On this episode of the Car Chat Podcast, we are pulling up a seat at the table for the Proverbs 31 woman.  Um. So. What do you know about the Proverbs 31 Woman? She may have been the theme of a women's event, a book from your mentor, or a cross-stitched name on a throw pillow at your aunt's house. But who is she? It's easy to get overwhelmed with the list of amazing things that she does. But every action comes from a belief, a character trait, a virtue that drives her behavior. Her external actions are only the results of an internal life of dependence on and followship of Jesus. She is the picture of what wisdom looks like lived out. She is a poem and not a real person. She is the potential of WHO YOU can become.We will see that the Proverbs 31 woman has many virtues, but we will highlight 4 in this episode:1. dignity2. patience3. courage/strength4. devotionOur hope is that you will walk away encouraged and excited about who you can be as you hold to the truth, see life from God's perspective, and live accordingly. We can live wise lives as we attach ourselves to Jesus. Much love,Amy and JamySHOW NOTES: Click HERE: The Hebrew song Eshet Chayil [Woman of Valor: Proverbs 31]  with translation.“There is a widespread custom of singing Eshet Chayil [woman of valor: Prov 31] on Friday nights at home before kiddush, as a song of praise to the woman of the house.”   - The Jewish ChronicleClick HERE: Bible Gateway ( in New English Translation) with amazing footnotes with the poem acrostic in Hebrew!DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: Episode 12 ~ Proverbs 31 Woman *See episode description in the show notes. Review Proverbs 31:10-31 for her story. What did you learn for the first time about the Proverbs 31 Woman? What surprised you about this lesson? How did the discussion on properly interpreting proverbs change your view of the Proverbs 31 Woman? Amy described wisdom as “the ability to discern what is true, what is right, and what is lasting; seeing life from God’s perspective and acting accordingly.” What does this look like in real life? How do you see the Proverbs 31 Woman as an example of wisdom? Brainstorm specific ways that you can be a wise woman in your specific lives right now. Review the specific actions of the Virtuous Woman and discuss what they represent. Share one that comes most easily to you and one that you struggle with most. Review the four descriptions of the Proverbs 31 Woman from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you.  Has dignity Is patient Is courageous and strong Is devoted “She is us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” This is the primary question we seek to answer with each character study podcast. It hits a bit different with the Proverbs 31 Woman. Who is God in this passage? What does that mean to you in your life today?

Welcome to Episode 11 - PART 3 Bathsheba!  We are talking about the WIVES OF DAVID!BACKGROUNDWhat is the Davidic Covenant? ( found in 2 Samuel 7)Who were David's wives?  (1 Chronicles 3, 2 Samuel; 3:2-5, 5:13-15)In this 3-part series, we will be talking about: Part 1: Michal Part 2: AbigailPart 3: Bathsheba - this episode!------------------------------------->>> BATHSHEBA Scripture Text: 2 Samuel 11-12, 1 Kings 1:11-27, 2:13-22We will discover that Bathsheba:1. was caught in a sinful story with painful consequences2. was redeemed (and her story)3.  had significant influenceShe is one of us.  Who God is to her, he is to you and me. Her story prompts conversations about having your choice taken from you, doing the right thing but  being brought into someone's wrong thing,  mourning loss of loved ones in your life, continue living in what you never envisioned your life to be, standing for the truth and faithfulness when it is difficult. I had a lot of assumptions about Bathsheba based on what I knew of her in David's story. But when seeing her for who she was as a women in those times, I am so sad for the loss that she experienced because of someone else's desire. But she kept on walking, kept on living, and God brought the Messiah through her.  It blows me away how he redeems the stories that totally derail. His plans will not be uprooted!We hope it encourages you!Much love,Amy and JamyDISCUSSION QUESTIONS: Episode 11 (Part 1, 2, 3) ~ Wives of David, all 3!*See episode description in the show notes and biblical texts for these stories.1. What did you learn for the first time about these women? What surprised you about their stories with God?2. Read Deuteronomy 17:14-20. What instructions does God give to kings? Discuss how David not following this affects his wives and children.3. In Michal’s story we talked about how her bitterness blocked God’s blessing. How do you see that in her story? How have you learned to battle bitterness?4. Abigail’s story has such amazing leadership lessons. What did you learn about being a humble, calm leader from her?5. What does it mean to you to cast vision? Share a time that someone has done that for you and how it encouraged you.6. Bathsheba’s story is so rich and messy (just like our lives). What does it mean to you that God chose her to be the wife who is the mother in the line of the Messiah? What does that tell you about God?7. In Bathsheba’s episode, Amy mentions that each wife AND David have a “fork in the road” to either follow God or not. Where do you see that choice in their stories? What about your own life today?8. Here are the three descriptions of David’s wives from the podcast; discuss which one resonates the most with you:Michal: (1 Samuel 18:20-29, 19:11-17, 25:44, 2 Samuel 3:13-16, 6:16-23)· Loved· Was a pawn· DespisedAbigail: (1 Samuel 25)· Aware and acted quickly· Wise in conflict· Stayed CalmBathsheba (2 Samuel 11-12, 1 Kings 1:11-27, 2:13-22)· Caught in a painful story with painful consequences· Was redeemed· Had significant influence9. “David’s wives are us. Who God is to her, He is to me.”  Who was God to Michal, Abigail, and Bathsheba? What does that mean to you in your life today?

Welcome to Episode 11 - PART 2 Abigail!  We are talking about the WIVES OF DAVID!EPISODE 11 in 3 PARTS!We did something a little DIFFERENT this month...because we wanted to keep the Wives of David AS A GROUP  yet still take time to get to know the three wives we selected, we are releasing a 3-part series of shorter episodes to honor each woman's story.  They are like mini-chapters of a bigger story - rooted in the importance of the Davidic Covenant and what it meant to be one of his wives within the tapestry of God's promise.BACKGROUNDWhat is the Davidic Covenant? ( found in 2 Samuel 7)the unconditional covenant made between God and David through which God promises David and Israel that the Messiah (Jesus Christ) would come from the lineage of David and the tribe of Judah and would establish a kingdom that would endure foreverGod does not place any conditions of obedience upon its fulfillmentthe surety of the promise made rests solely on God’s faithfulness and does not depend at all on David or Israel’s obedienceWho were David's wives?  (1 Chronicles 3, 2 Samuel; 3:2-5, 5:13-15)*Michal- daughter of King Saul, sister of JonathanAhinoam- mother of Amnon*Abigail – mother of Chileab (Daniel)Maacah – daughter of King of Geshur, mother of Absalom and TamarHaggith – mother of AdonijahAbital – mother of Shephatiah Eglah – mother of Ithream*Bathesheba – mother of Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, SolomonIn this 3-part series, we will be talking about: Part 1: Michal Part 2: Abigail- this episode!Part 3: Bathsheba ------------------------------->>> ABIGAIL  Scripture Text: 1 Samuel 25We will discover that Abigail:1.  situationally aware and acted quickly.2.  wise in conflict3. stayed calm (didn't let her emotions overtake her)She is one of us.  Who God is to her, he is to you and me. Her story prompts conversations about living with a fool, how to handle conflicts with calmness and grace, the value of humility, the power of reminding others who they are in God, when to act quickly and when to not, how important it is to build a foundation on faith so that when situations arise you can stand on what you already have in your heart.Abigail has just one chapter in Biblical history but she saved David from making a terrible mistake. Her calm strength and humility is what I long to have when I face crises in my life.  She also was married to a cruel and foolish man who I'm sure she thought was for the rest of her life. The way she was able to rise about his foolishness and be strong in her faith is such a challenging example to the impact of choosing God.We hope it encourages you! Much love,Amy and Jamy***DISCUSSION QUESTIONS for ALL 3 Wives of David on Episode 11.3, Bathsheba.

Welcome to Episode 11 - PART 1 Michal!  We are talking about the WIVES OF DAVID!EPISODE 11 in 3 PARTS!We did something a little DIFFERENT this month...because we wanted to keep the Wives of David AS A GROUP  yet still take time to get to know the 3 wives we selected, we are releasing a 3-part series of shorter episodes to honor each woman's story.  They are like mini-chapters of a bigger story - rooted in the importance of the Davidic Covenant and what it meant to be one of his wives within the tapestry of God's promise.BACKGROUNDWhat is the Davidic Covenant? ( found in 2 Samuel 7)the unconditional covenant made between God and David through which God promises David and Israel that the Messiah (Jesus Christ) would come from the lineage of David and the tribe of Judah and would establish a kingdom that would endure foreverGod does not place any conditions of obedience upon its fulfillmentthe surety of the promise made rests solely on God’s faithfulness and does not depend at all on David or Israel’s obedienceWho were David's wives?  (1 Chronicles 3, 2 Samuel; 3:2-5, 5:13-15)*Michal- daughter of King Saul, sister of JonathanAhinoam- mother of Amnon*Abigail – mother of Chileab (Daniel)Maacah – daughter of King of Geshur, mother of Absalom and TamarHaggith – mother of AdonijahAbital – mother of Shephatiah Eglah – mother of Ithream*Bathesheba – mother of Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, SolomonIn this 3-part series, we will be talking about: Part 1: Michal - this episode!Part 2: AbigailPart 3: Bathsheba ------------------------------->>> MICHAL Scripture Text: 1 Samuel 18:20-29, 19:11-17, 25:44, 2 Samuel 3:13-16, 6:16-23.We will discover that Michal:1. loved David.2. was a pawn in a political game.3. despised David and became critical.She is one of us.  Who God is to her, he is to you and me. Her story prompts conversations about being stuck in a difficult situation between two people you love, the choice we have in the waiting, how quickly wounds grows into bitterness that blocks us from blessings,  the danger in focusing on what others think rather than worshipping the presence of God, and more.I didn't know Michal very well. But through our conversation I see her as a warning sign to what can happen when we don't prioritize God's presence in our lives especially in the face of waiting and disappointment.You are my alone, my friend. Much love,Amy and Jamy***DISCUSSION QUESTIONS for ALL 3 Wives of David on Episode 11.3, Bathsheba.

Welcome to Season 2 and Episode 10!  We are starting 2024 off with HANNAH (1 Samuel 1-2).  Her story follows Naomi's (Episode 5) in biblical order. We continue to answer the question: WHO IS SHE and discover 2 things: - she is a lot like you and me - and who God is to her, he is to you and me. Hannah is such an amazing sister. Interestingly, she is the 4th women in the bible narrative who struggled with infertility. But, she was the ONLY ONE who walked through it with unwavering faith. There is MUCH to learn from her story. Jamy and I had such a blast chatting about her in my car while parked in an empty church parking lot. We can so related to her in our mothering journeys. We will see that Hannah:1. lived in grief2. poured out her heart3. and was faithful in obedience.We talk about things like: being someone's target of ridicule, the importance of knowing God as it impacts the resolve of our faith, how to name our emotions and the relief that brings, pouring out our hearts to God without filter, control issues, and what it looks like to let go as mothers. Hannah's obedience, the dedication of her son Samuel, and the far-reaching impact of her choices weave together a historic tapestry that speaks to the enduring power of faithful obedience. She is one of us.  Who God is to her, he is to you and me. You are my alone, my friend. Much love,Amy and JamySHOW NOTES: *NOTE: Peninnah's fate of her children at 51:13 was sourced from Jewish tradition and is not found in the Bible (Source HERE)*NOTE:  Amy's journal reboot was prompted by this book Fuel to Ignite Your Soul: The 40-Day Challenge by Ross Alan HillDISCUSSION QUESTIONS: Episode 10 ~ Hannah *See episode description in the show notes. Review 1 Samuel 1-2 for her story. 1. What did you learn for the first time about Hannah? What surprised you about her story with God? 2. Read Romans 8:28 and the following statement; “Ordinary situations are the most meaningful in human life, and it is in these that God works for good.”* What do you think about this statement? How do you see this working out in Hannah’s life and example? 3. What did you learn from how Hannah handled Peninnah? How can you apply this in your difficult interpersonal relationships? 4. Hannah’s response to very deep grief was open-hearted prayer. What do you think of that?  In what ways is this easy or challenging for you? Brainstorm some practical ways you can deepen your prayer life. {Hint: Amy shared her experience with journaling in the podcast!} 5. Why could Hannah offer her son to serve God with such a glad heart? What verses in 1 Samuel 2 show us that she could do this? How does this translate to you as you too have things/people you love that you need to surrender? What does this look like as you learn to let go of your children?6. Although Hannah’s story can apply to many parts of our lives, this lesson has a strong motherhood application. Review the verses Amy shared; Psalm 62:8 and Lamentations 2:19 and describe how they encourage you. 7. Review the three descriptions of Hannah from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you: · Lived in Grief · Poured out her heart · Was faithful in obedience 8. “Hannah is us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Hannah? What does that mean to you in your life today? *quoted from the Introduction to 1 Samuel in the E

Welcome to our BONUS EPISODE of Car Chat Podcast! We thought it would be fun to have an EXTRA conversation about all the women of the bible that we got to know in 2023 - like a Year in Review.We wanted to do this for a couple reasons:- to remember by each sharing ONE THING that impacted us from each woman's life- to present these nine women IN ORDER as they appear in the Bible1 | Eve | Episode 1 | Genesis 1-3 | Feb 20232 | Sarah | Episode 7 | Genesis 12-23 | Oct 20233 | Hagar | Episode 2 | Genesis 16-17, 21 | Mar 20234 | Rebekah | Episode 8 | Genesis 24-27 | Nov 20235 | Leah & Rachel | Episode 9 | Genesis 29-35 | Dec 20236 | Miriam | Episode 4 | Exodus 2, 15 Numbers 12, 20 | May/June 20237 | Rahab | Episode 6 | Joshua 2, 6 | Aug 20238 | Deborah | Episode 3 | Judges 4-5 | Apr 20239 | Naomi | Episode 5 | Ruth | Jul 2023Here are a few things FOR YOU:- Click HERE for the COMPLETE CHART with the above order and information- Click HERE for YOUR ONE THING PDF chart for each womanPull up a chair with us at the table as we pull up a chair for each woman of the bible that we got to know in 2023. They are just like us. Who God is to them, he is to you and me.We hope you enjoy!Much, much love,Amy and Jamy

Ever wondered about the intricate lives of biblical sisters Leah and Rachel? Pondered on their tumultuous relationship, shared husband, and the ways in which their story can shed light on our own struggles? Buckle up for an enlightening journey through Genesis 29-35 as we unravel the tales of these two remarkable women and the lessons their experiences impart for us today.Navigating through their family dynamics, we discuss the pain of rejection, the power of finding identity in God, and the allure of unhealthy competition. We delve into Leah's journey from feeling forgotten to finding solace in God, and Rachel's desperation for a child, leading her down a path of questionable choices. In doing so, we underline the dangers of comparing ourselves with others and the wisdom of trusting in God's plan, whatever challenges we face.As we wrap the episode, our reflections take us to the grandeur of God's plan that incorporates even our struggles and mistakes. We echo the importance of leaning into faith, setting boundaries, and steering clear of toxic relationships. Drawing inspiration from Leah and Rachel's story, we hope to inspire you to trust God's divine timing and purpose, and remind you that even amidst suffering, there is hope for a happier eternity. Join us and let's learn, reflect, and grow together through the lens of these biblical women's lives.Who are Leah and Rachel? Genesis 29-35 1. competitive2. felt forgotten3. heard by GodWho God is to them he is to you and me. - - - - - - - - - - - -DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:Episode 9 ~ Leah & Rachel*See episode description in the show notes. Review Genesis 29-35  for their story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Rachel and Leah? What surprised you about their stories with God? Which one do you most relate to and why?2. Read the descriptions of Rachel and Leah in Genesis 29:16-17. What does this teach you about these two sisters? How would you describe their personalities based on these descriptions?3. How do you think Laban (father) and Jacob (husband) affected the relationship between Rachel and Leah? What relationships in your life have a negative effect on you? What relationships in your life have a positive effect on you? Share if you feel comfortable. 4. Read Genesis 29:31-35. As Leah’s babies are born, how do you see her faith growing?  When we go through seasons of longing and waiting, describe the wrestling with God that may happen.5. Genesis 29:17 and 22 God does two things; what are they? For which sisters? What does this tell you about God?6. Rachel and Leah felt forgotten in different ways. Do you ever feel forgotten by God and by people? Share what that has looked like in your life.  Read Psalm 98:3 and Isaiah 49:16. How do these verses encourage you?7. Review the three descriptions of Rachel and Leah from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you and why:· Competitive· Felt Forgotten · Heard by God“Rachel and Leah are us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Rachel?  Who was God to Leah? What does that mean to you in your life today?

Hello, friends! This month on Car Chat Podcast we are talking about Rebekah (Genesis 24-27).  She ties into the conversation from last month about Sarah because Rebekah married Sarah's long-awaited son, Isaac (but, sadly Sarah had died 3 years prior). I only was casually acquainted with Rebekah so we were curious about how this conversation would go. But, YA'LL!!!  God spoke to us through her story in very real-time ways. I hope that you will find a time to listen and may the Lord draw you close with his grace and truth.Who is she?1. generous (giving without expecting or needing anything in return; giving freely in over-abundance)2. played favorites (tendency to offer unearned affections, benefits, or gifts to a person based on your own personal feelings about them)3. manipulative (having dishonest or unfair control of a situation or a person for your own advantage or meeting your own need)We talk about... - the lasting beauty of a woman- parenting and the dangers of playing favorites with our kids. Why do we do that? Why does it lead to ? How is that destructive?- our control issues as moms (ministry wives, leaders) and the reality that it never works- using our kids to meet our own needs instead of freely loving them and finding satisfaction in God- how to deal with disappointment in our kid's choices and not letting it impact how we relate to them - the dangers of feeding our kid's sin so that they will stay attached to usWe hope and pray that it encourages you specifically where you feel discouraged. You are not alone in your struggle and faith. We get it.Also as mentioned, here is discussion questions for this episode about Rebekah. Feel free to use them as you like for your own personal journalling and processing or as discussion with a small group. God sees you and knows your struggles. He includes women like Rebekah in his word so that we can see how to be, how not to be, and who he is regardless of what we choose. with much love,Amy and Jamy--->>> DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: Episode 8 Rebekah *See episode description in the show notes. Review Genesis 24-28  for her story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Rebekah? What surprised you about her story with God?2. Review Abraham’s servant’s prayer in Genesis 24:12-14. What does it mean to you that God answered his prayer “before he had finished speaking?” (verse 15)3. Sometimes the relational dynamics in our family can be combative instead of peaceful. What did you learn about this from Rebekah’s story? What can you do to be an example of peace in your home?4. Rebekah’s desire to control the outcome of what she perceived was God’s promise led her to willful sin. How do we do the same? What might it look like to repent of this?5. Review the three descriptions of Rebekah from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you:· Generous· Played Favorites· Manipulative6. “Rebekah is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Rebekah? What does that mean to you in your life today?

We are excited to share this next episode of Car Chat Podcast with Amy and Jamy! This month, we are chatting about Sarah. Yes, we know. We are way out of chronological order! When we started, we just didn't know how this would go: if we would like it, if you would like it... But, we love it so much! Many of the women we skipped over in our first outline, we are now going back to. Within the historical timeline, Sarah would fit right after Eve. Her story is in Genesis 12-23. Who is Sarah?1. She was on-the-move.2. She laughed and lied.3. She was imperfect yet remembered as faithful.She is one of us. Who God is to her, he is to me.with much love,Amy and Jamy*Blog post Sarah: coming soon...NEW (recently added) - - - - - ->>>> D I S C U S S I O N  Q U E S T I O N S We've had so much fun hearing your stories of connecting with these women in the Bible and each other. Some of you have gathered up your friends and created a small group around these podcasts, diving into God's word yourselves and joining into our conversation with your own. As an added supplement to every episode, Jamy is writing discussion questions to use as a group in discussion or individually to process through in prayer with God.Episode 7:  S A R A H  Discussion Questions*See episode description in the show notes. Review Genesis 12-21 for her story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Sarah? What surprised you about her story with God?2. Sarah’s adventure with God starts at the age of 60, what lessons can you learn from this?3. Genesis 16:1-8 tells the story of Sarah deciding to follow God by taking matters into her own hands. How do we do the same? Why is it so hard for us to wait on God’s timing?4. Genesis 21:1-13 tells the story of Isaac’s birth and tells us that the Lord visited Sarah “as He said” and did “as He had promised.” What hope does this give you in your life right now?5. Read Hebrews 11:11 and 1 Peter 3:5-6. How did God remember Sarah? What does this tell you about the stories in Genesis we read about her?6. Review the three descriptions of Sarah from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you:· On the Move· Laughed and Lied· Imperfect yet Faithful7. “Sarah is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Sarah? What does that mean to you in your life today?

After getting our families settled into a new school year, Car Chat Podcast is back! Each month, we chat in my car about one woman of the Bible. This month, we are talking about Rahab. Her story is found in Judges 2, 6.Who is she?1. She was a prostitute.2. She responded with belief.3. She was saved.Goodness, this was such a rich conversation as we built context into her life and situation. God was so faithful to her. She didn't allow her label to define her even thought she is mentioned 2 places in the NT as "the prostitute." After God saved her, it became not a label of disgrace but a badge of grace because it pointed to the rescue and redemption of God. She is one of us and who God was to her he is to you and me.  We hope our conversation encourages you. Much love,Amy & Jamy*Blog post Rahab: living above what you've doneNEW (recently added) - - - - - ->>>> D I S C U S S I O N  Q U E S T I O N S We've had so much fun hearing your stories of connecting with these women in the Bible and each other. Some of you have gathered up your friends and created a small group around these podcasts, diving into God's word yourselves and joining into our conversation with your own. As an added supplement to every episode, Jamy is writing discussion questions to use as a group in discussion or individually to process through in prayer with God.Episode 6:  R A H A B  Discussion Questions*See episode description in the show notes. Review Joshua 2, 6 for her story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Rahab ? What surprised you about her story with God?2. Read Rahab’s confession of faith in Joshua 2:8-11. What stands out to you the most about her faith?3. The spies agree to her request to deal kindly with her, but they add that they will also deal faithfully with her (2:14). What does it mean that God was kind and faithful to Rahab? How have you experienced God’s faithfulness?4. Review where Rahab fits in the genealogy of Jesus. What does that tell us about how God saw her, and how He sees us?5. Review the three descriptions of Rahab from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you:· Prostitute· Responded in Belief· Saved6. “Rahab is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Rahab? What does that mean to you in your life today?

We love chatting in my car each month about one woman of the Bible. We recorded this episode about 3 weeks ago, but then I moved. And it has taken this long to get it set to share with you.  We pray the timing is exactly when you needed to hear it. In this episode, we are talking about NAOMI! Her story is found in the book of Ruth. She is one of US. Who God was to her he is to you and me.As we unpacked her story, we discovered 3 things about Naomi. She was:1. a widow2. bitter3. redeemedIt is in her story that we see God moving through loss and grief and tragedy. We see him taking care of her even when she felt like she was fending for herself. We see him take her from a place of bitterness to a place of sweetness. Who he is to her, he is to you, my friend. We hope our conversation encourages you!Amy & Jamy*Blog post Naomi: when life doesn't turn out like you had hopedNEW (recently added) - - - - - ->>>> D I S C U S S I O N  Q U E S T I O N S We've had so much fun hearing your stories of connecting with these women in the Bible and each other. Some of you have gathered up your friends and created a small group around these podcasts, diving into God's word yourselves and joining into our conversation with your own. As an added supplement to every episode, Jamy is writing discussion questions to use as a group in discussion or individually to process through in prayer with God.Episode 5:  N A O M I  Discussion Questions*See episode description in the show notes. Review Ruth 1-4 for her story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Naomi? What surprised you about her story with God?2. When God disappoints you, what is your go-to way to cope? How has bitterness been a temptation for you?3. Have you ever been disappointed by a mentor who struggles or loses faith? What can we learn from Ruth when we are in this situation?4. How do you define your identity? How should you define your identity?5. Review the three descriptions of Naomi from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you:· Widow· Bitter· Redeemed6. “Naomi is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Naomi? What does that mean to you in your life today?

We are so excited to share our latest conversation about MIRIAM!I only thought I knew her. I knew parts of her story (and you may too) but not her life as a whole or her as a real-life person. I had never taken the time to see her as anything more than a 2-D character in the Old Testament story of the Israelites. Join us as we dive into the pieces of her life that the Bible reveals as a woman, sister, leader in both a very precarious and liberating time in the life of her family, her culture, her people. As we answer the question "Who is she," our 3 "words"(kindof/not really words, more like phrases) for Miriam are:resourcefula leader who used her giftsand she complained. She is one of us.  Who God is to her, he is to YOU wherever YOU are. We hope this episode encourages you in those unseen places where your faith is a bit fragile.Much love,Amy*Blog post Miriam: celebrating even when the future is fuzzyNEW (recently added) - - - - - ->>>> D I S C U S S I O N  Q U E S T I O N S We've had so much fun hearing your stories of connecting with these women in the Bible and each other. Some of you have gathered up your friends and created a small group around these podcasts, diving into God's word yourselves and joining into our conversation with your own. As an added supplement to every episode, Jamy is writing discussion questions to use as a group in discussion or individually to process through in prayer with God.Episode 4:  M I R I A M Discussion Questions*See episode description in the show notes. Review Exodus 2, 15, Numbers 12 for her story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Miriam? What surprised you about her story with God?2. How does the courage of little girl Miriam and her mother encourage you?3. What might it have meant in Miriam’s daily life that she was a prophetess?4. How does her celebration of the crossing of the Red Sea inspire you in your relationships with other women?5. Miriam struggles with pride. What is your greatest takeaway from this part of her story?6. Review the three descriptions of Miriam from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you:· Resourceful· Leader who used her gifts· Complained7. “Miriam is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Miriam? What does that mean to you in your life today?

Today, we are talking about DEBORAH! She was a confident and humble leader. To be honest, I was intimidated by her at first because the Bible doesn't mention one negative thing about her! Instead she is a beautiful example of what it looks like to the best kind of leader in a very oppressive and cruel time in Israelites history.Her story is found in Judges 4-5.She is one of us:1. Busy go-to girl2. Heard from God and believe him at his word3. Brave in doing hard thingsWho God was to her, he is to you:1. powerful2. righteous3. helper4. victoriousWe are all leaders in some way. Don't squirm at the truth of that for you. Deborah demonstrates many amazing LEADERSHIP principles to learn from.  Here are a few:A humble leader:- celebrates when someone else gets the credit while you were the one leading. - gives space for others to participate with their God calling in the storyline.- celebrates each other in what God has called us to do as a family.- calls out courage in others.- celebrates not necessarily the outcome but everyones willingness to serve together.- doesn't shy away from the hard truths but delivers them with grace and humility.Humble leadership:- comes from an overflow of your personal pursuit of God.- doesn't mean you have to do it all.- is motivated by serving the Lord. Your success as a leader is based on your obedience to God's calling and not your approval rate of those you lead. We hope that you will be encouraged!*Blog Post Deborah: leading well in the many hats we wearNEW (recently added) - - - - - ->>>> D I S C U S S I O N  Q U E S T I O N S We've had so much fun hearing your stories of connecting with these women in the Bible and each other. Some of you have gathered up your friends and created a small group around these podcasts, diving into God's word yourselves and joining into our conversation with your own. As an added supplement to every episode, Jamy is writing discussion questions to use as a group in discussion or individually to process through in prayer with God.Episode 3:  D E B O R A H  Discussion Questions*See episode description in the show notes. Review Judges 4-5  for her story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Deborah? What surprised you about her story with God?2. Why do you think God put Deborah in a position of leadership?3. Using Deborah’s example, what does it mean to be a humble leader?4. “Deborah’s actions and words consistently point to God, not away from Him.” How do you see the truth of this quote in Deborah’s story?  How true is this of your own life?5. Review the three descriptions of Deborah from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you:· Busy Go-To Girl· Heard from God· Brave in Hard Things6. “Deborah is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Deborah? What does that mean to you in your life today?

On Car Chat Podcast with Amy and Jamy, we chat in Amy's car about one woman of the bible every month. We hope to gather a community of broken yet redeemed women both here with the podcast AND with the women of the Bible so you can say “me too” about your struggle and not feel bad about it. Through their stories, we will discover the power of God’s presence in our lives.TODAY, we are talking about HAGAR!  We will discover: she is one of us. who God is to her, he is to me.We want to be curious about her real life by answering the question: WHO IS SHE? In this episode, we find that Hagar was: 1) used2) rejected3) and noticed by God. This conversation is so rich!! Here are a few of the truth points (with timestamp): 12:20 - It is so difficult to believe a promise while living with the disappointment of the promise not yet fulfilled.14:20 - Waiting without problem solving is very foreign to us. Don't get out of step with God even though you are frustrated with his timing and work.21:15 - There is a powerful simplicity in God calling you by name.23:00 - Pay attention to God's questions: Where have you been? Where are you going? (or in other words, What has brought you here? And where do you want to go?). They can help you get out of the crazy spiral "tornado-like" thinking. 31:00 - God listens (gives undivided attention) to you and your pain.39:55 - God heard the boy but called out to Hagar. In a mother's crying out, God hears you child and sees him right where he is. Rise up and don't give up. Hold him close in prayer the best that you can. 42:20 - God opens our eyes sometimes to what he has already provided.45:00 - Hagar did not have the power to derail God's plan. God loves the individual even though his plans cannot be derailed. We pray the story of Hagar encourages you. She is one of us!Thanks so much for joining us. If you haven't already, listen to Episode #1: EVE.  Download, share, review, and follow! Thank ya'll for all for your sweet comments and reviews. We are in this together!*Biblical Text: Genesis 16, 17, 21 *Blog Post Hagar: you are noticed and lovedNEW (recently added) - - - - - ->>>> D I S C U S S I O N  Q U E S T I O N S We've had so much fun hearing your stories of connecting with these women in the Bible and each other. Some of you have gathered up your friends and created a small group around these podcasts, diving into God's word yourselves and joining into our conversation with your own. As an added supplement to every episode, Jamy is writing discussion questions to use as a group in discussion or individually to process through in prayer with God.Episode 2:  H A G A R  Discussion Questions*See episode description in the show notes. Review Genesis 16-17, 21 for her story.1. What did you learn for the first time about Hagar? What surprised you about her story with God?2. Why is it so hard for us to believe a promise from God while living with the disappointment of the promise not yet being fulfilled?3. What does it mean to you that God calls Hagar (and you) by name?4. How significant are God’s questions to Hagar? How can you apply them to your own life? · Where have you been?· Where are you going?5. Review the three descriptions of Hagar from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you:· Used· Rejected· Noticed by God6. “Hagar is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Hagar? What does that mean to you in your life today?

INTRODUCTION:Hello Podcast World! This is our FIRST podcast, and we are super excited. We record this podcast in my car, the glorious (overtly common) white Nissan Pathfinder! Thus... CAR CHAT Podcast. We have so much fun chatting in our private conversations that we decided to invite you to join us. This is an experiment…so we will see how it goes.  Jamy and I (Amy) met in the 1993 at Oklahoma Baptist University, and God has connected our hearts all these years later as we love and serve Oklahoma Baptist ministry wives. We love to collaborate on writing projects by deep diving into God’s word and it’s relevancy in our lives. We love words. We love women. And, we love God's TRUTH. This year 2023, we are sharing a Women of the Bible Series where we highlight one woman in the bible each month and talk all things about her real life as a woman, a mom, and a child of God. With each woman we highlight, we will ask the question, "Who is she?"  We will answer it with 3-4 describing words. Women need other women. I LOVE that God includes the lives of real broken women in the bible and reveals how he interacts and redeems them. You don’t have to remain alone in your faith even when no one is around. We are excited to surround ourselves with this community of women and be encouraged as we lean into Jesus.EPISODE 1:First up is EVE.Most of us know her story.  She often gets a bad rap for being the one who took that bite and broke our world. Although that is true, she is so much more than her mistakes.  Eve was 1) unashamed 2) responsible yet redeemed, and 3) vulnerable. *Loneliness research: Harvard https://mcc.gse.harvard.edu/reports/loneliness-in-americaLifeWay http://research.lifeway.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Pastor-Spouse-Research-Report-Sept-2017.pdf*Shame defined: https://positivepsychology.com/shame-resilience-theory*Biblical Text: Genesis 1-4*Blog post Eve: You are more than your mistakesNEW (recently added) - - - - - ->>>> D I S C U S S I O N  Q U E S T I O N S We've had so much fun hearing your stories of connecting with these women in the Bible and each other. Some of you have gathered up your friends and created a small group around these podcasts, diving into God's word yourselves and joining into our conversation with your own. As an added supplement to every episode, Jamy is writing discussion questions to use as a group in discussion or individually to process through in prayer with God.Episode 1: Discussion Questions*See episode description in the show notes. Review Genesis 1-4 for her story.What did you learn for the first time about Eve? What surprised you about her story with God?What were Eve’s biggest mistakes? (dig deeper than the obvious)Where have you let doubt create distance between you and God?What do you think God thought about her? Why? Review the three descriptions of Eve from the podcast and discuss which one resonates the most with you: Unashamed - Vulnerable - Responsible yet redeemed“Eve is one of us. Who God is to her, He is to me.” Who was God to Eve? What does that mean to you in your life today?