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***Listen to #202 "His Yoke is Easy and His Burden is Light?" for UpdateWhat does it mean to make your home a dwelling place for God? And how can busy moms learn to surrender their children to the Lord while growing in their own faith? In this Prepare to Dwell episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox shares the personal story behind the podcast's name and the Scripture that has shaped her heart for motherhood: Psalm 84. After years of dreaming of becoming a singer, Stephanie reflects on how what felt like a shattered dream became an opportunity for God to redirect her toward a deeper love for His Word. Later, during a difficult pregnancy with her fourth child, the Lord used Psalm 84 to remind her of the beauty of dwelling in His presence and the importance of laying her children before Him. As Christian moms, we can easily become consumed with our hopes, expectations, and plans for our children. But God invites us to return to Him, trust His goodness, and remember that He loves our children even more than we do. Before we can faithfully point our children to Jesus, we must first learn to worship Him ourselves. In this episode, you'll discover how the Bible speaks to the heart of motherhood, why surrendering our children to God is an ongoing process, and how Christian community can help us remain faithful when family life feels overwhelming. In this episode, we discuss: The story behind the name The Dwelling Place and the vision for this Bible podcast for busy moms.How God can use disappointing circumstances to redirect our lives toward His purposes.Psalm 84 and the beautiful picture of a mother laying her children before the Lord.Why surrendering our children to God often means releasing our own hopes and expectations for their futures.What the name “LORD of hosts” reveals about God's power, sovereignty, and protection.How to trust God's goodness when motherhood takes us through difficult and bitter seasons.Why our own relationship with Jesus must come before our efforts to disciple our children.The importance of Christian community, encouragement, and accountability in biblical parenting.How a consistent Bible reading plan can help us grow in faith and become more intentional about making our homes centered on Jesus Christ. Scriptures explored: Psalm 84 — Finding joy in God's presence and surrendering our children to Him.1 Samuel 1 — Hannah's prayer for Samuel and her willingness to entrust him to the Lord.Romans 8:28–29 — Trusting God's good purposes as He transforms us into the image of Christ. A word of encouragement for moms: You don't have to parent perfectly to be faithful. You can bring your fears, hopes, disappointments, and children to a God who is good, sovereign, and trustworthy. As you learn to dwell in His presence, He will continue to shape your heart and equip you to point your family toward Jesus. The Dwelling Place Bible Plan for Busy Moms was created to help you stay rooted in the full counsel of God's Word, pray Scripture over your family, and grow alongside other moms who want to be faithful in their homes. Whether you've struggled to stay consistent with Bible reading plans in the past or are simply longing to deepen your walk with Jesus, you are welcome here. Let's pursue the heart of God together and learn to make our homes places where Christ is treasured. Learn more about Entrusted Ministries and the Dwelling Place Bible reading plan at Entrusted Ministries. Podcast Page This episode is part of the Prepare to Dwell series from Entrusted Ministries, introducing the vision and practical tools behind the Dwelling Place Bible reading plan.

Are you a busy mom who longs to spend more time in God's Word but struggles to find the time and consistency? You're not alone! In this special episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox shares an honest reminder that even moms who love Scripture and are committed to following Jesus still desperately need His grace, strength, and rest. After an exhausting night and an overwhelming to-do list, Stephanie finds herself wrestling with Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28–30: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” What happens when the burdens we carry aren't just the demands of motherhood, but also our own expectations? Stephanie opens up about the pressure to keep up, the temptation to measure faithfulness by our own performance, and the freedom of remembering that our faith rests not in our ability to do everything perfectly, but in the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. Then, Stephanie revisits the heart and vision behind The Dwelling Place Bible Plan for Busy Moms. Discover why this podcast exists, how it helps moms stay grounded in the full counsel of God's Word, and how you can build a sustainable Bible reading and prayer routine—even in your busiest season of motherhood. God's Word isn't another burden to add to your already-full plate. It's where we learn to depend on His strength, discern truth from lies, and remember the God who longs to dwell with His people. In this episode, you'll discover: How Matthew 11:28–30 invites weary moms to find rest in Jesus.Why our own expectations can become burdens God never intended us to carry.Why Christian moms need God's grace just as much as the families they serve.The heart behind The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast and its mission to help busy moms read the Bible and pray for their families.How God's plan to dwell with His people unfolds from Genesis to Revelation.Three flexible ways to participate in the Dwelling Place Bible reading plan, whether you listen to Scripture, read along with an audio Bible, or read the Bible independently.Why reading through the whole Bible helps us understand God's character and avoid taking individual verses out of context.How to give yourself grace when you fall behind and return to God's Word without striving for perfection. Scriptures mentioned: Matthew 11:28–30 — Jesus' invitation to the weary and burdenedPsalm 119:92 — Delighting in God's law amid afflictionPsalm 143:8, 10 — Seeking God's steadfast love and guidance each morningRevelation 21:1–5 — God's promise to dwell with His people and make all things newEphesians 6 — Putting on the full armor of God, including the sword of the Spirit A word of encouragement for busy moms: You don't have to be a perfect mom, maintain a flawless Bible reading streak, or have everything together to draw near to Jesus. When you fall behind, give yourself grace and begin again. The goal isn't to prove how faithful you are; it's to keep returning to the One who is always faithful. If you're longing to grow in your faith, become more grounded in biblical parenting, and pray God's Word over your children, we'd love for you to join us. Whether you're a seasoned Bible reader, a mom trying to establish a daily quiet time, or someone just beginning to explore the goodness of Jesus, there is a place for you here. Let's make room for God's Word in the middle of busy motherhood and learn to dwell with Him together. Learn more about Entrusted Ministries and the Dwelling Place Bible reading plan at Entrusted Ministries. Podcast Page

What does it look like to live as a true follower of Jesus? And how can we build our homes and raise our children on a foundation that will stand firm through life’s storms? In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries, Stephanie Hickox explores Matthew 5–7, the Sermon on the Mount. These powerful chapters reveal what true righteousness looks like—not simply following outward rules, but allowing God to transform our hearts, desires, words, and relationships. As we continue our chronological Bible reading plan through the New Testament, we’ll uncover 10 essential lessons Jesus teaches about Christian living, biblical parenting, prayer, money, anxiety, relationships, and building a life firmly rooted in God's Word. Whether you’re looking for a Bible podcast for moms, a New Testament Bible reading plan, or practical Christian parenting wisdom, this episode will challenge and encourage you to put Jesus’ words into practice in your everyday life. 10 Lessons from the Sermon on the Mount1. Embrace the Beatitudes: God’s Kingdom Turns the World’s Values Upside Down Jesus blesses the poor in spirit, the meek, the merciful, the peacemakers, and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. True blessing is deeper than temporary happiness or worldly success. It comes from belonging to God and depending on Him. Discover why Jesus calls us to be peacemakers rather than simply peacekeepers—and how that distinction matters when we're navigating sibling conflict and difficult conversations in our families. 2. Guard Your Heart and Be the Salt and Light of the World Jesus calls His followers to be salt and light, displaying the goodness of God so that others glorify Him. He also teaches that righteousness goes deeper than outward behavior. From anger and reconciliation to lust and digital temptation, Jesus calls us to examine what is happening in our hearts. Stephanie discusses why Christian moms must take seriously the media and images we allow into our homes and how we can help our children develop biblical discernment. 3. Love Others as Your Heavenly Father Loves Jesus challenges His followers to go beyond ordinary expectations. Instead of retaliating or loving only those who love us, we are called to bless our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. What does this kind of love look like in marriage, motherhood, and everyday relationships? Learn how the gospel shapes our responses even when others have wronged us. 4. Pursue Sincerity in Prayer and Generosity God cares about the motives behind our actions. Jesus warns against giving, praying, and practicing righteousness merely to receive recognition from others. We’ll explore the Lord’s Prayer and discover how private prayer cultivates dependence on our Father. We’ll also consider the connection between receiving God’s forgiveness and extending mercy to others. 5. Invest in What Matters for Eternity Jesus warns us not to store up treasures on earth or attempt to serve both God and money. Our attention shapes our desires, and our investments reveal what we treasure. This lesson has important implications for biblical parenting. Our children are precious gifts, but even our love for them can become disordered when we place our ultimate hope in their achievements, behavior, or future. How can we invest deeply in our families while keeping our greatest treasure in Christ? 6. Fight Anxiety by Seeking God First Matthew 6:25–34 offers some of the most comforting words in Scripture for anxious hearts. Jesus points to the birds of the air and the flowers of the field as reminders of our Father's care. Stephanie shares how these verses have strengthened her through difficult circumstances and countless hospital rooms. Discover the difference between wise planning and anxious preoccupation, and why Jesus calls us to seek first the kingdom of God. For the mom carrying more worries than she feels able to bear, this passage offers a reminder: God knows what you need, and you can trust Him one day at a time. 7. Practice Humble Discernment, Not Hypocritical Judgment “Judge not” is one of the most quoted—and frequently misunderstood—teachings of Jesus. He does not call us to abandon discernment. He calls us to examine our own hearts before addressing the faults of others. We’ll explore the picture of the log and the speck, the importance of humility when correcting someone, and Jesus’ warning about giving what is precious to those who will treat it with contempt. These principles are especially valuable as we guide our children through friendships, dating relationships, and decisions about whom to trust. 8. Trust Your Father’s Goodness and Practice the Golden Rule Jesus teaches us to treat others as we would want to be treated. He also reminds us that our heavenly Father delights in giving good gifts to His children. Stephanie invites us to consider the love we feel when preparing gifts for our own children—and how much greater our heavenly Father’s goodness is toward those who come to Him. 9. Choose the Narrow Gate and Recognize Good Fruit Jesus warns that the way leading to life is narrow and that false prophets can appear trustworthy while producing bad fruit. As Christian moms, we want our children to understand why following Jesus is different from simply going along with the crowd. We’ll consider how to teach them to evaluate beliefs and influences by Scripture, remain faithful when Christians are in the minority, and recognize that outward appearances alone do not prove genuine faith. 10. Build Your Life and Family on the Rock Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount with the picture of two builders. One builds on rock and withstands the storm; the other builds on sand and experiences a devastating fall. Hearing Jesus’ words is not enough. We must put them into practice. This is a fitting reminder of Entrusted Ministries’ theme verse, Psalm 127:1: unless the Lord builds the house, our labor is in vain. How we spend our time, money, attention, and energy reveals the foundation on which we are building our homes. Biblical Parenting Begins With a Transformed HeartThe Sermon on the Mount gives Christian moms more than a list of behaviors to teach their children. It reveals the heart attitudes that God desires in His people. As we parent, we have opportunities every day to model peacemaking, forgiveness, generosity, humility, discernment, and trust in God. We also have the opportunity to acknowledge our own failures and show our children our ongoing need for Jesus. Our goal is not merely to raise children who look righteous on the outside. We want to help them know Christ, love His Word, and build their lives on His truth. Bible Study Questions for Busy MomsAs you read Matthew 5–7 and listen to this episode, consider these questions: Which of the Beatitudes most challenges the way I naturally think about success and blessing?Am I pursuing peace in my family, or am I sometimes settling for temporary peacekeeping?What are my words, habits, and media choices revealing about my heart?Where am I tempted to worry about tomorrow instead of trusting God for today?Are my investments of time, money, and attention reflecting my eternal priorities?How can I correct my children with humility while still teaching them biblical discernment?What practical change would help our family build more intentionally on the foundation of God's Word? Key ScripturesMatthew 5:3–12 — The Beatitudes.Matthew 5:13–16 — Salt and light.Matthew 5:17–30 — Jesus fulfills the Law and calls for righteousness of heart.Matthew 5:43–48 — Love your enemies.Matthew 6:5–15 — Sincere prayer and the Lord’s Prayer.Matthew 6:19–24 — Heavenly treasure and serving God rather than money.Matthew 6:25–34 — Do not be anxious; seek first God’s kingdom.Matthew 7:1–6 — Humble judgment and discernment.Matthew 7:7–12 — Ask, seek, knock, and practice the Golden Rule.Matthew 7:13–23 — The narrow gate and recognizing good fruit.Matthew 7:24–27 — Building on the rock.Psalm 127:1 — Unless the Lord builds the house. A Prayer Inspired by the Sermon on the MountHeavenly Father, may Your name be glorified on earth as it is in heaven. Help us seek Your kingdom first and trust You to provide what we need today. Forgive us where we fall short, and teach us to extend the mercy we have received to others. Guard our hearts from bitterness, compromise, and distractions that draw us away from You. Give us wisdom to recognize temptation, courage to obey Your Word, and discernment to guide our children in truth. May we build our homes on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ and live in a way that brings glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen. Continue Your Chronological Bible Reading PlanThe Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries helps Christian moms read the Bible, grow in biblical wisdom, and apply Scripture to everyday motherhood. If you’re looking for a Bible podcast for Christian moms, a chronological Bible reading plan, a New Testament Bible reading plan, or encouragement for biblical...

The Age of the Disciples Blaspheming the Holy Spirit Have you ever felt unseen in the constant demands of motherhood? Do you struggle to respond with patience when you're interrupted, exhausted, or misunderstood? In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we explore Matthew 12, Mark 3, and Luke 6 to discover a Savior who understands the intensity of serving others—and who calls us to reflect His compassion, humility, and truth. As we continue our chronological Bible reading plan through the New Testament, we’ll see Jesus face intense opposition from religious leaders even as crowds press in to receive His healing. We’ll discover why Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath, what He teaches about the words we speak, and how His response to those who follow Him helps us understand the family of God. We’ll also explore Jesus’ warning about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, His intentional choice of the twelve disciples, and the transforming power of a heart filled with the love of God. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverWhy Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. When religious leaders criticize Him for healing on the Sabbath, Jesus exposes their hard hearts and reveals that God’s commands reflect His goodness and compassion.How Jesus responds to hardened hearts. Mark tells us Jesus looked around with anger and grief at the religious leaders’ refusal to show mercy. His response challenges us to examine whether our convictions lead us toward compassion or pride.What the Bible teaches about the unforgivable sin. We consider Jesus’ warning in Matthew 12 and the context of the religious leaders attributing the Spirit’s work to Satan.Why our words matter. Jesus teaches that our words flow from the abundance of our hearts and that we will give an account for careless words. This is especially relevant for Christian moms raising children in an age of social media and constant communication.How Jesus understands the exhaustion of motherhood. Surrounded by crowds and continually meeting people’s needs, Jesus experienced the intensity of a demanding ministry. His life offers encouragement to moms who feel interrupted, depleted, and unseen.What it means to belong to the family of God. Jesus identifies those who do the will of His Father as His spiritual family, highlighting the profound privilege of belonging to Him.Why Jesus prayed before choosing His disciples. Before selecting the twelve apostles, Jesus spent the night in prayer. His example reminds us to seek God’s wisdom in the decisions that shape our lives and families. Jesus Is Lord of the Sabbath—and His Heart Is CompassionIn Matthew 12 and Mark 3, Jesus encounters a man with a withered hand in the synagogue. The Pharisees watch closely, hoping to accuse Him if He heals on the Sabbath. Jesus answers their challenge with a simple comparison: if a man would rescue a sheep on the Sabbath, how much more valuable is a human being made in God’s image? Jesus heals the man, but the Pharisees respond by plotting against Him. Mark adds a striking detail: Jesus looks around at them with anger, grieved by their hardness of heart (Mark 3:5). His anger is not a rejection of compassion. He is grieved that people who claim to honor God’s law are unwilling to celebrate the restoration of a suffering person. This account challenges us as Christian moms. We can become so focused on rules, expectations, or outward appearances that we miss opportunities to show mercy. Biblical wisdom helps us uphold God's truth while reflecting His compassion. Jesus does not simply affirm people where they are; He calls them to repentance and transformation. His love is not indifferent to sin. It is the kind of love that seeks what is truly good for us. The Unforgivable Sin: Understanding Matthew 12One of the most sobering passages in this reading is Jesus’ warning about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:31–32). What does this mean, and how should Christians understand it? In context, the religious leaders have witnessed Jesus’ powerful works but attribute His deliverance of a demon-oppressed man to Satan rather than acknowledging the work of God’s Spirit. Jesus exposes the contradiction in their accusation and warns them about the seriousness of their response to the truth they have witnessed. Christians and biblical scholars differ in how they explain the precise scope of this warning and its application today. This episode considers the historical context and an interpretation that connects the warning specifically to the religious leaders’ rejection of Jesus’ Spirit-empowered ministry. The larger lesson is clear: we must not treat Jesus’ identity and work casually. We are called to respond to Him with humble, genuine faith rather than hardening our hearts against the truth. Out of the Abundance of the Heart, the Mouth SpeaksJesus teaches that a tree is recognized by its fruit and that “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34, ESV). Our words reveal something about what is happening inside us. This is a searching reminder for moms who want to raise children to speak with kindness, truth, and self-control. It is easy to focus on correcting our children’s words while overlooking our own. But biblical parenting begins with our own ongoing need for the Lord to transform our hearts. The way we respond to frustration, speak about others, and handle conflict provides a powerful example to our children. Jesus also warns that people will give an account for careless words. In a world where social media encourages quick reactions and constant commentary, His words remind us to pause and consider whether our speech honors God. Our goal is not merely to teach our children to say the right things. We want to cultivate hearts that love what is good and produce words that reflect that love. Jesus Understands the Demands of MotherhoodBy this point in His ministry, Jesus is surrounded by crowds so intense that people press in to touch Him. At one point, the demands are so great that He and His disciples cannot even eat. When His family hears what is happening, some believe He is out of His mind. Jesus is not only opposed by religious leaders; He is also misunderstood by people close to Him. For moms who feel constantly needed, interrupted, or misunderstood, these details offer meaningful encouragement. Jesus knows what it is like to pour Himself out in service while facing opposition and misunderstanding. In Matthew 12, Jesus also explains that those who do the will of His Father are His brother, sister, and mother. He is not dismissing the importance of His earthly family. He is showing the deep significance of belonging to God's family through a shared devotion to the Father. If you feel alone in your daily work, remember that Jesus sees you. Your faithfulness matters, even when the work is hidden and no one else seems to notice. Choosing Wisdom: Jesus Prays Before Selecting the TwelveLuke 6 tells us that Jesus went out to a mountain and spent the entire night in prayer before choosing the twelve apostles. Jesus’ example reminds us that important decisions deserve more than hurried reactions. Whether we are making choices about our children, our marriages, our schedules, or our responsibilities, we can seek the Lord’s wisdom through prayer and His Word. The disciples themselves were imperfect men. They did not always understand Jesus’ mission, and one of them, Judas Iscariot, would eventually betray Him. Yet Jesus deliberately called these men to follow Him and learn from Him. This gives us perspective as we disciple our own children. Growth takes time. We are called to teach, guide, pray, and model faithfulness while trusting God to do His transforming work. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsAs you listen to this episode and continue your chronological Bible reading plan, consider these questions: Do my convictions lead me to show compassion, or am I sometimes more concerned with rules and appearances?What do my words reveal about the condition of my heart?How can I model repentance and gracious speech for my children?Where do I feel unseen or overwhelmed in motherhood, and how does Jesus’ example encourage me?Am I bringing important decisions to the Lord in prayer before acting?How can I help my children understand that following Jesus means both believing the truth and being transformed by it? Key ScripturesMatthew 12:9–14; Mark 3:1–6 — Jesus heals on the Sabbath and confronts hardened hearts.Matthew 12:22–32 — Jesus answers the accusation that He works by Satan’s power and warns about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.Matthew 12:33–37 — The heart and our words.Matthew 12:46–50; Mark 3:31–35 — Jesus describes His spiritual family.Mark 3:20–21 — The intensity of Jesus’ ministry and His family’s concern.Luke 6:12–16 — Jesus prays before choosing the twelve apostles.Luke 6:17–19 — Crowds gather to hear Jesus and seek healing. A Prayer for Christian MomsHeavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and compassion. Fill us so...

What difference would it make in your everyday life as a mom if you were deeply convinced that Jesus has authority over everything? In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we explore Matthew 8, Mark 2, and John 5 to see how Jesus demonstrates His authority over sickness, spiritual darkness, nature, sin, and even death. As we follow a chronological Bible reading plan through the New Testament, we’ll discover how the power and goodness of Jesus can transform our fears, bring freedom from legalism, and help us find rest in the middle of the demands of motherhood. We’ll also see how much good friends can accomplish when they bring someone to Jesus—and how Jesus sees those who feel alone and forgotten. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverHow Jesus’ authority can transform your anxiety. From calming a raging storm to healing the sick, Jesus demonstrates that no part of creation is beyond His control. What might change if you trusted His power and goodness in the circumstances facing your family?Why Christian friendship matters. Four determined friends carry a paralyzed man to Jesus, showing us the value of relationships that help us draw near to Christ.Why we all need the Great Physician. When Jesus calls Matthew and eats with tax collectors and sinners, He reminds us that He came to rescue those who recognize their need for Him.How to recognize the difference between biblical obedience and legalism. Jesus confronts the Pharisees’ distorted understanding of the Sabbath and reveals God’s heart for His people.What Sabbath rest can look like for busy moms. Discover an encouraging reminder that small, practical changes—even something as simple as using paper plates—can help make room for refreshment rather than turning rest into another checklist.How Jesus brings freedom to the overlooked. After 38 years of disability, a man with no one to help him is seen and healed by Jesus. His story reminds us that Christ is not limited by our circumstances or the help we do—or do not—receive from others.Five witnesses that testify to Jesus’ identity. In John 5, Jesus points to the testimony of John the Baptist, His works, the Father, the Scriptures, and Moses to establish who He is and why He deserves our trust. Jesus Understands Our Need for Rest and RescueIn Matthew 8, the disciples panic when a storm threatens their boat, but Jesus sleeps. When they wake Him, He rebukes the wind and the sea, and everything becomes calm. Their question captures the wonder of what they are witnessing: “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” (Matthew 8:27, ESV). As moms, we face circumstances that can feel just as overwhelming. We may worry about our children, our finances, our health, or the future. These passages invite us to look beyond the size of our problems and remember the greatness of our Savior. Jesus’ authority does not mean life will always unfold as we hope. It means we can place our lives and families in the hands of the One who is powerful, good, and worthy of our trust. Great Friends Bring People to JesusIn Mark 2, four friends refuse to let a crowded house keep them from bringing their paralyzed friend to Jesus. They even open the roof to lower him into the room! Jesus responds to their faith, but He does something unexpected: before healing the man’s body, He declares his sins forgiven. Then He heals him, demonstrating His authority to forgive sins. This account reminds us that Christian friendship is about more than offering sympathy or practical help. We can encourage one another to seek Jesus, trust His Word, and remember that our deepest need is spiritual rescue. It also challenges us to consider how we are helping our own children see their need for Jesus and grow in their relationship with Him. Biblical Parenting: Pointing Our Children to the Great PhysicianWhen Jesus calls Matthew, He willingly shares a meal with tax collectors and sinners. His explanation is simple: those who recognize their sickness understand their need for a physician. As Christian moms, we want our children to grow in obedience and wisdom. But biblical parenting is not simply about producing outwardly well-behaved children. Our children need to understand their need for the grace and forgiveness of Jesus, just as we do. We can model humility by acknowledging our own need for Christ, pointing our children toward His Word, and showing them that the gospel is not a reward for people who have it all together. It is good news for sinners who need a Savior. The Sabbath: God's Gift, Not Another ChecklistJesus says, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27, ESV). The Pharisees had piled additional requirements onto God's commands until their rules obscured His heart. Jesus challenged that legalism and reminded them of the purpose behind the Sabbath. For moms whose days are filled with meals, laundry, interruptions, and caring for children, rest can feel impossible—or like one more thing we are failing to do well. In this episode, Stephanie shares a personal story about asking God how she could honor the Sabbath during a particularly exhausting season of motherhood. The answer she sensed was surprisingly practical: paper plates. Sometimes a small adjustment can help simplify a day and create room for refreshment. Rather than treating rest as a perfect routine we must achieve, we can prayerfully consider how to receive God's good gifts within the realities of our season of life. John 5: Five Witnesses Testify to JesusJohn 5 brings us to the heart of the episode: Jesus’ declaration of His authority and identity. After healing a man on the Sabbath, Jesus explains His unique relationship with the Father. His words provoke opposition from religious leaders, but He does not back away from declaring who He is. Jesus calls attention to five witnesses: John the Baptist, who testified to the truth.Jesus’ works, which demonstrate the authority and mission given to Him by the Father.The Father, who bears witness to the Son.The Scriptures, which point to Jesus.Moses, whose writings ultimately testify about Him. The religious leaders searched the Scriptures but refused to come to the One to whom they pointed. Their example is a sobering reminder that knowing biblical information is not the same as trusting and submitting to Jesus. As we study the Bible with our children, our goal is not merely to help them know Bible stories or follow rules. We want them to know the Savior revealed throughout Scripture. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsWhether you are listening to this episode while getting ready in the morning, preparing dinner, or driving your children, you can use these passages to grow in your understanding of God's Word. Consider these reflection questions: Where am I tempted to feel anxious, and how does Jesus’ authority over every realm shape the way I approach that concern?Who has helped bring me closer to Jesus? How can I be that kind of friend to someone else?Am I helping my children understand their need for the Great Physician, or am I focusing primarily on their outward behavior?Have I turned rest or another area of Christian obedience into a checklist that leaves me discouraged?What practical change could help our family make more room for refreshment?Am I reading Scripture simply to gain knowledge, or am I responding to Jesus with faith and obedience?How can I help my children see that the whole Bible points to Jesus? Key ScripturesMatthew 8:8–13 — The centurion’s faith and Jesus’ authority to heal.Matthew 8:23–27 — Jesus calms the storm.Mark 2:1–12 — Jesus forgives and heals the paralyzed man.Mark 2:13–17 — Jesus calls Matthew and eats with sinners.Mark 2:23–28 — Jesus teaches about the Sabbath.John 5:1–18 — Jesus heals the man at Bethesda and confronts legalism.John 5:19–29 — The Son’s relationship with the Father and His authority over life and judgment.John 5:30–47 — The witnesses who testify to Jesus. A Prayer for Peace, Rest, and TrustHeavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son, who perfectly reveals Your character. Help us understand Your heart to heal, rescue, and set people free. Show us how to serve our families faithfully while also receiving the rest and refreshment You provide. As we study Jesus’ authority over all things, transform the way we think about our worries. Help us trust Your goodness and power with our lives and our children. Teach us to fight the right battles with courage and love, and to point our families toward the peace and rescue found in Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen. Keep Growing in God's WordThe Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms from Entrusted Ministries helps Christian moms study Scripture, grow in biblical wisdom, and apply God's Word to everyday family life. Whether you are following a chronological Bible reading plan, beginning a New Testament Bible reading plan, or simply looking for a Bible podcast to help you stay connected to Scripture in a busy season, we invite you to keep opening God's Word with...

Sign Up for the Dwelling Place Monthly Updates. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16, ESV Why did God send His Son to die for sinners? And how can we help our children understand their need for a Savior? In John 2–4, we see Jesus reveal His divine authority through miraculous signs, His cleansing of the temple, His conversation with Nicodemus, and His remarkable encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. But at the heart of these chapters is the message of John 3:16: God loved the world and sent His Son so that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life. On this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox explores what Jesus taught Nicodemus about being born again, why salvation cannot be earned through our own efforts, and how the grace of Jesus transforms even the most broken lives. As we continue our chronological Bible reading plan, we’ll also consider what these encounters teach us about biblical parenting, our own spiritual growth, and praying for our children to know and love Jesus personally. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverWhat John 3:16 teaches us about God's love, Jesus' sacrifice, and eternal lifeWhy even a deeply religious person like Nicodemus needed to be born againWhy salvation is a work of God's grace rather than something we can earnHow Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus points to His death on the crossWhat the bronze serpent in Numbers 21 teaches us about looking to God for salvationWhy the cross reveals the Father's love rather than persuading a reluctant Father to love usWhat John the Baptist meant when he said, “He must increase, but I must decrease”How the Samaritan woman encountered the Messiah and became a witness to her communityWhy your past does not put you beyond the reach of Jesus' graceHow Christian moms can model repentance, humility, and dependence on ChristWhy our greatest hope for our children is that they will know Jesus for themselvesHow to pray for your children to believe that Jesus truly is the Savior of the world John 3:16: Why We All Need a SaviorNicodemus was a respected religious leader. He knew the Scriptures and had devoted himself to understanding and obeying God's law. Yet when he came to Jesus, he discovered that religious knowledge and outward obedience could not accomplish what he needed most. Jesus told him that he must be born again—or born from above. Nicodemus needed something he could not produce for himself: new life through the work of God's Spirit. This is one of the most important truths we can grasp as Christian moms. We cannot save ourselves through good behavior, and we cannot make ourselves righteous through sheer determination. We need Jesus. Our children need Him, too. It can be tempting to focus on raising well-behaved children who know the right answers and follow the rules. But biblical parenting goes deeper than outward behavior. We want our children to understand their need for God's grace and to trust Jesus Christ as their Savior. The good news is that salvation is offered to everyone who believes in Him. The Cross Reveals the Love of GodSometimes people imagine God the Father as harsh and judgmental, while viewing Jesus as the gracious one who persuaded the Father to show mercy. But John 3:16 tells us something different. God's love is the reason He sent His Son. The cross does not create God's love for us; it demonstrates the love He has already shown in giving His Son for our salvation. Jesus willingly came to rescue sinners. Through His death and resurrection, He accomplished what we could never accomplish for ourselves. This is the hope of the gospel: we don't have to pretend we're strong enough, good enough, or capable of fixing ourselves. We can confess our sin, receive God's grace, and depend on the Savior who has power over sin and death. For Christian moms, this changes how we approach both our own failures and our children's struggles. Instead of hiding our sin or pretending we have everything together, we can model humble repentance and the joy of being forgiven. The Bronze Serpent: A Picture of Salvation Through FaithJesus pointed Nicodemus back to an unusual moment in Israel's history. In Numbers 21, the Israelites rebelled against God, and poisonous serpents began biting the people. God instructed Moses to make a bronze serpent and lift it up on a pole. Those who looked at it as God instructed lived. Jesus used this account to explain what would happen to Him: “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.” — John 3:14, ESVJust as the Israelites needed to look to God's provision rather than rescue themselves, sinners must look to Jesus for salvation. We cannot earn eternal life. We cannot remove our own guilt. We cannot overcome sin through our own strength. We must trust the Savior God has provided. And that is the message we want our children to understand: not that they can become good enough to earn God's acceptance, but that Jesus is the Savior they desperately need—and the Savior who graciously welcomes all who believe in Him. “He Must Increase, but I Must Decrease”John the Baptist understood his purpose. When his followers became concerned that more people were going to Jesus, John didn't become jealous or try to reclaim the attention. He rejoiced because the Messiah had come. He explained: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” — John 3:30, ESVWhat a heart-reset for Christian moms! We can spend so much energy trying to become more productive, more organized, more patient, or more capable. We want to improve ourselves and do better for our families. Those desires can have a place, but self-improvement cannot replace dependence on Jesus. We need Him to transform us. We need His Spirit to help us love when we're tired, respond with patience when we're frustrated, and serve faithfully when nobody notices. Our goal isn't to become impressive mothers who can handle everything on our own. It's to become women whose lives increasingly reflect the goodness of Christ. Jesus and the Woman at the Well: Grace for the BrokenIn John 4, Jesus travels through Samaria and speaks with a Samaritan woman—someone a Jewish man of His time might have avoided. Jesus knows her story, including her painful relationships and present circumstances. Yet He doesn't avoid her. He offers her living water and reveals that He is the Messiah. Her past does not prevent her from encountering the grace of Jesus. After speaking with Him, she goes back to her community and tells others about the man she has met. Many Samaritans believe because of her testimony, and then they come to hear Jesus themselves. Their response is especially meaningful: “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” — John 4:42, ESVThis is one of the most beautiful prayers we can pray for our children. We want them to hear us speak about God's goodness. We want them to see the gospel changing our lives. We want to teach them Scripture and help them understand the truth. But ultimately, we long for them to know Jesus personally. May our children come to believe not merely because we have told them about Jesus, but because they have come to know Him for themselves. Biblical Parenting: Pointing Our Children to Their SaviorChristian parenting is not about raising children who never struggle, never disobey, or never make mistakes. It's about faithfully teaching them God's Word and pointing them toward the only One who can rescue and transform them. That means helping our children understand both the seriousness of sin and the greater hope of God's grace. It means acknowledging our own need for forgiveness rather than pretending to be perfect. It means teaching them that God's commands are good, that sin has real consequences, and that Jesus welcomes sinners who turn to Him in faith. And it means praying that the Holy Spirit will work in their hearts in ways we cannot accomplish through our own efforts. We can faithfully teach, guide, correct, and encourage our children. But we cannot manufacture saving faith in them. Our hope rests in Jesus, the Savior of the world. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsAs you continue your chronological Bible reading plan, reflect on these questions: Do I truly depend on Jesus, or am I still trying to earn God's approval through my performance?How does John 3:16 shape my understanding of God's character and His love for sinners?Where do I need to say, “He must increase, but I must decrease”?How can I model humble repentance and dependence on Jesus for my children?Am I teaching my children only to behave well, or am I also helping them understand their need for a Savior?How can I pray for my children to know Jesus personally and recognize Him as the Savior of the world? The more deeply we understand the gospel, the more faithfully we can share it with our...

What can Christian moms learn from the way Jesus responded when Satan tempted Him? In Matthew 4 and Luke 4, Jesus enters the wilderness after His baptism and faces Satan’s direct temptation. Jesus is physically weak and hungry, yet He refuses to satisfy His desires outside the will of His Father. When Satan twists Scripture, Jesus responds with the truth of Scripture. When Satan offers Him power and recognition, Jesus refuses to take what belongs to Him before the appointed time. And when Satan challenges His identity, Jesus refuses to put God to the test. For busy Christian moms, this is more than a Bible story. Jesus shows us how to recognize temptation, discern truth from deception, and stand firm in the Word of God. We also see Jesus rejected in His hometown of Nazareth, Peter confronted with his own sinfulness, and Jesus continuing His unconventional ministry despite opposition and interruption. On today’s episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we continue our chronological Bible reading plan through Matthew 4 and Luke 4–5 and ask how Jesus’ victory over temptation can shape our own walk with God—and our biblical parenting. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverHow Jesus responded to Satan’s three temptations in the wildernessWhy knowing Scripture is essential for resisting temptationHow Satan can misuse or distort ScriptureWhat Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness reveal about His obedienceHow Jesus succeeded where Israel—and ultimately humanity—had failedThe connection between the temptations of Jesus, Adam and Eve, and 1 John 2How everyday temptations can involve food, finances, recognition, appearance, possessions, and significanceWhy Christian moms need discernment rather than simply following every piece of spiritual advice they hearWhat Jesus’ rejection in Nazareth reveals about His mission to bring salvation beyond IsraelWhy Jesus’ hometown was offended when He reminded them that God had shown mercy to GentilesWhat Peter’s response to the miraculous catch of fish teaches us about recognizing our own sinfulnessWhy Jesus calls imperfect people to follow Him and participate in His missionHow to help our children stand firm in biblical convictions when they encounter temptation Jesus Shows Us How to Fight TemptationJesus entered the wilderness “full of the Holy Spirit” and was tempted by the devil for forty days. He was hungry. He was physically weak. And Satan knew exactly where to attack. Yet every time Satan tempted Jesus, Jesus answered with Scripture. “It is written…”That phrase is worth noticing. Jesus did not defeat temptation by relying on His feelings, circumstances, or human reasoning. He knew the Word of God and used it rightly. But there is another important detail: Satan knew Scripture too. In the third temptation, Satan quoted Psalm 91—but he twisted its meaning and used it to tempt Jesus to test God. This is why simply owning a Bible isn't enough. We need to know God's Word well enough to recognize when it is being misused. That is one of the reasons Bible study matters so much for Christian moms. Temptation #1: “Turn These Stones Into Bread”Jesus had not eaten for forty days. Of course He was hungry. Satan tempted Him to use His power to satisfy a legitimate physical need in a way that was outside the Father's will. Jesus responded: “Man shall not live by bread alone.” — Matthew 4:4, ESVFood itself wasn't the problem. Jesus would later miraculously provide food for hungry people. The temptation was about whether Jesus would trust His Father and obey Him even when He had a legitimate desire that could be immediately satisfied. And that raises questions for us. What happens when we're worried about money? What happens when we're concerned about our family's physical needs? Do we become anxious about providing for our children? Do we turn to food for comfort? Do we ignore our own God-given limitations because we feel like we simply have to keep going? The temptation may look different for each of us, but the underlying question remains: Will I trust God enough to obey Him when I don't have what I want—or think I need? Temptation #2: Recognition, Glory & SignificanceSatan then offered Jesus the kingdoms of the world. Jesus was worthy of all glory. He truly is the King of Kings. But He refused to take the crown on Satan's terms. Jesus would wait for the Father's appointed time. This temptation can hit much closer to home for moms than we might initially realize. We may not want worldwide authority. But we can want recognition. We want someone to notice how much we do. We want appreciation on Mother's Day. We want our husband to acknowledge the work we carry. We want our children to recognize our sacrifices. We want other moms to think we're doing a good job. And social media can intensify the desire for significance. Jesus deserved every bit of glory—and still willingly waited. What if faithfulness matters more than being noticed? What if some of the most important work God has given us will never receive public recognition? Temptation #3: “Prove Who You Are”Satan's final temptation challenged Jesus' identity. “If you are the Son of God…” He encouraged Jesus to throw Himself from the temple and force the Father to prove His protection. Jesus refused. He knew that trusting God does not mean deliberately putting ourselves in foolish situations and demanding that God rescue us. This is another important lesson for Christian moms: Biblical faith is not the same thing as presumption. We can trust God's protection while still walking in wisdom. We can pray for our children while also setting wise boundaries. We can trust God with our families without refusing to take reasonable precautions. We can believe God is sovereign without demanding that He prove Himself to us. The Three Temptations We Still FaceThe temptation of Jesus connects beautifully with the temptation described in Genesis 3. Eve saw that the fruit was: Good for foodA delight to the eyesDesirable to make one wise And 1 John 2:16 describes: The desires of the fleshThe desires of the eyesThe pride of life Those categories still describe many of the temptations we encounter today. The perfect purchase. The beautiful home. The skincare product promising to fix everything. The outfit that will finally make us feel confident. The recognition we desperately want. The food we use to comfort ourselves. The comparison that tells us everyone else's family is doing better. The desire to be admired as a “good mom.” The temptation to find our identity in how our children behave in public. The world continually tells us: You need this. You deserve this. You should look like this. You should be admired like this. But Jesus shows us another way. Know the Word. Trust the Father. Walk in obedience. Wait for God's timing. Biblical Parenting Requires DiscernmentThis is especially important when we think about parenting. Our children are growing up surrounded by voices telling them what they need, what will make them happy, what success looks like, and what they should believe. And sometimes those messages even contain pieces of biblical truth. That's what makes discernment so important. We need to know God's Word—not merely recognize Bible verses. We need to understand context. We need to know the character of God. We need to teach our children to distinguish between what sounds spiritual and what is actually biblical. This is at the heart of biblical parenting. Our goal isn't simply to raise children who can repeat Bible verses. We want to raise children who know God, love His Word, recognize truth, and walk in biblical convictions. When Jesus Is Rejected at HomeLuke 4 then takes us to Jesus' hometown of Nazareth. Jesus reads from Isaiah 61 and declares that the prophecy is being fulfilled in Him. At first, the people marvel at His words. Then Jesus points them toward two Old Testament examples: Elijah ministering to a Gentile widow and Elisha cleansing Naaman the Syrian. And suddenly their admiration turns to fury. Why? They wanted the Messiah. But they wanted a Messiah who belonged exclusively to them. Jesus revealed that God's mercy would extend beyond their boundaries. They were so angry that they attempted to throw Him off a cliff. Yet Jesus simply passed through their midst and went away. Jesus was not afraid of rejection when faithfulness required Him to speak truth. Peter: “I Am a Sinful Man”In Luke 5, Peter experiences a miraculous catch of fish. His response is striking: “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” — Luke 5:8, ESVPeter recognizes the holiness of Jesus and, in contrast, his own unworthiness. But Jesus doesn't send him...

For Further Research: Why Did Jesus Get Baptized? What if the exhaustion, interruptions, and endless serving of motherhood could actually become opportunities to model Jesus to your children? In Matthew 3, Mark 1, and Luke 3, we witness the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. He serves people, meets physical and spiritual needs, teaches, heals, calls disciples, confronts evil, and responds with compassion to those who are hurting. In Mark 1 especially, the pace is relentless—“immediately” appears again and again as Jesus moves from one need to the next. And yet, Jesus also gets alone with His Father. For Christian moms who feel weary from the constant demands of motherhood, this passage offers both encouragement and a needed reminder: our service matters, but we cannot faithfully serve others without drawing near to Christ ourselves. On today’s episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we continue our chronological Bible reading plan by studying Matthew 3, Mark 1, and Luke 3 and looking closely at the life and ministry of Jesus. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverWhy Jesus’ life provides such a powerful model for Christian motherhoodWhat Matthew, Mark, and Luke emphasize about Jesus as Messiah, Savior, and suffering ServantWhy Luke traces Jesus’ genealogy all the way back to AdamThe significance of Jesus’ baptism and the Father’s declaration, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased”How the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all present at Jesus’ baptismWhy Jesus was baptized even though He was completely sinlessWhat happened when Jesus was tempted in the wildernessWhy Mark’s Gospel moves so quickly—and why the word “immediately” is so significantHow Peter’s influence may have shaped Mark’s GospelWhat John Mark’s story teaches us about failure, restoration, and usefulness to GodJesus’ authority over demons, sickness, and diseaseWhy Jesus repeatedly withdrew to pray despite the overwhelming needs around HimWhat Jesus’ compassion for the leper teaches us about sacrificial loveHow the ordinary, unseen acts of motherhood can point our children toward the love of Christ Jesus Understands the Exhaustion of MotherhoodMotherhood can feel like an endless series of interruptions. Someone needs food. Someone needs help. Someone is sick. Someone has a question. Someone needs correction. Someone needs comfort. And just when you think you might finally get a moment to yourself, someone calls your name. Mark 1 gives us a glimpse into a similar rhythm in Jesus’ ministry. People continually came to Him. He taught. He healed. He confronted demons. He cared for physical needs. He instructed His disciples. He ministered late into the evening. And then, while it was still dark, Jesus got up and went to a desolate place to pray. That is an important picture for weary Christian moms. Jesus did not respond to the endless needs around Him by trying to operate independently of His Father. He withdrew to be with the Father. Motherhood may require tremendous sacrifice, but our strength does not come from having an endless supply of strength within ourselves. We need Christ. The “Immediately” GospelMark’s Gospel moves quickly. In Mark 1 alone, the word “immediately” appears repeatedly as Jesus moves from one event to another. John the Baptist prepares the way. Jesus is baptized. He is tempted in the wilderness. He calls His disciples. He teaches in the synagogue. He casts out a demon. He heals Peter’s mother-in-law. Crowds gather at the door. Jesus heals and delivers people. And then He rises early to pray. Sound familiar? The pace of motherhood can feel remarkably similar. But there is something beautiful about realizing that Jesus knows what it feels like to be surrounded by people who need something from you. When you are weary, overwhelmed, interrupted, or longing for solitude, Jesus understands. And He invites you to come to Him. Jesus' Baptism: The Father Is Well PleasedMatthew 3, Mark 1, and Luke 3 all point us toward Jesus’ baptism. As Jesus comes out of the water, the Spirit descends like a dove and the Father declares His pleasure in His Son. “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” — Mark 1:11, ESVThis is a beautiful glimpse of the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit present together. Jesus is beginning His public ministry, but before He begins the work, the Father declares His love and pleasure in Him. There is an important encouragement here for Christian mothers. Our identity cannot ultimately come from how much we accomplish. We can serve our families faithfully while still remembering that our deepest identity is found in belonging to Christ. We don't have to prove our worth through our productivity. Jesus in the WildernessImmediately after His baptism, Jesus is driven by the Spirit into the wilderness, where He is tempted by Satan for forty days. Mark includes the striking detail that Jesus was with the wild animals and that angels were ministering to Him. Jesus' ministry would not begin with comfort and ease. He would face temptation, rejection, suffering, exhaustion, and ultimately the cross. This matters when we consider motherhood. Following God does not guarantee that our circumstances will be easy. Sometimes obedience leads us into difficult places. But God is still present there. The Hidden Years MatterJesus spent approximately thirty years in relative obscurity before beginning His public ministry. Most of His earthly life was not spent preaching to crowds or performing miracles. There were hidden years. There were ordinary years. There were years when the Son of God lived within a human family and worked in obscurity. That can be incredibly encouraging when you are a mother whose days seem consumed by tasks nobody sees. Changing diapers. Feeding children. Cleaning up messes. Teaching. Correcting. Reading books. Caring for sick children in the middle of the night. Repeating the same instructions again and again. These things may not look significant to the world. But God does not waste hidden years. Your faithfulness in ordinary motherhood is not an interruption to God's purposes for your life. It can be part of the very place where He is forming you and using you. Jesus and the Mother Who Needed HelpWhen Jesus enters Simon Peter's home, He discovers that Peter's mother-in-law is sick with a fever. Jesus takes her by the hand, raises her up, and heals her. And then she begins serving them. This isn't presented as a command that every sick person must immediately return to work. Rather, it is a beautiful picture of a woman who has received Christ's compassionate care and responds with grateful service. Christian motherhood involves countless opportunities to serve. But the question isn't simply, “How much can I accomplish?” The better question is: “Am I serving from the strength Christ provides, or am I trying to manufacture strength on my own?” When Everyone Is Looking for YouOne of the most striking moments in Mark 1 comes after Jesus has spent the evening ministering to crowds. He gets up early, while it is still dark, and goes to a desolate place to pray. His disciples eventually find Him and tell Him: “Everyone is looking for you.” — Mark 1:37, ESVWhat does Jesus do? He doesn't panic. He doesn't allow the urgency of every need to determine His next step. He knows why He came. He continues preaching the gospel in other towns. Jesus' example reminds us that being needed by everyone does not mean we are responsible to meet every need. Christian moms need boundaries, wisdom, rest, and time with the Lord. We are not Jesus, and we should not expect ourselves to function as though we are. But we can follow His example by making time to seek the Father—even when there are legitimate needs waiting for us. The Compassion of JesusAt the end of Mark 1, a man with leprosy approaches Jesus. This man would have experienced enormous social and religious isolation. Yet Jesus does something striking: He touches him. Jesus is not repulsed by the man's uncleanness. He is moved with compassion. And He heals him. This is the Savior we serve. Jesus is both powerful and compassionate. He is holy, yet He draws near to the hurting. He has authority, yet He serves. He is the Son of God, yet He touches the untouchable. The Gospel in the Ordinary Work of MotherhoodThink about what happens when your child wakes up sick in the middle of the night. Maybe they're covered in vomit. Maybe they smell terrible. Maybe you're exhausted and desperately want to sleep. And then that little voice says, “Mommy, hold you?” And you do. You hold them. You clean them up. You comfort them. Nobody applauds. Nobody posts about it. Nobody may ever know. But your child is experiencing something tangible: love that moves toward them when they are...

The Birthday that Changed the World Podcast Episode regarding December 25th. We often picture the birth of Jesus as peaceful, beautiful, and serene. But when we read Matthew 1–2 and Luke 2 carefully, we discover something different. Jesus' arrival was miraculous—but it was also dangerous, disruptive, humble, and difficult. Mary faced the possibility of public shame. Joseph had to surrender his reputation and plans. Jesus was born in profoundly humble circumstances. Simeon warned Mary that sorrow would pierce her own soul. Wise men arrived seeking the newborn King, Herod responded with murderous jealousy, and Mary and Joseph had to flee to Egypt to protect their child. And yet, through every unexpected circumstance, God was faithful. In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox meditates on the birth and early childhood of Jesus through Matthew 1–2 and Luke 2. As Christian moms, we often research, plan, protect, and hope for the best for our children. But the Christmas story reminds us that faithful parenting does not mean controlling every circumstance. Sometimes following God means surrendering our expectations and trusting Him when His plan looks very different from ours. In This Episode, You'll DiscoverWhy Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the King of Kings and promised MessiahThe significance of Matthew's genealogy and the women included in Jesus' family lineHow Jesus' name means “the Lord is salvation”Why Joseph's obedience is such a powerful example of faithfulnessWhat Mary's willingness to surrender her reputation can teach Christian mothersWhy the Christmas story may have been much less comfortable than our traditional nativity scenes suggestHow God used Caesar Augustus and a Roman census to fulfill His promise that Jesus would be born in BethlehemWhy God repeatedly used humble and unexpected people to announce and honor JesusWhat Simeon and Anna reveal about recognizing God's salvationThe possible significance of the gifts of the wise menWhy Herod's response demonstrates the world's opposition to the rightful KingHow God protected Jesus by sending Mary and Joseph to EgyptWhat Jesus' childhood teaches us about wisdom, growth, obedience, and favor with God and peopleHow Christian moms can surrender the desire to perfectly control their children's circumstancesWhy our ultimate goal in parenting should be children who place Christ on the throne The King Who Came in HumilityMatthew begins by establishing Jesus' royal credentials. He traces Jesus' genealogy through Abraham and David, demonstrating that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's covenant promises and the rightful heir to David's throne. But there is a remarkable contrast. The King of Kings leaves heaven and enters the world in humility. The One who owns everything is born into poverty. The One who deserves worship is rejected. The One who is worthy of a throne is laid in a manger. The One who created the world becomes Emmanuel—God with us. This is the pattern we see throughout Scripture: God's purposes don't always look impressive by worldly standards. And that matters for mothers. We can spend enormous amounts of energy trying to create the perfect circumstances for our children. We research. We plan. We protect. We worry. We try to anticipate every possible problem. But Mary and Joseph remind us that faithfulness is not the same thing as control. Mary: Surrendering What You Can't ControlMary's pregnancy brought her extraordinary privilege—but it also brought enormous uncertainty. She knew what God had told her. She didn't know exactly how everything would unfold. And now, as Jesus' mother, she would experience circumstances no mother would choose. She would give birth in humble surroundings. She would watch strangers arrive to worship her newborn Son. She would hear Simeon tell her that a sword would pierce her own soul. And eventually, she would watch Jesus suffer and die. Mary couldn't control the circumstances. But she could remain faithful. That is an important lesson for Christian moms. Our calling is not to guarantee our children's comfort. Our calling is to faithfully point them toward Christ. Sometimes God's work in our children's lives will look different than we expected. Our children may face disappointment, difficulty, rejection, or circumstances we desperately wish we could prevent. We should protect them from what God calls us to protect them from. But we also have to resist the temptation to make comfort and control the ultimate goals. Jesus Himself entered the world through suffering and humility. Joseph: Obedience When It Costs You SomethingJoseph is another beautiful example of faithful obedience. When Joseph discovered that Mary was pregnant, he intended to divorce her quietly because he was a righteous man who did not want to expose her to public shame. Then God intervened. An angel told him that Mary's child was conceived by the Holy Spirit and that he was to take Mary as his wife. Joseph obeyed. He accepted the social consequences. He surrendered his reputation. He took responsibility for a child who was not biologically his. And later, when an angel warned him that Herod wanted to kill Jesus, Joseph immediately obeyed again and took his family to Egypt. Joseph's example challenges us: Are we willing to obey God even when obedience makes us look foolish to everyone else? Christian parenting begins with parents who are willing to surrender themselves to Christ. The Christmas Story Wasn't ComfortableOur Christmas traditions can sometimes make the birth of Jesus look almost effortless. But Scripture gives us a more complicated picture. Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem. Jesus was born in humble circumstances. Shepherds arrived after receiving an angelic announcement. Simeon and Anna recognized Jesus as the promised Messiah. Wise men eventually came seeking the King. Herod responded with murderous jealousy. Mary and Joseph fled to Egypt. And after Herod died, they eventually returned and settled in Nazareth. This wasn't a simple one-night story. It was a series of moments in which ordinary people had to keep trusting God. And perhaps that's one reason the story is so encouraging for moms. Mary and Joseph had to walk by faith one step at a time—just as we do. God Uses the HumbleOne of the themes running throughout these chapters is God's tendency to elevate the humble. Look at the people He draws into the story: A young woman from NazarethA carpenterShepherdsAn elderly man named SimeonA widowed prophetess named AnnaPoor parents bringing the least expensive sacrificeForeign wise men coming from the East The world's powerful ruler, Herod, responds with fear. But the humble recognize the King. This is a beautiful reminder for Christian mothers that faithfulness is more important than appearing impressive. Your ordinary work matters. Your quiet obedience matters. Your prayers matter. Your willingness to serve your family matters. And your children don't need a mother who looks impressive. They need a mother who knows and worships Jesus. Simeon: Blessing and Sorrow Can CoexistSimeon recognizes Jesus as God's salvation: “For my eyes have seen your salvation.” But then he tells Mary something difficult. Jesus will be opposed, and “a sword will pierce through your own soul also.” What a reminder that God's blessing does not always mean the absence of pain. Mary's greatest earthly blessing—being the mother of Jesus—would eventually become the source of unimaginable sorrow as she watched Him suffer. Yet God's plan was still good. This is an important truth for mothers who are walking through difficult seasons. A difficult circumstance is not automatically evidence that God has abandoned you. Mary's story shows us that God's presence and God's purposes can coexist with suffering. The Wise Men Worship the KingMatthew then introduces the wise men who come searching for Jesus. We don't know exactly who they were or exactly how many traveled to see Him. Scripture simply tells us that they came from the East, followed the sign God provided, and eventually found Jesus. And their response is striking: “They fell down and worshiped him.” They brought costly gifts: Gold, fitting for a kingFrankincense, associated with worshipMyrrh, pointing toward suffering and death While Herod is threatened by the arrival of another king, these foreigners rejoice. They recognize what others refuse to see: Jesus is worthy of worship. Herod: When the World Rejects the KingHerod...

The New Testament is here! After walking through all 39 books of the Old Testament in our chronological Bible reading plan, we finally turn the page to the Gospels and meet Jesus in His earthly ministry. In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox begins the New Testament by studying Luke 1 and John 1 and reflecting on the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah. Luke introduces us to Zechariah and Elizabeth, John the Baptist, and Mary—the humble young woman who responds to God's extraordinary calling with, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord.” We see God's faithfulness to His promises, His heart for the humble, His use of families to accomplish His purposes, and His plan to send a Savior. Then John introduces us to Jesus in a completely different way: “In the beginning was the Word.” Jesus is the eternal Son of God, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and the Messiah who came to dwell among us. And throughout these chapters, one invitation keeps appearing: Come and see. Come and see who Jesus is. Come and see what God has done. Come and see the Savior who has finally come. In This Episode, You'll DiscoverWhy Luke wrote his Gospel and his desire for readers to have certainty concerning the things they have been taughtWhat Luke's Gospel reveals about Jesus' compassion for the overlooked and marginalizedHow God used Zechariah and Elizabeth's family in His redemptive planThe connection between John's birth and the prophecy at the end of MalachiWhat Mary's response teaches us about humility, surrender, and obedienceWhy Mary's Magnificat reveals her knowledge of Scripture and God's covenant promisesHow God used Mary and Elizabeth to encourage one anotherWhy being filled with the Holy Spirit repeatedly leads to worship throughout LukeThe theological emphasis of John's GospelWhy John calls Jesus “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”Seven names or descriptions of Jesus found in John 1Why John the Baptist points away from himself and toward JesusThe repeated invitation to “Come and see”What these chapters teach Christian moms about worship, humility, motherhood, family, and faithfulness Luke 1: God Uses Humble PeopleLuke begins his Gospel by telling us why he wrote it: so that Theophilus—and everyone who reads it—might have certainty about the truth of what they have been taught. Then Luke brings us into the story through two families. Zechariah and Elizabeth are described as righteous and faithful, yet they have experienced years of disappointment and barrenness. Mary is a young woman from Nazareth who receives an announcement that will completely change her life. Neither story unfolds according to human expectations. But God is faithful. The angel Gabriel tells Zechariah that John will prepare the way for the Lord, fulfilling the prophecy we just encountered in Malachi: “And he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children…”Then Gabriel comes to Mary with an even greater announcement: she will give birth to the Son of God, the promised King whose kingdom will never end. Mary's response is remarkable: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Mary doesn't respond by demanding control over the situation. She surrenders herself to God's purposes. What Mary Teaches Christian Moms About SurrenderMary's calling came with a cost. She was willing to surrender her reputation, her plans, her expectations, and her future to God's purposes. That makes her response especially meaningful for Christian mothers. Motherhood requires surrender in countless ways. Our children, our homes, our schedules, our plans, and even our hopes for the future can tempt us to believe that we need to control the outcome. But biblical motherhood begins with recognizing that we belong to the Lord before we belong to anything else. Mary didn't know every detail of what God would do. She simply trusted the One who had spoken. And she declared herself His servant. What would change in our homes if we approached our own lives with that same posture? “I am the servant of the Lord.” Elizabeth: The Gift of a Woman Who Believes YouOne of the most beautiful moments in Luke 1 happens when Mary visits Elizabeth. Mary has received an extraordinary message that would have been difficult for others to understand. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, responds with joy and affirmation. She doesn't compete with Mary. She doesn't question God's plan. She rejoices. For Christian women and mothers, this is a beautiful picture of how we can encourage one another. We need women who will point us back to God's Word, remind us of His faithfulness, and rejoice when we see Him working. Who are you encouraging in her walk with Christ? And who has God placed in your life to encourage you? John the Baptist: Preparing the Way for JesusJohn's birth fulfills the promise made through Malachi. His calling is not to draw attention to himself but to prepare people for the Lord. That becomes a powerful picture for Christian parenting. Our children are not ultimately ours to shape according to our own image or ambitions. They have been entrusted to us so that we can point them toward Christ. John's life reminds us that our calling is not to make ourselves the center of the story. Jesus is the center. Our parenting, our marriages, our homes, and our daily lives can all become places where we say: Come and see. Come and see who Jesus is. Come and see His goodness. Come and see His faithfulness. Come and see the One who saves. John 1: The Word Became FleshAfter Luke's detailed introduction to the birth of Christ, John takes us all the way back to eternity: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John wants us to understand something essential: Jesus did not begin in Bethlehem. He existed before creation. He is God. He is the Creator. He is the Light. And “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” This is the heart of The Dwelling Place. The God who has always desired to dwell with His people came to earth in the person of Jesus Christ. He didn't remain distant. He came near. He came to save. And He invites us to know Him. Seven Names of Jesus in John 1John's Gospel gives us a rich theological introduction to Jesus. In this chapter, we see Him identified as: The Lamb of GodThe Son of GodRabbiThe Son of ManThe MessiahThe King of IsraelJesus of Nazareth Each name gives us another glimpse of who Jesus is. He is not merely a teacher whose example we admire. He is the Savior of the world. “Come and See”One phrase stands out throughout John 1: “Come and see.” Andrew hears John the Baptist identify Jesus and begins following Him. Then Andrew tells his brother. Jesus calls Philip. Philip finds Nathanael. And the invitation continues: Come and see. That is the invitation of the Gospel. And it can become the banner over our lives as Christian women. Instead of trying to convince everyone through our own strength, what if our homes became places where people could encounter the reality of Jesus? What if our children could look at our lives and hear: Come and see. Come and see the God who forgives. Come and see the God who is faithful. Come and see the God who meets us in weakness. Come and see the Savior who gave Himself for us. What This Means for Christian MomsThese opening chapters of the New Testament remind us that God loves to work through families. He worked through Zechariah and Elizabeth. He worked through Mary. He worked through Joseph. He used John the Baptist to prepare people for Jesus. And He continues to work through ordinary families today. Biblical parenting isn't ultimately about creating perfect children or perfect homes. It's about creating a home where Christ is known, worshiped, followed, and proclaimed. That means our children don't need mothers who pretend to have everything together. They need mothers who know where to go when they don't. They need to see us humble ourselves. They need to see us repent. They need to see us worship. They need to see us trust God's Word. And they need to hear us continually point them toward Jesus. Come and see. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsIf you're following a chronological Bible reading plan, these chapters are a beautiful reminder that the Bible is one unified story. The Old Testament wasn't a collection of disconnected...

You made it through the Old Testament! 🎉 After reading all 39 books of the Old Testament, tomorrow we begin the New Testament—and there is no better way to make that transition than by pausing to celebrate what God has revealed about Jesus Christ throughout His Word. In this special episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox celebrates the completion of the Old Testament portion of the chronological Bible reading plan and looks ahead to the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. John 1 reminds us that Jesus was not simply a man who appeared in history. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Jesus was with God in the beginning, He was God, and all things were created through Him. As we move from Malachi into the Gospels, we can look back and recognize that Jesus was present throughout the story of Scripture. The Old Testament continually points forward to the long-awaited Messiah. And tomorrow, we finally begin reading about Jesus’ earthly ministry in the New Testament! In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverWhy completing the Old Testament is worth celebratingHow Jesus is revealed throughout all 39 books of the Old TestamentWhy John begins his Gospel by pointing us all the way back to creationWhat it means that Jesus is the Word who became fleshA brief overview of the intertestamental period between Malachi and the birth of JesusHow Greek language and culture helped prepare the historical setting for the spread of the GospelThe Septuagint and why the Greek translation of the Old Testament matteredThe Maccabean Revolt and the political changes leading up to Jesus' birthHow synagogues, Pharisees, and Sadducees developed before the time of ChristWhy the four Gospels are different from one anotherThe unique emphasis and audience of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and JohnHow the Gospels reveal Jesus as fully God and fully manWhy tomorrow's reading begins the New Testament—and introduces us to Jesus Jesus Throughout the Old TestamentOne of the beautiful things about completing a chronological Bible reading plan is being able to look back and see the unfolding story of redemption. From Genesis to Malachi, Scripture continually points us toward Christ. As the Name Above All Names poem reminds us: Genesis: Jesus is the ram at Abraham's altar.Exodus: Jesus is the Passover Lamb.Leviticus: He is the High Priest.Numbers: He is the cloud by day and pillar by night.Deuteronomy: He is our city of refuge.Joshua: He is the scarlet thread.Judges: He is our Judge.Ruth: He is our Kinsman Redeemer.1 & 2 Samuel: He is the trusted Prophet.Kings & Chronicles: He is our reigning King.Ezra: He is the faithful scribe.Nehemiah: He is the rebuilder of what is broken.Esther: He is the faithful protector of His people.Job: He is our Redeemer who lives.Psalms: He is our Shepherd.Proverbs & Ecclesiastes: He is our Wisdom.Song of Solomon: He is the Bridegroom.Isaiah: He is the suffering Servant.Jeremiah & Lamentations: He is the weeping Prophet.Daniel: He is present in the fiery furnace.Hosea: He is the faithful love of God.Joel: He is the One who gives the Holy Spirit.Obadiah: He is our Savior.Jonah: He points us toward God's heart for the nations.Nahum: He is the righteous Judge.Habakkuk: He is the One we wait for in faith.Zephaniah: He is the Lord mighty to save.Haggai: He is the restorer.Zechariah: He is the fountain of cleansing.Malachi: He is the Sun of Righteousness who brings healing. As you look back over your own Bible reading, what stood out to you? Perhaps you saw Jesus as the God who sees you. Perhaps you saw His faithfulness, mercy, holiness, wisdom, justice, or patience in a new way. Take some time today to reflect on how God has changed your understanding of Him through His Word. From Malachi to Matthew: What Happened?After Malachi, there is a period of roughly four centuries without the prophetic books we find in Scripture. But God was not inactive. The intertestamental period was filled with political, cultural, and religious developments that shaped the world into which Jesus was born. During this time: The Persian Empire gave way to Greek rule.Alexander the Great spread Greek language and culture throughout the region.The Old Testament was translated into Greek in what became known as the Septuagint.Alexander's empire was divided among his generals after his death.The Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms competed for control.Antiochus IV Epiphanes severely persecuted the Jewish people and desecrated the temple.The Maccabean Revolt eventually led to a period of Jewish independence.Roman power eventually took control of Judea.Herod the Great ruled Judea when Jesus was born.Synagogues and religious leadership structures developed throughout the Jewish world. So although the prophetic voice had grown silent, God's purposes had not stopped. He was preparing the world for the arrival of the Messiah. Four Gospels. One Savior.Tomorrow, we begin the New Testament—and we begin with four accounts of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are not four different Jesuses. They are four Gospel accounts that present Jesus from different perspectives and to different audiences. Matthew: Jesus the Messiah and KingMatthew emphasizes Jesus as the promised Messiah and rightful King. He repeatedly connects Jesus' life to Old Testament prophecy and highlights His place in the line of David. Mark: Jesus the ServantMark moves quickly and emphasizes Jesus' actions and ministry. Jesus is presented as the suffering Servant who came to serve and ultimately give His life for others. Luke: Jesus the Savior of All PeopleLuke emphasizes Jesus as the Son of Man and highlights His mission to seek and save. His Gospel especially emphasizes that the good news of Jesus extends beyond the Jewish people to the nations. John: Jesus the Son of GodJohn begins before Jesus' earthly ministry—even before creation: “In the beginning was the Word.” John's purpose is clearly stated in John 20:31: these things were written so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing we might have life in His name. And tomorrow, we begin reading it. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsIf you've been following the chronological Bible reading plan, don't rush past this milestone. You just read 39 books of the Bible. You watched God's promises unfold. You saw Israel's faithfulness and rebellion. You encountered kings, prophets, judges, priests, exiles, restorations, suffering, judgment, mercy, and hope. And throughout it all, God was preparing the way for Jesus. As moms, we can sometimes feel pressure to simply get through the next chapter, the next task, or the next day. But God's Word invites us to slow down long enough to recognize the bigger story. We aren't simply teaching our children Bible stories. We're teaching them the story of God's redemptive work—and pointing them to Jesus. The goal of biblical parenting isn't merely to raise children who know Bible facts. We want our children to know the God revealed in Scripture, to recognize their need for Christ, and to understand that the whole Bible tells one unfolding story of redemption. So celebrate today. Then open your Bible tomorrow. The Old Testament pointed forward to Him. Now we get to walk with Jesus through the Gospels. Key ScripturesJohn 1:1–5 — Jesus, the Word, was with God and was God from the beginning. John 1:14 — “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” John 1:12–13 — Those who receive Christ and believe in His name become children of God. John 20:31 — The Gospels were written so that we might believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and have life in His name. Malachi 4:2 — The coming Messiah is described as the “sun of righteousness” who brings healing. A Prayer for the Beginning of the New TestamentHeavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for the privilege of studying Your Word and for the 39 books of the Old Testament that reveal Your perfection, glory, patience, mercy, and faithfulness. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we begin the New Testament tomorrow, give us eyes that see, ears that...

What if God’s love for you isn’t always the kind of love that makes life easier—but the kind of love that makes you more like Jesus? Today on The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we reach the final book and final day of our Old Testament chronological Bible reading plan! Malachi brings the Old Testament to a close with a powerful message about God’s covenant faithfulness, spiritual compromise, marriage, parenting, holiness, and the refining love of God. After centuries of God's faithfulness to Israel, His people have once again become apathetic and disobedient. Through a series of questions and answers, Malachi exposes their hearts—and reminds them that God does not merely want outward religious behavior. He wants His people to love Him, honor His Word, and walk faithfully with Him. For Christian moms, Malachi has especially important lessons about biblical parenting and Christian marriage. God calls us to put His Word on our lips, guard our hearts and spirits, honor our marriage covenants, and faithfully point our children toward Him. But Malachi ends with something even greater: hope. The Old Testament closes with God's people still waiting. The promised Messiah has not yet come. John the Baptist has not yet appeared. The Sun of Righteousness has not yet risen. The story isn't finished. And that makes this the perfect place to turn the page to the New Testament and meet Jesus. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverWhy Malachi's message was necessary before 400 years of prophetic silenceHow God's refining love differs from the passive love our culture often expectsWhat Malachi teaches us about spiritual leadership in the homeWhy Christian moms should seek to have “true instruction” on their lipsGod's design and purpose for marriageWhat it means to guard your heart and spirit within marriageHow God can use difficult circumstances to refine us into the image of ChristWhy the refiner's fire is actually a picture of God's loving presenceHow Malachi points forward to John the Baptist and JesusWhat the final verses of the Old Testament reveal about God's heart for familiesWhy the Old Testament ends with unresolved longing—and why that's good newsHow Christian moms can wait faithfully for God when His promises aren't yet fulfilled God Loves His People With a Refining LoveMalachi begins with a statement that God's people apparently struggled to believe: God loves them. Their response is essentially, How have You loved us? Their circumstances and spiritual condition made God's love difficult for them to recognize. But throughout Malachi, we see that God's love isn't merely sentimental or permissive. God's love is refining. He loves His people enough to confront their sin, expose their hypocrisy, and call them back to Himself. That is an important truth for Christian mothers. We often think of love as making someone feel comfortable, protected, or happy. But biblical love sometimes requires confrontation, correction, perseverance, and the willingness to endure discomfort for the sake of someone's holiness. God doesn't simply want His people to feel loved. He wants to make them holy. And He does the same work in us. What Kind of “Messenger” Are We?Malachi means “my messenger” or “the Lord's messenger.” And Malachi's message to the priests is essentially: This was supposed to be your purpose. They were supposed to teach God's Word faithfully and lead God's people toward Him. Instead, their teaching had become corrupted and their worship had become careless. But as New Testament believers, we have an incredible identity. Because of Jesus, we are described as a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). That gives mothers a beautiful picture of our responsibility. As we disciple our children, what is on our lips? Are we teaching them God's truth? Are our lives consistent with the truth we teach? Are we walking in peace and uprightness? Are we helping turn our children away from sin and toward their Savior? Malachi 2:6 gives us a picture worth praying over: “True instruction was in his mouth, and no wrong was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and he turned many from iniquity.” — Malachi 2:6 (ESV)What a beautiful description for a Christian mother to desire. God Cares About the Health of Our MarriagesMalachi 2 turns from spiritual leadership to marriage. God confronts His people for being unfaithful to their spouses and reminds them that marriage is a covenant. Then comes a striking statement: “And what was the one God seeking? Godly offspring.” — Malachi 2:15 (ESV)Marriage matters because faithfulness in marriage is connected to the spiritual formation of the family. A healthy marriage provides an important environment for children to see what covenant love, sacrifice, repentance, forgiveness, and faithfulness look like. But this passage should never be used to burden women who are experiencing marital brokenness or to imply that a difficult marriage means they have failed their children. Scripture itself gives us examples of people who faithfully followed God despite the spiritual failures of their families. Our children's ultimate hope is not a perfect marriage between their parents. Their hope is Jesus. For those experiencing separation, divorce, abandonment, abuse, or other painful circumstances, God's heart is not to shame the wounded. He is the God who cares for the widow and the fatherless and who draws near to the brokenhearted. Guard Your Heart and Your SpiritOne of the phrases that stands out in Malachi 2 is: “So guard yourselves in your spirit, and let none of you be faithless...” — Malachi 2:16 (ESV)That command reaches deeper than outward behavior. We can sometimes do the right thing externally while our hearts are filled with bitterness, resentment, disappointment, or anger. And God sees the heart. This is one of the hardest parts of Christian marriage—and Christian motherhood. We can say the right words while internally rehearsing everything that is wrong with our spouse. We can serve our families while quietly becoming bitter. We can look faithful on the outside while our hearts are drifting from the Lord. Malachi reminds us that God wants more than outward compliance. He wants our hearts. And thankfully, He doesn't simply command us to become pure through our own effort. He provides His Spirit to transform us. The Refiner's FireMalachi 3 contains one of the most beautiful pictures of God's sanctifying work: “For he is like a refiner's fire and like fuller's soap.” — Malachi 3:2 (ESV)A refiner heats precious metal to remove impurities. The goal isn't to destroy the silver or gold. The goal is to make it pure. And Malachi says that God will “sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” There is comfort in that picture. God does not throw us into the fire and walk away. He is present. He knows exactly what He is doing. And He knows when the refining work is complete. As Christian moms, we may desperately want God to remove a difficult circumstance from our lives or our children's lives. But sometimes the better prayer is: “Lord, what are You producing through this?” God's goal is not simply to make our lives comfortable. His goal is to conform us to the image of His Son. Romans 8:28–29 reminds us that God works all things together for good for those who love Him—and defines that good as being “conformed to the image of his Son.” The refiner's fire is ultimately about reflection. Is Christ becoming more visible in us? The Sun of Righteousness Will RiseMalachi also reminds us that God's refining work isn't the end of the story. For those who fear His name: “The Sun of Righteousness shall rise with healing in his wings.” — Malachi 4:2 (ESV)The Old Testament closes by pointing forward. The people are still waiting. The Messiah hasn't arrived. John the Baptist hasn't yet come to prepare the way. The promises haven't all been fulfilled. And that is exactly how the Old Testament is supposed to end. We are supposed to want more. We are supposed to ask: Who will fulfill God's promises? Who will finally accomplish the restoration His people need? Who will rescue His people from their sin? Turn the page. Jesus is coming. “He Will Turn the Hearts of Fathers to Their Children”The final verses of the Old Testament contain a beautiful promise: “And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers.” — Malachi 4:6 (ESV)What a fitting conclusion for a Bible podcast for busy Christian moms. God cares about the hearts of families. He cares about reconciliation. He cares about parents faithfully leading their children. And He cares about children knowing and honoring Him. For moms praying for restoration in their

Have you ever taught your children what is right, watched them make good progress, and then felt discouraged when they seem to do the very opposite of what you’ve taught them? As we finish the book of Nehemiah in today’s episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we discover that even after God’s people renewed their covenant and committed themselves to obedience, they soon returned to the very patterns they had promised to leave behind. Nehemiah’s frustration may feel familiar to Christian moms. We work diligently to teach our children God’s Word, establish rhythms of faith, and guide our families toward what matters eternally. Yet we cannot control the choices our children make—or guarantee that the seeds we sow will produce immediate fruit. In Nehemiah 10–13 and Psalm 126, we’re reminded to keep pursuing faithfulness, to lead with both conviction and self-control, and to trust God with the harvest. As we approach the end of the Old Testament, Nehemiah’s unfinished story also leaves us longing for the promised Messiah. The restoration God’s people needed could not be accomplished through renewed promises alone. They needed Jesus. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverWhat Nehemiah teaches us about leadership, perseverance, and dependence on GodHow moms can balance long-term spiritual goals with the immediate needs of family lifeWhy our children’s disobedience can feel so discouraging—and how to respond faithfullyWhat Nehemiah’s return to Jerusalem reveals about the human tendency to wander from GodHow to address sin without allowing frustration to control our words and actionsWhy the unfinished ending of Nehemiah points us toward JesusWhat Psalm 126 teaches us about sowing in tears and waiting for a harvest of joyHow to keep investing in your children’s faith when you cannot yet see the fruit The Both/And of Biblical MotherhoodNehemiah is often studied for his leadership skills. He understood God’s call, planned carefully, delegated effectively, addressed opposition, and continually depended on the Lord. But his leadership also required him to attend to immediate problems without losing sight of the larger mission. That balance is familiar to moms. We have long-term goals for our families: raising children who know and love the Lord, cultivating faith, and helping our children grow in wisdom and obedience. At the same time, we must address the “dashboard lights” that appear in everyday life—the conflicts, questions, struggles, and patterns that need our attention. We cannot simply ignore the issues right in front of us because we have a larger goal. Nor can we allow every immediate problem to distract us from the direction we are heading. Biblical parenting requires both faithfulness to the long-term work and wisdom in the moment. Nehemiah’s example encourages us to keep our eyes on the road, pay attention to what needs repair, and continually seek God’s help. When Your Children Don’t Follow What You’ve Taught ThemIn Nehemiah 10, the people make a covenant to obey God. They commit to honoring the Sabbath, supporting the temple, and living according to His commands. Yet when Nehemiah returns to Jerusalem after an extended absence, he discovers that the people have broken their commitments. The temple has been compromised. The Levites have not been properly supported. The Sabbath is being disregarded. And the people have returned to practices they had explicitly promised to avoid. Nehemiah had helped lead the people toward renewal, but he could not ensure their continued faithfulness. For Christian moms, this is a sobering reminder: we can faithfully teach and train our children, but we cannot make their hearts obedient. We may establish good routines, teach Scripture, model repentance, and provide loving correction. But our children remain responsible before God for their own choices. When they disobey, we should not give up on the work of parenting. We should continue to teach, correct, encourage, and pray—while remembering that only God can transform the heart. Addressing Sin With Conviction and Self-ControlNehemiah responds forcefully when he discovers the people's disobedience. His actions raise important questions about righteous anger, leadership, and the way we confront sin. Scripture does not explicitly evaluate every detail of Nehemiah’s response, so we should be careful not to treat all of his actions as a pattern for Christian parents to imitate. We do know that biblical leadership cannot simply ignore persistent sin. At the same time, Scripture calls us to be slow to anger and to exercise self-control. This is an important distinction for moms. Our frustration may be understandable. Repeated disobedience can be exhausting, especially when we have invested so much time and care in teaching our children. But our response must still be shaped by God’s Word. We can hold firmly to what is right without allowing anger to govern our words or actions. As we move into the New Testament, we will continue to see Jesus as the perfect standard for holiness, truth, and righteous leadership. An Unfinished Story That Points to JesusNehemiah ends on a note of disappointment. The wall has been rebuilt. The people have renewed their covenant. The temple has been restored. Yet the people still turn away from God. The return from exile was not the complete restoration God’s people ultimately needed. Their renewed commitments could not solve the deeper problem of the human heart. The Old Testament leaves us waiting for the promised Messiah—the One who would fulfill God’s promises and bring the lasting redemption His people needed. That longing makes the transition to the New Testament especially meaningful. As we prepare to begin reading about Jesus, we remember that our hope is not ultimately in our own ability to lead perfectly, our children’s ability to obey consistently, or our family’s ability to keep every commitment. Our hope is in Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah and the One who fulfills God’s saving purposes. Psalm 126: Sowing in Tears, Reaping With JoyPsalm 126 offers a beautiful picture of hope after hardship. The psalm celebrates the Lord’s restoration of Zion, remembering a time when laughter and joy replaced sorrow. Yet it also includes a prayer for further restoration: “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!” — Psalm 126:5 (ESV)The image is of a person who goes out to sow seed while weeping, carrying on with the work even in sorrow. The promise is that the one who sows will return with joy, carrying the harvest. Motherhood can feel like this. We teach the same truths again and again. We pray for our children. We correct, encourage, forgive, and begin again. Sometimes we see encouraging growth. Other times, we wonder whether our efforts are making any difference. Psalm 126 reminds us that we can continue sowing faithfully even when the season is hard. This is not a guarantee that every child will respond to our teaching in the way or on the timeline we desire. Rather, it is an encouragement to persevere in the work God has given us, trusting Him with what we cannot control. You may be sowing in tears today, but your labor is not hidden from God. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsAs you finish Nehemiah and Psalm 126 in your chronological Bible reading plan, consider these questions: What do Nehemiah’s leadership and perseverance teach me about faithfully serving God?How can I balance the long-term spiritual goals I have for my family with the immediate needs in front of me?How do I tend to respond when my children repeat behaviors I have already addressed?Am I correcting my children with both conviction and self-control?Where might I be tempted to measure the success of my parenting by what I can see right now?What does Nehemiah’s unfinished story teach me about our need for Jesus?Where am I currently sowing in tears?What would it look like to keep faithfully investing in my children while entrusting the harvest to God? Key ScripturesNehemiah 10:28–29 — The people commit themselves to follow God’s law.Nehemiah 12:43 — The people rejoice with great joy as they dedicate the wall.Nehemiah 13:11 — Nehemiah confronts the neglect of God’s house.Nehemiah 13:14 — “Remember me, O my God, for good.”Psalm 126:1–3 — Remembering the joy of the Lord’s restoration.Psalm 126:5–6 — The promise of reaping with joy after sowing in tears.James 1:19–20 — Being quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger.Galatians 6:9 — Not growing weary in doing good. A Prayer for Christian MomsHeavenly Father, Thank You that Your Word is honest about the challenges of leading and teaching Your people. You know how easily our hearts wander, and You know how discouraging it can be when our children do not follow what we have taught them. Give us deeply rooted patience as we train and guide our children. Help us not to be shaken when they disobey, ask difficult questions, or seem unresponsive to Your Word. Give us wisdom to address the issues right in front of us while keeping our eyes on the eternal work You have entrusted to us. Help us to correct with conviction, speak

What if some of the circumstances we most want to protect our children from are actually the very circumstances God may use to deepen their faith? In today’s episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, we continue our chronological Bible reading plan in Nehemiah 5–9 and take a closer look at Nehemiah’s remarkable character, leadership, integrity, and fear of God. Living in the Persian Empire, Nehemiah developed qualities that challenge us to consider how God shapes His people—even when they are not living in what we would consider the “ideal” spiritual environment. Nehemiah’s example leads us into a deeper question about biblical parenting: Are we sometimes more focused on creating ideal circumstances for our children than we are on trusting God to sanctify them wherever He places them? Nehemiah 5–9 reminds us that God is faithful in abundance and in suffering. He uses difficulty, correction, obedience, His Word, and even seasons of hardship to refine His people and draw them back to Himself. And perhaps one of the most encouraging reminders for Christian moms is this: we don't have to control every circumstance in our children's lives. We can trust the God who knows them better than we do. In This Episode, You’ll DiscoverWhat Nehemiah’s leadership and integrity reveal about the fear of GodHow Nehemiah responded when God's people were exploiting one anotherWhy Nehemiah refused to be distracted by his enemiesHow to recognize distractions and temptations that can pull us away from God's workWhy Nehemiah prayed, “O God, strengthen my hands”What the completion of Jerusalem’s wall in 52 days revealed about God's powerWhy the people rejoiced when they understood God's WordHow holiness and joy belong togetherWhat Nehemiah 9 teaches us about God's faithfulness and Israel's repeated rebellionWhy seasons of suffering can become instruments of sanctificationHow Christian moms can surrender their children's circumstances to GodWhy we don't need to create a perfectly protected environment for our children's faith to grow Nehemiah: A Man Shaped by the Fear of GodNehemiah's character is striking. He demonstrates compassion, generosity, diligence, courage, discernment, integrity, and leadership while living among the Persians. In Nehemiah 5, we see him confront wealthy Jews who were taking advantage of their own brothers and sisters during a famine. Rather than using his position and resources for himself, Nehemiah provides meals for 150 people and their families. His explanation for his different approach is especially important: “But I did not do so, because of the fear of God.” — Nehemiah 5:15 (ESV)The fear of God shaped Nehemiah's decisions. That gives Christian moms an important question to consider: What is shaping the character of our children? We may be tempted to think that the right school, neighborhood, friendships, activities, or opportunities will guarantee spiritual growth. But Scripture continually reminds us that God is the One who works in the hearts of His people. Our responsibility is to faithfully teach our children God's Word, model obedience, pray for them, and point them toward Christ. We cannot manufacture their sanctification by controlling every circumstance. “I Am Doing a Great Work, and I Cannot Come Down”Nehemiah's enemies repeatedly attempt to distract him from the work God has given him. Four times they call him away. His response? “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down.” — Nehemiah 6:3 (ESV)If you've ever tried to accomplish something as a mom while being interrupted again and again, this scene may feel surprisingly familiar! But there is a deeper lesson here. Nehemiah understood what God had called him to do, and he refused to allow repeated distractions to pull him away. Eventually, his enemies resort to deception and even attempt to manipulate him into disobeying God's commands. Nehemiah sees through the scheme and prays: “But now, O God, strengthen my hands.” — Nehemiah 6:9 (ESV)There is wisdom here for Christian mothers. We don't need to respond to every distraction, accusation, fear, or pressure around us. We can ask God for discernment and strength to remain faithful to the work He has actually given us. The Joy of the Lord Is Your StrengthNehemiah 8 gives us one of the most familiar verses in the book: “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10 (ESV)But the context is important. The people had heard the Word of God and realized how far they had strayed. They were grieving over their sin. Yet the leaders instructed them not simply to remain in sorrow. They were to celebrate, share with those who had nothing, and recognize that the day was holy. The people rejoiced because they understood the words that were declared to them. Holiness does not have to mean a joyless Christianity. As Christian moms, we want our children to take God's Word seriously—but we also want them to associate knowing God with joy, delight, worship, celebration, and life. What memories will our children carry from their childhood? Will they remember Bible reading as something they had to endure? Or will they remember the joy of discovering God's character together? Will they remember conversations about Scripture as lectures? Or will they remember a family captivated by the goodness of God? Our homes can be places where our children see that obedience to God is not merely an obligation. It is a source of deep joy. Nehemiah 9: Remembering God's FaithfulnessNehemiah 9 gives us a sweeping summary of Israel's history. The people spend a quarter of the day reading God's Word and another quarter confessing their sins and worshiping God. As they recount their history, a pattern emerges: God is faithful. His people are faithless. God is merciful. His people repeatedly rebel. God disciplines them. They cry out. God delivers them. Again and again, God demonstrates that He is: FaithfulGraciousMercifulSlow to angerAbounding in steadfast loveReady to forgiveFaithful to His covenant Even when Israel enjoyed abundance, they often became comfortable and turned away from God. And yet, even in their rebellion and suffering, God did not abandon them. This is the thread that leads us into one of the most challenging applications of this passage for Christian moms. What If We Don't Need to Give Our Children the “Ideal” Circumstances?As moms, we naturally want good things for our children. We want them to have good friends. We want them to have godly influences. We want them to have opportunities to thrive. We want to protect them from suffering. But Nehemiah's story—and Israel's history—reminds us that God can use circumstances we would never choose to accomplish His purposes in our children. Nehemiah himself developed remarkable character while serving in a pagan Persian court. God was not limited by Nehemiah's environment. And He is not limited by our children's environments. That doesn't mean we stop exercising wisdom as parents or become indifferent to harmful influences. Biblical parenting includes discernment and protection. But it does mean that we can surrender our illusion of control. We don't have to believe that our children's spiritual health depends entirely upon our ability to engineer perfect circumstances. God is their Father. He knows what they need. And sometimes the very difficulty we desperately want removed may become a place where their roots grow deepest. The Refining Work of SufferingNehemiah 9 doesn't minimize suffering. The people acknowledge the hardship that came upon them because of their rebellion. But they also recognize God's faithfulness through those difficult seasons. This gives us a different perspective on suffering. Instead of asking only, “How can I get my child out of this?”, perhaps sometimes we can also ask: “Lord, what are You doing in my child's heart through this?” That doesn't mean we stop praying for relief. It means we can pray for God's purposes to be accomplished even when the circumstances don't change. For Christian moms, this can be an enormous act of surrender. We can faithfully parent our children without believing that we have to control every detail of their lives. We can hold our children with open hands. And we can trust the God who is merciful, faithful, and sovereign. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsAs you continue your chronological Bible reading plan, consider reflecting on these questions: What characteristics of Nehemiah stand out to me in Nehemiah 5–6?What does Nehemiah's “fear of God” teach me about biblical leadership and integrity?What distractions most often pull me away from the work God has given me?Do my children associate God's Word with joy and delight? Why or why not?Where am I tempted to believe that I must control my children's circumstances in order for them to thrive spiritually?What difficult circumstance might...

The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms | Nehemiah 1–4What does rebuilding a broken city have to do with motherhood? More than you might think. As we continue our chronological Bible reading plan, we begin the book of Nehemiah and discover a leader who was called to an enormous task in the face of opposition, exhaustion, discouragement, and seemingly impossible circumstances. Nehemiah had to rebuild Jerusalem's broken walls while facing enemies who mocked, threatened, and opposed the work. The people eventually worked with one hand while holding a weapon in the other—building and protecting at the same time. For Christian moms, that picture can feel remarkably familiar. Every day, we're building: feeding our children, caring for our homes, educating them, driving them where they need to go, and discipling them in the truth of God's Word. At the same time, we're aware of spiritual and cultural influences that threaten what we're trying to build. In this episode of The Dwelling Place Bible Podcast for Busy Moms, Stephanie Hickox walks through Nehemiah 1–4 and explores prayer, perseverance, biblical motherhood, spiritual opposition, leadership, and what it means to remember that God is great and awesome—and that we don't have to do this work alone. In This Episode, You'll Discover:The historical setting of Nehemiah and the rebuilding of JerusalemWhy Nehemiah's position as the king's cupbearer was one of tremendous trustHow Nehemiah responded when he learned about Jerusalem's broken wallsWhat Nehemiah's prayer teaches us about confession, God's character, and dependence on HimWhy Nehemiah waited and prayed before taking actionHow God gave Nehemiah favor with King ArtaxerxesWhat it means that “the good hand of my God was upon me”How Nehemiah responded when his enemies mocked and opposed the rebuildingWhy the people had to build while simultaneously preparing to defend themselvesHow Nehemiah's leadership can encourage Christian momsWhy biblical motherhood requires both physical care and spiritual investmentHow to persevere when the work God has given you feels overwhelmingWhy we need to remember the Lord rather than becoming intimidated by oppositionHow Christian moms can build a strong spiritual foundation for the next generation Nehemiah Begins With PrayerWhen Nehemiah hears that Jerusalem is still in ruins, his first response isn't to immediately make a plan. He weeps, mourns, fasts, and prays. His prayer acknowledges God's greatness and faithfulness while also confessing the sins of God's people. Nehemiah understands something important: before he can begin rebuilding the walls, he needs to turn his attention toward the God who called him to the work. And Nehemiah doesn't pray for only a few minutes and then move on. Four months pass between Nehemiah 1 and Nehemiah 2. The burden remains. When the opportunity finally comes to speak with the king, Nehemiah is ready to act—but he has already spent significant time bringing the situation before God. For busy Christian moms, this is a beautiful reminder that prayer isn't something we do after we've figured everything else out. Prayer is part of how we prepare to obey God. “The Good Hand of My God Was Upon Me”One of the repeated themes in Ezra and Nehemiah is God's hand upon His people. When Nehemiah finally asks the king for permission to return to Jerusalem, he recognizes that the favor he receives is ultimately from God: “And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me.” — Nehemiah 2:8, ESVNehemiah's confidence isn't ultimately in his leadership ability, his position, or the king's resources. His confidence is in God's providence. The same God who placed Nehemiah in a position of influence also gave him the opportunity and resources to accomplish the work. “Let Us Rise Up and Build”When Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem, he doesn't immediately announce everything he plans to do. He first surveys the damage. Then he tells the people what God has done and explains how the king has supported the work. Their response? “Let us rise up and build.” — Nehemiah 2:18, ESVThe work begins. But so does the opposition. Sanballat, Tobiah, and others mock the Jews and question whether they could possibly accomplish what they have set out to do. Nehemiah doesn't allow their ridicule to determine whether the work is worth doing. He keeps building. Building With One Hand and a Weapon in the OtherNehemiah 4 may be one of the most relatable chapters for Christian moms. The opposition becomes serious enough that the people must prepare to defend themselves while continuing the work. “Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each labored on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other.” — Nehemiah 4:17, ESVThey were building and battling. Working and watching. Providing for the needs of the community while protecting what they were rebuilding. And that picture can remind us of motherhood. Biblical Motherhood: Building and ProtectingMotherhood often feels like an endless list of practical responsibilities. We feed our children. We clean. We do laundry. We teach. We drive. We make appointments. We manage school. We care for physical needs. And somewhere in the middle of all of that, we're also called to disciple our children and point them toward Christ. We're building something that we hope will endure beyond our own generation. But we're also aware that our children are growing up in a culture that may challenge or contradict biblical truth. So what do we do? We build. And we stay spiritually alert. We pray. We teach Scripture. We model repentance. We point our children toward Christ. And we remember that we are not sufficient for this task in ourselves. Just as Jerusalem's walls could not be rebuilt without God's provision and protection, we cannot faithfully disciple our children through our own strength. “Remember the Lord Who Is Great and Awesome”As the people become intimidated by their enemies, Nehemiah gives them a simple command: “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord who is great and awesome.” — Nehemiah 4:14, ESVNotice what Nehemiah doesn't tell them to do. He doesn't tell them to pretend the opposition isn't real. He doesn't tell them that the work will be easy. He tells them to remember the Lord. The enemies were real. The danger was real. The exhaustion was real. But God was greater. That is an important message for Christian moms who sometimes feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of raising children in a complicated world. We don't need to pretend the challenges aren't real. But we also don't need to forget how great our God is. Building for the Next GenerationThe people rebuilding Jerusalem weren't merely repairing stones. They were restoring protection for a community and future generations. And that gives us a helpful picture of biblical parenting. You may feel like you're simply making dinner, correcting behavior, reading another bedtime Bible story, driving another child to another activity, or answering the same question for the hundredth time. But faithful motherhood is often built through small acts of obedience repeated over time. You may not see the finished “wall.” You may not know what God will do through your faithfulness. But you can faithfully build today. And you can trust God with what comes after you. When the Work Feels ImpossibleNehemiah and the people faced a task that was genuinely beyond their own strength. There was too much rubble. There were enemies surrounding them. The workers became exhausted. The wall was enormous. Yet they continued. This doesn't mean Christian moms should simply work harder until they collapse. Nehemiah also demonstrates the importance of prayer, discernment, cooperation, wise planning, protection, and shared responsibility. We aren't called to do everything. We're called to be faithful with what God has actually entrusted to us. And when we're overwhelmed, we can ask God for wisdom about which battles to fight, which tasks to prioritize, and where our energy should be spent. Bible Study for Busy Christian MomsIf you're following a chronological Bible reading plan or looking for a Bible podcast for Christian moms, Nehemiah 1–4 offers rich encouragement for the work of motherhood. When the work feels overwhelming: Pray first. When you don't know what to do: Seek God's wisdom. When the opposition gets loud: Remember the Lord. When you're exhausted: Don't assume you have to do it alone. When the task seems impossible: Remember whose work it ultimately is. And when...