So Much More: Scripture Meditation (Lectio Divina)

Amanda, who is known as the Red-haired Archaeologist, studied biblical Archaeology at Harvard and is passionate about helping people understand the intersection of Archaeology and the Bible. She’s the author of a number of books including The Red-Haired Archaeologist Digs Israel. Take a few minutes to meditate on Exodus 14:10-15, 21-22 and then listen in to hear where God led Amanda. Some highlights from our conversation: How Amanda got interested in Biblical Archaeology How the Lectio Divina process helped her slow down to see something new in this passage – one she has studied quite a bit before. How God often does supernatural things in natural ways. What we should do when we find a contradiction or confusing part of Scripture. How Archaeology has evolved and why we can trust what is coming out of the ground around Biblical Archaeology   You can find Amanda at https://redhairedarchaeologist.com/ Listen to her podcast here Follow Amanda on Instagram: @redhairedarchaeologist On Facebook: AmandaHopeHaley   The exact verses read in this podcast are Exodus 14:10-15, 21-22 10 As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. 11 They said to Moses, “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Didn’t we say to you in Egypt, ‘Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians’? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!” 13 Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 15 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. 21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, 22 and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Note: Meditation starts at 1:40 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with author and non-profit leader Mark Matlock to hear where the Lord led him. If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 5 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed here for your use. Exodus 7:8-13 8 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, 9 “When Pharaoh says to you, ‘Perform a miracle,’ then say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh,’ and it will become a snake.” 10 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the Lord commanded. Aaron threw his staff down in front of Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a snake. 11 Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts: 12 Each one threw down his staff and it became a snake. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13 Yet Pharaoh’s heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mark Matlock is a seasoned non-profit leader, the founder of WisdomWorks, and previous president of Youth Specialties. He is passionate about helping organizations adapt to changing times by turning research-based insights into impactful action. He’s has authored more than twenty books for parents and teens. His most recent is called Faith for Exiles: Five Ways for a New Generation to Follow Jesus in Digital Babylon. He is also currently working on Emotionally Healthy Discipleship for teens with Pete Scazzero and a new book for Barna. Take a few minutes to meditate on Exodus 7:8-13 and then listen in to hear where God led Mark. Some highlights from our conversation: Mark used to make a living as a magician, so he lends some interesting insight into what might have been happening when the work of God was mimicked by Pharaoh’s sorcerers. We also discuss how our efforts can produce “fruit” that appears real and good but may not endure if we aren’t relying on God. Mark shares about his book, Faith for Exiles, and helps us learn what we can do to help disciple the next generation. You can find Mark at https://markmatlock.com/ You can find Mark’s newest book here   Follow Mark on Instagram: @markmatlock On Facebook: MarkMatlock On Twitter @MarkMatlock   The exact verses read in this podcast are Exodus 7:8-13 8 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, 9 “When Pharaoh says to you, ‘Perform a miracle,’ then say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh,’ and it will become a snake.” 10 So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the Lord commanded. Aaron threw his staff down in front of Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a snake. 11 Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts: 12 Each one threw down his staff and it became a snake. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13 Yet Pharaoh’s heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Note: Meditation starts at 1:22 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with leadership coach, author and Bible teacher, Tim Stevenson to hear where the Lord led him. If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 1 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Exodus 5:22-6:2 22 Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Why, Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me? 23 Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble on this people, and you have not rescued your people at all.” 6 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh: Because of my mighty hand he will let them go; because of my mighty hand he will drive them out of his country.” 2 God also said to Moses, “I am the Lord. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Tim is a Master Sherpa Executive Coach, author of 11 published books and hundreds of leadership articles. He also served for many years in pastoral ministry and is an insightful bible teacher. Take a few minutes to meditate on Exodus 5:22-6:2 and then listen in to hear where God led Tim. Some highlights from our conversation: Tim gives us the back story to this verse and helps us understand why Moses might have been caught off guard by the Israelites anger. The Scripture says God hardened Pharaoh’s heart. Tim gives us his perspective on what this means and answers the question, “Was Pharaoh a good guy before God hardened his heart – or was there something else at play?” It’s very possible to do the right thing and have things go terribly wrong. This can lead to feeling angry with God. What should we do with this anger – and what can we learn from how Moses deals with his anger. We talk about why circumstances and feelings aren’t the best metric for knowing and following God’s will. And we also discuss how we can know God’s voice better.   You can find Tim at https://www.stevensoncoaching.com/ You can find Tim’s leadership articles here And order his leadership book Better here The exact verses read in this podcast are Exodus 5:22-6:2 22 Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Why, Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me? 23 Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble on this people, and you have not rescued your people at all.” 6 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh: Because of my mighty hand he will let them go; because of my mighty hand he will drive them out of his country.” 2 God also said to Moses, “I am the Lord. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Note: Meditation starts at 1:37 Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you. Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Seminary professor, Dr. Joye Baker, to hear where the Lord led her. If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 3 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here. The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Exodus 4:10-17 10 Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.” 11 The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” 13 But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.” 14 Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and he will be glad to see you. 15 You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. 16 He will speak to the people for you, and it will be as if he were your mouth and as if you were God to him. 17 But take this staff in your hand so you can perform the signs with it. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Dr. Joye Baker has taught and discipled women in the church for more than thirty years. Her heart's passion is to encourage women in their walk with the Lord and share the love and hope that God alone can give. Dr. Baker currently serves as an adjunct professor at DTS training and equipping women for ministry. Take a few minutes to meditate on Exodus 4:10-17 and then listen in to hear where God led Joye. Some highlights from our conversation: How the Lord reminded Joye that when he calls, he will equip. We talk about the promise Jesus makes to the disciples in Mark 13:11 that says, “do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” This was the verse I couldn’t remember. We talk about why being surrendered to God’s will is essential to a vibrant walk with the Lord. Fianlly, Joye gives sage advice on how to handle transitions and disruptions in life. You can find our more about Dr. Joye Baker here And you can listen to her message on surrender here   The exact verses read in this podcast are Exodus 4:10-17 10 Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.” 11 The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” 13 But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.” 14 Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and he will be glad to see you. 15 You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. 16 He will speak to the people for you, and it will be as if he were your mouth and as if you were God to him. 17 But take this staff in your hand so you can perform the signs with it. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Note: Meditation starts at 1:36   Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Bible Teacher and author, Dr. Tara Jenkins to hear where the Lord led her.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 2 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Exodus 3:1-5, 10-12 Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. 3 So Moses thought, “I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.” 4 When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.” 5 “Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” … 10 So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” 12 And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Dr. Tara Jenkins is a powerful and inspiring teacher of God’s word. She is also the founder of Ministry Mates, an organization designed to minister to Senior Pastors’ wives. And she has authored three books. Her most recent is - Enoughness: The Journey to Discovering Who You Already Are.   Take a few minutes to meditate on Exodus 3:1-5 and 10-12 and then listen in to hear where God led Tara.   Some highlights from our conversation: Why the words you and I stood out to Tara and how they encouraged her. When God calls us to follow him, he often doesn’t call us to places of comfort or convivence. God doesn’t promise us a perfectly laid out plan, but he does promise that he will be with us. Why we are enough for what God has called us to. How Tara knows God’s calling in her own life.   You can find Tara at https://tarajenkinsonline.com/ Follow on Instagram: @drtarajenkins Follow on Facebook: DrTaraJenkins   The exact verses read in this podcast are Exodus 3:1-5, 10-12 Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. 3 So Moses thought, “I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.” 4 When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.” 5 “Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” … 10 So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” 12 And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Note: Meditation starts at 1:41  Lectio Divina is the divine or sacred reading of Scripture. Create some sacred space for God and spend a few quiet moments engaging with his Word. As you allow the Spirit to lead, you may be surprised by where he leads you.   Once you’ve listened to this Scripture Experience podcast, then head over to the next episode and catch the interview with Bible Teacher and author, Erica Wiggenhorn to hear where the Lord led her.   If you would like to go deeper into the life of Moses, this series coincides with lesson 1 of Jodie’s Bible study: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life that Matters   You can find Jodie at Jodieniznik.com Instagram @creatingspaceforgod Facebook @jodieniznik Download your free Lectio Divina Guided journal here.   The exact verses read in this podcast are printed her for your use. Acts 7:20-25, NIV 20 “At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for by his family. 21 When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. 22 Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action. 23 “When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. 24 He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. 25 Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.