The Year I Read the Bible with Laurie Larsen

Send us Fan MailOne of life's realities is that all good things must come to an end.  So it is for this podcast.  I've had a wonderful time bringing you these 40-some episodes and I thank you for sticking with me through it all.  In this short episode I'll share my closing thoughts, thank everyone who has helped, and leave you with a cliffhanger .... Season 2???Here's where you can find all the The Year I Read the Bible resources:The blogThe videosThe books

Send us Fan MailJesus is risen!  Hallelujah!  Death on the cross could not keep him.  He is alive.Jesus made many appearances to people during the forty days he walked the earth again after his resurrection.  But people didn't recognize him!  Why?  Laurie analyzes some of these appearances and offers her opinion on explainable reasons why people who accompanied him for three years didn't recognize him when he was resurrected, and also those cases where supernatural reasons were involved.  Pretty fascinating stuff.For the finale episode of her The Year I Read the Bible podcast, Laurie welcomes the delightful and insightful Dina Clarke.  Dina is the co-leader of Women in the Word Bible Study in Pawleys Island, SC.  Through her humor and emotional teachings, Dina has educated hundreds of Bible readers, leading to increased understanding.A few links to supplement the conversation:Paul's lesson on the mysteries of the resurrection:  I Corinthians 15The Sacred Slow by Alicia Britt Chole

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode Laurie shares a bewildering experience from her college days, when a Religion Professor (who also happened to be an ordained pastor) spent the semester pointing out spots in the Bible where there are discrepancies in the telling of the same story.  But the bewildering part came when he encouraged his students to "throw out" the Bible as a credible source because of those differences.  WHAAAAT?  Laurie didn't fall for his tricks, and neither should you.  She spends this episode pointing out the differences in the four gospels in the telling of Jesus's resurrection stories, along with her analysis of those differences.Laurie welcomes back her guest Josine Young.  Their interesting conversation takes them to some diverse topics.  Here are some links in follow up to the interview:God's Not Dead (movie)God's Not Dead (song) The ApocryphaThe Passion Plan in Oberammagau

Send us Fan MailJesus's crucifixion.  I'm sure you read the Bible story every Easter, or maybe more often than that.  Me too.  But the year I read the Bible cover to cover, I read it with a new lens.  And I uncovered a bunch of supernatural events surrounding Jesus's crucifixion.  A three-hour eclipse of the sun in the middle of the day. A curtain or veil located a mile away in the Temple in Jerusalem that tore from top to bottom at the moment of Jesus's death. An earthquake! The bodies of many buried holy people were raised to life.It's as if God was making it unmistakably clear to the observers that this was no ordinary Roman crucifixion.  God was in charge -- he always was and he always will be!Join me and my very insightful guest who you met last week, Angel Ambrose, for a nitty gritty discussion of all these points of the story, in addition to our examination of Jesus's cry, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?"Learn more about Angel here.

Send us Fan MailJesus often used analogies to illustrate who he was -- I am the Good Shepherd, I am the Light of the World, etc.  It's his generous attempt to connect with us in multiple ways -- allowing us each various ways to understand him better. Today we'll dive into I am the True Vine. I'm in good company -- joining me is my guest, Angel Ambrose.  An artist of acrylic landscapes, Angel connected so passionately with Jesus' True Vine analogy, along with his invitation to Abide in Him, that she developed a series of hauntingly beautiful paintings to illustrate the concept.  Please take a look at them so you can visualize them when you hear her speak:The Good Gardner series (Come, Believe, Receive, Exchange, Abide and Thrive)Angel Ambrose Fine Art Studio

Send us Fan MailThis is your host, Laurie, and I am thrilled to be taking part in PodcasThon 2026 -- a global effort to flood the podcasting airwaves with love, service and good works!  Over 2500 podcasts from 65 different countries are taking part ... and so is The Year I Read the Bible!  I am devoting my episode this week to a very worthy charity Feed My Peeps and its founder Jacki Brey. You've heard from my friend Jacki before because she's been my guest in episodes 23 (Odd Things Jesus Did) and 26 (What's So Bad About Samaritans?) But today we spend the entire episode talking about her non-profit -- what inspired her to start it, the work God sends her out to do, the challenges she faces, and heartwarming stories of outreach.You will find this to be an extremely inspiring dialogue so sit tight and listen up!  Here are some inspiring words from Jacki:  " One person. You are just one person and you think, I can't make a difference. Well, yes you can. One person can be the ripple effect to building a better world. Let God flow and use you. God's not done writing your story. Give him back that pen and let him use you."If, after listening to this special episode, you want to help -- here's how!  Pray for Feed My Peeps.  Make a donation so they can continue their work!  Visit their website and tell others to do the same!Thank you, Jacki for the work you do to help those in need.  And thank you to Podcasthon for spreading so much love!

Send us Fan MailTake a deep dive into Laurie's favorite Bible character -- Simon Peter -- one of Jesus's strongest supporters, who in his moment of weakness, denies even knowing Jesus during the terrible time of his arrest, torture and crucifixion.  Why did Peter do it, and how do we, in our moments of weakness as humans, do the same thing?  And how does our Lord respond?Laurie's guest Josine Young joins us for a conversation on this interesting topic.  Josine is an avid traveler, a faithful follower of Jesus and a fun neighbor and friend!

Send us Fan MailI've always loved Palm Sunday!  Joyous happy people praising Jesus as he rides into town on a humble colt!  I love what we find in Luke 19 verse 40 where Jesus tells them, even if the crowds who were shouting Hosannas at him quieted, the rocks themselves would cry out!  It points to the inevitability of the people praising and recognizing Jesus's divine authority!But as festive and happy as Palm Sunday was, we all know that the joy was short-lived. We know what horrors await our Lord just a few days later.  So today I welcome back my friend and previous guest Janet Dickinson to talk about the festive approach of Jesus on the back of a colt into Jerusalem, the arrival of a humble king.

Send us Fan MailThe name of Judas Iscariot is known by everyone -- even non-Christians.  He's the bad guy of the Jesus story, the villain.  He turned Jesus over to the Romans to be crucified. But let's dig a bit deeper.  What if Judas hadn't performed this act?  Would God's plan for salvation have been executed?  Was Judas preordained to betray Jesus?  Did he have free will not to do it?  It's a very interesting topic and I hope it'll give you a point or two to ponder.My guest today is a very special surprise guest! A first-time guest on the podcast, but someone who's been very involved in the podcast from Day One.  He's someone very close to me, -- my husband Norm Larsen!

Send us Fan MailRemember when Jesus told his "Number One Disciple," Simon Peter, "Get behind me, Satan!" What was that all about?  How would Simon have reacted and what can we as modern Christians learn to make sure Jesus doesn't say the same thing to us?  In this episode Laurie explores just how deeply aware Jesus was of God's plan for him while he was engaged in his earthly ministry.  And how difficult it must've been for this Son of God to get us humans to understand and get onboard.Laurie welcomes the delightful and insightful Janet Dickinson as her guest.  Janet is a retired South Carolina English teacher with a voice as sweet as honey and a faith as strong as iron.  Settle in for a great discussion about Simon Peter, Jesus and all the rest!

Send us Fan MailLet's face it -- even though Jesus says, “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them.” ... I've never once seen a mountain throw itself in the sea.  How about you?What does that mean?  That praying for miracles doesn't work?  No ... because we've either witnessed or heard of many miracles that did work.  Laurie and her guest Jennifer Tirrell dig into this topic today, covering such questions as: if I pray for a miracle and don't receive one, does it mean I did something wrong?  Does God get upset when we ask for things that are not part of his will?  And how can we up our chances that our prayers will be heard and fulfilled by our Almighty Father?Jennifer describes her Generational Legacy project.  Click the link if you'd like more information.

Send us Fan MailLaurie draws parallels between Jesus's three-year earthly ministry and a job she used to perform, as a project manager of large, complicated efforts.  Similarities do exist -- defining your scope, meeting regularly with your sponsor, developing and educating your core team, and staying determined to deliver the end product against all odds and adversity.  However, where Laurie was managing projects that delivered systems and applications, Jesus was "managing a project" to deliver eternal redemption for all mankind.  Stay with us and see if you can "pick up what Laurie's putting down."  :) Laurie welcomes back return guest Beth Dulee, who was a friend and coworker back in their mutual project management days.  They'll talk shop, and Beth will help illuminate this unusual concept!

Send us Fan MailIn this look back over Laurie's third quarter of episodes, she shares several examples where her insightful guests have "blown her mind" with knowledge and interpretations she'd never heard of or thought of before!Also -- a call to action!  Use the "Send Us a Text" link above, or the Contact form on Laurie's website  to share any new knowledge you've gained that has made a difference in your own Bible journey.

Send us Fan MailThis topic single-handedly garnered the most views and comments on my blog when I was posting my Bible findings once a week.  If that tells us anything, it's that this is a topic on the minds and in the curiosities of a great deal of believers!The short answer to the question is ... no.  We won't still be married in heaven.  But our loving Father wouldn't just take that relationship away -- He is replacing it with something even better. Hopefully, if you came into this episode worried or stressed, you will leave relieved.I have TWO special guests on this episode -- a married couple who had some great insight and thoughts about the topic ... David and Patty Haworth.  I have been friends with Patty for 30 years now! (WOW).  And David -- he's having a heck of a wonderful life between ushering for the Cubs at Wrigley Field (any baseball fans out there???) and pursuing his dream of writing novels.  Join us for our conversation!Here are some links we reference in the chat:David's book Your Precious PossessionsProverbs 31:10-31

Send us Fan MailPodcastThon?  What on earth is PodcastThon?It's the biggest and most far-reaching charitable event in the Podcasting world and I'm thrilled that The Year I Read the Bible was invited to take part. On March 17 I'll dedicate an entire episode of the podcast to the charity of my choice, and 2000 other podcasters all over the world will be doing the same thing!  How exciting to take part in such a thrilling movement!I chose a charity you've already heard about in episodes 23 and 26 -- Feed My Peeps!  I'll invite CEO and Founder Jacki Brey back to talk in more depth about how she started this wonderful charity and tell us stories about the people she's reached.Stay tuned!  #PodcastThon #FeedMyPeeps#TheYearIReadtheBible

Send us Fan MailDid Jesus ever get angry?  Of course, we're all familiar with the time he turned the tables in the Temple when the money changers were using the sacred ground for profit.  But what about the incident listed in each of the four gospels called his "Woes to the Pharisees" speech.  Jesus was angry that these men of God, these religious leaders were focused on all the wrong things, and completely disregarding the real message!This episode shares a one-hit wonder by the artist Rockwell from 1980.  (If you know, you know!)  Laurie's guest today is Jennifer E. Tirrell, a very diverse and prolific writer.  From novels to children's stories to blogs and devotionals, Jennifer handles it all with grace.Here are some websites to check out for Jennifer:Jennifer's website Little Sprout, her children's bookJane's Secret, her novel

Send us Fan MailLearn a little more about the unique character of John the Baptist.  God chose him to prepare the way for Jesus on earth, but of course, as all of us are, he was human. And to me, he came across as a little strange.  And a little uncertain.  Especially when he said things about Jesus such as "I didn't know him."  Huh?  He was related to Jesus, and I assume they knew each other growing up.Anyway, listen to my thoughts on the matter and make up your own mind.  Then, I welcome back my lovely guest from last week, Dianne Miley.  She shares some wonderful insight on John to add to our understanding of this challenging Bible character.Here's Dianne's website if you want to learn more about her books.And here's that bonus episode I mention in the interview that tells you all about my fiction work.  I released it on December 30.

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to new Bible study content after our short holiday break!  Here's wishing a super new year for all of us!Laurie digs in deep about the Christian practice of baptism.  Why do we do it?  What's it for?  What does the Bible say about it? Why do various Christian denominations argue about when a person should be baptized?  If a believer dies before being baptized, will they go to heaven?Laurie welcomes a very knowledgeable guest to help her navigate the "waters" of this topic!  Our warm welcome to Dianne Miley!  Dianne is an author of Christian fiction and the founder of the not-for-profit Sanctuary of Unborn Life in Charleston, SC.  She's done so much good in this world, and Laurie's blessed to call her a friend.Check out Dianne's work at these links:Dianne's websiteDianne's Amazon author pageSanctuary of Unborn Life

Send us Fan MailHow does someone who had always dreamed of becoming an author, actually push through and get started?  For Laurie, it all came down to a visit to the Margaret Mitchell House in Atlanta, Georgia.  That one random decision changed her life in ways she could never imagine.We're taking a break from the Bible essays this week to share more about Laurie's vast backlist of fiction.  Take a short listen and maybe you'll find a book or two to start off your New Year right!Laurie's website is the best spot to learn anything you want to know about her books.

Send us Fan MailHere's a repeat performance of the episode I previously did with Melissa Henderson (Oct 28) all about those elements that we've come to accept as modern Christians as it relates to the Christmas story -- but that modern Bible researchers are now thinking are NOT necessarily true.It'll make you go "hmmmm" but remember that the true message of Christ's birth is just as meaningful, and just as true, and just as important as ever.Enjoy! And merry Christmas everyone!

Send us Fan MailThe Samaritan woman at the well having a conversation with Jesus about living water.  The "Good Samaritan" who helped a Jewish traveler who was beaten and left for dead along the side of the road, as if being good was an exception for a Samaritan.  Several other mentions of Samaritans in the New Testament which don't paint them in a good light ... all lead me to wonder about today's topic.We'll learn about the history of Samaritans -- how they came to be, and why Jews of Jesus's time disrespected them.  Joining me in this enlightening discussion is repeat guest Jacki Brey, founder and CEO of Feed My Peeps, a not-for-profit organization whose motto is Loving GOD, Moving FOOD & Feeding PEEPS!  You first met her in our November 25 episode, Odd Things Jesus Did and I know you'll love hearing her inspirational stories again, including some of her catchphrases:Hot Mess ExpressThe harvest is ripe and the laborers are fewSharing the Gospel with a simple PB&JLoving on the Shake 'n Bake man who was losing his stuff in the middle of Wally World!

Send us Fan MailHere's a question for you:  if you were walking around the region of Galilee in about 30 AD, and this man named Jesus was preaching about a New Way and gaining followers, would you believe?  Or would you be doubtful?I honestly don't know, but I'll tell you one thing ... I'm so glad God put me on earth right now, when we have the benefit of the entire Bible, centuries of books and ministries and missionaries available to read and what about all the video resources we can put our hands on now?I welcome back my guest Leslie Caperton who shares her thoughts on this topic as well as a ton of valuable resources that help her strengthen her faith and her knowledge.  I guarantee you'll find some that you'll like!Bible Study FellowshipCommunity Bible StudiesThe Bible Project on YouTubeJohn McArthur's booksGary Hamrick of Cornerstone ChapelThe ChosenExperiencing God by Henry BlackabyRight Now MediaDrive by Gospels

Send us Fan MailHave you ever tried to promote a product or service? Did you spread the word far and wide so more and more people are aware of what you’re offering? When Jesus was walking the earth conducting his ministry, he often performed a miracle, then told people not to say anything to anyone!  Didn't he want the promotion? In this essay Laurie uncovers several reasons why Jesus would do this. Then Laurie welcomes her guest, Leslie Caperton -- friend, neighbor, devoted Christian and also a Pampered Chef consultant!  The ladies delve into this topic to try to enlighten us all about the reason behind Jesus's secrecy ... and ultimately the beautiful moment when he opened the gate and encouraged people to start sharing!Check out Leslie's Pampered Chef site!I also wanted to link to Psalm 22, the important psalm Leslie referenced as David's many prophecies of the coming Messiah. 

Send us Fan MailIs it disrespectful to our perfect Lord Jesus to label some of the miracles he performed as "odd?" Hmmm.  How about those that involved spit?  There are several of them!  Laurie will share them, and also a very intriguing story that involved Jesus writing something mysterious in the dirt, along with several viable theories from Bible commentators regarding what exactly he was writing that caused a unanimous reaction from the Pharisees.Laurie's guest today is the amazing Jacki Brey, founder of the charitable organization, Feed My Peeps.   Jacki is a fearless woman of God who has a unique take on some of Jesus's healing miracles because God has actually used Jacki as his instrument to heal others.  Please don't miss this inspirational and emotional episode!

Send us Fan MailWhat is the United States' 16th President Abraham Lincoln doing in a series about the Bible?  Listen to find out and make up your own mind as to whether Jesus helped Honest Abe get elected!My guest today is fellow former resident of the Land of Lincoln, and personal friend Beth Dulee. Beth shares her insight on whether God gets involved in the results of our elections.  And she shares a great example of situations when you work really hard to make something come true, and you truly want it, NOT get it, only to realize that God had something better and greater planned for you than you could've ever come up with on your own!  (Just like Lincoln losing his Senator race, which freed him up to serve as President two years later!)We discuss many of the Lincoln sites in and around Illinois' state capital, Springfield.  I'll link those locations here in case you're close enough to take a road trip!The Lincoln HomeAbraham Lincoln Presidential Library and MuseumLincoln's New SalemThe Lincoln Tomb

Send us Fan MailWe all go through bad times.  It’s part of the human condition. Life is not easy or perfect for anyone. But sometimes life becomes so hopeless and out of control that you can’t imagine ever turning the tide.Jesus wants to help you get your life back.  In Mark 5, Jesus got in a boat, dragging his hesitant disciples specifically visit a demon-possessed, dirty, smelly, ostracized man in a predominantly pagan area who had never heard his message of forgiveness and redemption.  WHY?  Because he will go to whatever lengths necessary to approach us and love us.  Even when it's messy. And human lives are always messy. Joining me as my repeat guest is the vivacious and inspirational Lisa Pritchard! Visit these links to follow Lisa:  www.Praying-Prodigals.com https://www.facebook.com/LisaPritchardWriteshttps://facebook.com/prayingprodigals01/

Send us Fan MailWhat worked?  And who did it work for?This episode is all about when Jesus, after being baptized by John the Baptist, went into the wilderness for forty days and forty nights, and in his hungry and thirsty state, was tempted by the Devil himself.  But Jesus stood strong by fighting Satan with God's word, the same words we read in our Bible.Satan tempts Jesus's followers to this day, and we can fight him the same way.  But it takes some preparation now, while life is peaceful so we can use our weapons when the need arises.  Build an arsenal of Bible verses, memorize and use them against the enemy when he strikes.My guest today is the engaging and faithful Lisa Pritchard. Lisa said, "Psalms are balms for the soul." She also shared her message with such enthusiasm that I said, "I feel like a Hallelujah! is in order!"  You won't want to miss this uplifting episode.These are links for anyone who wants to learn more about Lisa:www.Praying-Prodigals.com -This is where you can get more info about Lisa's Psalms Bible Studyhttps://www.facebook.com/LisaPritchardWriteshttps://facebook.com/prayingprodigals01/Also, Lisa shared her arsenal of Bible verses that she uses to combat the devil.  Here they are:John 17:17Exodus 14:14James 4:71 Thessalonians 5:1 - 5Isaiah 41:13

Send us Fan MailWell, the super stores have Christmas merchandise out so ... yeah ... it's not too early to talk about Christmas! When you pull out your Nativity sets to decorate your home every December have you ever given thought to whether or not they're historically accurate?  Turns out ... most of what we think we know about the setting of Jesus's birth is NOT how we celebrate it. Of course, the most important fact of the holiday IS clear ... that our loving Father sent his Son to show us how much he loves us.  THAT will never change.Laurie welcomes back return guest Melissa Henderson -- author, mother, grandmother and good friend.  Melissa shares her insights and thoughts about the birth of Jesus and urges us if we want to know the truth about the holiday, the Word of God is the only accurate place to look.  Melissa mentions her published children's books.  If you'd like to check them out -- maybe as Christmas gifts for the favorite children in her life, click right here! 

Send us Fan MailOur God is a god of the big and massive.  But he's also a god in the small details.  This concept is so evident in the story of Zechariah in the New Testament.  When you learn exactly how miraculous the circumstances were around the angel Gabriel's visit to Zechariah in the Temple to give him the news that his aged wife Elizabeth would give birth to the Messiah's predecessor -- it's gonna blow your mind!Laurie's guest today is Christina Sinisi -- author, professor, friend and repeat guest from last week!  If you'd like to check out Christina's inspirational fiction, take a look right here.  Also in case you haven't checked it out, here's The Year I Read the Bible in book form -- ebook, paperback, hardcover and audio!  If you're enjoying the podcast, maybe you'd enjoy the other formats -- or buy a gift for a friend!  Also ... please consider sharing these weekly inspirational messages with your friends.  And while you're at it, leave a review wherever you listen.  THANK YOU FRIENDS!

Send us Fan MailGod leaves nothing to chance!  When he sends angels to go talk to the future earthly mother and father of his beloved son, he tells them exactly what to name the child.  Did you know the name Jesus means "The Lord Saves" and "Yahweh Saves." And Emmanuel means "God Is With Us."  It's all right there in the name!Laurie has a heartwarming conversation with friend and author Christina Sinisi today.  Christina shares insightful comments about how God shows himself in our lives -- in the big and the small.  Also in today's episode, the ladies discuss their favorite worship songs and hymns, and we get to listen to Laurie's favorite and Christina's favorite.  Stay tuned for a fun and inspiring chat.Take a look at Christina's body of work which she discussed on today's episode:Christina's website Purchase links to all of Christina's booksAnd don't forget Laurie's body of work as well!

Send us Fan MailWhy listen to The Year I Read the Bible podcast?  A quick half-hour burst of Christian Bible learning and discussion every week.  Research that maybe will teach you something you didn’t know or present a new way to think about a concept you’re already familiar with.  Then, a discussion between friends, sharing experiences and insight.  Let's face it, the way the world is going, can you think of a better way to spend thirty minutes?Included is an insightful excerpt from my interview with Bible expert Beth Sprinkle.  And for today only!  A money back guarantee if you listen to the podcast and don't enjoy it!  That's quite a bargain!  :)  

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to the second of Laurie's 2-part series on Who Were the Authors of the Gospels?  Today she covers Luke and John.  From debating who Luke was referring to when he addressed "The Most Excellent Theophilus" to why John repeatedly referred to himself as "the one Jesus most loved," you will learn all you ever wanted to know about these two far-reaching gospel writers.Next, Laurie welcomes back inspirational and informative guest Robin Stearns Lee, back from her first appearance in episode 13. Robin shares such wonderful insight about both Luke and John, and being a very prolific reader, she discusses many resources which are linked here in the show notes in case you want to research more about them.The Chosen tv seriesThe Case for Christ by Lee StroebelHeaven by Randy Alcorn 

Send us Fan MailLaurie starts a two-part series on the authors of the four gospels.  Today is a deep dive into what we know about Matthew and Mark.  Matthew was a despised tax collector who cheated his countrymen when Jesus asked him to follow him.  Matthew dropped everything to do just that.  Mark is only mentioned obscurely once in the story of Jesus.  He didn't know him personally.  How is he qualified to write a gospel?Laurie's guest today is the delightful Melissa Henderson, friend and author of children's books and hundreds of short inspirational stories and articles.  You will love hearing her insights on this topic.Check out Melissa's website for all the details about her work.

Send us Fan MailThis is Laurie's final essay covering the Old Testament, before venturing into the New Testament next week.  She explores the prophet Malachi's final warnings from God. It only takes a second to turn the page from the end of the Old Testament to the beginning of the New, but for the people of Malachi's time, it seemed like endless silence.  Was God there?  Was he listening?  Did he even care anymore?Laurie's repeat guest today is Jody Stallings -- teacher, writer, columnist and church youth worker.  He returns after chatting with Laurie on episode 12, and he is amazingly entertaining, knowledgeable, insightful and full of wisdom.  Have you ever heard a comparison of Jesus to Willie Wonka?  How about The Great Gatsby?  Tune in and hear it for yourself!Check out Jody's work on his website. Check out Laurie's work on her website. If you have interest in American Christian Fiction Writers, check it out here. 

Send us Fan MailHi friends!  Have you made The Year I Read the Bible podcast a part of your weekly listening?  Laurie has 40 episodes planned, so she's more than a quarter of the way through!  Get your 30-minute burst of godly Bible knowledge every Tuesday morning, complete with an insightful chat with a guest, a prayer, and sometimes a bit of music too!  Discover this podcast and you won't want to miss it.  

Send us Fan Mail"God hates divorce."  Pretty hard to misinterpret the meaning of that Bible verse: Malachi 2:16.  But in modern times, 50% of marriages end in divorce!  What does that mean for faithful Christians and Jews who have been divorced, or are considering one in their future?  Listen to Laurie's take on that topic.Then, Laurie welcomes her charming guest Robin Stearns Lee. Together, the ladies go deep into such topics as marriage for love vs. arranged marriages; highly recommended pre-marital discussion topics; Laurie's True Crime addiction; and God's expectation for a wife to submit to her husband.  (Gasp!) Buckle up and get ready for a great episode!Useful links:Laurie's book Journey to FulfillmentRobin's websiteRobin's Amazon author page

Send us Fan MailHave you ever noticed as you're reading along through the Bible, there will occasionally be a bullet-pointed summary list to rehash a bunch of events that have already occurred?  This reminded Laurie of the old Cliffs Notes she used in school (in the olden days ...) Laurie's guest today is the very insightful Jody Stallings.  Jody is a very busy teacher, columnist, author and church youth worker, in addition to being a husband and father.  He's very well versed on literature and the Bible and added bonus: he's absolutely hilarious!  Join Laurie and Jody as they discuss this concept along with other topics!Learn more about Jody:  here's his website and a link to purchase his 4-book Shadow Point series.

Send us Fan MailDid you know that there is a book in the Bible that never mentions God, never includes a prophesy or a prayer?  It's the book of Esther, one of only two books in the Bible named after a woman.  But despite not mentioning God at all, Esther's story illustrates that even when you don't know it, even when you can't see it, God the Father is working on our behalf all the time -- even if it's just the middle of our story.Laurie reads the Esther story in the style of a classic fairy tale. Then ... we have the repeat of Laurie's guest Elizabeth Sprinkle who was our very informed and inspirational guest in Episode 2.  Beth is an absolute master of the Book of Esther.  You will learn so much from her insight just like Laurie did when she attended a Bible study season on the book of Esther taught by Beth.Here's a little more about Beth.And for those who have been asking ... here's where you can get your hands on the other The Year I Read the Bible resources: The blogThe video channelThe book (ebook, paperback, hardcover and audio!)

Send us Fan MailStay tuned for a powerful episode of The Year I Read the Bible!  What does the Bible tell us happens when we pray?  Does God hear it?  Does He respond to it?  What if we're asking for something different that His will?Laurie welcomes back return guest Elizabeth Ann Wallace, author, talk show host and above all else, a Christian receptive to God's direction in her life.  They talk about examples of prayers, recognizing results and Laurie even shares the story of meeting her very own guardian angel on a dark night in the middle of nowhere.  Don't miss it!Check out Ann's book Extraordinary Hope and her website.Check out Laurie's book The Year I Read the Bible, her blog and her website.

Send us Fan MailLaurie shares the essay she wrote the morning after her grandson was born! With joy and love she creates the message, We Learn How to Parent From Him. We don't have to learn how to love our children -- it's in our DNA because it's how God our Father loves us.Laurie welcomes as her guest Elizabeth Ann Wallace -- her dear friend Ann.  Together, they discuss the joys and challenges of parenting (and grandparenting) and they also discuss the award-winning classic Inspirational romance novel, Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers and what it can teach us about love, forgiveness and redemption.Check out Ann's book, Extraordinary HopeAnd Ann's website: 

Send us Fan MailThis episode is the second of a two-part series about the differences between Christian and Jewish beliefs.  Last episode, Laurie left you with a cliffhanger: Why don't the Jews believe that Jesus is their messiah? This episode, she spends the entire time with detailed answers to that single question.If you couldn't understand it before now, you will understand it now!In place of a live guest, Laurie shares comments left by listeners from the Jewish and Christian perspective.

Send us Fan MailWhat are the differences in beliefs between Jews and Christians?  We all worship the same God, but there are many differences in our traditions and beliefs. In order to learn more, Laurie has a conversation with Rabbi Weissman and presents many of her questions to him.Laurie's guest today is the lovely and entertaining Janice DeAngelis.  Janice is a friend of Laurie's and was raised in the Jewish faith. Then she grew up and fell in love with a Christian.  The ladies discuss "A Jew Falls in Love with a Christian" and what it's been like combining two faiths in one loving family.Do you want to check out more of Laurie's The Year I Read the Bible resources?  Take a look here. 

Send us Fan MailLaurie shares her journey through the Bible, with the aid of ten different translations in her Bible collection. She urges the listener, if one Bible translation isn't really setting with you, to explore others until you find the perfect one.Laurie welcomes back Cindy Jolly, her guest from episode 5 for an enthusiastic conversation about Bible translations.  Enjoy this fun and anecdote-filled episode!Don't forget to check out the following resources:Cindy's book, Until the World Feels Real AgainCindy's blog, Fresh HopeThe Year I Read the Bible book options

Send us Fan MailLaurie begins with a dramatic scene of a hot, thirsty traveler stumbling through the desert.  That's how she felt during her Bible in a Year project by the time she'd reached Isaiah 35! But this chapter was like a beautiful oasis providing her water and beauty just in time!Isaiah 35 is described by some as being one of the greatest chapters in the Bible.  Is that Paradise Isaiah describes what we have to look forward to in heaven?Laurie's guest today is Cindy Jolly. Cindy is a blogger and an author of beautiful and inspirational devotionals. Listeners won't want to miss checking her website/blog and her book. Thanks for tuning in to The Year I Read the Bible podcast! If you're interested in the book in all formats, take a look here.  

Send us Fan MailLaurie discusses God's delivery of the Ten Commandments to the Israelites in Exodus 19, specifically the very first one, Worship No Other Gods Before Me.  She ponders why that particular commandment was placed first.  Is it more important than some of the others like, Don't Murder, and Don't Steal? Historically, there were about 38 other "gods" (small g) when God communicated this.  But why is it still important today?  What other "gods" do we often place before Him in our modern lives?Laurie welcomes back the ever-insightful guest Allison Snyder, who also appeared on episode 3.  You won't want to miss what the ladies come up with in their discussion.Are you interested in the ebooks, paperback, hardcover or audiobook of The Year I Read the Bible?  Check them all out here: https://books2read.com/u/b60650

Send us Fan MailLaurie discusses Isaiah chapter 9 that inspired composer Frederick Handel to write Handel's Messiah. A chapter filled with imagery and powerful language, it is the prophet Isaiah's prophecy to the Jewish people of their coming Messiah, who Christians know today as Jesus.Laurie reveals her own method for communicating with God when there is an event in her life that causes that "darkness," and how through these steps she is able to come into the light.Laurie's guest is Allison Snyder, a friend, neighbor, fellow Christian and knowledgeable Bible scholar.  In the conversation, Allison mentions the Alpha program for churches.  Here is additional information: https://alphausa.org/ .  In addition, Laurie and Allison were discussing the inspiring modern artwork of Jesus leaving the 99 to chase the one lost sheep, just as he does with us.  Here is that artwork: https://i.etsystatic.com/48031207/r/il/33e50a/5499957388/il_1588xN.5499957388_pzbj.jpgListener, if you are enjoying this podcast, maybe you'd enjoy the book, The Year I Read the Bible!  Available in every format imaginable, click right here to check it out. 

Send us Fan MailLaurie discusses the first biblical mystery that she uncovered in her reading journey, and it began in Genesis 1! She always assumed that the Holy Trinity evolved as the trio was introduced in the Bible ... God the Father was there for Creation, God the Son was born in a manger in Bethlehem, and God the Holy Spirit was introduced by Jesus to his disciples around the time of the Last Supper to be an Advocate when he was gone.Boy was she wrong! The Holy Trinity existed before the earth began. Does that surprise you?  Not only that, there are clues to this fact throughout the Old and New Testaments!Laurie's guest today is the very knowledgeable super-Bible scholar Beth Sprinkle.  Beth is a deacon at All Saints Church of Pawleys Island, South Carolina, as well as the founder and co-leader of the wildly successful and informative Women in the Word program.Are you interested in checking out the ebooks, paperback, hardcover or audiobook? Click here:  The Year I Read the Bible?  

Send us Fan MailLaurie kicks off her The Year I Read the Bible podcast with a description of how and why she took on the challenge of reading the Bible for a year and encouraging others to consider doing it as well.Laurie's guest is Linda Rutland, a long-time reader and reviewer of Laurie's fictional works, and an avid Bible reader and teacher.Are you interested in the ebooks, paperback, hardcover or audiobook of The Year I Read the Bible?  Check them all out here: https://books2read.com/u/b60650