Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus Podcast

Ep. 149: Don’t Even Dabble on the Dark Side!

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 149, “Don’t Even Dabble on the Dark Side!,” Kim discusses the temptation many people experience to reach out through dark means to accomplish a goal. How many people, even Christians, have been so overcome with grief that they will contact a psychic in an attempt to speak with their loved one once again? In today’s scripture, we see King Saul frustrated and scared because God will not answer him. He is intent he will know what to do if he can only speak with the prophet Samuel once again.
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 28:1-25 with 3-7 as the focal verses.
 
3 Meanwhile, Samuel had died, and all Israel had mourned for him. He was buried in Ramah, his hometown. And Saul had banned from the land of Israel all mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead.
4 The Philistines set up their camp at Shunem, and Saul gathered all the army of Israel and camped at Gilboa. 5 When Saul saw the vast Philistine army, he became frantic with fear. 6 He asked the Lord what he should do, but the Lord refused to answer him, either by dreams or by sacred lots or by the prophets. 7 Saul then said to his advisers, “Find a woman who is a medium, so I can go and ask her what to do.”
His advisers replied, “There is a medium at Endor.”
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
31 “Do not defile yourselves by turning to mediums or to those who consult the spirits of the dead. I am the Lord your God. (Leviticus 19:31)
 
6 “I will also turn against those who commit spiritual prostitution by putting their trust in mediums or in those who consult the spirits of the dead. I will cut them off from the community. (Leviticus 20:6)
 
27 “Men and women among you who act as mediums or who consult the spirits of the dead must be put to death by stoning. They are guilty of a capital offense.” (Leviticus 20:27)
 
19 Someone may say to you, “Let’s ask the mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead. With their whisperings and mutterings, they will tell us what to do.” But shouldn’t people ask God for guidance? Should the living seek guidance from the dead? (Isaiah 8:19)
 
6 Manasseh also sacrificed his own son in the fire. He practiced sorcery and divination, and he consulted with mediums and psychics. He did much that was evil in the Lord’s sight, arousing his anger. (2 Kings 21:6)
 
6 Manasseh also sacrificed his own sons in the fire in the valley of Ben-Hinnom. He practiced sorcery, divination, and witchcraft, and he consulted with mediums and psychics. He did much that was evil in the Lord’s sight, arousing his anger. (2 Chronicles 33:6)
 
24 Josiah also got rid of the mediums and psychics, the household gods, the idols, and every other kind of detestable practice, both in Jerusalem and throughout the land of Judah. He did this in obedience to the laws written in the scroll that Hilkiah the priest had found in the Lord’s Temple. (2 Kings 23:24)
 
Mark 5:1-17 Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Man
 
10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:10-12)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
Ask the Lord to reveal to you any areas of your life which are portals for evil to obtain a stronghold.
 
Additional Resources:
 
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 148: Focus on the Eternal Perspective

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 148, “Focus on the Eternal Perspective,” Kim discusses the temptation each of us faces to live our lives focusing only on the temporary and only looking through physical eyes. How much more impact would you have if you lived daily looking through spiritual eyes with an eternal perspective?
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 27:1-12 with  1 and 12 as the focal verses.
 
1 But David kept thinking to himself, “Someday Saul is going to get me. The best thing I can do is escape to the Philistines. Then Saul will stop hunting for me in Israelite territory, and I will finally be safe.”
 
12 Achish believed David and thought to himself, “By now the people of Israel must hate him bitterly. Now he will have to stay here and serve me forever!”
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
18 So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. (2 Corinthians 4:18)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
Pray this prayer each morning. 
 
Dear Lord,
Please help me not to focus on temporary circumstances. Help me to fix my gaze on things that cannot be seen, since the things I see now will soon be gone, and the things I cannot see will last forever. 
 
Additional Resources:
 
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 147: Trusting in the Only Guard Who Never Sleeps

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 147, “Trusting in the Only Guard Who Never Sleeps,” Kim discusses the danger we face when we entrust our safety to a guard who cannot protect us 24/7. How much more reasonable is it to put your ultimate trust in the guard who never sleeps? 
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 26 with  5 and 12 as the focal verses.
 
5 David slipped over to Saul’s camp one night to look around. Saul and Abner son of Ner, the commander of his army, were sleeping inside a ring formed by the slumbering warriors. 
 
12 So David took the spear and jug of water that were near Saul’s head. Then he and Abishai got away without anyone seeing them or even waking up, because the Lord had put Saul’s men into a deep sleep.
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
2 My help comes from the Lord,    who made heaven and earth!
3 He will not let you stumble;    the one who watches over you will not slumber. (Psalm 121:2-3)
 
Psalm 121
 
Psalm 91
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
In which area of your life do you most need the protection of the guard who never sleeps?
 
Additional Resources:
 
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 146: Getting More Than You Bargained For

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 146, “Getting More Than You Bargained For,” Kim discusses the buyer’s remorse we all experience at times when we walk into a situation much more challenging than anticipated. This is definitely the case for Abigail. She is asked to marry the king, only to find out she was not the only one given the honor.
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 25:39-44 with 39-42 as the focal verses.
 
39 When David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, “Praise the Lord, who has avenged the insult I received from Nabal and has kept me from doing it myself. Nabal has received the punishment for his sin.” Then David sent messengers to Abigail to ask her to become his wife. 40 When the messengers arrived at Carmel, they told Abigail, “David has sent us to take you back to marry him.”41 She bowed low to the ground and responded, “I, your servant, would be happy to marry David. I would even be willing to become a slave, washing the feet of his servants!” 42 Quickly getting ready, she took along five of her servant girls as attendants, mounted her donkey, and went with David’s messengers. And so she became his wife. 
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (James 1:5)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
How can you stop yourself from leaping before you look carefully and pray?
 
Additional Resources:
 
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 145: Practicing the Art of Christian Diplomacy,

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 145, “Practicing the Art of Christian Diplomacy,” Kim discusses the example of diplomacy modeled by Abigail in her interchange with David. In which ways was she a good model? Are there points of improvement you believe she could have implemented in her next challenging interaction? 
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 25:1-38 with  as the focal verses 23-28:
 
23 When Abigail saw David, she quickly got off her donkey and bowed low before him. 24 She fell at his feet and said, “I accept all blame in this matter, my lord. Please listen to what I have to say. 25 I know Nabal is a wicked and ill-tempered man; please don’t pay any attention to him. He is a fool, just as his name suggests. But I never even saw the young men you sent.
26 “Now, my lord, as surely as the Lord lives and you yourself live, since the Lord has kept you from murdering and taking vengeance into your own hands, let all your enemies and those who try to harm you be as cursed as Nabal is. 27 And here is a present that I, your servant, have brought to you and your young men. 28 Please forgive me if I have offended you in any way. The Lord will surely reward you with a lasting dynasty, for you are fighting the Lord’s battles. And you have not done wrong throughout your entire life.
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
A gentle answer deflects anger,
    but harsh words make tempers flare. (Proverbs 15:1)
 
4  Gentle words are a tree of life;
    a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. (Proverbs 15:4)
 
13 Spouting off before listening to the facts
    is both shameful and foolish. (Proverbs 18:13)
 
Patience can persuade a prince,
    and soft speech can break bones. (Proverbs 25:15)
 
Fools vent their anger,
    but the wise quietly hold it back. (Proverbs 29:11)
 
Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. (Romans 12:19)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
In which area of life do you need to improve your diplomatic skills?
 
Additional Resources:
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 144: Beware of Others Speaking on God‘s Behalf

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 144, “Beware of Others Speaking on God's Behalf,” Kim discusses the importance of prayerful discernment when listening to others. John’s advice in 1st John is as appropriate for you today as it was for his original readers.  “Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world.” (1 John 4:1)
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 24:1-22 with  as the focal verses 4-7a:
 
4 “Now’s your opportunity!” David’s men whispered to him. “Today the Lord is telling you, ‘I will certainly put your enemy into your power, to do with as you wish.’” So David crept forward and cut off a piece of the hem of Saul’s robe.
5 But then David’s conscience began bothering him because he had cut Saul’s robe. 6 He said to his men, “The Lord forbid that I should do this to my lord the king. I shouldn’t attack the Lord’s anointed one, for the Lord himself has chosen him.” 7 So David restrained his men and did not let them kill Saul.
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
1 Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. 2 This is how we know if they have the Spirit of God: If a person claiming to be a prophet acknowledges that Jesus Christ came in a real body, that person has the Spirit of God. 3 But if someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God. Such a person has the spirit of the Antichrist, which you heard is coming into the world and indeed is already here. (1 John 4:1-3)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
Are you currently listening to any false prophets?
 
Additional Resources:
 
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 143: Where Is Your Rock of Escape?

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 143, “Where Is Your Rock of Escape?,” Kim discusses the places in life where we have experienced God’s deliverance. Where are those places of God’s deliverance in your life? Dangers come in many forms, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual, and you may find rocks of escape in each of those areas. Take time to thank Him for His interventions on your behalf. 
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 23:19-29 with 28 as the focal verse:
 
28 So Saul quit chasing David and returned to fight the Philistines. Ever since that time, the place where David was camped has been called the Rock of Escape.
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
Some other Biblical stories of escape:
 
Noah and the Ark
The Israelites and the Red Sea
Esther, Mordecai, and the Israelites
Paul in prison
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. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
Where are the places of God’s deliverance in your life? 
 
Additional Resources:
What is an escape room? 
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 142: Encouraging Others to Stay Strong in Their Faith

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 142, “Encouraging Others to Stay Strong in Their Faith,” Kim discusses the importance of being intentional about encouraging believers to remain strong in their faith. This does not only apply to those young in their faith but to all believers, no matter the season of their Christian walk.
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 23:15-18 with 16 as the focal verse:
 
15 One day near Horesh, David received the news that Saul was on the way to Ziph to search for him and kill him. 16 Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God. 17 “Don’t be afraid,” Jonathan reassured him. “My father will never find you! You are going to be the king of Israel, and I will be next to you, as my father, Saul, is well aware.” 18 So the two of them renewed their solemn pact before the Lord. Then Jonathan returned home, while David stayed at Horesh.
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
 
Joshua 1
 
24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
 
13 Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. (1 Corinthians 16:13)
 
12 Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
Prayerfully choose one person to encourage in his/her faith this week.
 
Additional Resources:
 
5 Ways to Encourage Your Friend in Their Faith by Dawson McAllister. https://www.thehopeline.com/5-ways-encourage-your-friend-in-their-faith/
How To Keep & Rebuild Faith During Struggles by The HopeLine https://www.thehopeline.com/topics/faith/
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.

Ep. 141: Hidden in the Shelter of God‘s Presence

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 141, “Hidden in the Shelter of God’s Presence,” Kim discusses the comfort Christ-followers can receive resting in God’s presence during challenging times. Sometimes that presence will mean physical safety, but it always means a place of emotional rest.
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 23:9-14 with 14 as the focal verse:
 
“David now stayed in the strongholds of the wilderness and in the hill country of Ziph. Saul hunted him day after day, but God didn’t let Saul find him.”
 
ADDITIONAL VERSES:
 
“For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. Interlude” (Psalm 32:7 )
 
“How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world. You hide them in the shelter of your presence, safe from those who conspire against them. You shelter them in your presence, far from accusing tongues.” (Psalms 31:19-20)
 
Psalm 139:7-12
 
Psalm 91
 
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
Describe a time when you received encouragement by resting in the shelter of God’s presence.
 
Additional Resources:
“Hiding Place” by Steven Curtis Chapman
“If I Could Just Sit with You Awhile” by MercyMe
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
"Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.
 

Ep. 140: The Dangers of Deception

SHOW NOTES:
 
In Podcast Episode 140, “The Dangers of Deception,” Kim discusses the danger of falling for deception. Deception can come in many forms. You can be deceived by others. Satan, the father of lies, and his minions are masters of deception. Yet, oftentimes, our deception comes from within ourselves.
 
The primary scripture text for this episode is 1 Samuel 23:1-8 with a focal verse of 7:
 
“Saul soon learned that David was at Keilah. “Good!” he exclaimed. “We’ve got him now! God has handed him over to me, for he has trapped himself in a walled town!””
 
Additional Verses:
 
13 These people are false apostles. They are deceitful workers who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:13)
 
 6 Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. (Ephesians 5:6)
 
“The human heart is the most deceitful of all things,
    and desperately wicked.
    Who really knows how bad it is? (Jeremiah 17:9)
 
Rescue me, O Lord, from liars
    and from all deceitful people. (Psalm 120:2)
 
44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. (John 8:44)
 
20 Then she cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!”
When he woke up, he thought, “I will do as before and shake myself free.” But he didn’t realize the Lord had left him. (Judges 16:20)
 
20 Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and he knows everything. (1 John 3:20)
Weekly Assignment Feature: 
 
In which areas of your life might you be falling for deception? 
 
Additional Resources:
 
For more on the Overcast podcast app, go to https://overcast.fm/
For more information on Stalking, you may want to begin at https://www.rainn.org/articles/stalking
I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. 
 
RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Samuel PODCASTS:
“The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume”
“The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom Agenda”
“Life Application Study Bible”
“The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll
Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by J. D. Greear, Heath A. Thomas
“The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors)
 
 
Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.
 
This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.
 
In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.
 
If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week. 
 
Remember, “It’s Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”
 
If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.
 
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
 
1-800-273-8255
 
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
 
Reference:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
 
Podcast recorded through Zencastr and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack was created in GarageBand by Kim Smith.