Day 208 - Our Approach to God (Isaiah 52:1-13, Isaiah 53-57) - Year 2

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - Luke 12:35-59, 13:1-21, John 9 WORD OF THE DAY: - Ready In today's readings, we are reminded about the necessity of being ready—not just for the expected, but for the unknown moments when God calls. Jesus, through parables and real-life encounters, teaches His followers about vigilance, preparedness, and faith. In Luke 12:35-48, Jesus compares His followers to servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet. The faithful servant, who remains alert and ready, will be rewarded, but those who are not will face consequences. This passage echoes the importance of being spiritually prepared, as we never know when God will call us to act. Jesus also addresses the responsibility that comes with being given much—if we have been blessed, we are also expected to give and serve much. Further in Luke, Jesus speaks about bringing division, not peace, as His message challenges societal norms and family structures. He rebukes the crowd for interpreting earthly signs but missing the spiritual ones right before them. He also emphasizes the urgency of reconciling with others quickly—highlighting the importance of being "ready" in our relationships, both with God and people. In the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree, Jesus demonstrates God's patience but also the need for repentance and fruitfulness in our lives. We are given time, but we must not take it for granted. Later in Luke 13:10-21, Jesus heals a woman crippled for eighteen years, despite it being the Sabbath. The synagogue leader criticizes Him for healing on the Sabbath, but Jesus points out the hypocrisy. Through this healing, Jesus not only restores the woman but also reveals the importance of compassion and mercy over rigid adherence to tradition. He then teaches about the Kingdom of God, using the parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast—small beginnings leading to great outcomes, just like the small steps of faith that lead to readiness for God's work. In John 9, we see another powerful healing—Jesus restores the sight of a man born blind. His disciples, reflecting cultural assumptions, ask whether the man's blindness was due to sin. Jesus corrects them, saying that the man’s condition was an opportunity for God’s work to be revealed. As the Pharisees interrogate the man and his parents, their blindness to the truth of who Jesus is becomes apparent. The healed man’s faith and Jesus' actions show that spiritual sight—being truly ready to see and accept God’s truth—is far more important than physical sight. . . Read more on: https://triciagoyer.com/feeling-weary-where-to-turn-when-the-burdens-are-too-great/ SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!  Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8  Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - Luke 11:14-54. 12:1-34 WORD OF THE DAY: - Authenticity Today’s reading from Luke 11:14-54 and Luke 12:1-12 challenges us to examine the authenticity of our faith. As Jesus teaches and confronts the Pharisees, He exposes the importance of genuine faith that comes from the heart, not just external actions. Confronting Accusations (Luke 11:14-28):When Jesus casts out a demon from a mute man, the crowd accuses Him of working with Satan. In response, Jesus explains that a divided kingdom cannot stand and that He is working with the authority of God. He encourages the people to look beyond the surface and recognize the true power and authority of His message. Jesus tells them to ensure that their light is genuine and not false: “Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness” (Luke 11:35 NLT). This is a call for self-examination—are we truly living in the light of Christ, or just pretending? Authenticity vs. Hypocrisy (Luke 11:37-54):When Jesus dines with a Pharisee, He does not wash His hands before the meal, prompting a question from His host. Jesus uses this moment to emphasize that it is the heart that matters. Outward cleanliness or religious rituals mean nothing if our hearts are not right with God. He rebukes the Pharisees for focusing on external appearances while neglecting inner purity. Jesus calls for authenticity, warning that hypocrisy will only lead to judgment. This theme continues in Luke 12:1-12, where Jesus teaches His disciples to beware of the Pharisees’ hypocrisy. He explains that nothing is hidden from God and that our true selves will eventually be revealed. We are to live with integrity and humility, recognizing that our lives are in God’s hands. The message of today’s reading is clear—God desires authenticity in our relationship with Him. Jesus wasn’t interested in superficial displays of piety; He was concerned with the state of the heart. When we focus on external appearances, we miss the point of what it means to follow Christ. True faith is about aligning our hearts with God’s will and living out that faith with sincerity and humility. Are we, like the Pharisees, more concerned with how we appear to others, or are we committed to a heart-level relationship with Jesus? Authenticity in faith means examining our motives, confessing our shortcomings, and seeking God’s transformation from the inside out. When Jesus says, “Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness,” He is challenging us to live in true light. We may think we’re doing everything right on the outside, but if our hearts aren’t right, our actions mean little. Authentic faith is about letting the light of Christ shine through us—not just in public, but in every area of our lives. As we follow Jesus, let’s make sure we are living in His light, not just going through the motions. Let’s allow God to cleanse our hearts so that we can reflect His love, grace, and truth to others. SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - John 8:21-59, Luke 10, 11:1-13 WORD OF THE DAY: -  Interdependence In today’s reading, Jesus continues His confrontation with the Jewish leaders, making profound declarations about His relationship with God the Father. He tells them plainly that they are from below—earthly—while He is from above—heavenly. Jesus goes on to warn them that if they do not believe in Him, they will die in their sins. One of the most powerful verses from this passage is when Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin … So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” (John 8:34, 36). What a promise! True freedom is found only in Him. But then, Jesus goes even further and claims, "Before Abraham was, I am." This statement is monumental. By using the term “I Am,” Jesus is directly aligning Himself with God, the same God who spoke to Moses in Exodus, declaring, “I AM WHO I AM.” The Jewish leaders immediately recognize that Jesus is claiming divinity, which is why they pick up stones to kill Him. Yet, Jesus escapes because His time had not yet come. There’s more going on here, though. Jesus wasn’t just declaring His identity—He was challenging everything the Jewish leaders believed about themselves. In a collectivist culture like theirs, identity was rooted in their lineage, in being descendants of Abraham. But Jesus was telling them that their collective identity was not enough—they needed to believe in Him personally. This would have shaken their worldview. They believed they were already free, but Jesus reveals that only He, the Son, can truly set them free. Next, we move to Luke, where we read about Jesus sending out seventy-two disciples. He instructs them to go in pairs, showing the importance of community in ministry. They are sent with the message: "The Kingdom of God is near." Jesus warns them that not everyone will welcome them, but He gives them authority over the power of the enemy. The theme of interdependence is strong here. Jesus didn’t send His disciples out alone. He knew they would need each other for strength and support. This is a reminder that we are not meant to walk this journey alone. We need each other—our faith grows stronger when we serve, pray, and live out our mission in community. Later, we read the famous story of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan helps a man beaten and left for dead, while others—who should have helped—passed by. Jesus teaches us through this parable that loving our neighbor means showing mercy to those in need, regardless of their background. Then we see Mary and Martha. While Martha is busy preparing for her guests, Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, focused on Him. Jesus gently tells Martha that Mary has chosen the better thing. This story highlights the importance of focusing on Jesus rather than getting caught up in the busyness of life. Finally, Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray, giving us the Lord’s Prayer—a beautiful reminder of our dependence on God for everything. . . Read more at: https://triciagoyer.com/feeling-weary-where-to-turn-when-the-burdens-are-too-great/ SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - John 7:1-9, Luke 9:51-56, Matthew 8:18-22, Luke 9:57-62, John 7:10-8:20 WORD OF THE DAY: -  Willing In today’s readings, we see Jesus continuing to heal, teach, and navigate the opposition around Him. He moves from town to town, all while knowing that the leaders are plotting His death. The pressure must have been immense, but Jesus was willing to follow God’s plan, trusting in His perfect timing. We start with John 7:1-9, where Jesus' brothers urge Him to go to the festival and show His power, but they say it in disbelief. It’s interesting to note that Jesus' own brothers weren’t supportive of His ministry at this point. Yet, Jesus responds with patience, reminding them—and us—that God's timing is everything. Jesus was not concerned with public approval or the opinions of those around Him. He was willing to wait for God's perfect timing, even when pressured to act prematurely. Then we see Luke 9:51-56, where Jesus heads to Jerusalem and stops in a Samaritan village. The people reject Him because He’s on His way to Jerusalem. In their zeal, His disciples ask Jesus if they should call down fire from heaven to destroy the village! But Jesus rebukes them, showing that God’s way is not about vengeance or retaliation. Instead, Jesus is willing to move forward in peace, even when others oppose or reject Him. In Matthew 8:18-22 and Luke 9:57-62, Jesus encounters people who say they want to follow Him, but they also have personal matters to attend to first. Jesus’ response is striking: “Follow me now,” He says. The cost of discipleship is real. It’s not easy, and Jesus makes it clear that following Him means being willing to forsake comfort and security, and even personal obligations, to pursue the calling of God. Finally, John 7:10-8:20 takes us to the Feast of Tabernacles, where Jesus teaches in secret. The Jewish leaders are amazed at His wisdom, but they question His authority because He didn’t have formal training. Yet Jesus’ response is profound: “My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me.” (John 7:16) Jesus also confronts a group ready to stone a woman caught in adultery, offering mercy where others demanded judgment. He saw beyond her sin to her potential redemption. Word of the Day: Willing Willing means being ready, eager, or prepared to do something. In today’s passages, we see Jesus' willingness to follow God’s plan, to confront opposition, and to offer grace over judgment. The question we must ask ourselves is: Are we willing to follow Jesus even when it’s hard, inconvenient, or goes against what the world tells us? Application: What Does It Take to Be Willing? 1. Willingness to Wait on God’s Timing 2. Willingness to Walk in Peace 3. Willingness to Count the Cost of Discipleship 4. Willingness to See People Through Jesus’ Eyes Being willing to follow Jesus is more than just saying, “I’ll follow You.” It’s a daily decision to trust Him, even when it’s hard. It’s about being willing to wait, willing to walk in peace, willing to count the cost, and willing to see others as He sees them. SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - Mark 9:14-29, Matthew 17:14-21, Luke 9:37-43, Mark 9:30-32, Matthew 17:22-23, Luke 9:43-45, Matthew 17:24-27, Mark 9:33-37, Matthew 18:1-6, Luke 9:46-48, Mark 9:38-41, Luke 9:49-50, Mark 9:42-50, Matthew 18:7-35 WORD OF THE DAY: -  Debate As we journey through today’s readings, we encounter a theme that resonates deeply: debate. The disciples, much like us, had their own struggles and questions as they followed Jesus. They debated who among them was the greatest, asked questions about spiritual authority, and tried to understand the deeper meanings behind Jesus’ teachings. After coming down from the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus and His disciples were immediately met by a crowd and a desperate father. His son was possessed by a spirit that caused seizures and physical harm, and the disciples had been unable to heal him. Can you imagine the scene? A bustling crowd, onlookers waiting to see what Jesus would do next, but for the father, this wasn’t a spectacle—this was his last hope. His words to Jesus were both a plea and a challenge: “If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us” (Mark 9:22). Jesus’ response was filled with grace and authority: “If you can? Everything is possible for one who believes.” The father’s response is something I believe we all relate to: “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). How many times have we approached God with doubts, yet a deep desire to believe more fully? Jesus doesn’t rebuke the father for his uncertainty but instead heals his son, showing that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. This story reminds us that faith is not about having it all figured out. It’s about bringing our doubts, fears, and unbelief to Jesus and asking for His help. It’s okay to pray, “Lord, I believe, but help me with my unbelief.” Jesus responds not to the size of our faith but to the sincerity of our heart. Later, the disciples found themselves caught in a debate. Who among them was the greatest? Jesus used this moment as a teaching opportunity. He didn’t rebuke their desire for greatness but reframed it. “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all” (Mark 9:35). To drive His point home, Jesus brought a child into their midst, stating that to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, they must become like children—humble, trusting, and dependent. In our culture, we often equate greatness with power, success, and recognition. But in the Kingdom of God, greatness is defined by humility, service, and a willingness to care for others, especially the least among us. Jesus wasn’t concerned with titles or ranks. Instead, He taught that true greatness is about putting others first and having a servant’s heart. Just like the disciples, we often find ourselves in debates about faith. Whether it's in our personal conversations or on social media, we argue about theology, church practices, and even who’s doing Christianity "right." But what if, instead of trying to win debates, we took a step back and focused on understanding what’s right from God's perspective? Continue reading - https://triciagoyer.com/a-glowing-light-in-the-darkness/ SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - Mark 8:22-30, Matthew 16:13-20, Luke 9:18-20, Mark 8:31-9:1, Matthew 16:21-28, Luke 9:21-27, Mark 9:2-13, Matthew 17:1-13, Luke 9:28-36 WORD OF THE DAY: -  Worth As we walk through today’s scripture readings, there’s a theme that stands out: worth. Jesus calls us to reflect deeply on this question, “Is anything worth more than your soul?” It’s a question that asks us to weigh the eternal against the temporary, to measure the value of a soul—our soul—against the fleeting things of this world. Let's dive into the heart of these passages and explore how Jesus reveals the true worth of our lives. The healing of the blind man in Bethsaida is intriguing because it happens in two stages. After Jesus leads the man outside the village and touches his eyes, the man initially sees people, but they appear like trees walking around. Jesus touches him again, and his sight is fully restored. This gradual healing mirrors our spiritual journey. Sometimes, our understanding of Jesus and our faith grows in stages. We may not see clearly at first, but with time and more "touches" from Jesus, we begin to understand who He is and the depth of His love for us. This reminds us that faith isn’t always instantaneous. It grows and develops as we continually seek Jesus. Then, Jesus asks His disciples a crucial question: “Who do you say that I am?” (Mark 8:29). Peter answers, “You are the Messiah.” This was the moment Peter fully recognized Jesus’ identity, though he did not yet understand the full scope of what that meant. It's easy to say the right things, but truly understanding and living out that truth is the greater challenge. Jesus goes on to predict His death, and Peter rebukes Him, not understanding why the Messiah would suffer. Jesus responds sharply, “Get behind me, Satan! You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns” (Mark 8:33). This rebuke reminds us of how often we view life from a limited, earthly perspective, rather than from God's eternal viewpoint. Jesus then calls His followers to a radical discipleship: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Mark 8:34). Following Jesus isn’t about comfort or earthly success. It’s about sacrifice, surrender, and a willingness to lose one’s life for His sake. This is where Jesus asks the profound question, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Mark 8:36). We often invest so much in temporary things—success, material possessions, human approval—yet Jesus reminds us that none of these are worth the value of our soul. Nothing in this world is more valuable than our relationship with God. Our soul’s worth is immeasurable, and it’s worth surrendering everything to follow Jesus. Six days later, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain where they witness His transfiguration. . . Continue reading - https://triciagoyer.com/a-glowing-light-in-the-darkness/ SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - Mark 7:24-30, Matthew 15:21-28, Mark 7:31-37, Matthew 15:29-31, Mark 8:1-10, Matthew 15:32-16:4, Mark 8:11-21, Matthew 16:5-12 WORD OF THE DAY: -  Ordered Today’s readings are packed with rich lessons that span faith, compassion, and obedience. Jesus continues His ministry, traveling outside Jewish territory, performing miracles, and confronting misunderstandings from the religious leaders. As we explore these passages, one thing stands out—Jesus gives orders, but these are not the harsh commands of an authoritarian. Instead, they are invitations to receive His grace, provision, and healing. In a surprising turn of events, Jesus travels to Tyre, a Gentile region, and encounters a Canaanite woman whose daughter is demon-possessed. At first, Jesus seems reluctant to help, stating that His mission is to the Jews. But the woman’s faith is unshakable. She persists, acknowledging Jesus’ authority and pleading for His mercy. Jesus finally responds to her faith, healing her daughter. This story teaches us about the power of persistent faith. Even when the answer doesn’t come immediately, and even when cultural or religious boundaries seem to stand in the way, faith can break through. The woman’s humility and perseverance provide a powerful example of how we should approach God with our requests. What’s even more profound is that this Gentile woman recognized Jesus as the "Son of David"—a Messianic title. She knew she had no claim to the Jewish Messiah, but her faith transcended cultural boundaries. Jesus was moved by her belief, showing us that faith, not ethnicity or background, is what matters to God. Next, Jesus travels to the Decapolis, another Gentile region, where He heals a man who is deaf and has a speech impediment. In this intimate and personal miracle, Jesus takes the man aside, touches his ears and tongue, and orders his healing. The result? The man is immediately able to hear and speak clearly. The people’s reaction is beautiful: “He has done everything well!” (Mark 7:37). This is a moment of collective honor for Jesus. Even in Gentile territories, people recognize His authority and compassion. Jesus doesn’t just perform miracles for show—He restores lives, one person at a time. This healing reminds us of how deeply personal Jesus' miracles are. He didn’t just perform acts of healing in a distant, impersonal way. He touched the man, engaged with him, and gave him back his ability to fully participate in life. It’s a reminder that Jesus sees us individually, and He cares deeply about our specific needs. The next passage shows Jesus feeding another large crowd—this time 4,000 men, not including women and children. The disciples are again puzzled, wondering how they will feed so many people with only seven loaves and a few fish. But just like before, Jesus gives thanks, breaks the bread, and provides for everyone. And, again, there are leftovers—seven baskets full. . . Continue reading - https://triciagoyer.com/a-glowing-light-in-the-darkness/ SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - John 6:22-71, Mark 7:1-23, Matthew 15:1-20 WORD OF THE DAY: -  Heart In today’s readings, Jesus offers profound insights into what truly matters—our hearts. The physical bread that sustains us is fleeting, but the spiritual nourishment Jesus offers leads to eternal life. As we dig deeper into His teachings, we’re called to examine our hearts and our hunger for God. After feeding the 5,000, the crowd follows Jesus across the Sea of Galilee. When they find Him, they are hungry—physically and spiritually. Jesus points out that they are seeking Him because they ate their fill of bread, but He wants them to hunger for something more: eternal life. This statement carries great weight. Jesus is not just another teacher; He is the source of life itself. The crowd, however, struggles with His words, especially when He talks about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. This teaching is difficult, and many turn away, unable to accept it. But Jesus doesn’t back down. His message is clear—eternal life comes only through Him, the true bread from heaven. In the end, it’s Peter who acknowledges what the others could not. Jesus' invitation is open to all, but it’s not always easy to accept. He calls us to place our faith in Him completely, to trust Him as the Bread of Life that sustains us. While Jesus teaches about the internal transformation needed to enter the kingdom of God, the Pharisees are caught up in external rituals. They question why some of Jesus' disciples don't follow the traditional hand-washing rules. The Pharisees were so focused on outward appearances—following traditions and rituals—that they missed the importance of inner purity. What truly matters to God is the state of our hearts. Jesus lists the sins that flow from a corrupt heart—immorality, greed, deceit, envy, pride. These are what defile us, not whether we follow every religious rule to the letter. The heart is central to everything Jesus teaches. In the Bible, the heart is not just a physical organ but the seat of life, emotion, and morality. It’s where our true character resides. But Jesus also offers hope. He doesn’t just point out the problem; He offers the solution. Through Him, we can receive a new heart—one that is pure, one that reflects His love and grace. The world offers many distractions—just like the Pharisees’ focus on traditions, we too can get caught up in external appearances, in rules and routines. But Jesus calls us to something deeper. He wants our hearts, not just our actions. As someone who grew up in church, I often heard about the “rules” but missed the “heart” of the gospel. Jesus doesn’t want us to be perfect rule-followers; He wants us to be transformed from the inside out. He wants us to hunger for the Bread of Life, to seek nourishment that lasts for eternity. It’s easy to polish the outside, but what about the inside? Are we allowing Jesus to transform our hearts? Are we letting His Spirit cleanse us, renew us, and make us whole? SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - Luke 9:7-9, Mark 6:14-29, Matthew 14:1-21, Mark 6:30-44, Luke 9:10-17, John 6:1-15, Mark 6:45-52, Matthew 14:22-33, John 6:16-21, Mark 6:53-56, Matthew 14:34-36 WORD OF THE DAY: - Leftovers Today's reading highlights some of the most remarkable moments in Jesus' ministry. The story of Jesus feeding over 5,000 people with just five loaves and two fish is one of the most well-known miracles in the Bible. What amazes me about this story is not just the miracle of multiplication but the fact that there were leftovers—twelve baskets full. Jesus didn’t just provide enough for the crowd; He provided more than enough. This overflow is a reminder that God’s provision always surpasses our needs. After feeding the crowd, Jesus sends His disciples across the Sea of Galilee while He stays behind to pray. In the middle of the night, as the disciples struggle against the wind and waves, Jesus walks out to them on the water. At first, they are terrified, thinking He’s a ghost. But Jesus reassures them. Peter, full of faith, steps out onto the water but quickly falters when he realizes the danger around him. Yet even in his doubt, Jesus reaches out and saves him. Just as Herod was haunted by the ghost of John the Baptist, fearing that Jesus was John raised from the dead, we, too, can be plagued by fears that stem from our own guilt or misunderstandings. But Jesus calms our fears and holds us up, even when our faith falters. When Jesus and His disciples arrive on the other side of the lake, people immediately recognize Him and bring their sick to be healed. In many ways, we are all "leftovers"—people who have been cast aside by the world, burdened by our mistakes, or weighed down by life's challenges. But Jesus reaches out to us, not with judgment, but with love and healing. When I think of leftovers, I think of abundance—more than enough to go around. Jesus didn’t just meet the needs of the crowd; He exceeded them. But it’s not just about physical provision. Jesus also meets us in the emotional and spiritual “leftovers” of our lives—the places where we feel broken, lost, or forgotten. Whether it’s the fear that grips us in the middle of life’s storms or the shame that lingers from past mistakes, Jesus reaches out with compassion, calming our fears and bringing peace. Just as He walked on water to be with His disciples, Jesus comes to us in the middle of our struggles, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” He is with us, even in the storms of life, and He has the power to calm the chaos around us. In the same way, we are called to reflect that compassion in our own lives. Who are the “leftovers” in our world—the people who are overlooked, marginalized, or forgotten? How can we, as followers of Christ, extend His love and compassion to them? As we trust in the overflow of God’s provision for ourselves, let’s also be generous in sharing that overflow with others. SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.

All the info you need to START + the printable schedule + links to the Bible we use is on our website: http://dailybiblepodcast.net!   Thank you to Kathy Howard for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Kathy Howard and download your free Deep Rooted bundle by visiting https://thoughtful-creator-422.ck.page/ec001b58c8 Join the Daily Bible Pod Coffee Club: https://dailybiblepodcoffeeclub.substack.com/ TODAY'S READING: - Matthew 9:27-34, Mark 6:1-6, Matthew 13:53-58, Matthew 9:35-38, Mark 6:7-13, Matthew 10:1-42, Luke 9:1-6 WORD OF THE DAY: -  Authority Today’s reading takes us deeper into understanding the authority of Jesus and how He used it not just to heal but to bring about transformation in people’s lives. The first story centers around two blind men who cry out to Jesus, calling Him the “Son of David”. Jesus asks if they believe He can do this, and when they affirm their faith, He heals them. In the same passage, we also read about a demon-possessed man who is brought to Jesus. After Jesus casts out the demon, the man who had been mute begins to speak. While the people are amazed, the Pharisees accuse Jesus of casting out demons by the ruler of demons. This reflects a deeper theme of the honor-shame dynamic at play. Jesus was challenging the established religious authority, and this did not sit well with the Pharisees. But to the crowds, Jesus’ power and authority were undeniable. Despite His astonishing teachings, the people couldn’t get past their familiarity with Him. In an honor-shame society, Jesus’ claim to authority was met with dishonor in His own hometown. They were offended, and their lack of faith limited what Jesus could do there. One of the most significant moments in today’s reading is when Jesus commissions His disciples, giving them the same authority He has. Jesus instructs them to go to the lost sheep of Israel and to proclaim that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. He warns them that they will face persecution but assures them that they should not be afraid of those who can only kill the body, for God will take care of their souls. His final instruction is both challenging and comforting. In today’s reading, we see Jesus not only demonstrating His divine authority but also sharing it with His disciples. Whether it was healing the blind, casting out demons, or sending His disciples to spread the Good News, Jesus’ authority was evident in everything He did. But His authority wasn’t just about power; it was about serving, healing, and freeing others. Imagine being touched by Jesus. His touch carried authority. But in the society He lived in, authority was tied to honor. Jesus didn’t just perform miracles—He was constantly in an “honor contest” with those around Him. Yet, despite the challenges, Jesus continued to demonstrate His authority through love and compassion. How are we responding to Jesus’ authority in our lives today? Are we honoring Him by trusting His power to heal and restore, or are we holding back, skeptical like the people of Nazareth? Even when we don’t understand, Jesus remains sovereign. His authority is not dependent on our belief—it is inherent in who He is. In our own lives, we are called to exercise the authority given to us by Jesus. Whether it’s sharing the Good News, serving those in need, or praying for healing, we have the same power at work within us. But this authority is to be used with humility and a heart of service, always pointing back to Jesus, the source of that power. SOCIALS: Tricia: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Michelle: Instagram | LinkedIn Daily Bible Podcast: Instagram | Facebook | Join the Community  DISCLAIMER: The Daily Bible Podcast, Tricia Goyer, Michelle Hill, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.