Simply Stories Podcast
Simply Stories, hosted by Emily Humphries, is a weekly podcast with a heart to encourage others to know that no matter where they are, they matter, and God is not finished with their story. Guests share their stories of what God has done in their lives and encourage others to do the same in the unique way He has gifted them to do so. Whether they are non-fiction authors, speakers, or everyday neighbors, to fiction authors, creatives, and artists, we all have a story that matters and are loved by our Creator.
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Episode 174 :: Douglas McKelvey :: Stories of Leaning into Advent, Lament, and Living with Every Moment Holy
12/07/2023
Episode 174 :: Douglas McKelvey :: Stories of Leaning into Advent, Lament, and Living with Every Moment Holy
Today, I have the absolute pleasure of sharing my conversation with the one and only Douglas McKelvey. Douglas is a songwriter, author, and liturgy writer extraordinaire. I have never met someone like Douglas. His gift with words and passion for Christ cultivates a visceral invitation to be more present in this life, to find your fight again as you walk this weary way, and speaks to our hope of the next life with Jesus. Douglas shares with me his story of what led him to Nashville, TN, his journey from songwriting to fiction writing and the idea of unpacking his belief that every moment in this life is sacramental, and sometimes words can help us to be present. Thus, the birth of Every Moment Holy. There are now 3 volumes of Every Moment Holy, each unique in how they offer opportunities for us to be awake to the moments we are living in. Whether that is something as simple as waking up in the morning and enjoying a sunrise, something unique like beginning a novel, or the keeping of bees, holiday celebrations, to going on a trip, there is a liturgy for it in one of these volumes. Many of these liturgies, especially in volume two, also hold space for the hard and holy moments around grief and lament, and even for those facing the end of their life. I cannot begin to express how much many of these liturgies have ministered to me as we’ve walked through many losses, and the anniversary of losses, over the last few years. As it is that time of year, Douglas and I also talk about how to embrace the season of advent, which asks our hearts to prepare Christ room, but also to ask “where is our hope?” as we wait for Jesus to come back again. He even blesses us with a reading of his “A Liturgy for the Start of the Christmas Season.” I hope all of this conversation serves as a blessing for you in this season. I hope it is serves as an invitation to prepare Him room not just for now, but for always. And I hope and pray, it reminds you that you are not alone in this life, no matter how it may seem, and Jesus is coming back for us. You matter. Your story matters. Merry Christmas! Connecting with Douglas and Every Moment Holy: EMH Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts. My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: -Christ is the Lord over all -Whatever you do whether in word or deed Being a living sacrifice Groaning and longing with creation , The body of Christ in worship together , , - , We are given spiritual gifts and our gifts are for ministering The valley of the shadow , , Psalms that express disappointment, fear, pain, heartbreak -But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope… great is His faithfulness sitting on the ash heap - Even so I believe you are faithful - What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord? Wait for and hope for the Lord - come quickly The light has come and pierced the darkness , - Jesus is the King who will set all things right and establish a dwelling place on earth that never ends He will wipe every tear from your eyes -How long oh Lord will you make me look at violence The Lord’s Supper H- We see now with veiled faces and a dim picture The marriage supper of the lamb - “Jesus moves into the neighborhood” The Christmas story - The Prince of Peace - Jesus is waiting with open arms References: Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 173 :: Carole Holiday :: Stories of Learning Who You Are Again After Loss and Living with Grief
12/04/2023
Episode 173 :: Carole Holiday :: Stories of Learning Who You Are Again After Loss and Living with Grief
A self-proclaimed “accidental author”, Carole Holiday was living a very full life as a wife, mother, and nana, until one day, everything fell apart. Her marriage to her childhood sweetheart of over 35 years ended, followed by losing her job and ultimately filing for bankruptcy. Then she developed heart issues because of all the stress, and a continued windfall of loss, and grief in losing close loved ones, until it felt like there was absolutely nothing recognizable about the life she had known. In her book I Don’t Know Who I Am Anymore, Carole shares her story, but it is such a unique book that weaves honest reflections, practical applications of how to minister to those in grief, beautiful applications from scripture, and recipes to share with others or to comfort your own heart. She asks powerful questions about what we build our lives on, and find our identity in. These can be good things like relationships, careers, and even our health, but they are ultimately temporal. Christ alone is the cornerstone that can keep a life on a firm foundation. This is an episode for my friends who are asking God, “What do I do now?” when a dream has died. This is an episode for my single friends, my divorced friends, and my widowed friends who may feel unseen in their communities. This is an episode for those who have known any amount of grief or loss and need to know they are not going to disappear or drown in this season. There is hope for you, we can testify to it. As long as you’re breathing, there is more for your story. You matter and your story matters. Connecting with Carole: Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts. My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: -Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young , - We lay it down before the Lord -The mustard seed of faith Produce fruit in me -There’s a time to tear down and to build , , -Jesus is the cornerstone that the builders rejected -Building on the sand or the rock 1-Being shifted like wheat -The woman who washes Jesus’ feet with her tears -The widow whose son had died -The woman with her small offering -Mary and Martha at Lazarus’ tomb -Creation groans and longs to be restored The Holy Spirit speaks a language of lament -The Holy Spirit is our advocate -How long Lord will you make me look at injustice and violence? -The heart is deceitful above all else -David flooded his bed with tears -When Nathan spoke to David, he hit his face to the ground God gathers our tears in bottles , -Jesus goes charging into the Temple angry -Jesus sat and created a whip -God is not finished with your story -Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story References: -Dr. Paul Conti’s - - - - - - where she shared about being in George W’s White House, and practicing scrutiny - - - - - - - - - Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 172 :: Mike Nappa :: Stories from the Valley of the Shadow, and Blessing Those Who Mourn
11/29/2023
Episode 172 :: Mike Nappa :: Stories from the Valley of the Shadow, and Blessing Those Who Mourn
Over the last several years, I don’t think there is anyone who has not been touched by loss or some kind of grief. Today's guest, author, and literary agent Mike Nappa is incredibly familiar with loss and living with grief. In 2016, he lost his beloved wife, Amy, to cancer. In his learning how to live life without her, God has shown him why grieving is such an important part of losing a loved one. As Mike says, he learned how to cry into his keyboard and produced one of the most poignant books that bears witness to grief that I have ever personally encountered. It is called Reflections for the Grieving Soul: Meditations and Scripture for Finding Hope After Loss. We are often so uncomfortable with grief and treat it like it is a problem to be solved. However, God Himself, in all three persons of the Trinity, grieves, and we are made in His image. It isn’t sinful to grieve. Mike says: “There are things in this world worth loving enough to grieve, and if we don’t grieve well, we are taking away from the image of God within us.” Although, as we’ll discuss in this episode, there are ways to grieve well and there are also ways to grieve poorly and even destructively. The depths of grief isn’t a place where we want to live permanently, but we have to hold space for it or it will make itself known in other ways. When we don’t walk this journey, we miss out on the blessings for those who mourn. There are quite a few tears shed during this episode, but honest, perhaps blessed, tears. I would like to offer this episode as a benevolent witness and comfort to whoever might need it in this season. The Lord promises blessing and comfort for us, dear ones. He is near to you. You matter, and Your story matters. Connecting with Mike: Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you cannot financially commit at this time, please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts. My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: - Judas was the treasurer -There’s nothing I can do to earn God’s love -Without Him we have nothing , -We need help from the Helper God looks at the wickedness of man and is grieved -Jesus says “My soul is crushed with grief” Paul reminds us that we can grieve the Holy Spirit -Jesus stood outside of Lazarus’ tomb and wept Blessed are those who mourn the beginning of the Beatitudes and their promises -The Lord is near to the brokenhearted He will never leave me or forsake me , -God has a purpose and a plan for your life -In Christ we live and move and have our being References: - - - - - -An example of a book written by women on her journey home - -If you’d like to see it, - and Greek translations of “blessed” makarios - by Mike - and Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 171 :: Gary Miracle :: Stories of Taking Heart, Persevering in Suffering, and No More Bad Days
11/24/2023
Episode 171 :: Gary Miracle :: Stories of Taking Heart, Persevering in Suffering, and No More Bad Days
Gary Miracle is an author and a speaker who passionately believes in the power of storytelling and how it unites us and spurs us on when life is tragically hard, and also reminds us who we are and who God made us to be. In this episode, he shares his story of growing immersed in church culture on Sunday but then suffered from an identity crisis the rest of the week as he chased perfection, and changed personas in order to be affirmed by anyone and everyone. Finally, later in his life and career, now a married man with kids, Gary reached his breaking point and reached out to his friend Bart Millard of the band “Mercy’s Me” who began to disciple Gary and guide him to a life-changing and intimate relationship with Jesus. Not long after, in December 2019, Gary went from celebrating Christmas with his family feeling a little under the weather to being on his literal deathbed on New Year’s Eve. The first week of 2020 Gary’s life hung in the balance as teams of doctors worked on him and cared for him, and his loved ones stormed heaven for him. On January 10th, 2020, Gary opened his eyes, alive, but his body would never be the same, and his limbs were dying. Gary shares his journey of his 107 days stay in the hospital, reentering into his life without his legs and hands, and how God met him in all of it in our time together, but he goes more in-depth in his book No More Bad Days: Trading the Pursuit of Perfection for the Gift of Grace. Gary is passionate about choosing to truly live instead of just being alive and doing that authentically with others. We were made in the image of a communal God, and as we face the intensity and heartbreak of our lives, He provides people to walk through hard things with us. However, that call to live in community requires risk and humility, but as Gary reminds us, when life is at its lowest moments, people God gives us can echo hope back to us. This is a message for anyone who needs to know there is more left for them in this life. This is a message for those who need to remember God is still in the business of miracles. This is a message for someone who is walking through horrible circumstances but needs to be reminded that God still has good for them. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Gary: Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: , There’s nothing I can do to make Jesus stop loving me It is no longer I who lives, but Christ in me - David wrestled with lions as a shepherd before he faced Goliath - His new mercies are new every day - The Lord gives and the Lord takes away All of my life I’ve heard about You, but now I’ve seen you with my eyes - In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world God is truly good - I pray that He would strengthen you with power according to seek me and you will find me if you seek me with all of your heart - For God so loved the world that He gave us His son - God has given you His power, and authority to live this life - The enemy is coming to steal, kill and destroy, but Christ came to give us life to the full Nobody knows the day or the hour The Lamb’s book of life , We’re going to Heaven - Moses’ story in the Bible, he struggled to speak Romans Grace is not a license to sin We are no longer slaves to sin Still fearfully and wonderfully made - What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord 10, and A spirit of testimony - God is not finished with me Stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the Lord , - I will hope, I will wait, I will long for the Lord -I am weak but Christ is strong This is the hope to which we’ve been called - God has plans for hope and a future - help us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God , Jesus came to heal the sick, and save the lost Take every thought captive References: (The Uriah and Bathsheeba incident, leading Israel, strife and conflict in his family…) The study I mentioned is “Take heart” that Jesus uses is the same term that Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 170 :: Justin & J.L. Gerhardt:: Stories of Encountering God at the Intersection of Story and Worship
11/17/2023
Episode 170 :: Justin & J.L. Gerhardt:: Stories of Encountering God at the Intersection of Story and Worship
Justin and J.L. Gerhardt are on the podcast today, and you will love hearing from them! There is an epic retelling of their meeting and falling in love complete with 90’s Hearthrob meet cute and all. More than that, Justin and J.L. share about their journey of God leading them both into ministry with words, calling their family to travel the world, and unleashing their creativity and courage to press into new ways to encounter God and His Word. This journey has given birth to various creative outlets for the Gerhardt family, but the one we talk about the most in this episode is Justin’s incredible podcast “Holy Ghost Stories.” “Holy Ghost Stories” is a unique podcast that is more like an immersive narrated experience that takes stories from the Old Testament, unpacks them, and breathes life into the grit and shadow as well as the rapture and delight of God encountering His people. Justin’s heart for this podcast is to remind us that we have an inheritance of stories in scripture that we share in an immersive, but often adolescent way to children, to try and captivate them and introduce them to God. And then they grow up. And as Justin says “We stop telling the stories and stop teaching the stories. And a story taught is different than a story told.” There is absolutely fruit to be found in teaching! However, grown-ups can miss out on what these stories have always had for us when we face real suffering, real rejoicing, and everything in between unless we revisit what they really were: real events that happened with real people with a very real God. Y’all hanging out with the Gerhardts is such a delight, and I can’t wait for you to get to know them a little better. If you loved this episode, or love Holy Ghost Stories you need to attend a live experience! And for my local friends, there is one coming up in Nashville in December! I really believe you will see the Old Testament in a more alive and engaging way, and it will help you prepare your heart for the coming of Christmas. I hope I see you there. Connecting with the Gerhardts: J.L.’s and Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: - Strength in weakness - God is the author The Bible is alive and active - The witch of Endor - The Story of Joseph - Jonah and the Whale - Noah and the Ark Potiphar’s wife calling to Joseph The story of Ehud and Eglon The book of Judges (is where it starts)- The Story of Jacob Particularly when Jacob wrestles with the Angel , - Jesus asks “What do you want?” , God is not a human, but He There are multiple genocides in the New Testament (encompasses Revelation) , - There is persecution in the New Testament - God gives and takes away , , God’s heart grieves , , , Jesus grieved - Holy Spirit grieves -We are made in God’s image -Jesus and the Road to Emmaus The burning bush that is aflame, but doesn't burn up -Elizabeth and Zechariah References: (OK seriously grab your tissues) I mentioned that was under my computer. I LOVE it. (in Malaysia) Holy Ghost Stories series episode with the Witch of Endor: HGS series on Joseph: The Harbinger, The Fugitive and the Host- , and HGS episode on Noah and the Ark: Episode 3 of HGS- Ehud and Eglon: HGS Episode on Jacob: Curt Thompson’s new book Episode of HGS on Jonah: The Pushover, the Runaway and the Belly of the Beast Rahab’s HGS Episode: Tamar’s HGS Episode: Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 169 :: Nikki Anders :: Stories of The Journey to Bethlehem
11/10/2023
Episode 169 :: Nikki Anders :: Stories of The Journey to Bethlehem
I am so excited to share with you a really special conversation with the incredibly talented Renaissance woman Nikki Anders. Nikki is an award-winning musician, songwriter, and music producer in the TV and film industry. She shares some of her experiences in the music industry as a solo artist and member of the music group Avalon, her and her husband Adam’s time working on “Glee” as well as many other films, and now are the creative team behind the new movie musical “The Journey to Bethlehem.” Nikki shares how the Lord closed and opened so many doors over the last seventeen years from an idea about a Christmas movie the whole family could enjoy and focus on the true story of Christmas, all the way to bringing the music, script, and spectacular vision on their hearts to fruition. Placing themselves in the shoes of the real people who lived the days of Jesus’ coming into the world was a practice of holy imagination and allowing themselves to wonder how God wove this story together. The Christmas story is sometimes too familiar to those who have grown up hearing it. This movie and its music breathes so much life into the incredible true story of the God who loved us so much, He sent His Son as a baby, to a very real family, who faced very real risks, because we needed a Savior. Ever since I had this conversation with Nikki, the music has brought up some really amazing conversation opportunities and questions from my two kids, and I already can tell our experience of Christmas and Advent this year will be different because of this movie, the music, and the way it has ignited the curiosity and imagination of my children. This world is weary and longs and groans to be restored. A Savior has come and made redemption and salvation available to all who call on Him. And I hope that wherever you are, I can whisper some hope to your heart today. You matter, friend. And your story matters. Connecting with Nikki: “ Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: Following the call of God - Scattering seed living as God wants you to live Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God Daniel and the exile in the Palace of Babylon Shadrach, Meshach and Abendengo’s God Mary, Joseph, and the Christmas story that is in the pages of scripture - Mary and an angel appeared to her ()Jesus covers us with His blood - Thine is the Kingdom There is nothing new under the sun Zechariah couldn’t speak -Nothing can stop the Lord Nothing will be impossible with God The wise men Conversations between the wise men and Herod We are armed with the Armor of God consider it all joy when you endure trials - We are not at war with flesh and blood ()- He’s coming again References: See ALL of Niki’s accolades and credits . It is a LONG list. “A Maze of Grace” /singer's joy The Dad from and Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 168 :: Travis Thompson :: Stories of Mental Health, Addiction, Faith and Healing
11/06/2023
Episode 168 :: Travis Thompson :: Stories of Mental Health, Addiction, Faith and Healing
Travis Thompson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practices in Middle Tennessee. He is a PhD candidate who works with clients from many backgrounds to find the deeper meaning of their struggles and embrace long-term recovery from the pains that they experienced. His work is focused on being healed from past hurt and toward future success. During our conversation, Travis shares his journey of wrestling with his own mental health as a teenager, his recovery and healing journey, and entering the world of becoming a mental health professional serving and helping others like those who served and helped him. We’ll talk today about the stigmas around mental health, counseling, and medication, particularly in Christian circles, and how to care for people struggling with addiction AND those walking through it with them. Travis has actually written a book specifically around that topic of understanding addiction and how it impacts those around an addict and it is called To Those Left Behind: Helping Partners and Families Understand and Heal from Addiction. He’ll unpack many of the themes from his book, the effect and aftermath on mental health and addiction from the pandemic, where we see mental health in the Bible and he offers hope to those who may be suffering in the cycle of addiction as well as encouragement for those in the residual waves of it with someone they love. Modern mental health issues and recovery can seem overwhelming and confusing. I hope this conversation can serve you wherever you are in your journey, and perhaps Travis’ book might as well! No matter whether this journey is a part of your story, or someone you love, we are all wrestling with real issues bound up in these broken bodies. There is hope for all of us. As long as you’re breathing, God is not finished with you. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Travis: ) Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: God works all things together for good Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story (an example)King David struggling with mental health - Paul talks about putting off the old self, drunkenness for one Job’s friends and their bad advice - Eve misquotes God’s word Paul talks about gnostic dualism Mustard seed The Heavens are declaring the glory of God , God made us to know delight The word of God is alive and active - Forgive me Noah!! It was LOT getting drunk off the boat and having sex with his kids. Whoops! Nephelim… so weird ) David cuts Goliath’s head off and keeps it as a trophy (ew) To everything there is a season - This isn’t how the story ends References: - - - -My conversation with , her book (so insightful) - - talks about i (there’s also a supernatural worldview theologian (t is what I am currently listening to and its WILD) with him and other supernatural worldview called “The Unseen Realm” theologians on some of the stuff I mentioned briefly about nephlim and Jericoh and whoa. - - Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 167 :: Kelly Balarie :: Stories of The Power of God’s Word and Taking Every Thought Captive
10/27/2023
Episode 167 :: Kelly Balarie :: Stories of The Power of God’s Word and Taking Every Thought Captive
I have a powerhouse on the podcast in the form of Kelly Balarie. Kelly is an author and a speaker who is passionate about Jesus and the Word of God. She is a sister in the trenches and a self-proclaimed spiritual cheerleader. Every book she has written, she writes from a place of “this is where God has been faithful to me in this season.” Or “this is what God has been teaching me,” full of authenticity, and powerful scripture-saturated insights for women who desire to walk well and be filled to the fullness of God. In our conversation today, you’ll hear about her latest book : Exchange Lies of the Enemy For the Mind of Christ. We unpack that term,“the mind of Christ,” and what it means, how to connect deeper into the heart of God as we yield our minds and hearts to His love, plans, and purposes for our lives. We go deep and wide about spiritual warfare and even the differences between spiritual possession and oppression. We’ll talk about the goodness of God in the “even ifs” of life, how our thoughts in suffering can impact us, how God can and will meet us in the feelings He gave us, and so much more. Kelly’s love for the Lord and the power of His word is vivacious and galvanizing and I truly believe it will serve as a balm to your soul today. God is not finished with us. He is not finished with the Church. He is not finished with this world. Even when things are hard, or everything looks like it is past redemption, hope and His love get the final word. You matter, friend. Your story matters. Connecting with Kelly: Current Book: : Exchange Lies of the Enemy For the Mind of Christ For great resources for Bible study and getting into God’s word check out the ! Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: Filled to the fullness of God Take every thought captive We are powerful in Christ Jesus Deep calls to deep - Jesus in the wilderness Jesus was endowed with power (after His temptation) - No eye has seen, no ear has heard what I have for You Beyond our understanding These things are revealed by the Spirit , -Who can know the Lord’s thoughts… but we can understand these things for we have the mind of Christ Jesus died for us while we were still sinners “The sheep that are my own hear and are listening to My voice and I know them and they follow me.” - Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you. You set a table from me in the presence of my enemy What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living Plans of a hope and for a future You have everything you need in Christ -Peter hops out of the boat He’s the Author and Perfector of our faith I am a new creation - It is no longer I who live, but Christ in me I am dead to the old and alive to the new , , -Clothing ourselves in God’s word I receive today our daily bread - The manna in the wilderness, trusting every morning He would provide We are being transformed into the image of Christ - Eve’s desire to know what it was like on the other side of the bite There is a time for everything and every season under Heaven - In this world you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world Angels marvel at the mystery of the Gospel Who can stop the Lord almighty? -We triumph by the blood of the Lamb and the Spirit of testimony -Thou He slay me, I will trust in the name of the Lord The enemy comes and eats the seed that’s been laid by the Lord , -Holy Spirit is inside of those who believe in Jesus “Satan, get behind me” The Lord never sleeps or slumbers Rest - God works all things together for the good of those who love Him A curse without cause cannot alight Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord? Those with clean hands and a pure heart Wash me - We don’t have a spirit of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind -I am more than a conqueror in Christ - The power of life and death is in the power of the tongue - God spoke the world into being , Who can stand against the Lord Almighty? That Christ would be more and more at home in your hearts The power to understand God’s love (I LOVE this scripture as a prayer) , He is a triune God We need each other in community Paul had a thorn in his flesh, God said His power is made known in His weakness -Our ways are not His ways We were perfectly and wonderfully made - He is not finished with your story Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of our lives Give the desires of our heart , He is faithful to His word This I know, God is on my side Where the Spirit is there is no law - Trust and obey -A voice behind me will say “this is the way walk in it” References: () Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 166 :: Dr. Clarence Shuler :: Stories of Finding Hope in Dark Places and Cross-Cultural Relationships that Can Heal
10/09/2023
Episode 166 :: Dr. Clarence Shuler :: Stories of Finding Hope in Dark Places and Cross-Cultural Relationships that Can Heal
Dr. Clarence Shuler is the President and CEO of his nonprofit BLR- which stands for Building Lasting Relationships. Their mission is to equip others for discipleship in various venues. He and his wife both speak and write about marriage, but also dealing with infidelity, and divorce, but they especially love to minister to singles in the church. Whatever it looks like, the Shulers are committed to “loving people with God’s love with no agenda and see what happens.” During our conversation today, Dr. Shuler shared his story of coming to Christ through a relationship that would impact his life in many ways, through a young guy by the name of Gary Chapman. Yup, the Love Languages guy. I share that because their relationship gave birth to 50+ years of friendship and an opportunity to share how crossing those racial lines in the 1960s taught them both and continues to guide them in helping others learn how to embrace cross-cultural friendships today. Dr. Shuler himself does quite a bit of diversity training for companies, and for churches, and brings such gracious honesty to the table about what it has been like for him as a Black man in predominately white spaces. His most recent book is a really powerful and raw look into his journey with depression and a sense of hopelessness. The book is called Finding Hope in Dark Places: Facing Loneliness, Depression, and Anxiety with the Power of Grace. He coauthored it with his therapist, Dr. Monique Smith Gadson, otherwise known as Dr. Mo. Their book is unique in that it gives an honest narrative of Clarence’s personal experiences as he walked out the darkest place of his life, but also shows his relationship with his counselor and how she was able to help him in that season. It is full of spiritual and mental health wisdom, it does not end tied in a bow, but it is overflowing with hope. Dr. Shuler hopes that sharing his journey will empower anyone, but especially Black men, to embrace vulnerability and find God’s power and healing in weakness. I also want to echo this powerful reminder Dr. Shuler gives in this episode: Being in a dark place is not a sin. It is a place for the Lord to reveal Himself in a whole new way. We see throughout scripture about the Lord shepherding us in dark places, and in this world, we will know and have trouble, but we will never be alone and He will help us to find our hearts again there. He is not finished with you, friend. You matter and your story matters. Connecting with Dr. Clarence Shuler: Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: Making disciples You are complete in Christ Men’s curse/purpose from the Garden The world gives peace that doesn’t satisfy - “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.” , David was in a dark place hiding in caves When David didn’t kill Saul I can shut a door no one can open and open doors no one can shut the tongues of fire and each in their own language understanding one another Tower of Babel - They will know Me by your love - Men and women of Issacar and know what time it is Indeed we felt within ourselves we would die… but we believe in the God who raises the dead Suffering isn’t punishment - In this world you will have trouble , - you are going to have many trials, the fire will refine you Suffering produces character, which produces… - The Lord isn’t finished with you This isn’t how the story ends - On Him we have set our hope We do not find our significance in men but in the Lord - We’re never alone What would have become of me had I not believed I would see the goodnes of the Lord in the land of the living References: where she shares about her divorce n ( speaks on this as well and in her work) Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 165 ::Kayla Craig :: Stories of Curiosity & Questions in Faith & Holding Every Season Sacred
09/22/2023
Episode 165 ::Kayla Craig :: Stories of Curiosity & Questions in Faith & Holding Every Season Sacred
Today I have the absolute joy of sharing with you my conversation with Kayla Craig. Kayla is a modern liturgist as the woman behind Liturgies for Parents online. She is a Mama of 4, a supportive pastor’s wife, and just this week she released her second book Every Season Sacred. In our conversation today, you’ll get to hear Kayla’s heart as she shares about what it looks like to pursue an honest and abundant life full of wonder and work. In all the spaces she occupies, she offers an open invitation to be curious, to express our questions, doubts, or confusion as we walk out our faith journeys, and to see the Lord make Himself known no matter where we are. Her first book To Light Their Way is a book of liturgies for everyday life and real-life parenting feelings, celebrations, issues, and places that are hard to parent through. (It is a personal favorite in my home and in walking life out with my friends and family). Her most recent book Every Season Sacred is an offering to still engage your faith life in your parenting journey and faith conversations with your kids, no matter where they lie. This book isn’t a formulaic way to do faith and family. It is what Kayla would call a “hand hold” for wherever you are. It is for you as well as your kiddos. It is practical and applicable, but also invitational and gracious. What you find in these pages is flexible for application while living your actual life and can easily be incorporated in an intentional, but parent life-sized way. There are prayers for all kinds of life experiences, and hold space for each of your unique kids to respond (or not respond) uniquely. I can’t wait for you to hear more about it and just find yourself encouraged by Kayla today. You don’t have to do this parenting thing perfectly or shoot just the living life thing, perfectly. As Kayla reminded us, we are all in process and working out the hard things in our life, whether people realize it or share it or not. You are not alone, God is with you. And you matter. Your story matters. Connecting with Kayla: Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: -God is bigger than anything we could fathom He already knows our questions or doubts or fears -God is so gracious , -God is with us , -We can rest in the mystery of Christ -Co-laborer for the Gospel The Lord’s Prayer - -There is glory happening around us all the time (the Earth is filled with His glory) -We are ALL part of the family of God , -God is the God of all tribes of all tongues and nations ,, - -God loves you , God calls you a beloved child We don’t know what the future holds, but He does The story isn’t over References: her first book (which is SO good) - (RIP) with your kids (a resource for incorporating this into your life! And from us explaining the Church Calendar) Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 164 :: Patricia Raybon :: Stories of the Power of History, Heroines of Color and Listening to Learn and Love
09/15/2023
Episode 164 :: Patricia Raybon :: Stories of the Power of History, Heroines of Color and Listening to Learn and Love
Today I get to share with you my conversation with Patricia Raybon. Patricia is a woman who wears many hats as a writer of both nonfiction and fiction. She shares with me what it was like for her to grow up under Jim Crow segregation and how that informed her identity from a young age, and how writing out stories helped her to make sense of what she experienced from the culture at large while her faith bloomed in her own soul. As an adult, in her journalism career, she cultivated the art of listening and understanding people’s history to help her wrestle with forgiveness, the effects of racism on her life, learn to love when things got hard, and writing it all down so that the Lord could reveal Himself to her, and ultimately others, in that journey. Most recently she burst into the Christian fiction scene with her award winning debut novel All That is Secret is the first book in the Annalee Spain trilogy which follows a young Black woman in 1923 working in higher ed as a theology professor, as well as writing as a journalist. Annalee finds herself in the midst of a mystery in the wild west of Colorado, where the second wave of the Klu Klux Klan is flexing its power, and willing to do anything to keep secrets hidden. Patricia shares with me the inspiration for her female professor turned detective, the realities her story is based on, and the resilience and heart of Black women that beats through each page. She shares a little bit about the topics that come up in the rest of the trilogy such as interracial marriage, Black women’s roles in society historically, female detectives as a whole, but mostly, we talk about the realities of what many people continue to face day in and day out and yet still have to persevere in their days. When we listen to the stories of others to better understand their experience, not to pass judgement, even if it makes us uncomfortable, we have such a rich opportunity to encounter God, learn more about fellow image bearers in the Kingdom of God, and consider life from a perspective we may not have had a chance to otheriwse. Patricia has such a sweet spirit, but a fiery tenacity that I know you are just going to love. I cannot wait for you to spend time with us today. Connecting with Patricia: Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Scripture References: - The world may hate you, but it hated Jesus first, take heart - God loves you (among a thousand other verses!) - God sings over you , -God calls you beloved , , You are precious in the Lord’s sight “Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.” (NLT) References: Devotional and Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 163 :: Brandi Wilson :: Stories of Healing and Hope after Divorce
09/01/2023
Episode 163 :: Brandi Wilson :: Stories of Healing and Hope after Divorce
I am so honored to get to share with you my conversation with the amazing Brandi Wilson. Brandi is a woman who loves Jesus fiercely, being a Mom to her 3 boys and cheering them on as they play football. She is passionate about walking with women as a coach working through their callings, and walking with them when they’re in the midst of relational healing journeys. Recently, she released her first book Better Than Okay: Finding Hope and Healing When Your Marriage Ends which shares her journey of following God’s call to plant a church in Nashville, TN with her then-pastor husband, watching it grow exponentially into a massive and impactful ministry with multiple sites, meanwhile at home experiencing heartbreak and betrayal. This ultimately led to a very painful divorce as well as a public parting with the faith community that had been the epicenter of their ministry and their lives. During her book as well as our conversation, Brandi shares how God met her as she wrestled through grief, mothered her boys, navigated what it means to be a divorced Christian woman, as well as a former pastor’s wife, and just how she navigates life in co-parenting, and so much more. Brandi is honest, hilarious, and heartfelt in her sharing of her story while also giving such beautiful advice for how to hold space for the people we love as they grieve through their own experiences, and letting that happen at their own pace. She shares ways that might be helpful to those walking through seasons of trauma and loss, in others' lives, annnnd the not-helpful ways to maybe steer clear of as well. She’s a self-proclaimed deep feeler, but also a deep healer and if that’s not a word of hope that I think we all need no matter where we are, I don’t know what is. Brandi is an amazing follow on Instagram, her book is such a breathtaking view into her heart, overflowing with honesty but constantly pointing to hope, and like she said, a reminder that there are NEW things that are still coming. I hope that hearing this episode helps anyone who needs it to feel seen and cared for wherever you are in your story, because we are all feeling, and we all carry the possibility for healing. The One who made you cares about all the pieces that feel broken, and His hope never runs out. You matter, friend. And your story matters. Connecting with Brandi: Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Scripture References: God is going to be good to me Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you -Hope does not disappoint He will complete the work He began in you References: journal Sjournal (it is AMAZING) Side plug, I cannot say enough good things about Sissy’s new book Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 162 :: Dorena Williamson :: Stories of Encouraging and Honoring Children and Kingdom Community Building for God’s Glory
08/16/2023
Episode 162 :: Dorena Williamson :: Stories of Encouraging and Honoring Children and Kingdom Community Building for God’s Glory
I am so thrilled to welcome back to the podcast, the one and only Dorena Williamson! Dorena is a woman of deep faith, with a passion for building the kingdom of God and living a legacy of faith as a minister, a mama, a pastor’s wife, and a woman of impactful and instructive words. She is the author of 8 children’s books that all provide beautiful insight into the heart of God and scripture’s call to live in diversity and humility as we learn and grow together in the world. Whether that diversity is found in differing racial or ethnic communities and cultures, to others living with visible or invisible disabilities, or on the margins socioeconomically. She encourages children and the big people who love them, in every story that she writes to celebrate how God made them, and to delight in His world that He made and all those made in His image. Her most recent book is called I Know Who I Am. It is a book of scriptural affirmations for kids. It is designed to serve as a companion to come alongside families and those that love kids with words that contain truth about them, about the Lord, and to see all of God’s image bearers represented in the pages from around the world! It gives beautiful verbiage for children to repeat over themselves and to speak over other children of all ages they encounter as they walk through the hills and valleys and changes of life. My kids absolutely loved it, and it would be a perfect addition to a morning or evening routine for kiddos that are starting back to school! In this conversation, Dorena also shares her heart so beautifully about where God has her in her lament as a leader in her church, a Mama raising Black kids, and the world around her. She invites us to consider how all Believers can lean in to the reality of what is before communities and their daily fears and concerns and how to bear one another’s burdens together at the feet of Jesus. She offers an invitation to lean in to humility and honor towards others as we experience beauty, hope, tragedy, and all that is found on Earth this side of Heaven together. None of us are perfect, we will make mistakes, but God honors our learning, our choices to lean in and have Him show us His heart for us and for others. He has so much to show us. Always remember, you matter, and your story matters. Just as an FYI, we recorded this episode right in the midst of our communities’ grief over the Covenant shooting in the Spring. We mention it briefly in the beginning of the episode, but we spend a little more time (around 5-7 minutes) discussing its impact on our community around 40 minutes in. If that is a tender place for you, I just want to be sensitive to that and give you that heads up. We fairly quickly transition to Dorena sharing about how to be the body of Christ in the midst of seasons of communal lament. It’s a powerful word, not solely about that tragedy, but about how to lock arms and shields of faith with others as humans made in God’s image walking this weary land together until we all go home. Connecting with Dorena: Sponsor for this Episode: HopefuelUse the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Please consider joining our We need your support! If you have enjoyed what you heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Scripture References: , P, - God is good (plus many ) – His truth endures to all generations - Water into wine On Earth as it is in Heaven , The family of God in Heaven -The Earth is full of God’s glory -I build my life on Jesus who is the solid rock, vs. shifting sand You have plans for me for hope and my future -You will not leave me - Wait on the Lord, He will renew your strength Crowned with glory and God’s strength - Oh Lord, with deep groanings - Exodus and the cries of those enslaved, and God heard them and saw their grief and He was concerned , , - His plans from the foundations of the earth (futher insight ) The Exodus story and God parted the seas for His people Lift my head - God keeps us - God works together for the good of those that love Him - Bear one another’s burdens Every nation tribe and tongue in Heaven Let us make man and woman in our image References: Dorena’s previous episodes on the podcast ( ;) and and the Loving Act ( ’s - (and !) (Listen, I know the struggle with Target is real for a lot of believers right now. However. This is honoring Black people and culture in a huge way and I’m super grateful for those strides forward.) - Elevation Worship for White Allies and how they can honor Juneteenth without centering themselves, and also also does a fantastic job sharing about practical ways to celebrate and elevate. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 161 :: T.I. Lowe :: Stories of Grit, Grace, and God’s Redemption from the Dark Places
08/08/2023
Episode 161 :: T.I. Lowe :: Stories of Grit, Grace, and God’s Redemption from the Dark Places
I have one heck of a power-packed conversation for you with the lovely, hilarious, and always honest T.I. Lowe. T.I. is a born and bred Southern woman, and fiction author with a fiery passion for the Lord, and she shares her story with me of God coming into her life and redefining love and family, and how He can change a life. Some people have said they can really hear my southern accent on the podcast… but T.I. brings out my roots, and I love it. Her heart to understand the experiences of others led her to take her secret love of writing and breathe life into stories of deep pain and wild Divine redemption. No topic is off limits because no human is exempt from pain and suffering. Her stories run the gamut of spiritual leaders battling major mental health issues, suicide, dealing with abusive relationships, and more, but they are saturated with the real reminder that nothing and no one is beyond the redemption of the Lord. T.I.’s latest book Indigo Isle is a little bit of “Beauty and the Beast” and the Prodigal Son parable and a whole lot of T.I.’s personal brand of “grit and grace.” It deals with issues so many of us wrestle with like knowing our worth, identity, being held back by our past, sexual abuse, and the deep lies Satan sews to keep us captive from receiving love from others, but most importantly receiving the love of God. This one is a deeply personal one for me because it echoed so much of my personal story, which we talk transparently and boldly about in this podcast. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, we see you and are with you, but also I want to offer a trigger warning as a sister who has been there. You’re not alone. The Bible is no stranger to the things that make some feel seen, and others uncomfortable. All of it is real. It is not in God’s nature to shy away from our pain and suffering. He enters in. So we offer you this conversation today so that we can enter in together. Connecting with T.I. (the current one we discussed at length is Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty References: (it is free for Kindle Unlimited users btw!) (For faith-based conversation here, some of my favorite voices are and ) (I also really appreciate Tiffany and Ash’s voices on this as well. We talk about it a good bit on , but on they have good conversations too) (example- there’s an endless well of resources I could point you to! is another.) , Rachelle Starr (we made this recipe last week at the beach actually!) Scripture References: He knew me before I was born Psalms that depict suicidal ideation - Hagar wishing for death The prodigal son parable - You are an image bearer The Samaritan woman - Rahab We were made by a communal God who does everything in three Jesus modeled having a small group of friends -Then he had even a smaller group of trusted friends - He went away to be alone with the Father , - The Bride of Christ is not going anywhere and Jesus is coming back for her -Going after the lost sheep Mending broken things - Bringing dry bones to life I will search for my lost loved ones and I will bring them back home safely again Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 160 :: Jennifer Dukes Lee :: Stories of Questions and Ruthless Self-Discovering Answers
07/28/2023
Episode 160 :: Jennifer Dukes Lee :: Stories of Questions and Ruthless Self-Discovering Answers
I am so delighted to share with you my conversation with the lovely and amazing Jennifer Dukes Lee. Jennifer is a Bible teacher and writer living on a fifth-generation farm in the middle of Iowa with her family. She began her career of words working in journalism and was on the way to a successful political correspondent career. Then, the Lord called her and her husband to the farm life raising crops and daughters, and there, she began to really wrestle with the faith she grew up in, and used her interrogation skills from her journalism career and took them to God and His word. What she found there was so rich and full and transformative, and God began to help her share what she was learning and invite others into that same adventure. Her latest work is a guided journal titled Stuff I’d Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous, Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery. The journal is a book of questions and prompts because as Jennifer says there are beautiful things that can be encountered at the end of a question mark. It is unlike any other journal I’ve ever encountered, it is full of questions that plumb the depths of your soul, and others that make you laugh out loud. Jennifer and I even share some of our answers to some of the really funny ones later in this episode, but much of what we talk about today is unpacking how we perceive Jesus’ questions, the tones we assign to scripture, why we resist growth, questions, and are scared to confess our doubts. Jesus is not afraid of what He already knows we’re wrestling with. Perhaps this conversation will serve as an invitation for you to consider what He may have for you at the end of a question mark. Y’all I cannot express how much I enjoyed this journal. It has given me space to be all the versions of myself. Serious me, introspective me, silly me, music-obsessed me, all of it. Is it hard for you to answer questions about yourself? Serious ones or lighthearted ones? Are you like me and struggle to embrace fun and whimsy in your life? I want to challenge you to hold space for the weird and the wonderful in you, no matter what that looks like. The Lord welcomes you, as you are, as He made you, questions, doubts, quirks, and all. I hope this conversation serves as a catalyst for just that. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Jennifer: (The seperate journal’s !) References: (hey, to my friends!) (newspaper) C+C Music Factory () Countdown Scripture References: -Thomas , , - The disciples’ concern with breaking t (and the Pharisees and Sadducees, and etc) Scales came off Paul’s eyes Do you want to get well? what do you want me to do for you? - Why did you doubt? - You do not want to leave too, do you? 0, - When Jesus speaks to Judas - Jesus showed up as a baby Jesus grew up in wisdom and stature Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 159 :: Ray Leight :: Stories of Mental Health, Faith, and Maturing into Yourself
07/18/2023
Episode 159 :: Ray Leight :: Stories of Mental Health, Faith, and Maturing into Yourself
Today we are continuing our conversation about mental health and faith and caring for our hearts with identity coach Ray Leight. Ray and his wife Kathryn lead Faith by Grace, a coaching practice and ministry designed to equip people to do deep inner work to live lives of freedom and joy. Ray shares with me today how the Lord led him into ministry and a passion for identity coaching through his own journey of coping with trauma as well as living with undiagnosed neurodivergence and bipolar two until he was well into adulthood. Ray brings some really fascinating insights into this conversation that brings to the surface some of the points of contention that can confuse Christians about spiritual healing, maturing in faith, and neurological and biological roadblocks that occur genetically or as a result of trauma and life experience. Have you ever had a breakthrough in a struggle and then after time you feel like you go backward? Have you ever questioned God’s healing in your life? Do you lack clarity with terms like ‘codependency’ or ‘boundaries’, but find it confusing about how that might actually apply practically? I’d love to invite you to give this conversation a listen with Holy Spirit-led discernment for your healing journey. His discernment is always available to those who call on Him! And I ALWAYS want to encourage you to pursue His leading in any conversation we have! But I think some of the things we discuss today touch on places we can get tripped up in the church, so I just want to remind us all to have ears to hear and hearts tuned to the One who made us and will bring us to the day of completion. We are professionals with our tools we fashion for survival, aren’t we? But friends, we have to hand over those tools to the Carpenter who made us by hand and have Him give us new tools, new skills, and new ways of living life. The Lord can and will recalibrate and reset what you have always known and how you have coped. God’s goodness and mercy and hope are always there and are always enough as we walk out this journey. As Ray shared, “It is not selfish to care for yourself.” In fact, it honors God and makes space for Him to continue doing a work in you. You matter, my friend. Your story matters. Connecting with Ray: Book: (and Coaching information) Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. References: (Campus Crusade) (Just a quick word of using the Holy Spirit-led discernment here) (same here) We’re all just spiritual beings walking around in earth suits - Well I royally screwed this one up. I merged multiple quotes together and CS Lewis didn’t say one of them. Good times. But was insightful. Podcast on and the other about - (this is the episode I was listening to) - On-site is a REALLY sound resource at the intersection of faith and mental health. codependency : Brain, Mind and Bod in the Healing of Trauma- Bessel van der Kolk (this is an incredible resource for understanding how trauma and experiences stored in the body and affects us over time) An example o of people believe that they are actually saved or not Also studies of what do people mean when they say t and how Americans and faith have shifted Example of some stories we’ve heard on the podcast of spiritual things we may or may not understand and . “.” Scripture References: - Adam and Eve believed the lie and ate the fruit We have an enemy that lies to us - Kingdom of the world is fear, shame, and guilt. Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit We are called to love the Lord our God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength - Jesus is working on you until the day of completion - Create in me a clean heart oh God - In this world you will have trouble - He is the One who gives us life and to the full Fruits of the Spirit - Gifts of the Spirit - You are a new creation The heart is deceitful above all else - We are given a heart of flesh for our heart of stone - Jesus wrote the Law on our hearts Jesus fulfilled the Law We are called to go and share the Gospel - Jesus talking to God about bringing Him glory in the garden - Your identity is who you are in Christ Faith of a mustard seed parable -Take the log out of your own eye Love the Lord your God and love your neighbor as yourself - We love because He first loved us How vast God’s love is for us While we were still sinners (us and all our issues) Christ died for us Christ in You the hope of glory Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 158 :: Ally Henny :: Stories of Finding Your Voice When the World Says to Shut Up Part Two
06/29/2023
Episode 158 :: Ally Henny :: Stories of Finding Your Voice When the World Says to Shut Up Part Two
We are diving into part two of my conversation with author and advocate Ally Henny. If you missed part one of this conversation I would strongly recommend you check that episode out first so you can hear some context of Ally’s life, ministry, and some of her experiences as a Black woman in predominately white Christian spaces, and a glimpse into her journey of allowing herself to speak up and not just allow racism to be what is just an accepted part of her occupying space in the world. This gave birth to her new book I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You. Ally shares with us what it can really look like to fight racism from the inside, offers ideas of how to be welcoming in predominately white spaces, and how white people's good intentions can still cause harm if they (including me) aren’t willing to lean in when it's uncomfortable and admit we don’t know what we don’t know. She challenges people to consider what it might look like to embrace discomfort in these conversations. and embracing what we didn’t know and engaging people who do know, and then being willing to learn and sit with it. Let’s lean in today, friends, and embrace this Kingdom-building work and learn how to better build one another up, and bear one another’s burdens as the body of Christ. I hope and pray that every time you encounter the stories on this podcast, you walk away encouraged to live more fully in your story, equipped with how to engage those around you more fully in their story, and how to better see your place in God’s story. You matter and your story matters. Connecting with Ally: The Audiobook is not out yet, stay tuned though! Book: “Combing the Roots” Please consider joining our If you have enjoyed what you have heard on the podcast today or from other episodes, we would so appreciate your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. If you feel you cannot financially commit at this time, would you please consider leaving us a star rating and/or review on ? My family and I are so grateful for each of you and how you are part of our story. References: Part one of my conversation with Ally (, ) (Ep 119) - is a fantastic historical look at this by the way. (I’m linking his version here because the first two chapters are audio lectures and easy access to learning!) (There’s a rule if you join it and you are white, you have to be quiet for 3 months before you can say or ask ANYTHING.) is an incredible resource that truly takes the time to offer resources specifically for white people to learn about episode with Ally talking about Prince Harry, the Royal Family and the Meghan Markle factor /(I THINK it was this episode or the next one where she mentions the parallels with the Royal Family and how H&M left loud) // The Justins ( and ) and a few moments of just bg to get them to and shut up when they were and one for Rep. as well. (can I just say, listening to Dr. Tisby speak at a university that is on the property of a former plantation where hundreds of people were enslaved was… full of feelings.) , President of by Dr. Jemar Tisby Scripture References: Growing to be more like Christ (so many scriptures) - Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with your God Seek the Kingdom of God -Bear one another’s burdens Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 157 :: Ally Henny :: Stories of Finding Your Voice When the World Says to Shut Up Part One
06/23/2023
Episode 157 :: Ally Henny :: Stories of Finding Your Voice When the World Says to Shut Up Part One
Today I get to share with you my powerful conversation with the amazing Ally Henny. Ally is an author, a speaker, a minister, an advocate, and the vice president of The Witness, a Black Christian Collective which is an organization committed to encouraging, engaging, and empowering Black Christians toward liberation from racism. This week, Ally released her book I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You which one reviewer poignantly and perfectly called “An unvarnished perspective on racism that calls Black women to find their voice.” During our conversation today, Ally is going to share some of the insights from her incredible book as well as some of her experiences as a Black Christian woman who for many, many years felt constantly silenced but perpetually on display for public opinion. She shares how it feels for her to never be “off” because her responses in conversations, even her facial expressions are constantly being evaluated and judged. Or what it feels like to consistently be perceived as a potential threat or as someone who needs to be handled or managed. She unpacks topics such as society’s expectation of women being the burden bearers, the helper, and the nurturers in American society, but how that uniquely plays out for many Black women and its roots in systemic harm. Ultimately, Ally shares a glimpse into the culmination of events that led to her finding what she calls her “holy hell no,” the sacred boundary that rose up in her and said I do not deserve to be treated this way and that racism does not have to be an accepted fact of life. Her book moved me so deeply and continued opening my eyes to experiences I’ve lived in ignorance of, and this conversation continues to remind me about the beauty and the power of not staying silent in the face of injustice and the heart of God to let ALL of our lights shine before men. This conversation goes so deep and wide, that this is actually part one of two episodes, and I can’t wait to listen and learn right along with you. Remember friend, no matter where you are in your journey, you matter and your story matters. Connecting with Ally: Book: Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off References: (“Wakanda Forever!”) (examples: ” ”,” etc.) () and also discusses the “science” myth that Black women were built stronger of enslavement rhetoric and disproportionately into predominately Black neighborhoods and sparked by the shooting of (these photos are from Nashville) Scripture References: - “Let your light shine before men.” Thus far and no more He has shown you o mortal what is good, do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 156 :: Kathryn Maack :: Stories of Living and Relating to God and Others with Our Whole Self
06/16/2023
Episode 156 :: Kathryn Maack :: Stories of Living and Relating to God and Others with Our Whole Self
Today, I get to share my conversation with minister and author Kathryn Maack. Kathryn shares her seemingly accidental, but God-ordained road into vocational ministry. God began to reveal Himself to her in ways that helped her to process how we as Believers approach the Lord, and that there can be a segregation that happens within ourselves in how to we relate to the Lord or even are willing to learn about Him or worship Him. Whether that be disconnect between our head and heart, Spirit and the Truth, there is much that can be disrupted and disjointed due to pain, our experiences, or perhaps even half truths we’ve come to believe as the whole truth. She dives into this topic in the book she coauthored with ministry partner Aaron Williams . When the Lord made us, He did not make us in segmented pieces, but as a whole person. Kathryn and Aaron want to remind us that Jesus wants to make us holy and whole and He wants us to live out the identity He created us to have. if you are struggling in your own story because it is just… loud. Too much yelling, too much fighting, too many confusing narratives, I want you to hear me say that the Lord is with you. He is the God of peace, and a God of justice and mercy. He will not leave you here. If you are struggling in your story because it is just too quiet, and you feel like God is too far and you don’t know what to make of what you see, feel or what you’ve seen, I want you to hear me say that the Lord is also with you. He has a history that suggests that even when it seems like He is absent, He is anything but. He never leaves us or forsakes us and rejoices over us with loud singing. He listens to lament, He can take our questions, and He will not leave you here. No matter you are, I hope you know that you matter, and your story matters. Thanks for hanging out with me and I’ll see you next time. Connecting with Kathryn: Kathryn and Aaron’s book: Connecting with Dwellings: Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off References: is a ministry that helps ordinary people cultivate kingdom communities, typically in small groups or house churches “” - Bebo Norman - Elevation Worship - Mercy Me - “We worship with the sound of broken shackles falling to the ground.” Scripture References: Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength - true worshippers come to Jesus in Spirit and Truth The heart is deceitful above all else ; ; ,) , , - Jesus came and displayed emotions but never sinned -This is the first and greatest commandment - The fruit of the spirit is joy - Taste and see that the Lord is good - The Spirit enlivens the eyes of the heart - You search the scriptures and you want to find Me, but you don’t know Me Moses shining with God glory’s off the mountain - Moses catching the people in a hot mess - Moses comes back with the Law again - The Holy Spirit guides us into all Truth - The Holy Spirit convicts us , -The Holy Spirit helps us discern scripture , He is our help - God calls the bones to life - There is Someone who wants you to be free , Christ is the cornerstone -The sword of the Spirit is the word of God - We are not at war with flesh and blood - Jesus wants to make us holy and whole and He wants us to live out the identity He created us to have. I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 155 :: Meredith Boggs :: Stories of Growing in Faith and the Enneagram Journey
06/05/2023
Episode 155 :: Meredith Boggs :: Stories of Growing in Faith and the Enneagram Journey
Welcome to summer, my friends! This month, we’ll be talking about how to engage who we are on the inside so we can better connect with God, get to know who He has always been, and walk with Him from a more authentic place. Once we can do that, it spills over into our relationships around us. Past me would think it was completely crazy to pursue space for growing myself in the summer but present me says that this part of our story matters. We’ve got self-examination, growth, and care to do. God has much to show us and heal in us. Are you willing to come along for the ride? Today we’ll start with Meredith Boggs. Meredith is a podcaster and an author. Her book The Journey Home: A Biblical Guide to Using the Enneagram to Deepen Your Faith and Relationships tells the story of her life as a young adult and doing all the good Christian things, but finding herself burned out and confused. Looking for a way to breathe life back into her soul and her faith and the Enneagram became a tool that God used to minister to her. Ohhhh the Enneagram: We’re going to talk about the beef people have with it, the understandable concerns many have about it, the misuse of it, AND if it is a useful tool to you, then how could we see what God has for people of faith in it so they can grow into who God made them to be. Maybe you’ve never even heard of it or only heard weird things about it OR you’re over it. Give us another chance today because how Meredith breaks down perspectives about how the enneagram can be used well and not well in relationships, and how it can build one another up in the body of Christ is really beautiful and unique. Of all the Enneagram content I’ve consumed over the years, Meredith’s voice has become my favorite. Her book is about spiritual growth more than a personality evaluation. It is grace-filled, but honest and nuanced. I loved this conversation with her so much where you will get to hear some of Meredith’s story and hear her share about her journey with recognizing weaknesses and surrendering in recovery and learning how to trust God in those places. I hope that this conversation ministers to you today. If anything, I hope you hear that we are ALL in progress. We all have weaknesses and limits and the Lord can and will make Himself known in all of them. Transformation takes time, it is messy, and grappling with who God really versus how broken people sometimes claim Him to be can be an adventure, but a worthwhile one. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Meredith: Book: Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty References: Enneagram Test () Enneagram Test from Enneagram Institute (y’all know I’m a #Potterhead), the beef with it when the books were coming out (more words about and ) “Without knowledge of self there is no knowledge of God Our wisdom, in so far as it ought to be deemed true and solid Wisdom, consists almost entirely of two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves. But as these are connected together by many ties, it is not easy to determine which of the two precedes and gives birth to the other.” Our friend Kelsey is . You can hear my conversation with her on (Affiliate link, thank you for your support!) Aslan who creates (From by C.S. Lewis) Meredith’s resources Scripture References: - Fruit of the Spirit - How the body of Christ functions (all its unique parts) see ourselves rightly -Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself Grant me a heart of wisdom Enlighten the eyes of my heart God’s power has no end and - In my limits/weaknesses, He is strong Even more, than we could ask or imagine , He has a purpose for you - God is kind to us -God is good (just one scripture!) We are co-creators with God He will complete the work He began in us God does provide for all of our needs I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 154 :: Chris & Stephanie Teague:: Stories of Wrestling with Doubt, Divorce, and Experiencing Redemption Out of the Dust
05/19/2023
Episode 154 :: Chris & Stephanie Teague:: Stories of Wrestling with Doubt, Divorce, and Experiencing Redemption Out of the Dust
Today I get to share with you a really fun and powerful conversation with my friends Chris and Stephanie Teague. In our conversation you’ll get to hear the story of how Chris and Stephanie met, their marriage when they were in college, pursuing the quintessential Christian couple life, and then the secrets, addictions, and doubts that led to their divorce in 2010. Then, during a season where they each in their own way were desperate for answers to what they didn’t understand, God met them and showed them He was trustworthy with their lives individually, freeing them both from the pressure of living a put-together know-it-all Christian life and receiving the invitation to be alive with Christ and live in hope. And then, in His grace, He also redeemed their marriage. Over a decade later, here we are hanging out unpacking this story today! Praise God. This time with them was a special experience of hearing them unpack how God met them then, how He continues to reveal Himself to them now, and the heart of the calling on their lives now as the band Out of the Dust. Through their music, and sharing their story, Chris and Stephanie now travel the country speaking and singing hope over people who wonder if all hope is lost. As you’ll hear, it’s not about trying to fix broken marriages or bootstrapping your way to a better life, it’s issuing an invitation to encounter the heart of God. This is such a powerful conversation annnnnd for those of us who grow up in the 90’s/early 2000’s Christian world, I think there’s going to be a lot you can probably relate to, for better or for worse as well. It’s a good time and I can’t wait to share it with you. I hope above all things you hear in this episode, you hear that the Lord specializes at making beautiful things out of the dust. Dust of things that have yet to know life, or dust of ashes where things have all burned down. He is the God of redemption and resurrection and He cares about your heart encountering healing with Him. If you have any questions about any of that, please don’t ever hesitate to reach out to me, or to someone like Stephanie and Chris, we are imperfect people who have seen a perfect God in our story, but we also know what it means to shake our fists and wonder why and have Him love us there too. Wherever you are today, friend, I hope that you can hear me say, you matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Stephanie & Chris Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off References: -Episodes Chris and Stephanie have helped me out on before! Our readings of and - and -Some of based on science and faith (and for kids too! Our family loves these) - where we talk about suicidal ideation with , her book I mention is -We got it wrong, -- their song with the lyric “Let the valley teach you what the mountain can’t” - by Gungor - -For the record the church we attend together is Murfreesboro ;) - - - - - - - - about working through doubts, questions and truly finding Jesus (Taylor Turkington author of ) - - (I REALLY loved this study about this from It was a huge help to me) -, - (not Michael lol) Scripture References: , , , , Jesus went to the raw and real places , , -God’s mercy -Prodigal pacing (earning your way back home) -God is with you in the valley He is close to the brokenhearted -A Moses, nope God you got the wrong guy , , God is so patient , -He is faithful (among many verses and stories!) -He is OK with us working through questions and doubts Draw near to Him , , , He is all-knowing, but we get to know Him -scripture is God breathed -This world is broken, and in this world we will have trouble -God has infinite wisdom Jesus welcomed interuptions and weren’t on the plan , , and -Jesus grieved in the garden and at the tomb of His friend , , -Job indicting God -”doubting” Thomas What would have become of me if I had not believed I would see the goodness of the Lord -Using suffering for our good (example) If not He is still good I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 153 :: Dennis Allen:: Stories of Evaluating the Methods of the Mission and Jesus’ Call to Discipleship
05/12/2023
Episode 153 :: Dennis Allen:: Stories of Evaluating the Methods of the Mission and Jesus’ Call to Discipleship
Today, I have Dennis Allen on the podcast. Dennis followed his heart to the Air Force as fighter pilot, and suddenly was hit with a life altering diagnosis that ended his military career. Propelled into the business world, he would ultimately become a consultant to guide businesses how to better address internal issues, shore up where they might be struggling, and reevaluate leadership. In his work, he began to see the similarities in the issues he was unpacking within businesses and modern Western discipleship, and the Church. Thus his book The Discipleship Dilemma: Rethinking and Reforming How the Church Does Discipleship was born. In our conversation he shares with us his personal story of God quite literally giving him a new heart and growing his heart to help leaders in churches as well as every member of the Body of Christ refresh and recapture their vision for Jesus’ call to go and make disciples of all nations. We unpack what discipleship is and isn’t, and how to address some of the issues going unaddressed in churches and hurting hearts who are questioning God because of their encounters with His people. Its a challenging message and conversation, but its a really really good one. I hope you’ll circle up for this family meeting of sorts and dive deep with us. There are all kinds of ways this conversation could land on you and wherever you are in life as a whole and your relationship with God or with His church. I want you to know that no matter what, there is room for the wrestling and questions, and that is part of being a disciple in fact. There is hope for redemption, friends. Above all else, there is a God who loves you dearly and made you on purpose. Seek Him, and you WILL find him. I hope this podcast can be a tool to point you to places in scripture where you can learn to know Him more, but also to resources, tools and people that could perhaps aid you in your journey. Just know that you’re not alone. We’re all learning. Praise God He’s not finished with us. Just remember. You matter to the Lord. Your story matters. Connecting with Dennis: Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty References: (we have great episodes on this and ) Scripture References: Go and make disciples From that time on many stopped following Jesus Jesus is the way, the truth and the life We have an enemy of our soul esponsibility and accountability for leaders do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with your God Early Church arguments Nothing can stop the church -If you are my follow Me you must take up the cross and follow Me (not GAlatians) - some are called to be evangelists we have the reason for the hope We all have spiritual gifts plans for hope and a future You are grafted into the family of God -without Christ we can do nothing -we have all been given what we need for life and godliness do you understand what it means to be a disciple? Take heart I have overcome the world on’t be afraid (before Red Sea crossing) We live under the shelter of His wings Prodigal sons and daughters I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 152 ::Sopha Rush :: Stories of Pursuing Healing and Living Deeply Rooted in God’s Promises
05/05/2023
Episode 152 ::Sopha Rush :: Stories of Pursuing Healing and Living Deeply Rooted in God’s Promises
Sopha Rush is an author, online influencer and encourager, and professional promise proclaimer. Her book 100 Days of Living Deeply Rooted is such an encouraging word for life in the trenches of trying to unpack past narratives about yourself, believing what God says is true about you, and learning to trust Him more wherever you are walking in life. In our conversation today, Sopha shares a little bit of her family’s powerful story of fleeing the Cambodian genocide and starting their family in Chicago. Her Mom became a single parent after a tragedy at a very young age, and she and her siblings grew up under the umbrella of incredible strength, and resilience, but also so much grief. There is much to unpack growing up as the helper when you become a parent, isn’t there? Learning to find value in yourself and just being who you are, not what you have to offer, seeing the value in taking care of and holding space for yourself to just be but also to heal. Sopha shares about how God has met her in all of these places, showing her what a good and trustworthy Father He truly is, and how He heals and redeems, and when we are deeply rooted in Him, we can come to know Him and find life. I felt like this was a message for those who need to know the heart of God is for them. The wrestling of standards of the world, and feeling like you are never enough, and those who struggle to understand who God is and who He is not. Our deep fears that came from how we grow up, and how we misunderstood Him, can hold us back from seeing who He has always been. Take the risk, friends. There is so much life, goodness, and hope for you in Him. If that’s you today, I hope you know that you matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Sopha: B (Living Deeply Rooted) (Sopha’s!) Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off References: and (also super - - film on Cambodian genocide -the OG - - - -) trauma - - James Hamblin -- - Scripture References: -We have a heavenly Father , , , God provides for you , , , -God loves you , Yes, we’re called to fear God but not from shame -Be transformed by the renewal of your mind -Take every thought captive , We are children of God -We have the power of the holy spirit in us We are not given a spirit of fear He walks with us through the valley of suffering -Without Him we can do nothing, the need for being grafted into the Vine Being deeply rooted -The Body of Christ Encourage one another, lifting one another up , -Jesus is coming back for us , -The Bridegroom is coming back for the Bride (the church!) older women share with the younger women There is hope for you -There is good for you in the land of the living -We’re called to love the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 151 :: Dr. Jeremiah J. Johnston :: Stories of Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and Becoming a Christian Thinker
04/27/2023
Episode 151 :: Dr. Jeremiah J. Johnston :: Stories of Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and Becoming a Christian Thinker
Dr. Jeremiah Johnston is an author, pastor of apologetics, and what he refers to as a Christian thinker. He knew that he loved God and loved His word, but he had a burning desire to want to not only understand it better, and to be able to know and see for Himself that the Christian faith could stand up to questioning. Ultimately, what he found is “Jesus and the faith and the scriptures are the answers to the questions you have today, not just the questions of yesterday.” Now he is the pastor of apologetics at Prestonwood Baptist Church, and his ministry Christian Thinkers Society is designed to speak to seekers and skeptics and those who have big and very real questions about the historical Jesus, the church, and scripture, but also to encourage followers of Christ to own their faith. In his latest book Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus- and Why It Matters Today Dr. Johnston shares some of the fascinating details that prove the resurrection as a historical event, and why focusing on the resurrection and not just the cross deeply matters. In his work and in our conversation today, he unpacks a little bit of the context of the world Jesus revealed Himself to in His resurrected form, and we discuss details that perhaps have been overlooked due to the familiarity of the narrative of the resurrection to many of us in the church. I don’t know where you are or where this conversation finds you, but I hope that you can walk away with a little more hope and encouragement in your soul. The bedrock of Christianity stands firm. It is based on facts, and it can take questions and research, archeology, and history. Our resurrected Savior can take our big feelings, our questions, and the cries of our weary souls. The God of the universe that took on flesh, died, and rose again, cares about you, and He gave it all to show you. I hope you can believe that today. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Dr. Johnston Body of Proof: The 7 Best Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus- and Why It Matters Today Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off References: R by Robert Zund, 1877 - Bruce Metzger Progressives bought out by the Romans - Tradition of keeping the Torah Extremists who trained to take power from Rome back by force - The governing body of the Jewish community Scripture References: - The word of God is alive and active The resurrection of Jesus -The morning star of our faith - the death AND resurrection of Jesus , The judiciary procedure that led to the crucifixion Appears to women/Mary doesn’t recognize Jesus -Thomas The two with Jesus on the road to Emmaus The sermon on the mount the sermon in Nazareth - The Passover Put this on your doorpost - Jesus called them to remember through the last supper Judas betrayed Jesus Simon Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus bury Jesus Joseph asked to have his bones carried back to the land of his father The women stayed with Jesus, and are at the cross They didn’t run like the disciples The body of Christ needs all its parts for it to work the message of the Gospl and of Jesus’ love that there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus -Be strong, steadfast and immovable, always abound in the work of the Lord - people are suffering, let’s care for people He had compassion on them because He saw them as sheep without a shepherd keep your eyes on the author and perfector of our faith - Christ is the -Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever - He never leaves us or forsakes us I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 150 ::Dr. Bryan Litfin :: Stories of Wisdom from the Early Church, the Spreading of the Gospel, and What We Can Learn from Them Today
04/13/2023
Episode 150 ::Dr. Bryan Litfin :: Stories of Wisdom from the Early Church, the Spreading of the Gospel, and What We Can Learn from Them Today
As we walk into the days that follow Easter, we have such a unique opportunity to engage the truly incredible work Jesus not only did on the cross and walking out of the empty tomb, and how the world was literally turned upside down in the remaining days He was on Earth and after His ascension to Heaven and the coming of the Holy Spirit and the call to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth. This is Dr. Bryan Litfin’s area of expertise. We’ve had a chance to talk about Dr. Litfin’s works of fiction on the podcast before, where he shares a story of an early Christian woman and a young warrior in Constantine’s army and how the trials of the time and their faiths are tested and proved, but today, we’re going to put all his various degrees to work as he shares with us about his newest non-fiction book Wisdom of the Ancients: 30 Timeless Lessons from the Early Church. Dr. Litfin is a Professor at Liberty University teaching theology and New Testament classes, and a former professor at Moody Bible Institute, and as we walk into this season that celebrates the birth of the early church, this conversation with Dr. Litfin is the perfect place to spend time. Dr. Litfin walks us through the context of what he means by “the ancient period,” which his latest book focuses on and he defines it as within the time of Christ on earth in the 1st century through the 500 years or so that would follow leading up to the Middle Ages. For a lot of western Christians in particular, we sometimes grapple with the context of the early church and get confused about what happened when, how decisions were made, and we tend to skip from the end of Revelation to the Reformation or something like that. Dr. Litfin gives us a picture of what the world looked like as the Gospel spread. Then, he shares from his latest book some specific and perhaps surprising lessons we can consider and adapt to our modern faith walks and churches, and it is truly fascinating. Jesus is alive, He came that we would have life to the full, not always easy, but full and never alone. His passion for His family has not changed, and I pray that ministers to you today. Connecting with Dr. Litfin: Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off References: - and The other episodes featuring Dr. Litfin on the podcast - - Wisdom of the Ancients: 30 Timeless Lessons from the Early Church - -(Just being honest) , but isn’t the heart of the university - - and timeline) - - - - -Dr. Michael Heiser’s about spiritual dominion and a deep dive into this -Also see his book and and he has since passed away, but our conversation was mindblowing. - - (this was interesting, pardon the language) - - - -Episode of “The Chosen” (Season 1, episode 7) - (Season 1, episode 7 also lol) - - - Scripture References: Go and share the Gospel with all the world - Jesus’ ascension a lot of Paul’s missionary journeys) -The outermost parts of the Earth Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever , God is the god of gods Jesus is the way the truth and the life -Paul calls the Gospel a mystery -even the angels marveled at the mystery -Jesus said unless a seed falls and dies it cannot grow a trumpet will sound , , Jesus mingled with women (those who followed Him and provided for Him), touched them (Bleeding Woman), and gave love to them (Mary Magdelene, woman caught in adultery) -Jesus revealed Himself first to Mary and Elizabeth -Jesus revealed Himself as a risen Savior first to a woman The letter kills, the Spirit gives life -Jesus and His followers on the road to Emmaus -Isaac and Abraham -the book of Hebrews points out Isaac is a type of Christ Moses and Aaron put snake on a pole to save Israel -Nicodemus coming to Jesus by night -The Bible is alive and active -Passover -Jesus’ last supper A time for fasting and a time feasting Apart from Jesus we can do nothing He will not leave us as orphans We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 149 :: Will & Courtney Kassner :: Stories of Adding our Unique Voice to God’s Creation at Every Age
04/04/2023
Episode 149 :: Will & Courtney Kassner :: Stories of Adding our Unique Voice to God’s Creation at Every Age
I’m excited to start this holy week off with this sweet and encouraging episode with Will and Courtney Kassner. Will and Courtney are the writers and creators behind Crew & Co. which is their ministry and shop full of products to invite beauty into the lives of families and make Scripture a practical part of their daily lives. Recently, they released their first children’s book called When the World Wakes Up, and my daughter Nora Beth hopped on this interview to share her thoughts and ask her questions about the beautiful book! They shared with us how God inspired the story from a moment with Will and his kids, and the beauty of God sharing that moment with them. It is a visually stunning book and a sweet story that invites kids to add their voice to the Kingdom of God. In that same vein, we’ll talk in this conversation about how God takes the dreams and gifts we have and think they’ll become one thing, and He has a good plan and a purpose for all of it that we can’t even imagine because ministry comes in so many shapes and forms. We all have unique gifts to offer the world. Satan tries his hardest to shut us up but calls us to use our voice and gifts in the way He made us to. During a week where Jesus went into Jerusalem with a much bigger plan for the world and the Kingdom of God than we could ever dream of, it feels right to start with that word of encouragement, to us big kids, but especially to young hearts in a big scary world. I hope after hearing this conversation that you feel encouraged to use your voice, whatever that looks like. Create the art. Write the story. Encourage the neighbor. Have the conversation you’ve been putting off. Who knows what the Lord will do with it? No matter where you are today, I hope that you know that you matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Will & Courtney + Crew & Co. When the World Wakes Up Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty References: - lol - - - - Will writes on the Crew & Co. Instagram - (Emma & Annabeth!) -” The Chosen” - -Ellie Holcolmb’s “ album – this is a great resource to compliment the Kassner’s book! - Scripture References: -This is the day the Lord has made -Ministry comes in so many shapes and forms , -Submitting our heart to the Lord to see what He’ll do with it -Spur one another one in good deeds - Jesus sends out the disciples two by two , -Worship is all of what we do -We are recipients and stewards of God’s grace -New mercies every morning -God is the one who created us all The whole world longs for God and to be made right The heavens declare the glory of God Using our gifts for God -Creating the Tabernacle in the wilderness -The good is not over -There is still joy -What the enemy meant for evil God can use for good I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 148 :: Taylor Turkington :: Stories of Lament, Longing, and Learning to Trust God and His Word in the Chaos
03/28/2023
Episode 148 :: Taylor Turkington :: Stories of Lament, Longing, and Learning to Trust God and His Word in the Chaos
Taylor Turkington is an author, Bible teacher, teacher of Bible teachers. She is is passionate about training women to interpret and teach the Bible informally or formally through her ministry Bible Equipping. She has a love for the word of God that is so life giving and it pours out onto the pages of her book Trembling Faith: How a Distressed Prophet Equips Us to Trust God in a Chaotic World. Its a book that unpacks the book of Habakkuk in the Bible and offers an invitation to investigate what it means to lament. For those of us who have ever even considered lament, we sometimes get hung up on doing it “the right way.” Whether that be in regards to formality, worrying about the right kinds of prayers or various Biblical application tools to use, or what have you. Taylor would offer however, that “lament is informal and natural and its expressing our great need because of the people that we are. Its saying this world is not right, but God, you are right and good. And there is a discrepancy here, and I need You to do something.” We unpack the gift of what lament offers in deepening our relationship with God, and coming to God with our emotions is a healthy practice. Taylor also shares the historical context of the prophet Habakkuk, the uniqueness of the book in the midst of the minor prophets, and Habakkuk’s raw sharing with God, and his belief in God’s goodness despite how messed up the world still is and how real his heartbreak continues to be. This episode I think is such a powerful gift as many of us are approaching the last lap of Lent and are following Jesus straight into a week ripe with lament, for the joy set before the Messiah, in the days leading up to the His death, burial and resurrection. Connecting with Taylor: Trembling Faith: How a Distressed Prophet Equips Us to Trust God in a Chaotic World Sponsor for this Episode: Hopefuel Use the code 'SIMPLY15' for 15% off References: - - - - - - - -, hello Babylonian invasion - -and a picture of the power of community in cultures of color) - ( his books and he is such a powerful teacher) **Quick note- the audiobook release has been delayed! But forthcoming :) Scripture References: The word of God speaks Isaiah - Isaiah talks about Jesus -All believers are called to learn God’s word and share it with others , - Using the Word to encourage - Church is a group of people who are called to minister to each other and to the world You have a spiritual gift, go use it! , , You were made on purpose for a purpose ove the Lord your God with all your heart mind soul and strength Mary and Elizabeth proclaim the King The woman at the well goes and evangelizes Samaria Mary Magdelene gets to go and tell the Disciples Jesus is risen Habakkuk points to the choice we have in how to respond and what we choose to believe The revival under King Josiah Lord, please help - Awake, oh sleeper More than watchmen wait for the morning , I Examples of “God act, wait on the Lord, how long oh Lord” , -God has come in Christ and He is working now, be ready, love your enemies -Why do you make me look at violence and do nothing - God doesn’t explain everything to Job - the arrogant won’t live, but the righteous live by their faith My friends are surrounded! Help them! 3, , , - You are breaking the Law of God when not caring for others in scripture We are sought after by a limitless God God is all knowing and all seeing. But they decide “I will rejoice in the Lord because He gives me strength” Deep calls unto deep I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 147 :: Dr. Jessica Peck :: Stories of Navigating the Big Issues Young People are Facing Empowered with Knowledge and Hope
03/13/2023
Episode 147 :: Dr. Jessica Peck :: Stories of Navigating the Big Issues Young People are Facing Empowered with Knowledge and Hope
Dr. Jessica Peck is a professor, nurse practitioner, author, and mama who has written a book called Behind Closed Doors: A Guide to Help Parents and Teens Navigate Through Life’s Toughest Issues, and it is precisely that. It's an incredible resource that talks about what Jessica sees in her office with parents and kids and teens of varying ages as well as in her own home. We are going to talk about A LOT of things today and some of them may feel kind of scary, or uncomfortable. Still, the goal of this conversation is to learn how to engage in very uncomfortable things in a “quasi-comfortable” or at the very least approachable way. Things like the mental health crisis in this country among young people, the effects of social media, living at the speed of a smartphone, conversations surrounding suicide, the drive to be perfect, and more. The goal is not for those of us who love young people as parents, ministers, doctors, nurses, teachers, coaches, aunts, uncles, or whoever you are to be scared of the world that young people are facing but to remember the hope we have in Jesus no matter what happens in this world. AND through people like Dr. Peck, we can be empowered with knowledge and equip us for what may lay ahead. I am so hopeful that you find something in this conversation for you and your relationship with the young people in your life. We cannot protect them from everything. We will not do this perfectly. But we can build healthy, honest, relationships with the young people and teenagers in our life. Remember: it is never too late to redeem a relationship, ask for forgiveness, or to change the trajectory of our decisions. I hope you find hope in that today. The Lord is not finished with your story. He has plans for a hopeful future for you, and He will carry them out until the very end. You matter, and your story matters. *Connecting with Dr. Jessica Peck: References: - THE OG!! - - - -My instagram live with Dr. Peck - -Lunchbox jokes and (Pinterest is a gold mine!) - Scripture References: put on the full of armor of God - -there is a time to reap and a time to sow -God’s mercies are new every single morning -God’s power can raise bones from the desert God’s power is made known in our weakness In this world we will have trouble, but God No good thing will God withhold from me The Lord has plans for a hopeful future for you - He will complete the work He began in you I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // )
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Episode 146 :: Irene Rollins :: Stories of Overcoming Addiction and Reframing Your Shame
03/03/2023
Episode 146 :: Irene Rollins :: Stories of Overcoming Addiction and Reframing Your Shame
Irene Rollins is the author of the book Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back. In her book and in our conversation today, Irene shares her story of adolescent addiction to alcohol that consumed her life and rewired her brain chemistry until she found herself in college, tired and desperate for life, which she found in a relationship with Jesus, and the love of a wonderful man. As they grew their family and begin to pastor churches together, the old coping strategies, shame narratives, and lure of alcohol’s offer of escape began to pull on Irene’s weary heart until she found herself steeped in functional alcoholism. Perfect wife, mother and pastor by day, passed out in the bathroom by night, Irene’s life was falling apart. In 2017, she went to rehab. After incredible amounts of recovery work, thousands of prayers and redemptive reconciliation, Irene is celebrating 7 years of sobriety. She now, alongside her husband Jimmy Rollins, lives with a renewed purpose for ministering to people struggling with addictions, how to spot unhealthy habits that we use to help us cope with pain, brain hijacking, trying to work through crises in marriage, and speaking truth to the lies of the enemy that are keeping people in the crippling cycle of toxic shame, codependency, and powerlessness, and the difference Jesus brings with a life of pursuing healing, reconciliation, repentance, and freedom in Him. We covered so much ground in this episode. Everything from types of addictions, mental health struggles, sexual abuse, toxic shame, the narratives we tell ourselves, the difference between conviction and shame, and normalizing discomfort as we learn and grow, and use our feelings as teachers and not masters. Recovery is not exclusive to alcoholism. We are called to throw off everything that hinders us. What an opportunity to examine how we can reframe the narratives in our lives and pursue God’s heart for how He sees us, allowing Him to transform our hearts and mind. Wherever you are in your story, what hinders your growth, or keeps you captive from healing, you are worth the work. Yes, we are weak. Yes, we have believed lies that have allowed people to hurt us, or we’ve hurt ourselves. But in our weakness God is strong. He has good for you in the land of the living and a future of hope. Take heart, friend. This isn’t how the story ends. You matter, and your story matters. Connecting with Irene: Book: Their ministry: // Their instagram: Scripture References: I can do anything, but I must not become a slave to anything , Sin keeps us from being who we were made to be (we all have sin) , , Jesus can transform our lives - Seeing His power be made known in our weaknesses Create in me a clean heart Martha syndrome The enemy comes to seek, kill and destroy Therefore there is now no condemnation Jesus died on the cross for our sins Focus on the joy that is set before us Jesus asked the Father to take this cup from Him, but He surrendered to His will R Conviction leads to repentance You can’t heal a wound you don’t see God created me in my Mother’s wombs , God is ALWAYS with us His rod and staff lead and comfort me - Nothing is wasted References: (scroll to the bottom to sign up for them for free!) Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // ) *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
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Episode 145 :: Sara Billups :: Stories of Orphaned Believers and Finding Our Way Home to Jesus
02/17/2023
Episode 145 :: Sara Billups :: Stories of Orphaned Believers and Finding Our Way Home to Jesus
On the podcast today, I have the absolutely amazing Sara Billups. Our show’s format is very conversational and I love it that way. Truthfully I was so impressed, curious and moved by Sara’s book Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find the Way Home that this episode is a little more like a conversations with friends over dinner. It ebbs and weaves and then starts one way and moves another with the feverent pace of “oh man, you too?!” and also, “holy smokes I’ve never thought about that before.” Sara shares pieces of her story of growing up in the environment of end times prophecies being commonplace over her plate of macaroni and cheese as a child, or a booth at a milkshake shop with a friend. She unpacks huge terms like premillenial dispensationalism, how heavily focused rapture narratives held her family captive from engaging life on this side of heaven, and asking big questions like how does tradition become theology in the middle of a genuine love for Jesus and then how do things get lost in fear or just being human? Sara would define an orphaned believer as someone who looks around the American church or just general broad strokes Christian culture and doesn’t know where they belong. Or they are people like myself and Sara who sometimes struggle with what they’re experiencing with many beloved brothers and sisters in Christ who are not acting like the Jesus we have experienced or of the Gospel. In that tension, how do put our eyes back on who God has always been and who He always will be? How do we pursue and embrace what role or gifts God has for us in this journey of healing? How do we allow God to use suffering, doubt, and confusion to draw us closer to Him no matter how much we desire to escape the pain? Its a lot, but its SO good. Even though I was a bit of a poor conversation steward today, (my over excitement can get the best of me sometimes!) I hope and pray somewhere along the way you found a space for you in this conversation. You get to bring all of you and your questions and your broken experiences to the Jesus who knows people better than we know ourselves. He’s aware of what comes against His church, distracts His people and distorts His name. But He’s not finished. There is so much more hope to be found here on earth, and together with Him in Heaven, no matter when we get to see Him, He is coming back for us. BUT He has SO MUCH for us before He comes. That’s just one of the many gifts of the Gospel is the promise, and assurance that He will be with us no matter what happens next. You are so loved, friend. You matter, and your story matters. PS: Guess what y’all, the podcast book club is actually going to be reading this book together, AND Sara is (hopefully!) going to come talk with us about it as well because there’s just so much more to unpack. So be sure and check out how to join us for the book club in our show notes, website or link in social media bios! Connecting with Sara: Book: Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty References: (via podcast) (Proceed with caution on this website…) - authors and books -- proceed with caution on any Scientology websites, y’all. My personal favorite resources for learning about Scientology are either or ) () Scripture References: , , , The End Times” -These are taken straight from scripture. The end of days is spoken about a ton in various locations in scripture, but they need A LOT of conte, but I encourage you to proceed with Holy Spirit-led discernment. There is much to be studied, but the general point is: Jesus is coming back, we don’t know when, we’re called to live for Him like every day is our last, but to walk with trust and hope in the abundant life Jesus came, died and rose again to give us, and it’ll get real messy, but God is a purely holy, good God and righteous Judge. The Ancient of Days is trustworthy with our futures. - xo, Em - - - A brief teaching on it and from the Bible Project I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you.” - Jesus’ mercy never runs out Jesus left us with the church , , -I am beloved because the Lord says so God’s mercies are new every morning - The church is called the Bride of Christ The gates of hell cannot stand against it Sermon on the Mount - When Adam and Eve left the garden Jesus came for all people Every tear dried , see also - The book of Acts and whether or not you had to be Jewish The Lost Sheep The Light of the world has come and darkness has not overcome it -The redeemed of the Lord tell their story (and John 14:18) Jesus is coming back for us I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return. Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast: Instagram ( // ) *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com
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