178 | Thinking Biblically About Devotionals

THINKING BIBLICALLY ABOUT WOMEN’S CONFERENCESAre women's conferences actually helping women grow in their faith? What should we look for in a Christian women's retreat or conference, and what does the Bible say about gathering together for worship and teaching?I recently asked women how they felt about women's conferences, and I was surprised by how many had negative experiences. Some mentioned shallow teaching, little Scripture, feeling left out, or spending time and money on events that didn't help them grow spiritually. I understand those frustrations! If we're going to set aside time to attend a conference, we should leave better equipped to know God, understand His Word, and live out our faith.After years of speaking at and attending hundreds of women's conferences and retreats, I myself have seen the good, the bad, and everything in between! And those experiences have shaped how we approach our own Every Woman a Theologian Conference. In this episode of Thinking Biblically, I'm sharing what Scripture says about gathering as believers, why women's conferences should never replace the local church, and what makes an event genuinely beneficial for Christian women.In this episode: What Hebrews 10, Colossians 3, and 1 Corinthians 14 teach us about gathering together Why emotional experiences shouldn't be the goal of Christian conferences What I've learned from some of the healthiest women's ministries I've encountered How to choose biblical speakers and plan Scripture-centered women's events Why fellowship, accessibility, and welcoming nursing mothers matter How we choose speakers and plan the Every Woman a Theologian ConferenceI hope this conversation encourages you to think biblically about why we gather and what we hope to accomplish when we do.JOIN US AT THE EVERY WOMAN A THEOLOGIAN CONFERENCE!Our annual conference is November 6–7, 2026, in Traverse City, Michigan!This year's theme is Foundations of Faith: Built on Christ, and we'll be spending two days in Scripture, worship, prayer, and fellowship with Christians from different denominations and backgrounds.I'll be teaching alongside Wendy Blight, Kanita Rutley, and Jeremy Jenkins as we explore what it means to build our faith on Christ alone.If you have been thinking about coming, we would love to have you join us!Get your conference tickets and learn more: https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/SHOP EVERY WOMAN A THEOLOGIANLooking for Bible studies and resources to help you grow in your understanding of Scripture?At Every Woman a Theologian, we create verse-by-verse Bible studies, Not-So-Quiet Time morning plans, theology books, prayer resources, and discipleship tools for individuals, families, and small groups. Our goal is to equip Christians to know what they believe and communicate it graciously.CONNECT WITH PHYLICIA & EVERY WOMAN A THEOLOGIANWebsite & Shop: https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/Substack: https://substack.com/@phyliciamasonheimerSubscribe to this channel for more episodes of Verity Podcast, biblical teaching, and conversations in our Thinking Biblically series.If this episode was helpful, share it with a friend or someone who serves in women's ministry at your church. I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments, too!Have you attended a women's conference that really helped you grow in your faith? What made it different?#WomensConferences #ChristianWomensConference #PhyliciaMasonheimer #EveryWomanATheologian #VerityPodcast #WomensMinistry #BibleStudy #ChristianDiscipleship

How should Christians approach elections? With so much division surrounding politics, it can be difficult to know how to engage thoughtfully without getting caught up in the anger, fear, and frustration that often come with election season.In this episode of the Verity Podcast, I discuss what the Bible teaches about voting, and our responsibilities as Christians. Looking at Scripture alongside the concerns of America’s founders, I consider how we can make informed decisions, think carefully about candidates and policies, and remember where our ultimate allegiance belongs.We will talk about: What America’s founders understood about the dangers of political division How Christians can approach voting with biblical discernment Why religious freedom matters when evaluating candidates and policies How to consider both character and policy when making political decisions What Romans 13 teaches about government and authority Why Scripture calls us to pray for our leaders, regardless of political party How to stay engaged in politics without placing our hope in political outcomesOur citizenship is in heaven, but that doesn’t mean we have no responsibility here on earth. Christians can care about the direction of our country while remembering that no election determines the faithfulness of God or the future of His kingdom.Before we argue about policy, we need to be people of prayer. And before we place our hope in a political leader, we need to remember who is ultimately in control.My article on Sinless Conservatism: https://phyliciamasonheimer.substack.com/p/confronting-the-lie-of-sinless-conservatismFind more from Phylicia Masonheimer and Every Woman a Theologian:https://www.everywomanatheologian.comSubscribe to the Verity Podcast for more conversations about theology, culture, and living out your faith with biblical conviction.How do you approach voting as a Christian? Share your thoughts in the comments.#VerityPodcast #ChristianPolitics #BiblicalWorldview

THINKING BIBLICALLY ABOUT FERTILITY | BIRTH CONTROL, IVF, MARRIAGE & CHRISTIAN ETHICSWhat does the Bible say about sexual ethics, fertility, birth control, IVF, and family planning? Should Christians think differently about contraception, sterilization, and the purpose of sex in marriage?In this episode of Thinking Biblically, I am tackling one of my most requested (and controversial!) topics: Christian sexual ethics. After years of studying Scripture and walking through secondary infertility and miscarriage, I share how my understanding of fertility, marriage, and the Christian view of the body has changed.We are talking about hormonal birth control, vasectomies, IVF, surrogacy, and natural family planning. This conversation may challenge what you have always believed, but the goal is not to tell you what to think, but to give you a starting point for further formation. In this episode, we discuss: What Scripture teaches about fertility, marriage, and sex Why my views on contraception has changed The ethics of hormonal birth control and sterilization IVF and surrogacy How infertility and miscarriage have shaped my perspective Approaching family planning with biblical wisdomWatch the entire episode to hear my personal story, the research behind my changing views, and the questions I believe Christians should be asking. Email me for the notes from this episode at [email protected] LEARNING WITH PHYLICIAVisit phyliciamasonheimer.com for more biblical teaching, articles, and episodes of Verity Podcast. While you are there, you can also explore Every Woman a Theologian for Bible studies, books, and theological resources created to equip Christians to know what they believe and communicate it graciously. In a couple of weeks, we gather in person for our annual theology conference, please join us in Northern Michigan Nov. 6–7. Tickets still available at https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/conference/MORE FROM VERITY PODCASTExplore the Thinking Biblically series for more conversations about Christian theology, culture, and everyday discipleship.SUBSCRIBE for future episodes, and share this conversation with someone who enjoys digging deeper into Scripture! Join the conversation: What questions are you still working through about Christian fertility and family planning? #PhyliciaMasonheimer #ThinkingBiblically #ChristianFertility #EveryWomanATheologian #IVF

Should Christians read spicy books? How do we choose books that honor God? And how do we actually find time to read when life is busy?In this episode of the Verity Podcast, we discuss thinking biblically about reading habits, Christian discernment, and how the books we choose shape our minds, hearts, and faith.I share my thoughts on the decline of literacy, why Christians should care about what they're reading, and how Philippians 4:8 can guide our book choices. I tackle the growing popularity of sexually explicit fiction, and share my personal journey of breaking free from an addiction to erotic fiction.But this episode isn't just about what NOT to read! I also share my favorite genres, Christian book recommendations, how I read multiple books at once, and the simple reading routine that works for me as a homeschooling mom, author, and ministry founder.In this episode, we're talking about: Why reading and literacy are declining in our digital world How to choose books using biblical discernment and Philippians 4:8 The rise of sexually explicit fiction an the impact of it on our spiritual lives Book genres worth exploring How to develop better reading habits and improve your attention span, based on my own experience Book recommendations and an update on Riverside Bookshop!Whether you are an avid reader, trying to get back into reading, or wondering how to approach popular fiction as a Christian, this conversation will encourage you to think more intentionally about the books on your shelf.RESOURCES & LINKS Shop Every Woman a Theologian books and Bible studies: https://phyliciamasonheimer.com Explore Every Woman a Theologian and other resources for growing in biblical literacy. Riverside Bookshop: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61594166642407 Phylicia's Book Recommendations: https://tsfqr.com/phys-fav-books Have a book recommendation? Email Phylicia at [email protected] THE CONVERSATION!What are you reading right now? Do you have a favorite fiction or nonfiction book that aligns with Philippians 4:8? Share your recommendations in the comments! We'd also love to hear what books you think we should carry at Riverside Bookshop.Subscribe to the Verity Podcast for more conversations about Christian theology, biblical literacy, spiritual growth, and thinking biblically about everyday life.#PhyliciaMasonheimer #ChristianReading #VerityPodcast #ChristianBooks #BiblicalDiscernment

This week in our Thinking Biblically series, we're talking about another hot topic: the use of AI in Bible study. Whenever there is new technology, especially at this scale and influence, we as Christians are called to be discerning. But how do we determine what to use it for—or not use it for—when it seems Christians at large differ so widely in if, or how, they use it?In this episode we'll talk about:- Why it's important as a Christian to seek discernment about the use of AI- How work, especially creative work, is a partnership with God, and how we image Him when we do our work well-  Why it matters to have a strong theology of the Holy Spirit- Every Woman a Theologian's AI policy- What I don't recommend using AI for- What I do recommend using AI forIf you've been told that AI is just a morally neutral tool and aren't quite sure how to think about it with a biblical mindset, this episode is for you! Where to find our AI Policy https://phyliciamasonheimer.substack.com/p/your-ai-sermon-is-showing Fall Shop is coming October 8th! Subscribe to our Newsletter to be the first to know when it launches. https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/newsletter/ Before you reach for AI, seek the answer for yourself. We have resources to help in your study. Start with Bible Study Basics, Interpreting the Bible Correctly, and Glossary of Theological Terms all available in the Every Woman a Theologian shop. https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/bible-study/Additional resource to watch, Jonathan Pageau: https://youtu.be/yZUuKzDQSsI?is=aQhzt9TZ4l2JRY2n

What is a "village," and how do we cultivate one in our own lives? In this episode, we'll take a look at the traits of a village, reflect on the loneliness epidemic in America, and how the Bible gives us guidance on overcoming that epidemic by providing real instructions for cultivating community. We'll also consider how we often view friendships in a scarcity mindset, but how we can build healthier ones with an abundance mindset.We'll discuss: Historical traits of a "village" What's causing the loneliness epidemic and how the Bible guides us to overcome it Specific Bible verses on cultivating community Three principles and three red flags to keep in mind when discerning friendships Practical advice on how to make friendsIf you've struggled with friendships or feeling like you don't know how to build community, this episode is for you!Loving our Thinking Biblically series? Subscribe to Verity Podcast for a new episode each week:https://apple.co/veritypodcastJoin us for Every Woman a Theologian Conference Nov. 6-7. All denominations welcome! https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/confe...Stay tuned for our Fall Shop coming October 8th! Bible studies, homeschool curriculum, autumn candles, mini pumpkins, and more! https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/new-items/Find your next Bible Study to study on your own or in small groups in our shop! ⦿ Every Woman a Theologian Shop: https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/bible-study/Follow along:Substack: https://phyliciamasonheimer.substack.comInstagram:   / phyliciamasonheimerEWAT Instagram:   / everywomanatheologian

In this episode, Phylicia talks about the practice of using devotional books in the Christian walk. Are they a recent addition to Christian life, or have they been in use longer than we think? She then discusses the criteria she uses to discern whether a devotional book is helpful for her spiritual growth, and completes the episode by sharing a few of her favorites.Loving our Thinking Biblically series? Subscribe to Verity Podcast for a new episode each week:https://apple.co/veritypodcastJoin us for Every Woman a Theologian Conference Nov. 6-7. All denominations welcome! https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/conference/Shop our verse-by-verse studies, books, and family discipleship resources ⦿ Every Woman a Theologian Shop:https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/shopNEW! Believe! A Devotional-Style Bible Study Through the Gospel of John by Seana Scott. https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/product/believe-a-devotional-style-bible-study-through-the-gospel-of-john/Follow along:Substack: https://phyliciamasonheimer.substack.comInstagram:   / phyliciamasonheimerEWAT Instagram:   / everywomanatheologian

In this episode, we look at the 8,000+ Christian denominations and ask whether all that division is evidence of a broken church — or branches growing off one vine. We'll walk through where the major denominations came from, why gathering with a local body isn't optional for a Christian, and how to actually choose a church without waiting for a perfect one.In this episode, we examine:- what the word "church" has meant since the assembly of Israel, and why a cookout with Christian friends isn't it- why John 15's vine and branches is spoken to a gathered community, not to you alone in your living room- the grace evangelicals are cutting themselves off from when church becomes optional- a fast tour of church history: the Jerusalem church, the 1054 schism, the Reformation, and the origins of Lutheran, Anglican, Presbyterian, Methodist, Anabaptist, Congregational, Baptist, Church of Christ, and Pentecostal traditions- the difference between denominations that split over doctrinal orthodoxy, over practice, and over mere preference- what each tradition does well, and what they need to learn from one another- four things to look for when choosing a church: doctrinal truth, social change, maturing community, and holding your preferences looselyIf you've been church hunting for years without finding the right fit, or you've wondered whether denominations are a problem to be solved, this episode is for you.Shop our verse-by-verse studies, books, and family discipleship resources ⦿ Every Woman a Theologian Shop:https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/shopSubscribe to Verity Podcast:https://apple.co/veritypodcastVerity Podcast is an Every Woman a Theologian company. We believe every woman should be a theologian—every woman a student of the heart of God.Order Every Woman a Theologian:https://tsfqr.com/EWATbookFollow along:Substack: https://phyliciamasonheimer.substack.comInstagram:   / phyliciamasonheimer  EWAT Instagram:   / everywomanatheologian  Subscribe for weekly biblical theology, spiritual warfare teaching, and practical guidance for growing in discernment and confidence in Christ. #VerityPodcast #EveryWomanATheologian #FaithBuilding #ChristianWomen #PrayerLife #FaithLife #BibleStudy

In this episode, we look at the Bible to answer the question both “trad wives” and feminists are attempting to answer: what is the purpose of a woman? We’ll see how both ends of the spectrum turn into fundamentalism, and how Scripture points us to a better and more practical understanding.In this episode, we examine:- the way current American culture defines the terms, “trad wife” and “feminist”- historical roles of women in America, going back to the 1700s- how the two viewpoints provoke one another and impact culture- what the primary purpose of a Christian person is according to Scripture- how to consider the purpose God has called you to in your current seasonIf you’re looking for clarity amidst the arguments of both sides and wondering what God says about your calling as a woman, this episode is for you.Shop our verse-by-verse studies, books, and family discipleship resources ⦿ Every Woman a Theologian Shop:https://phyliciamasonheimer.com/shopSubscribe to Verity Podcast:https://apple.co/veritypodcastVerity Podcast is an Every Woman a Theologian company. We believe every woman should be a theologian—every woman a student of the heart of God.Order Every Woman a Theologian:https://tsfqr.com/EWATbookFollow along:Substack: https://phyliciamasonheimer.substack.comInstagram:   / phyliciamasonheimer  EWAT Instagram:   / everywomanatheologian  Subscribe for weekly biblical theology, spiritual warfare teaching, and practical guidance for growing in discernment and confidence in Christ. #VerityPodcast #EveryWomanATheologian #FaithBuilding #ChristianWomen #PrayerLife #FaithLife #BibleStudy

For the best experience, visit our YouTube Channel!For those who followed me when I was on social media regularly, you know that I love a good thrift store! There is a special kind of joy in thrifting that can't be replicated online. You walk into the store not knowing what you'll find, and every shelf holds possibility. There's something especially satisfying about finding a beautiful theology book on a shelf for just a few dollars. Over the years, thrifting has become one of my favorite ways to build a library. Not only is it more affordable, but it feels like the true reflection of what I'm finding in a book about God: treasure.In today's video, I'm taking you along and sharing:• How I hunt for theology books in thrift stores.• How I discern which books are worth bringing home.• Why I recommend some books to others and keep different books for my own reading.• Practical tips for thrifting theology books and building your own library on a budget.If you'd like my theology book lists and recommendations, we'd love to hear from you! Email us at [email protected] our newly launched Summer Shop at www.everywomanatheologian.com.My new favorite! Carry your summer reads in our new Preach Christ Summer Tote, designed to keep your favorite books close at hand all season long.At Every Woman a Theologian, we believe theology isn't reserved for scholars. Every Christian is invited to know God more deeply through His Word. Subscribe for rich biblical teaching, practical discipleship, and encouragement to think biblically and live faithfully in everyday life. And if you'd like Bible teaching delivered right to your inbox, join our email list for the latest resources, recommendations, and updates.#ThriftingBooks #TheologyBooks #ChristianBooks #BookRecommendations #BibleStudy #EveryWomanATheologian #PhyliciaMasonheimer #ChristianYouTube #BookThrifting (edited)