More Than A Song - Discovering The Truth Of Scripture Hidden In Today's Popular Christian Music

Send us a textThere is a cultural gap between people grounded in the Christian faith and those who are discovering it for the first time, and the language we use contributes greatly to that gap. The lyrics of Selah's song "I Got Saved" may bring joy to the heart of some and confusion to the minds of others. Saved from what? Paul brings clarity to that question in the book of Romans. There is so much to take in this week, join me as we take a bite out of the first part of Paul's letter to the Romans. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Listen to an audio version of Scripture Read in context Ask questions A quote from Kyle Strobel, "What was I saved from? It seemed to me I was saved from God by God. I failed to see I was saved by God for God." The old hymn "There is a Fountain" by William Cowper written 1772 and the story behind that hymn Paul's introduction in his letter to

Send us a textToday's most popular songs, like the Psalms, are often reflective of the times. For King and Country's song "O God Forgive Us" reflects the issues of our time, but includes an age-old prayer of repentance. We see a cry for deliverance from a very desperate situation in Psalm 79 this week. Perhaps you are crying out from a place of desperation, too. You can reclaim your identity, cry out for deliverance, and promise praise right along with the psalmist. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Consider the big themes of the Psalm Write out Scripture Ask questions Use an outside commentary - "Treasury of David" by Charles Spurgeon Don't let Christian music be the only way you interact with God's Word Outline of Psalm 79 - Complain, Pray, Praise The invaders of our holy temple - Psalm 79:1 Finding our identity in Him - Psalm 79:1-2 Asking questions right alongside the psa

Send us a textI love it when God weaves memories, music, and Truth together to reveal a beautiful tapestry. I often step back and think to myself, "You've had this picture planned all along." Shane & Shane's rendition of "Psalm 91 (On Eagle's Wings)" takes me back in time. Only this time, God has something new to say through His Word in this season of my life. We may barely get past the first verse of Psalm 91 this week, but slowing down has its benefits. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Listen to an audio version Read in multiple translations Write out Scripture Ask questions Meditate on God's Word Discuss it with a friend Journal The main focus of my meditation this week - Psalm 91:1 What do you think of when you hear the word DWELL? A dwelling is an established place where we are settled and live A dwelling is NOT a guest house We do not dwell at work If I inhabit the

Send us a textHave you ever said a word and all of a sudden begin to question if you are using it properly, or if it's really a word at all? Maybe that's just me, but sometimes I wonder if we really understand the gospel. This week's song, "The Gospel" by Ryan Stevenson, drew me to Scripture to explore and confirm what the good news really is. Come with me on a journey from a dusty prophet's desk, to a crowded synagogue, to a compelling apostle's letter as we consider the gospel. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Use section headings Follow cross references Slow down Refer to several translations The prophet Isaiah's recording of what the coming Messiah will offer - Isaiah 61:1-2 Jesus fulfilling the prophecy - Luke 4:14-21 When you hear the good news that Jesus is the good news, cast aside the limiting belief that you already know Him - Luke 4:22 Paul's reminder, warnin

Send us a textSometimes we get lulled into thinking God is only in control in certain situations, but not in others. This is a lie direct from the enemy's playbook. Tauren Wells' new song "Hills and Valleys" reminds us that God is the supreme authority over all terrain in our lives. There was a group of Arameans in 1 Kings 20 that learned this same lesson the hard way. I know that God is the God of the hills and the valleys and I long to trust him in both. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Reading in context Ask questions The verse that led me to 1 Kings 20 in the first place - 1 Kings 20:28 Ben Hadad launching an attack on Israel - 1 Kings 20:1 Learning more about King Ahab - 1 Kings 16:30-33 God's overall plan for this region and several "players" in it - 1 Kings 19:14-18 An overview of the story of 1 Kings 20 Ben Hadad's advisors' false report that Israel's God is

Send us a text"That's the way we've always done it" has often caused the hair on the back of my neck to stand up. Not that tradition is bad, but understanding WHY we do things should be our motivating factor, not custom. I pray in Jesus' name, but there is a Scriptural reason why. Lincoln Brewster's song "There Is Power" reminds us of the power found in the name of Jesus. Explore God's Word with me as we discover the power truly found in Jesus' name. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Explore a topic Reading in context Use section headings Ask questions Pray! Great things are accomplished in the name of Jesus The demons were powerless because of His name - Luke 10:17 Healing occurred in the name of Jesus - Acts 3:7-18, Acts 3:16 Salvation comes through the name of Jesus - Romans 10:13 Jesus instructs us to baptize in His name - Matthew 28:19 We are justified in Hi

Send us a textThe Bible is rich with characters we can identify with. While individually we are unique, as a human race we often struggle with similar sins and responses. I am encouraged by the words of Crowder's song "Forgiven," and am even more encouraged by the truths in Scripture it leads us to examine. There is not a sin you struggle with that has not beset many before you. In spite of our ability to sin in all sorts of ways with great regularity we stand FORGIVEN. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Reading in context Repetition Meditation Remember the characters in the story are REAL Creating a possible backstory for the centurion who nailed Jesus to the cross - Luke 23:44-47 The art piece that inspired co-writer Edmond Martin Cash - "Forgiven" by Thomas Blackshear The story behind the song as told by both Crowder and Cash - YouTube Video How our lyrics point specifically to Peter and

Send us a textWhen such a short Psalm reveals so many inspiring characteristics of God, it's worth our time to spend some time in it. This week's song, "Shoulders" by For King & Country, leads us right to Psalm 121. In fact, the song begins by quoting the opening verses of Psalm 121! **This is a repost of Episode #70. I am on vacation in Alaska this week with my family, and I couldn't resist pulling this one out of the archives because of it's reference to "the mountains".** We're going to try something new this week to keep your Bible reading engaging! Let's dive in! On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Reading Scripture out loud Using background music to keep it interesting Ask questions...out loud! (And then write them down in your journal) Psalm 121 The significance of the mountains to the Psalmist Comparing and contrasting the characteristics of home with the c

Send us a textGo all in. It looks good on a t-shirt. It looks good on a Christ-follower, too. Unfortunately, we are really good at half-way when it comes to our devotion to the Lord. I find myself going in spurts. I'm all in for awhile and then I get distracted. I'm gung-ho in one area, but not in another. Brandon Heath's new song, "Whole Heart" reminds us to love God the way He wants us to...with our whole heart. There's a wonderful story found in 2 Chronicles about King Asa and all of Judah going "all in."  Join me? On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Slow down (digest smaller chunks) Explore a topic Read in context (don't read part of the story...especially this week) The heart as inner man - a place where affections, will, and inclinations reside How God asks for our wholehearted love and devotion - Matthew 22:37 The combination life - half in and half out God as our e

Send us a textWe are broken people. As children of God we are stuck in this "already, but not yet" zone where we are new creations and can still respond from our brokenness. Matthew West's song "Broken Things" brings us great encouragement that God uses damaged people. But Scripture is clear that God wants to redeem and restore us, which will require a mending of our brokenness. I'm hoping Scripture will touch the deep places in us to reveal prevailing beliefs that God wants to mend. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Using outside resources with commentary - I used the Maxwell Leadership Bible Meditation - give yourself margin to THINK about what you're reading Discuss with others - putting your thoughts into words for others is a very powerful tool A lineup of misfits proving God can use anyone - great list from my friend Keith Ferrin God chooses the foolish things of the world to

Send us a textYou are divinely loved. You need to get a grip on that because we have some very important tasks ahead of us as followers of Christ. Jordan Feliz' song "Beloved" reminds us of this truth, and Scripture gives us clear responsibilities as those loved by God. We have a role to play. It's time to embrace the truth that you are beloved. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Listening to an audio version of the Bible Context Repetition Exploring the text in a variety of translations Reviewing a word study The journey of knowing more of God's Word is beautiful and never-ending There will be moments in your future where the investment of Scripture today will overflow Lacing the words of God into your everyday speech Using YouVersion to listen to 1 John in a variety of translations (I listened to the NLT, the KJV, and the ESV) The Greek word for beloved agapétos - word study on BibleHub All

Send us a textChallenges in our lives will never stop coming. Like waves that ebb and flow in strength and number, our trials and suffering come in and go out, but they never stop coming. The solution is to fix our eyes on God and the hope revealed in His Word. Ellie Holcomb's song "Find You Here" reminds us that He is in the midst of each ordeal...even the darkest ones. Peter knew he needed to prepare believers for fiery trials, too. Let's let our song lead us there this week. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Read and keep on reading Explore a topic Follow the cross references The problem with contemporary western thought in regard to suffering "Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering" by Timothy Keller Episode 171 and my reference to Jen Wilkin's book "None Like Him" Ellie Holcomb's blog post about the story behind the song - www.ellieholcomb.com The pattern i

Send us a textYou get up, you put on the armor of God, you clock in, clock out, come home, and the walls against you are still towering above you. How much longer can this persist? For longer than seems reasonable or of sound-thinking. This is when you need to remember God's faithfulness and Elevation Worship's song "Do It Again" does just that. Let's join the men armed for battle following a peculiar battle plan and see what new things might jump out at us in Joshua chapter 6. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Listen to epic music while reading the epic stories of the Bible Pandora Epic Soundtracks Radio Slow down Explore maps and art - BibleHub.com on the left Picture the scene and fill in the blanks Decide right now to be biblically literate- 2 Timothy 2:15 Exegesis vs. Eisegesis - Got Questions Article God's battle plan for taking Jericho - Joshua 6:1-5 Current archaeology reveal

Send us a textIt is difficult to worship God in an appropriate and authentic way when you think you are just like Him. Hollyn's new song, "In Awe," leads us all over God's Word to discover truth. It is here we begin to see God clearer, and thus put ourselves "in our place" so-to-speak. The Psalms teach us, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." I want wisdom, don't you? On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Use a commentary or outside resource None Like Him by Jen Wilkin Hebrews Commentary by Warren Weirsbe Follow the cross-references God's way of respect for God and others - Hebrews 12:14 God is self-sufficient - Acts 17:24-25 We don't worship God in awe because we believe the age-old lie that we can be just like Him The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom - Psalm 111:10 The contrast between Mount Sinai and Mount Zion - Hebrews 12:18-24 Explo

Send us a textIn South Louisiana, where I live, there is a quirky question people often ask, "Who's your mama, and can she cook a roux?" This question will ultimately lead you to a family name determining who is related to who, and whether or not you are a Cajun. (Roux, pronounced "roo", is the base for a common Cajun dish called gumbo.) This question leads to the family heritage of a person and ultimately their identity. (For the record, my mama was a Duplecion and she can cook a roux...I'm a proud Cajun!) Our song this week, "Grace Alone" as sung by Kings Kaleidoscope, leads us to Ephesians where we see our place in the family of God and clarifies what it took to get there. Just like it was nothing I did that gave me a Cajun heritage, it is not in my power to be called a child of God. Explore Ephesians with me this week! On this episode I discuss: king a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Context Use a commentar

Send us a textI often talk about Scripture changing the way you think. Well get ready, because Shane and Shane's song, Psalm 51 (Wisdom in the Secret Heart), leads us to a Psalm of David where it is obvious he has begun to think differently about his sin. I was crying out for God's cleansing alongside David after spending a week here. Get ready to get uncomfortable...in a good way. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Don't just decide to jump into God's Word...really jump in Listen to audio version of Scripture - I use YouVersion Repetition Focus in on a smaller section of Scripture that is fairly self-contained Utilize a commentary - I used Charles Spurgeon and Wayne Grudem this week Meditate on Scripture Take advantage of small pockets of time Talk about what you're learning with a friend The story behind Psalm 51 - 2 Samuel 11-12 How the Psalm starts out with a cry for mercy - Psalm 51:1-2 Ho

Send us a textStories inspire us. That's why we are drawn in by good books, powerful movies, documentaries, and even ESPN specials. There is something about seeing someone else overcome the odds that gives us hope that maybe, just maybe, we could do the same. Danny Gokey's song "Rise" reminds us that our Creator has a plan for us that is higher than our broken past or sordid mistakes. "We were made to rise." Peter's life paints a pretty epic story. Let's search Scripture and discover how we can relate and what we might learn from this disciple. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Character study Remember the characters in the Bible were REAL Follow the cross references Read in context The Life of Peter Scripture References - Pastor Jacob Johnson When we meet Peter - John 1:40-42 Peter got a new name and so do we Peter gets an invite to the inner circle - Luke 8:50-56 Would you bec

Send us a textHow do you built a solid foundation of hope? Make sure you base it on something real and true...like God's Word. Tenth Avenue North sings of truth in their song "I Have This Hope." Their lyrics come from Scripture, but their hope comes from God. You can deepen your hope by going deeper into God's Word. Don't stay on the surface! Spend time in Isaiah 43 this week! On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Make a list Meditate on God's Word How you cannot have hope in the depth of your soul without digging a foundation of knowledge and understanding of God's Word You cannot have depth by merely listening to Christian music You cannot have depth by reading Scripture art each day or even a daily devotional The verse alluded to in the lyrics that inspired me to spend time in Isaiah 43 this week - Isaiah 43:2 The amazing characteristics of God found in Isaiah 43 The amazing things Go

Send us a textFor some reason I was operating in the assumption that when God instructs us to "be still and know that I am God," He meant it was supposed to be quiet. However, a closer look at Psalm 46 reveals total chaos, not quiet. Hillary Scott in her song titled "Still" reminds us that God is indeed asking us to be still in the midst of our chaos. Grab a friend and head over to Psalm 46 with me this week. On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Study with a friend Read the text out loud The top three tips when studying with others Don't overthink it Set aside your expectations Pray before you begin Allowing the perspective of others to reveal new things in Scripture The last time I used Psalm 46 - Episode 128 Being still has nothing to do with "relaxing" or even "calm" We are the holy habitation of God and Jesus is the spring of living water welling up within us to eternal

Send us a textYou know you "own" the story when you can tell it and re-tell it in your own words and not lose the meaning. This is what Jon Foreman's song "Your Love Is Strong" inspired me to do with Scripture this week. Not only that, but it sent me straight to Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and a very special model for prayer. Let's not waste any time jumping right into Matthew 5-7! On this episode I discuss: Taking a B.I.T.E. out of Scripture - this week's Bible Interaction Tool Exercises include: Context Read in a variety of translations Write out Scripture in your own words The lyrics in the song, "So why do I worry? Why do I freak out?" as it relates to Matthew 6:25-34 An example using Psalm 8:1 where I rewrote it using my own words and my friend Teri rewrote it in her own words Comparing a portion of Matthew 6 in the English Standard Version and in The Message - Matthew 6:5-13 Using my own words as I wrote out the Lord's Prayer - Matthew 6:9-13