So Much More: Scripture Meditation (Lectio Divina)

A guided Scripture meditation using Lectio Divina. How can you have a flourishing faith? Psalm 1:1–3 tells us how. Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. We all long for stability—a life that can’t be easily shaken.And yet, it’s surprisingly easy to drift. Whether it’s the constant stream of news, the demands of our to-do lists, the pull of people’s opinions, or simply our own self-reliance, we can find ourselves slowly swayed—sometimes without even noticing it. Psalm 1 offers us a better way. It paints a beautiful picture of the person who delights in God’s Word: like a tree planted by streams of water—deeply rooted, spiritually nourished, and steadily bearing good fruit. In this Scripture meditation, we’ll slow down and reflect on Psalm 1:1–3, letting God’s Word re-center us and remind us where true blessing and strength come from—not from following the crowd, but from following Him. This is the third episode in our series: Unshakable: Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow. Each week, we’re turning to Scripture to help us stand firm in faith, rely on God’s strength, and hold onto hope. In this meditation on Unshakably Rooted, you’ll be invited to:• Notice what influences might be pulling you away from God’s best• Reflect on what a life of blessing and flourishing could look like for you• Consider how God is inviting you to move toward that rooted life• Rest in His invitation to grow strong and steady in Him Whether you're feeling grounded or feeling a drift, may this time in God’s Word help you become more deeply rooted in His love and truth. Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The Entire meditation text is: Psalm 1:1-3, NIV 1 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A Scripture Meditation using Lectio Divina. How to find strength in the midst of temptation. Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Temptation is something we all face—sometimes in obvious ways, sometimes in subtle ones. Whether it’s the urge to react in anger, reach for a harmful habit, or rely on ourselves instead of God, the struggle is real. But so is God’s faithfulness. In this Scripture meditation, we’re slowing down with 1 Corinthians 10:12–13, a passage that reminds us we’re not alone in our temptations—and that God always provides a way out. Paul’s words to the Corinthian church are full of warning, yes, but also incredible hope. This is the second episode in Unshakable: Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow. Each week, we’re meditating on Scriptures that help us live with strength and confidence in God’s unshakable character. In this meditation on Unshakable in Temptation, you’ll be invited to: Reflect on where you feel most vulnerable to temptation Notice God’s faithfulness and how He provides a way out Examine any pride or self-reliance you may be holding Receive the strength and grace God offers when you struggle Rest in the truth that you are not alone God sees your struggle. He offers you strength, mercy, and a way forward. Whether you’re feeling strong today or weary from the battle, may this time in Scripture renew your hope and anchor you in God’s faithfulness. Take a few deep breaths, open your heart, and let God meet you right where you are. Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Helpful links: Learn more about me, Jodie, at jodieniznik.com Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Find me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation + get a free Guided Journal here. Join my weekly email with links to each new meditation here. Learn about my podcast partner, Life Audio Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies The Entire meditation text is: 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 12 If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. 13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A Scripture meditation using Lectio Divina. Discover peace that guards your heart in Philippians 4:6-7. Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Life can feel uncertain, overwhelming, and full of pressure—but God's Word offers us an unshakable peace that anchors us, no matter the storm. In this Scripture meditation, we’ll slow down and reflect deeply on Philippians 4:6-7. These verses are a powerful invitation to release our worries, pray about everything, and experience the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. This is the first episode in our new series: Unshakable: Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow. Throughout the next nine weeks, we’ll explore Scriptures that remind us of God’s unshakable character, the strength we receive through His Spirit, and the hope we can hold onto in every season. In this meditation on Unshakable Peace, you’ll be invited to: Notice what’s weighing on your heart today Talk to God about what you need Thank Him for His faithfulness Imagine sitting with Jesus and receiving His peace Rest in the truth that God’s peace will guard your heart and mind Whether you’re feeling steady or shaken, may this time in God’s Word help you stand firm and experience His deep, lasting peace. Take a few deep breaths, open your heart, and let God’s Word speak peace to your soul today. Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The Entire meditation text is: Philippians 4:6-7, NLT 6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Scripture meditation invites us to slow down and listen for God’s voice, and today, we’ll engage in Lectio Divina to reflect on our calling through Matthew 28:16-20. God calls each of us to meaningful work—work that fulfills us and furthers His Kingdom. But do we ever feel truly ready? The disciples wrestled with this, too. After His resurrection, Jesus gathered them on a mountain in Galilee. Some worshiped, some doubted—but all were called. Jesus didn’t wait for them to have everything figured out before sending them. Instead, He declared His authority, gave them a mission, and promised: "I am with you always." As we meditate on this passage, we’ll listen, reflect, and respond to Jesus’ invitation. Consider: Where is Jesus leading you? What step is He asking you to take? How does His promise, "I am with you always," shape your response? Come, rest in His presence. You are never alone. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage from this meditation is: Matthew 28:16-20 NLT Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do your mistakes disqualify you from God’s calling? Can He still use you? In this guided Scripture meditation, we’ll step into Peter’s restoration in John 21—a moment filled with grace, renewal, and love. After denying Jesus three times, Peter must have felt like a failure, wondering if he had lost his place in God’s plan. Maybe you’ve felt that way too. But Jesus wasn’t done with Peter. And He isn’t done with you. As we meditate on this powerful encounter, you’ll sit by the fire with Jesus, hear His words of restoration, and receive His love for you today. Come, listen, and let Jesus’s calling revive your heart. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage from this meditation is: John 21:15-22, NLT 15 After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. 16 Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. 17 A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep. 18 “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.” 20 Peter turned around and saw behind them the disciple Jesus loved—the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, “Lord, who will betray you?” 21 Peter asked Jesus, “What about him, Lord?” 22 Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Experience the wonder of Easter Sunday with this Resurrection meditation. Today is the day we celebrate that Jesus is risen—but can you imagine what this moment was like for His first followers? Unbelievable. How could someone they saw die be alive? This meditation invites you to slow down and step into the wonder of that first Resurrection morning. The women discovered the empty tomb. The disciples struggled to believe. And two followers, walking the road to Emmaus, unknowingly encountered Jesus Himself. In this meditation, you’ll take the journey to Emmaus as one of those travelers. What would this seven-mile walk have been like? Grief. Confusion. Wrestling with the rumors of resurrection. Then, suddenly, a stranger begins to walk beside you. He explains the Scriptures, revealing what you couldn’t see before. And finally, in the breaking of bread, your eyes are opened—It was Jesus. He had been with you all along. This Easter, I pray you encounter the risen Christ in a fresh way—with wonder, hope, and joy. He is risen! He is risen indeed! Listen now and step into the story of Easter in a new way. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passage from this meditation is: Luke 24:13-34, NLT 13 That same day two of Jesus’ followers were walking to the village of Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 As they walked along they were talking about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. 16 But God kept them from recognizing him. 17 He asked them, “What are you discussing so intently as you walk along?” They stopped short, sadness written across their faces. 18 Then one of them, Cleopas, replied, “You must be the only person in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about all the things that have happened there the last few days.” 19 “What things?” Jesus asked. “The things that happened to Jesus, the man from Nazareth,” they said. “He was a prophet who did powerful miracles, and he was a mighty teacher in the eyes of God and all the people. 20 But our leading priests and other religious leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. 21 We had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel. This all happened three days ago. 22 “Then some women from our group of his followers were at his tomb early this morning, and they came back with an amazing report. 23 They said his body was missing, and they had seen angels who told them Jesus is alive! 24 Some of our men ran out to see, and sure enough, his body was gone, just as the women had said.” 25 Then Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. 26 Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” 27 Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. 28 By this time they were nearing Emmaus and the end of their journey. Jesus acted as if he were going on, 29 but they begged him, “Stay the night with us, since it is getting late.” So he went home with them. 30 As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. 31 Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared! 32 They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” 33 And within the hour they were on their way back to Jerusalem. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Holy Saturday is the quiet, in-between space—the day after Jesus’s crucifixion and the day before His resurrection. A day of silence, grief, and waiting. Scripture tells us little about what happened on this day. We know Jesus’s body lay in the tomb, His followers were scattered and mourning, and hope must have felt lost. They didn’t yet know what was coming. This Holy Saturday meditation invites you to step into that moment. To imagine what it was like for Jesus’s disciples—those who walked with Him, who believed He was the Messiah, and who now sat in deep uncertainty. Through this meditation, you’ll be guided to:• Reflect on the weight of waiting and the silence of Holy Saturday.• Bring before God the places where you, too, are waiting.• Rest in the truth of God’s promises, even when His timing is unclear. We hold vigil today, remembering that God is always at work—even when we cannot see it. Take a moment to pause, reflect, and prepare your heart for the hope that is coming. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passages in this meditation are: 2 Peter 3:8-9, NIV But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. Isaiah 55:8-9, NIV “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,”declares the Lord.“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Good Friday is the darkest and most solemn day on the Christian calendar. Yet, because of Jesus’s sacrifice—a sacrifice that changes everything—it truly becomes good. In this Scripture meditation, we step into the scene at the cross, where Jesus is crucified between two criminals. We witness the reactions of those around Him—the mocking soldiers, the mourning crowd, the two criminals beside Him. And in the midst of it all, we hear Jesus’s powerful words of grace and forgiveness: "Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing." Even in His suffering, Jesus extends mercy. Through this Good Friday meditation, you’ll be invited to: Enter the scene and observe those around the cross. Reflect on the words and actions of Jesus. Sit at the foot of the cross and thank Him for what He endured for you. Take a moment to pause, reflect, and let the weight of this day settle in. As you listen, may you encounter Jesus’s love, grace, and mercy in a deeper way. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The Entire meditation text is: Luke 23:32-43, NLT Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with (Jesus). When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice. The crowd watched and the leaders scoffed. “He saved others,” they said, “let him save himself if he is really God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.” The soldiers mocked him, too, by offering him a drink of sour wine. They called out to him, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” A sign was fastened above him with these words: “This is the King of the Jews.” One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!” But the other criminal protested, “Don’t you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die? We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today is Maundy Thursday—the night before Jesus went to the cross. This Lent Meditation will guide you to reflect on Jesus’s unconditional love. On this night, Jesus knelt to wash His disciples’ feet, shared the Passover meal, and redefined the meaning of the bread and cup. Then, He walked with His disciples to the Mount of Olives, where He spoke words they didn’t fully understand—words about their coming failure and His unwavering love. In today’s meditation, we’ll step into this moment through Peter’s eyes, listening as Jesus tells him that he will deny Him. But even in this painful prediction, there is hope—because Jesus’s love was never dependent on Peter’s strength. And His love for us is the same—unconditional, unwavering, and faithful. As you slow down and enter this sacred moment, may you remember: Everything Jesus does is because of His extravagant love for you. Listen now to enter into the story of Maundy Thursday. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The Entire meditation text is: Matthew 26:30-35, NIV 30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 31 Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: “ ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ 32 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” 33 Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.” 34 “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” 35 But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This Lectio Divina meditation for Lent invites us to slow down and reflect on how it feels to be misunderstood. When have you felt misunderstood? Maybe your motives were misjudged or your actions criticized? I know that feeling well. And I wonder if that’s how the woman in Mark 14 felt as she poured out her costly perfume for Jesus—only to be met with harsh words and judgment. But Jesus saw her differently. He defended her. He honored her. And He spoke these powerful words: She did what she could. This week, in our Lectio Divina meditation, we’ll enter this moment with Jesus, slow down, and reflect on: Where am I tempted to judge someone else’s actions? Where am I holding back out of fear of how others might perceive me? What is one small thing I can do for God today? Through this passage, may we gain a fresh perspective—not just our own, but Jesus’s perspective. Join me as we slow down, listen, and receive what God has for us through His Word. Get your free Lent Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your free LENT guide here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The Entire meditation text is: Mark 14:3-9, NET Now while Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, reclining at the table, a woman came with an alabaster jar of costly aromatic oil from pure nard. After breaking open the jar, she poured it on his head. But some who were present indignantly said to one another, “Why this waste of expensive ointment? It could have been sold for more than three hundred silver coins and the money given to the poor!” So they spoke angrily to her. But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why are you bothering her? She has done a good service for me. For you will always have the poor with you, and you can do good for them whenever you want. But you will not always have me! She did what she could. She anointed my body beforehand for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.