—not as servants under command, but as beloved children invited into relationship. Our small acts of trust and faith, like a grandchild’s shy art offering, delight God the way a grandparent delights in a child’s offering.Jesus embodies God's delight—at His baptism, before any miracles or ministry, the Father declared delight in Him simply because He was His Son. Our delight is rooted in being “in Christ,” not in achievements.Surprisingly, suffering can be the crucible that awakens delight. Jennifer unpacks Paul's words about “delighting in weakness”, explaining that it means recognizing God’s good even in hardship—a perspective shift empowered by Christ.Practical Steps to Awaken Your Delight of God todayMeditate on a single verse all day to listen for God’s living word in everyday reality.Attribute every beautiful or joyful experience back to God as the source.Engage worship by savoring every word as a direct offering to God.When struggling, turn “worship” into prayer—ask God to awaken the truth of the words in your hear.FIND OUT MORE ABOUT “AWAKEN DELIGHT” BY STEPHANIE ROUSSELLE“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This is God's promise to you in Psalm 37:4. But many believers quietly assume it's just a poetic suggestion, or it doesn't really work here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight in God. It's not emotional hype or religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how delighting in Godreshapes sufferingquiets restless strivinganchors your identity in God's unshakable delight of youLearning to delight in God is the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own hearts.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.We have chosen to celebrate the message of Awaken Delight by partnering with a private donor to donate up to $7,000 to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking (see list on our partners page). The final amount depends, among others, on Sales. Because delighting in God is also hands-on action.https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Order here: https://a.co/d/0hss5sDt FIND OUT MORE ABOUT JENNIFER ROTHSCHILD“It is well with my soul.” For Jennifer Rothschild, these words are much more than the lyrics from a familiar hymn; they describe how she lives her life … in the dark.At the age of fifteen, Jennifer was diagnosed with a rare, degenerative eye disease that would eventually steal her sight. It was more than a turning point for the Miami, Florida native. Her dreams of becoming an artist and cartoonist faded. Words and music have replaced her canvas and palette for more than 30 years.As an author and speaker, Jennifer is known for her substance, signature wit, and down-to-earth style. A unique mix of profound and playful, she weaves biblical truth with relatable stories, making God’s Word accessible to those just starting out in Scripture and endearing to those who have walked with Christ for years.Jennifer has been a featured speaker for the nation’s largest conference for women, Women of Faith. She’s also been on the platform with Women of Joy, Lifeway Women Live, and Extraordinary Women. Since 2018, She’s hosted the popular 4:13 Podcast where she provides weekly biblical wisdom and practical encouragement to help women live the “I Can” life of Philippians 4:13.She is the author of 20 books and Bible studies with combined sales over one million units, including the latest video-based Bible study, Heaven: When Faith Becomes Sight and the best-selling book, Lessons I Learned in the Dark.Jennifer has been featured on The Today Show, Dr. Phil, ABC’s Good Morning America, and the Billy Graham Television Special, plus other national TV and radio programs including Hour of Power, Life Today, Family Life Radio, and others. Her life story and message has been the cover story of numerous national publications including Today’s Christian Woman, Virtue magazine, Becoming Family magazine, HomeLife magazine, and others.Jennifer is also the founder and host of Fresh Grounded Faith events and the womensministry.net Leadership Library, which equips women in ministry to lead well. She lives in Springfield, Missouri with her husband of over 35 years, Dr. Philip Rothschild. Jennifer is a boy mom, C.S. Lewis junkie, an obsessive audio book listener, a dark chocolate lover, a strong coffee drinker, and an avid encourager.https://www.jenniferrothschild.com/ DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 376Awaken Delight from Checklist Faith to Lasting Joy: Savoring Awe with God | Episode 448Success in the Christian life is not measured by relentless output, but by deep enjoyment and awe of God. The high-performer’s journey is to move from striving to abiding, from anxious self-optimization to restful delight. This week, Stephanie challenges us to reconsider our definition of success: Will we dare to let our delight in God, and His delight in us, become our most treasured spiritual possession?Many Christians find themselves exhausted, seeking spirituality through constant effort rather than true joy. In our current series, Awaken Delight, we explore different ways that prevent us from living the reality of Psalm 37:4, Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.This week, we explore the dangers of "high-performance Christianity" and discover the invitation to redefine success by delighting in God rather than striving to impress Him.Our FREE gift to you today! An exclusive 30-day FREE recovery plan to rekindle your delight in God when you are feeling weary and exhausted in your faith: go to https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightthepodcast and find the form for Episode 448. Give us your email, and you will receive the full plan in your inbox immediately!Let’s be completely honest. Are you…Exhausted by trying to “feel” spiritual?Performing faith without real joy?Feeling unworthy despite consistent effort?Wondering if Psalm 37:4 really works?What if the problem isn’t your faith, but the way you’ve been pursuing God? Delight isn’t about effort; it's about learning how to receive God as your deepest joy.This isn’t extra joy on Sundays. It’s the foundation for deep delight in God which willstrengthen your prayer lifeprovide you with resilient peace,reframe your pain and suffering,transform your obedience into soul-satisfying joy.Many Christians become experts in prayer, service, and discipline but forget the joy of simple communion with God. This mindset measures spiritual health in terms of effort and accomplishment: “Did I pray enough? Did I do enough?”The Dangers:Spiritual Output over Relationship: Faith becomes a checklist of activities rather than a relationship rooted in love and delight.Performance Equals Worth: Feelings of worth rise and fall based on spiritual “productivity.” Rest becomes guilt-ridden and Sabbath feels inefficient.Comparisons and Insecurity: The high-performer compares their visible fruit to others’, believing that more impact equals more favor from God.This mindset leads to spiritual dryness. High performers feel relationally undernourished: “Effective for God, but not really deeply at rest in God”. Growth is sought in results, but true spiritual maturity often appears slow, cyclical, and hidden. When setbacks arise, self-worth plummets, and failures feel catastrophic.At its core, this approach makes delight in God seem like a luxury reserved for the less “serious." But Scripture repeatedly calls delight foundational, not optional. "Delight in the Lord" is central — it deepens trust, strengthens endurance, and transforms work into worship.How do we shift from performance to delight? We must reorder our ambitions with God at the center. As Stephanie explains, “Your problem isn’t that you’re too serious, it’s that you’re too serious through the lens of a secular operating system”. The calling isn’t to do less, but to let delight in God be the fuel, not the reward, of our efforts.Practical Steps:Identity Rooted in God’s Delight: Our worth is anchored in God’s unshakeable love, not our achievements.Work Flows from Delight: We work, rest, and strive not to prove ourselves, but out of the security that comes from being loved by God.Resilient Obedience: Obedience is rooted in delight, not desperation; failure or success does not shake our identity.Delighting in God is not just an emotion—it is a chosen, steady confidence that allows us to pursue excellence without fear. When rooted in God’s love, ambition becomes resilient, setbacks less threatening, and rest becomes restorative. As Stephanie encourages, “Taste and see that the Lord is good”. This call is an invitation into a secure, unshakeable identity and delight —the true measure of success.DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 377Awaken Delight in God Even When Life Feels Heavy | with Erica WiggenhornStephanie welcomes her dear friend Erica Wiggenhorn for a transparent, encouraging conversation about what it means to delight in God. Drawing from personal experiences, Scripture, and practical examples, they explore how all believers can experience and sustain joy in the Lord—even through difficult seasons.Stephanie, when pondering this conversation, took away these key points to remember:Delight is not limited to profound spiritual moments; it can be awakened in ordinary, beautiful encounters with God’s world.Delight is sometimes borrowed from others, shared through community, creativity, and kindness to oneself during dry seasons.God uses even our hardest experiences as a foundation for authentic delight and hope, especially as we support each other.Getting the Word into us daily is not just a duty—it’s the ongoing source of delight and transformation.Delight is rooted not in our performance but in Christ’s finished work and the Father’s unchanging love.Here’s more from this conversation:Delighting in God doesn’t require deep theological expertise or perfection. Instead, it’s woven into everyday life and accessible to everyone. Erica describes experiences from her childhood at the beach—watching children squeal with joy as they run into the waves, or observing baby whales playing for the first time—highlighting how witnessing God’s creation leads her heart to delight in Him.Life isn’t always easy. Erica is honest about facing times when delight in God seems distant—whether due to discouragement, struggles, or the pressures of daily life. She insists it’s a common, human experience and gives listeners permission to acknowledge seasons where faith feels routine or strained. She offers three practical helps for regaining delight:Music – Worship songs often “tear down the walls” of her heart and renew her connection with God.Movement – Getting outside and moving, especially in sunshine, lifts her spirit.Community – Sharing experiences with others, and especially seeing God through the delight in someone else’s eyes, reignites her own joy.Erica shares personally about parenting wayward children and organizing resources for others in similar struggles. She teaches that as we surrender our pain to God, He uses it for deeper purpose—serving others and discovering fresh delight through His redeeming work. Community and expectancy in God’s goodness anchor us during heartbreak. For more details about the MOMentum conference, see below.Scripture is the chief wellspring of delight. We get to know God, experience His love, and gain new joy through His Word. Erica encourages varied approaches—listening to the Bible, studying alone or with others, or combining the Word with creative activities. The important thing is to absorb Scripture in the way that fits how God has wired you.In Isaiah 61:10, God dresses us in garments of salvation as a beloved bride. Erica reminds listeners that while we may struggle with shame or self-critique, God sees us beautifully in Christ. We don’t earn His delight; we receive it as a gift by simply approaching Him.If you struggle to believe God delights in you, print a picture of a radiant bride and declare, “This is me in the eyes of my King.” Ask Him for faith to accept His joy over you.MORE ABOUT THE MOMENTUM CONFERENCE, JANUARY 29-31 2027, PHOENIX, AZYour child is going their own way, in a direction you would never choose, leading to disruption and separation in your relationship.But what if you found a new pathway for connection, where you could both move forward, together?The Momentum Conference provides a safe place to rest, remember you’re not alone and receive tools and perspective empowering you to stand strong in faith and pursue healthy connection with your child.God is for you, for your family — and together we can cling to His promises and find hope.Details and tickets at https://ericawiggenhorn.com/momentum/ What is the Momentum Conference?Momentum is a Friday night through Sunday morning getaway with a balance of biblical teaching, practical help, group connection and time to pursue individual rest.The weekend schedule has been designed to lavish love, impart resources and provide hope to moms who are walking a hard road with their teens, young adult, or adult children.Freedom to pursue preferential activities provided by the resort promises a time of rejuvenation as well as a mental, emotional and spiritual reset.DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 378America 250 | What made America great in the first place? with Os GuinnessStephanie welcomes Os Guinness again to explore what has made America unique in its freedom and what threatens that legacy today. They examine foundational principles, historical roots, the virtues necessary for sustaining freedom, and the challenges now facing the American experiment.America’s greatness rests not only on its achievements but on its founding principles. Os Guinness stresses that neither contemporary political movements nor leaders have answered the vital question: What made America great in the first place?To steward freedom, each generation must understand, embody, and transmit the foundational ideas and virtues that made the American experiment possible. The Republic’s survival—and America’s blessing to the world—hangs on recovering this covenant vision.The American republic was never intended to be a pure democracy; the framers deliberately moved away from direct rule by majority, fearing the dangers of unchecked popular power. Its distinctive structure draws from ancient Hebrew ideas, especially the Exodus and Deuteronomy, rooting political liberty in biblical covenant rather than secular philosophy.Os Guinness highlights that America is “…a nation by intention and by ideas.” It means at least that:Societies must begin by shaping principles before policies; neglecting foundational ideas leads to losing the core of freedom.The American Revolution’s most-cited book was Deuteronomy, not Locke or Montesquieu—emphasizing spiritual over philosophical freedom.Modern political discourse overwhelmingly focuses on policies rather than underlying principles, missing the root causes of freedom’s decline.The sustainability of freedom relies on what Os Guinness calls the "Golden Triangle":Freedom requires virtueVirtue requires faithFaith requires freedomAbandoning any side of this triangle causes freedom to wither. In recent times, American society has widely dismissed the importance of virtue, attacked faith, and misunderstands freedom’s true foundation. Authoritarian societies depend on fear. Free societies depend on trust, built on shared morals and character.Several virtues are essential for sustaining freedom, including:Freedom: Modeled on God’s own restraint, granting humanity genuine free will.Reciprocity: Mutual responsibility and equality; its neglect enabled the tragedy of slavery.Civility: Respectful public discourse grounded in truth—now degraded in contemporary society.Morality: Freedom is a "moral accomplishment." Public life requires both the rule of law and private character; otherwise, legal structures become weapons for power rather than justice.Fidelity: The conscious passing of identity and purpose to the next generation. Education and storytelling sustain freedom.Guinness cautions that America's crisis is not only external (the "wolves at the door") but internal—moral decay ("the termites in the floor") is often the greater danger.Failure to transmit and sustain these virtues can render America’s freedom a "byword" rather than a "city on a hill". As the nation nears its 250th anniversary, the Republic is at a tipping point.However, Os Guinness grounds hope in the power and truth of the biblical heritage that birthed American freedom. For example,Reform and recovery are possible if Americans reembrace the core virtues and principles from Scripture.Christians, in particular, have a calling to model and advocate for these truths, showing society the way back to lasting freedom.The lesson for Christian and freedom-loving citizens is clear: freedom is not inevitable or self-perpetuating. It requires gratitude for its biblical roots, courage to exemplify truth, virtue, and responsibility, and commitment to pass these on. As Os Guinness says, our hope lies not in political maneuvering but in recovering the profound, transformative truths of the Bible as the wellspring of true liberty.MORE ABOUT OS' LATEST BOOK, "A FREEDOM LIKE NO OTHER"To renew America, we must remember what made it great in the first place.Across the ages, republics have been lost not only to enemies without, but to corrosion within. Free societies are rare. Lasting free societies are rarer still. So, what are the prospects for the American republic at the 250th anniversary of the revolution? Many citizens long to “make America great again,” but far fewer ask the deeper question: What made America great in the first place—and what kind of freedom can last? What does it mean that half a century of cultural conflict, ideological polarization, and unprincipled power has left Americans fractured, disillusioned, and tempted by extremes of chaos on one side and control on the other? And what happens when the older menace of tyranny is joined by the newer challenge of artificial intelligence—magnifying the forces that weaken truth, character, and self-government?In A Freedom Like No Other, Os Guinness offers not another round of outrage from left or right, but a constructive path forward—twelve foundational principles for restoring the Republic and renewing ordered liberty. The third in a quartet of studies on the crisis of America and the West (following Our Civilizational Moment and America Agonistes), this book is a foreign admirer’s call for America’s semiquincentennial to be more than celebration: a time of honest self-examination, needed correction, and national rededication. Drawing on America’s Jewish and Christian roots and the covenantal vision of freedom and responsibility that shaped the Republic at its best, Guinness sets out the moral and civic architecture a free people must recover if they are to remain fit to be free.This is a book for every American who believes freedom is worth the cost, and for anyone around the world who knows the alternatives and longs for a human-friendly future.Purchase today here: https://a.co/d/06XUZLbK DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 379Awaken Delight: transforming hardship into growth | with Dr. Saundra Dalton SmithStephanie Rousselle and her guest Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith explore what it truly means to delight in God, moving the focus from external circumstances and religious duties to genuine intimacy and spiritual maturation. This conversation around Stephanie’s new book, Awaken Delight (IVP, July 2026), calls us to a deeper, more resilient delight in God, rooted in relationship, practiced in community, and modeled perfectly by Jesus. As we will see together, delighting in God means choosing intimacy and noticing His presence, especially in hardship. It requires intentional practice, honest wrestling, and learning from Scripture. Together, we will discuss how our identity is rooted not in performance but in receiving God’s boundless love. As disciples, we are called to move from spiritual infancy to mature faith, just as Jesus perfectly role-models for us.Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5J Find out more about all the ways you can awaken your delight in God: https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightHere are some notes about the conversation:Defining Delighting in GodSaundra Dalton Smith describes delighting in God as akin to the joy and pleasure we feel towards something we love—a sunset, a flower, or even a brownie. Delighting in God means taking pleasure not just in what He does, but in who He is. It is enjoying His presence, intimacy, and communion. Saundra says, “How do I allow myself to take pleasure in who he is, not what he's doing … but him specifically?”Practicing Delight Amidst Life’s Highs and LowsTrue delight in God requires ongoing practice. Our human instinct focuses on obtaining and receiving, but spiritual maturity redirects our gaze to God as the source rather than the resource. Saundra shares that practicing delight in God on good days builds the muscle to notice His presence even during difficult moments, such as when children misbehave or pets get sick—recognizing God’s gifts even in hardships strengthens our relationship with Him.Interpreting Hardship Through God’s LensWhen challenges arise, Scripture invites us to “rejoice in suffering.” Instead of forcing joy over the hardships themselves, Saundra advises finding joy in knowing God is with us (“the fourth man in the fire”). Practicing noticing God equips us to see His goodness regardless of circumstances.Biblical Foundation and Fresh PerspectiveAnchoring in Scripture provides strength. For example, Psalm 23’s phrasing “goodness and mercy shall follow me” becomes richer when understood as “pursue”—God’s love relentlessly seeks us. Reading familiar passages with fresh eyes allows the Word of God to “read” us and unearth deeper truths and areas for healing.The Importance of CommunityStephanie and Saundra emphasize the necessity of authentic Christian community. Vulnerability with trusted believers helps us remember God’s goodness when we struggle. Without community, isolation can make us susceptible to discouragement and lies about our worth and God’s love.Identity: Receiving God’s LoveThe foundational truth is, “the only thing God desires of you is you.” Our worthiness isn’t dependent on accomplishments but on accepting God’s love. Saundra says, “If I never did another thing other than be a recipient of his love, that's all he required.”Spiritual Maturation: Wrestling and RestThe journey toward delighting in God isn’t effortless—it’s a wrestling, much like Jacob’s biblical encounter. Honest communication with God (“Help my unbelief”) leads to healing and new identity, reframing our lives through deeper intimacy.Countercultural Faith and Jesus as Role ModelCulture often romanticizes Christianity, but real maturity comes from moving beyond the honeymoon phase into resilient faith. Jesus exemplifies delight in the Father—through learning, obedience, miracles, and suffering. For “the joy set before him,” He endured the cross, modeling love for God and people.RESOURCESWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5J Find out more about all the ways you can awaken your delight in God: https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 380Awaken Delight: Trusting the Hidden Christ When Suffering Clouds Our Faith | Episode 452Deep suffering and the felt absence of God are not signs of weak faith, but invitations to deeper trust, raw honesty, and the formation of roots that will later sustain delight when the next “spring” arrives. This week, Stephanie centers on understanding Christian suffering, especially in seasons when God feels absent, and explores how to trust Christ in the midst of pain, grief, and confusion.We are in the middle of our “Awaken Delight” series, based on Stephanie’s new book. Each week, we explore a different facet of what makes delight in God difficult and challenging. How can we live the reality of Psalm 37:4 when life is hard? "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This is God's promise to you in Psalm 37:4. But many believers quietly assume it's just a poetic suggestion, or it doesn't really work here on earth.Our FREE gift to you today! An exclusive 30-day FREE recovery plan to rekindle your delight in God when you are going through seasons of pain and suffering: go to https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightthepodcast and find the form for Episode 452. Give us your email, and you will receive the full plan in your inbox immediately!What you will (re)discover as you journey with God through Awaken Delight:Delight in God is identity-shaping, not emotion-driven. Delight in God is not fleeting emotion but resilient identity.Delight in God is altogether trust, satisfaction in God, relational intimacy with Him.Delight in God is often expressed and grown through resilient joy under suffering.Delight in God is the missing engine behind resilience. It’s the antidote to burnout. It’s even the foundation for sustainable ministry.God’s delight in you is secure, not performance-dependent. God’s delight in you frees you from striving! That’s the beginning of delight.Jesus is the center of every endeavor to delight in God.You can build a delight-centered spiritual life.Awaken Delight invites you to follow Scriptural truths and spiritual practices that cultivate daily joy in God.This week, Stephanie invites us to examine the nature of suffering from a Christian perspective. She addresses different types of pain—physical, psychological, relational, emotional, and spiritual—and affirms that suffering is a universal human experience. She shares several composite stories:Thomas: Endures chronic physical pain, wrestling with why healing hasn’t come but continues to pray and trust that God is enough.Aisha: Struggles against spiritual oppression and insomnia, clinging to God’s promises despite not sensing His presence.Dan: Faces depression and spiritual dryness, with faith persisting stubbornly beneath the surface.Margaret: Grieves the loss of her spouse, finding grace in small mercies.Javier: Suffers the pain of family estrangement, daily choosing forgiveness and hope for reconciliation.We are encouraged to identify with these stories and realize we are not alone.Common Experiences in Christian Suffering1. Feeling MisunderstoodSufferers often receive shallow platitudes from others—such as “God’s got this” or “Count it all joy”—which, while technically true, are often hurtful when mistimed. Suffering Christians primarily need presence, not slogans.2. Emotional FluctuationSuffering brings emotional unpredictability—peace and panic, gratitude and anger. These ups and downs do not mean spiritual instability; rather, they are normal human responses.3. Seeking Comfort, Not ExplanationAlthough initial pain leads us to search for answers, comfort is ultimately found not in reasons but in the Shepherd’s presence.4. Holding Both Faith and AnguishMature Christian suffering means affirming both God's goodness and the reality of pain simultaneously; raw, honest prayers replace polished formulas.5. Reduced Religious PerformanceSuffering eradicates concern for spiritual image. Depth in Scripture reading grows—not in breadth, but as a lifeline, especially in Psalms, Job, and the story of Jesus’ suffering.6. The Role of LamentLament becomes covenant communication: honest complaints, questions, and cries are not signs of weak faith but of depth and intimacy.While suffering may sometimes result from sin, it is not always the case. Discernment and the Holy Spirit’s clear conviction are key. Vague guilt and general feelings of punishment are not from God; His conviction is always specific.When God seems silent, it’s not proof He has abandoned us. Moments of suffering can be where He works most deeply, just as the cross felt like God’s greatest absence but was His greatest act of love. Faith in suffering is not the absence of questions, lament, or feeling lost, but the commitment to remain with God—even if only weakly.Practical Lessons1. Pray honestly and directly, not just politely.2. Resist withdrawal from God and community.3. Remember: God’s commitment is final and irreversible—even when you cannot sense Him.4. Trust His heart even when you cannot see His hand.DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 381Awaken Delight: Noticing God’s Presence in Little Things | with Andi Ashworth and Charlie PeacockStephanie Rousselle welcomes returning guests Andi Ashworth and Charlie Peacock for a reflective and practical exploration of what it means to delight in God—especially in the ordinary and difficult seasons of life.Delighting in God is a daily discipline rooted in noticing, gratitude, humility, and relational engagement. Andi Ashworth and Charlie Peacock illustrate that wonder and joy can be found at “the molecular level” of life, as we learn to see reality with the eyes of heaven.Cultivating delight in God starts with intentional attention—slowing down to observe and appreciate even the small gifts in daily life. Andi Ashworth describes how, after a busy season promoting their book, she cultivated a new practice: sitting quietly in her small perennial garden, reading Scripture, praying, and simply noticing the details of creation—birdsong, blooming flowers, the work of bees. Over time, this intentional noticing awakened deeper gratitude and joy in the presence of God, even as life’s hardships persisted.Delight is a daily practice, a choice to “step into reality” and seek God’s presence even in suffering. This deliberate practice transforms pain into moments of worship and gratitude. Charlie Peacock shares that delight in God is not dependent on favorable circumstances or feelings of happiness. Suffering—including his chronic headache of nearly ten years—taught him to seek and experience God’s presence regardless of pain. He emphasizes that true delight must be able to exist within difficulty, or it is not truly delight.Intimacy and delight with God are relational and participatory. God invites us to pursue Him, and as we do, He meets us. Sometimes we wait passively for God to manifest delight, and other times we strive to create it in our own strength. In reality, pursuing delight is a “dance”—God initiates and leads, but we must actively respond and show up, especially when delight seems elusive.Hardships, while unwelcome, often become ministers of grace, rooting us in humility and expanding our capacity for love and presence. Through chronic pain and other challenges, both Andi Ashworth and Charlie Peacock have experienced God’s grace and a deepening humility. Charlie Peacock notes how his “thorn” limits self-reliance and ambition, drawing him toward greater dependence on Christ and shaping him into Christ’s likeness. Andi Ashworth observes that their limitations have expanded their hearts and increased their compassion for others.Never outgrow asking your good Father for small joys. Delight in God blossoms in those who cultivate grateful, attentive hearts. Both guests encourage maintaining childlike wonder and gratitude—even for small blessings like a hot shower, a well-timed parking space, or serendipitous tickets to an event. These moments, prayed for and received as gifts, reinforce God’s goodness and nearness.Practices to Foster DelightStart each day with gratitude for basic abilities and provisions.Notice small joys—in nature, family, daily routines—and thank God specifically.Pray about “matters of mutual concern”: what matters to God, matters to us.Accept and embrace limitations as invitations to deeper dependence and presence.Reflection question: What small gift might God be inviting you to notice—and delight in—today? MORE ABOUT "AWAKEN DELIGHT" BY STEPHANIE ROUSSELLE"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This is God's promise to you in Psalm 37:4. But many believers quietly assume it's just a poetic suggestion, or it doesn't really work here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight in God. It's not emotional hype or religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how delighting in Godreshapes sufferingquiets restless strivinganchors your identity in God's unshakable delight of youLearning to delight in God is the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own hearts.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightDISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 382Awaken Delight When Suffering Strikes: Understanding Pruning and Thorns | Episode 454Today’s episode of Gospel Spice, centered on the launch of "Awaken Delight," is a timely exploration of the Christian experience of suffering. Stephanie combines personal vulnerability—sharing excerpts from her new book about living with chronic pain and deep questions—with biblical wisdom on how hardship fits into our walk with God.In suffering, God does not abandon; he lovingly prunes and allows thorns for our growth. The path to deeper faith, humility, and delight in God runs directly through honest wrestling with pain—and leads to true spiritual fruitfulness.Christians often wonder: If I am serving God, why do I suffer? Is suffering a sign of God’s displeasure or my failure? Stephanie shares that Christians who suffer yet trust God often appear as if they’re not suffering—because they refuse let suffering have the final word.Our FREE gift to you today! An exclusive, in-depth 10-day FREE recovery plan to rekindle your delight in God when you are going through seasons of deep pruning from God's hand: go to https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightthepodcast and find the form for Episode 454. Give us your email, and you will receive the full plan in your inbox immediately!Just as fig trees need hard soil to bear fruit, Christians grow most deeply in spiritually tough conditions. Comfort produces "leaves without fruit," but hardship develops true character and delight in God.In 2 Corinthians 12, Paul’s incredible spiritual experiences led God to allow him a "thorn"—not as punishment, but to keep him humble and dependent on God. Paul’s journey shows that deep suffering is not proof of failure or sin, but God’s purposeful investment in our transformation.In John 15, Jesus says that healthy, fruitful branches are the ones pruned by the Gardener (God), so they’ll bear even more fruit. Pruning feels like loss or reduction but is God re-focusing our lives on what truly matters.Pruning is when God removes something from our lives. It is the elimination of even good things for us to be more fruitful and focused. By contrast, thorns are when God allows painful weaknesses or situations to remain. These serve a specific, humbling, and formative purpose. Both types invite deeper dependence on God.We misunderstand suffering when we see it as divine punishment. Biblical teaching says it’s part of God’s commitment to us—not against us, but for us. The goal is not mere improvement, but transformation—making us more like Christ."Faith" is not something we muster by willpower, but a posture rooted in humility: recognizing our need for God and opening ourselves to His work. Humility is both the soil in which faith grows and the fruit that results from faith.Christ was not merely "pruned"—he was "cut off" entirely for our sake, taking on the ultimate suffering so we would never face it alone. Now, even our suffering is transformed by his presence and purpose.Practical ApplicationWhen hardship comes, instead of merely asking "Why me?" or "How can I escape this?", ask "What is God showing me?" and "How can I delight in Him through this?"Choose to see suffering not as a sign of God’s absence, but as the attentive hand of the Gardener who loves and invests in us.Remain in Christ—even weak connection is connection, and transformation is always worth the pain.Reflective action: Next time you face loss or pain, remember the lessons of pruning and thorns. Ask God to help you trust His restorative, purposeful hand, and seek delight in Him above all.We are in the middle of our “Awaken Delight” series, based on Stephanie’s new book. Each week, we explore a different facet of what makes delight in God difficult and challenging. How can we live the reality of Psalm 37:4 when life is hard? "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This is God's promise to you in Psalm 37:4. But many believers quietly assume it's just a poetic suggestion, or it doesn't really work here on earth.What you will (re)discover as you journey with God through Awaken Delight:Delight in God is identity-shaping, not emotion-driven. Delight in God is not fleeting emotion but resilient identity.Delight in God is altogether trust, satisfaction in God, relational intimacy with Him.Delight in God is often expressed and grown through resilient joy under suffering.Delight in God is the missing engine behind resilience. It’s the antidote to burnout. It’s even the foundation for sustainable ministry.God’s delight in you is secure, not performance-dependent. God’s delight in you frees you from striving! That’s the beginning of delight.Jesus is the center of every endeavor to delight in God.You can build a delight-centered spiritual life.Awaken Delight invites you to follow Scriptural truths and spiritual practices that cultivate daily joy in God.DISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 383Awaken Delight: Learning to Lean Into God’s Goodness in Every Season | with Chris HallChris Hall joins Stephanie Rousselle to reflect on the practice of delighting in God, especially during life’s later chapters or grief-laden season. The conversation weaves through wisdom gained in the “winter of life,” the significance of gratitude, and the centrality of God’s relational nature.Chris Hall begins by honestly discussing aging, recognizing the “gift of years,” and learning acceptance—particularly of life’s inherent limitations and future partings. Acceptance, he says, is not resignation, but a posture of gratitude and detachment from what’s fleeting, allowing deeper attachment to what matters most: God’s loving presence and the relationships He’s given us.Daily, Chris Hall and his wife pray, focusing on thankfulness. Even in uncertainty or suffering—as exemplified by their grandson with Down syndrome—gratitude centers their hearts on God’s mercy. “Lord, have mercy” becomes a foundational prayer, acknowledging deep dependence and God’s persistent goodness.The journey hasn’t always been simple. Chris Hall shares that, particularly through experiences as a deputy coroner and witnessing immense suffering in places like Los Angeles, Calcutta, and Rwanda, he’s grappled with whether God is truly good. Encountering pain and tragedy forced honest questions: “Are you good or not?” But with time and spiritual wrestling, he’s emerged with a hard-won conviction of God’s steadfastness.In today’s culture, delight is often confused with self-focus—“you have to love yourself first.” Chris Hall counters this, insisting that genuine delight is secondary, a “byproduct” of being drawn out of ourselves by something beautiful (the character of God, deep friendships, acts of love). This self-forgetfulness mirrors the Trinity—God’s relational essence—and is central to spiritual formation.Using friendship as an example, Chris Hall speaks of the deep grief that attends the loss of his best friend—grief is the “tax we pay for loving.” Yet, grief and joy are intertwined. The richness of a 50-year friendship is the soil from which delight blooms; our relationships (rooted in God’s relational nature) are the stage for both love and loss.For anyone struggling to delight in God, Chris Hall gently advises: “Lead with beauty.” Recognize the goodness around you—even in small ways. Beauty draws us out of our self-absorption into a posture of wonder, gratitude, and worship. He encourages practices like meditating on the Psalms and savoring passages from John’s, Romans, and Hebrews to nourish this vision.Delight in God is neither sentimental nor shallow—it’s a mature joy forged in gratitude, beauty, courage, and faithfulness through all seasons. It invites us to accept limitations, let go of self-preoccupation, and savor God’s goodness, even amidst suffering. As Chris Hall and Stephanie Rousselle remind us, delight is tasted, seen, and deeply known—not chased for its own sake, but discovered in God Himself.MORE ABOUT "AWAKEN DELIGHT" BY STEPHANIE ROUSSELLE"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This is God's promise to you in Psalm 37:4. But many believers quietly assume it's just a poetic suggestion, or it doesn't really work here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight in God. It's not emotional hype or religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how delighting in Godreshapes sufferingquiets restless strivinganchors your identity in God's unshakable delight of youLearning to delight in God is the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own hearts.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightDISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
- 384Finding God in Hymns, Horses, Gardens, and Everyday Grace | with Ros EvansThere are moments when delight in God arrives quietly. No plan. No formula. No spiritual checklist. Just a family gathered in a living room, singing old hymns and remembering the faithfulness of God across generations.In this conversation, Ros Evans and Stephanie Rousselle explore the surprising ways delight awakens in everyday life. Beginning with a spontaneous evening of singing hymns with her parents, Ros reflects on how delight often emerges when truth has taken root deep within us. The conversation moves from cherished memories to a rich discussion about theology, worship, and why knowing God matters so profoundly.Drawing from John 15, they unpack Jesus’ invitation to abide. Delight is not something we manufacture through effort. It grows naturally from relationship. As we spend time with Christ, we discover that abiding is both a gift and an invitation.Along the way, Roz shares a vivid story about an unforgettable fragrance—a scent so beautiful it inspired an intentional search. The image becomes a powerful picture of the gospel: once you have truly encountered its beauty, everything else is measured against it.The conversation also explores the painful reality of pruning. A loving Gardener removes dead branches, but he also trims living ones so that greater fruit can come. Seasons of loss, confusion, and change may feel painful, yet they often reveal the attentive care of God shaping us for eternity.Through stories of hymns, gardens, horses, friendship, and faith, one message rises above all the others: delight in God is not another burden to carry. It is an invitation to receive. As our eyes remain fixed on Jesus, delight becomes less of a destination and more of a natural response to the goodness of the One who loves us.MORE ABOUT "AWAKEN DELIGHT" BY STEPHANIE ROUSSELLE"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." This is God's promise to you in Psalm 37:4. But many believers quietly assume it's just a poetic suggestion, or it doesn't really work here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight in God. It's not emotional hype or religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how delighting in Godreshapes sufferingquiets restless strivinganchors your identity in God's unshakable delight of youLearning to delight in God is the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own hearts.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelightDISCOVER THE BOOK BEHIND THE PODCAST | "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn’t really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn’t sentimental optimism. It’s deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It’s the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith: “Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God’s delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you’ll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content: "I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie’s joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call: "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky: "Stephanie’s love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways."More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
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