The Deep Dish

Courtney and Melissa talk to Blair Linne about her struggle with anxiety and panic attacks and the tools that have helped her to fight anxiety. They discuss the mind/body/spirit complexities of anxiety, when anxiety becomes sinful, and how to listen with compassion and wisdom to others who are struggling. Blaire’s story and wisdom provide great encouragement and hope for any Christian walking through anxiety. Resources Mentioned: Made to Tremble by Blair Linne A Practical Treatise of Fear by John Flavel Related Resources: Rightly Ordered . . . Anxiety? Take Your Anxiety to Church Understanding Adolescent Anxiety, Depression, and Mental Health DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. What situations and subjects trigger feelings of anxiety for you? Are there patterns you've noticed? 2. When you're anxious, where are you most tempted to look for control or reassurance? 3. What are ways God has used past seasons of uncertainty or anxiety to deepen your faith or dependence on him? 4. Are there particular Scriptures you return to when you’re afraid or overwhelmed? What do those passages remind you about God? 5. What are ways we might unintentionally make someone's anxiety worse when we're trying to help? 6. How might experiencing our own weakness change the way we respond to others who are struggling? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa talk to Tara-Leigh Cobble about how she got over her lack of desire to read the Bible, and how, over time, reading the Bible made her fall in love with its author. They talk about the transformative impact that can come from giving just 20 minutes to Bible reading each day, and they recommend free tools to help readers understand difficult parts of the Bible. Resources Mentioned: The Bible Recap (Podcast) The Bible Recap (Book) ESV Study Bible Free Tools for Studying the Bible: Faithlife Study Bible The Bible Project Blue Letter Bible TGC Bible Commentary Desiring God Sermon Archive Look at the Book Related Resources: Read the Bible My Favorite Bible in a Year Reading Plan Easy Schedule for Bible-in-a-Year Rookies DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. What has your relationship with Bible reading looked like over the years? Has it changed in different seasons of life? 2. What would it look like to pursue consistency in Bible reading without making perfection the goal? 3. What habits, practices, or resources have helped you stay engaged in God's Word? 4. What benefits of reading and studying God's Word with other believers have you experienced? 5. Can you remember a time when God's Word met you in a particular need? What did you learn about him? 6. How does remembering that the Bible reveals God's character (not just information) change the way you approach difficult passages? 7. What is one practical step you want to take toward spending more meaningful time in God's Word this week? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa discuss why Christians should not be quick to take offense and how we should live in a world of people who are. They talk about how to resist a victim mentality by getting your eyes off yourself. They commend overlooking and absorbing offenses when possible. They discuss why we must boldly hold to Christian doctrines that the world finds offensive, but that it’s possible to hold and even articulate offensive views in a way that communicates love and grace. Related Resources: How to Find Peace When You Feel Offended We’re Hurt, and Healed, in Community Recognizing Our Own Marks of Righteousness DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. When you're offended, what’s your first instinct—to overlook it, confront it, replay it in your mind, or tell someone else? Why do you think that is? 2. What kinds of comments or situations are most likely to offend you? What might that reveal about what you value? 3. The Bible describes people in the last days as "lovers of self" (2 Tim. 3:2). How might a self-focused culture make us more easily offended? 4. Can you think of a time when someone graciously overlooked an offense from you? How did that affect your relationship? 5. Before addressing an offense, what questions might be helpful to ask yourself? 6. How does knowing that God is our Defender free us from needing to defend ourselves all the time? 7. Who in your life demonstrates the kind of patience, humility, and long-suffering described in Scripture? What have you learned from his or her example? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney Doctor talks with Rory Shiner and Kyle Worley about the difference the doctrine of union with Christ makes in how we understand our relationship to God and how we live our lives day to day. They provide analogies to help us understand this seemingly abstract concept as well as examples of the practical difference this truth makes in their own lives. If you’ve struggled to understand why union with Christ is a big deal, or struggled with doubts about your relationship with God, this conversation is for you. Resources Mentioned: One Forever: The Transforming Power of Being in Christ by Rory Shiner Home with God by Kyle Worley Related Resources: Union with Christ (Overview Essay) Union with Christ Fills Our Deepest Longings Union with Christ: A Key Doctrine for Global Partnerships DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Before listening to this episode, how would you have explained what it means to be "in Christ"? Has your understanding changed? 2. What are you most tempted to find your identity in besides Christ (accomplishments, relationships, struggles, failures, etc.)? 3. Why do you think Scripture so often describes believers as being "in Christ"? What does that communicate about salvation? 4. How does knowing that your union with Christ is secure change the way you approach communion with God through prayer, worship, or confession? 5. How might the truth of union with Christ encourage someone struggling with shame, anxiety, or depression? 6. Union with Christ means we’re united not only to Christ but also to his people. How should that shape the way we view the church and other believers? 7. In what area of your life or current struggle do you most need to be reminded of your union with Christ? How can your discussion partners pray for you? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa discuss how to apply biblical discernment to the question of when to prioritize wise self-care and when to put aside your needs for the sake of others. They emphasize the need to know yourself and whether you naturally tend to protect yourself or to allow your own needs to go unmet. They discuss how to set wise boundaries while showing Christlike love, and they emphasize that our goal should be to move beyond thinking so much about ourselves to turning our eyes to Jesus. Resources Mentioned: The Future Tenses of the Blessed Life by F. B. Meyer Related Resources: Self-Care or Soul-Care? Yes Sabbath Is More than Self-Care Does ‘Turn the Other Cheek’ Mean ‘Get Walked All Over’? Think Biblically About Relational Boundaries DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. When you hear the phrase “self-care,” what ideas come to mind? What forms of self-care are most attractive to you? 2. Which extreme do you tend to drift toward more naturally: prioritizing your own comfort or neglecting your own needs? Why do you think that is? 3. What are some ordinary, everyday ways Christians are called to deny themselves? 4. How can self-sacrifice become unhealthy if disconnected from abiding in Christ? 5. When you’re tired or discouraged, where do you instinctively turn for comfort? What might that reveal about your heart? 6. How can Sabbath rest help reshape our understanding of both work and self-care? 7. How does the gospel free us from both self-indulgence and self-reliance? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Melissa talks with Amy Gannett and Laura Wifler about how to parent in a way that passes on the Christian faith. They talk about the atmosphere in their own homes growing up and the importance of passing on—in addition to knowledge—a delight in the things of God. They encourage moms who might feel awkward talking to their kids about their own faith, and they share some favorite resources they’ve used with their own children. Resources Mentioned: Barna study on church attendance in childhood First Catechism Teaching Theology to Young Children (Melissa’s thoughts on teaching the catechism) Slugs and Bugs, Sing the Bible Tiny Theologians Long Story Short: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God by Marty Machowski Dispatches from the Front Related Resources: Parenting with Hope in an Anxious Age A Theological Vision for Discipling the Next Generation Redeem the Drive Time: Audio Resources for Families The Good News Family Devotional by Mike and Melissa Kruger DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. When you think back on your own childhood or spiritual upbringing, what particular people God used to shape your faith? 2. In busy seasons of life, what tends to crowd out intentional spiritual conversations in the home? 3. What are some realistic ways families can pursue spiritual rhythms without feeling pressured to do everything perfectly? 4. How has parenting, or investing in the next generation, revealed your own need for dependence on the Lord? 5. How can admitting our failures actually strengthen our witness to those we shepherd? 6. Whether or not you have children of your own, how might God be calling you to invest in the next generation spiritually? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Melissa Kruger and Courtney Doctor talk about how to seek out the counsel of wise friends and how to respond well when friends seek your counsel. They discuss how to ask good questions, how to deliver a gentle rebuke when necessary, how to follow up on requests for accountability, and how to point someone to Scripture without treating it like a Bible Band-Aid. Listen prayerfully to prepare yourself for opportunities that arise to bear one another’s burdens. Recommended Resources: I’m Praying for You by Nancy Guthrie Count It All Joy by Helen Roseveare Related Content: 7 Things to Say to a Hurting Loved One Why Mentoring Is Better Than Asking Alexa The Neglected Ministry of Asking Questions Discussion Questions: 1. Considering examples of people who have supported you in difficult seasons, what qualities do you appreciate most in them? 2. In what ways have you struggled to balance extending both grace and truth in your own “kitchen-table counseling”? 3. How can we ensure any necessary rebukes we deliver are given with gentleness? 4. What helps you determine whether someone is “safe” to confess a burden or sin to? 5. In what ways could you make yourself a more approachable and available source of counsel for those who need your support? 6. How can your discussion partners pray for you as you point others to God in difficult situations? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa discuss the importance of pursuing spiritual growth during the summer, despite disrupted routines. They talk about practices and strategies that have helped them grow during the summer and on vacation. They recommend lots of resources for summer drop-in Bible studies and encourage listeners to consider living missionally by hosting a study or discussion group in their homes with their neighbors. Resources Mentioned: Disciplines of Devotions series Navigators Topical Memory System Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood by Melissa B. Kruger Remember Your Joy: A Bible Study of Salvation Stories in the Old Testament Fruitful: Cultivating a Spiritual Harvest That Won't Leave You Empty Turn Your Eyes: A Bible Study on the Psalms In View of God's Mercies: The Gift of the Gospel in Romans by Courtney Doctor Growing Together by Melissa B. Kruger The Pursuit of God by A. W. Tozer Related Resources: Summer Vacation Is No Sabbath Scroll Less, Stroll More: A Summer Challenge to Leave Your Phone at Home The Benefits of Going to Church on Vacation DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. What tends to happen to your routines for spiritual disciplines during the more relaxed summer months or in vacation seasons? Why do you think that is? 2. What distractions most often compete for your attention during the summer? 3. How have relationships with other believers helped sustain your faith during times when your own spiritual disciplines felt inconsistent? 4. How can women’s ministry leaders or churches help people remain connected and spiritually encouraged during less structured seasons like summer? 5. How can we pursue spiritual growth from a place of delight in Christ rather than guilt or pressure? 6. What opportunities will you have (in your neighborhood, while traveling, through hospitality, or in everyday conversations) to invite others into spiritual conversations or Christian community? 7. What is one step you want to take this summer to cultivate deeper communion with God? Head to cozyearth.com and use our code DEEP for an exclusive 20% off, and if you see a post-purchase survey, be sure to mention you heard about Cozy Earth from us here at The Deep Dish! Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Melissa Kruger and Courtney Doctor talk with Michael Graham about what Christians should know about artificial intelligence. They discuss the benefits it could bring to society and how they personally use it. They consider theological categories and questions for how to evaluate which uses are helpful and which are dangerous. Finally, Graham explains the Christian Benchmark project and how it exposes the inherent biases in AI platforms. Key Terms: Generative AI: Large language models (LLM) that can simulate conversation and create audio, video, and text based on prompts (ChatGPT, Anthropic, Claude, and Grok). Agentic AI: Systems that are semi- or fully autonomous and thus able to perceive, reason, and act on their own . Resources Mentioned: What Is Tri-perspectivalism ? by John Frame Mindset by Carol S. Dweck AI Christian Benchmark Project Related Resources: ‘Not a Child-Safe Technology’ 3 Questions to Evaluate AI Use Can You Rely on AI for Theology? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Before listening to this episode, what was your view of AI (benefit, threat, or neutral)? Has that perspective changed? 2. What are some ways AI can be used for good in work, ministry, or everyday life? 3. Are there certain uses of AI that concern you? Why? 4. Why is it important to realize that AI isn’t a neutral source? How does that shape the way you interact with it? 5. How can we help younger generations develop discernment in addition to skills when it comes to AI? 6. What does it look like to trust God’s sovereignty in times of rapid cultural and technological change? 7. What’s one step you would like to take in using technology intentionally and faithfully? Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too. Head to cozyearth.com and use our code DEEP for an exclusive 20% off, and if you see a post-purchase survey, be sure to mention you heard about Cozy Earth from us here at The Deep Dish! Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney Doctor talks with Wendy Alsup and Vaneetha Rendall Risner about their experiences of divorce. They share the Scripture passages that helped them keep going and talk honestly about what to say (and what not to say) to someone going through a divorce. They explain why it can be hard for a newly divorced Christian to go to church and why it’s vital to go anyway. Resources Mentioned: Walking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and Redemption by Vaneetha Rendall Risner I Forgive You by Wendy Alsup Related Resources: This Was Never the Plan: Walking with God Through the Heartache of Divorce by Vaneetha Rendall Risner Hope When Your Spouse Divorces You Why I’m Going Back to Church After My Divorce A Case for Being Honest with Your Elders When Shame Remains After Divorce DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. How has divorce affected your family or close friendships? What were the hardest spiritual or emotional struggles you or those close to you faced during that season? 2. What promises of God are especially important to remember when walking through deep disappointment or loss? 3. If you knew a friend was going through a divorce, what might hold you back from reaching out to her? 4. In what ways have you seen the church support women (and their children) walking through unwanted divorce well? In what ways could the church provide more support or encouragement to the marginalized or hurting? 5. What suggestions from this conversation helped you understand how to walk with friends or family navigating divorce? 6. In seasons when you cannot control outcomes for your family, what does it look like to trust God? 7. What does gospel hope look like in the aftermath of something as painful as divorce? Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too. Head to cozyearth.com and use our code DEEP for an exclusive 20% off, and if you see a post-purchase survey, be sure to mention you heard about Cozy Earth from us here at The Deep Dish! Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Melissa and Courtney talk with Emily Jensen about how to broaden our understanding of worship to think of it as a response to God’s worth. Worship is more than singing on Sunday morning, but corporate worship is an essential part of the worship God desires. They talk about the role our feelings should play in how we think about worship and how to offer up the mundane moments of our lives to the glory of God. Resources Mentioned: Worship (Disciplines of Devotion) by Emily A. Jensen “ God Moves In a Mysterious Way ” “ Holy Forever ” “ We Rest on Thee ” Related Resources: A Biblical Theology of Worship Leading Worship Is Worship Gospel-Shaped Worship DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. What is a hymn or worship song that has encouraged you recently? 2. Before listening to this episode, how would you have defined worship? How does the definition that worship is “our response to who God is and what he has done” expand or challenge your thinking? 3. What are some everyday moments in your life that could become opportunities for worship? What could that look like for you? 4. What’s the difference between using worship to change our feelings and worshiping because God is worthy, regardless of how we feel? 5. What has helped you approach worship, even when you feel anxious, distracted, or spiritually dry? 6. What modern-day idols compete for our worship? 7. How does the image of a child offering imperfect efforts to a loving parent shape the way you think about your own worship? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa talk about how to recognize and repent of the ways we may be relying on self-righteousness rather than the righteousness of Christ. They talk about tribalism, what happens when debatable issues are treated as primary, and how, paradoxically, the areas where we feel despair may point to areas of pride or self-righteousness in our lives. Related Resources: Finding the Right Hills to Die On by Gavin Ortlund The Sticky Sin of Always Being Right Self-Righteousness Wears Many Disguises DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. What are some things that come to mind (such as good practices or habits) that can quietly become a source of pride? 2. In what ways do you notice self-righteousness creep into Christian community in subtle or socially acceptable ways? 3. Are there particular areas of obedience or conviction where you feel tempted to compare yourself with others? What might that reveal about your heart? 4. In Philippians 3:4–10, Paul calls his impressive spiritual résumé “rubbish” compared with knowing Christ. What does this passage teach us about the difference between our righteousness and Christ’s righteousness? 5. Why do you think it can be so easy to trust in our own efforts rather than resting in Christ’s righteousness? 6. What are some red flags in your thoughts, attitudes, or conversations that might signal self-righteousness creeping in? 7. How can Christian communities encourage holiness and obedience without creating an atmosphere of pride, comparison, or tribalism? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa talk with New Testament scholar (and Melissa’s husband) Mike Kruger about the excellent evidence that Jesus physically rose from the dead and the difference that makes for our lives. Dr. Kruger points out that because Jesus predicted his own resurrection, it validates his claims to be the Son of God and the Messiah. Dr. Kruger highlights the resurrection's transformative effects on early Christians, including their willingness to be martyred for their faith. Related Resources: Did the Resurrection Really Happen? (TGC Hard Questions) by Timothy Paul Jones 3 Reasons to Believe in the Resurrection Why Is the Resurrection Good News? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Why do you think the resurrection continues to be questioned or dismissed in our culture? 2. Why is the resurrection not just one doctrine among many but central to the Christian faith? What would Christianity lose if the resurrection weren't true? 3. What evidence of Christ’s resurrection is particularly compelling to you? 4. Read 1 Corinthians 15 together. Paul says that if Christ hasn't been raised, our faith is futile—but if he has been raised, everything changes. As a result, what should change in our view of suffering? our courage in evangelism? our fight against sin? our hope in death? 5. How does the knowledge that Christ is alive and reigning without rival make a difference in your life right now? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

To celebrate the first birthday of The Deep Dish , Courtney and Melissa welcome special surprise guests to answer tough questions sent in by listeners. They talk about the difference between shame and the Spirit's conviction, how to seek advice about a conflict without gossiping, how to sit with the tension of a biblical text, how to keep the Sabbath, and more. Resources Mentioned: Remembering Death Teaches Us to Live The Dish on Gossip Becoming Good Stewards of Our Bodies Conversations with God When You Want to Change Your Husband Related Resources: Sabbath Rest (Disciplines of Devotion series) by Megan Hill Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin Gospel Parenting During the Little Years Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa discuss helpful practices they’ve used in their prayer lives, including developing regular rhythms, alternating prayer with Scripture reading, and incorporating confession of sin as a part of personal prayer. They talk about how to be faithful to a promise to pray for someone else and how to make prayer part of a friendship. Rather than speaking from a place of prescriptive legalism, Melissa and Courtney speak with infectious enthusiasm about the possibilities of a rich and growing prayer life. Resources Mentioned: The Deep Dish: Conversations with God Lord, Teach Me to Pray in 28 Days by Kay Arthur 5 Things to Pray for Your Kids by Melissa Kruger 5 Things to Pray for Your Spouse by Melissa Kruger The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian Parenting with Hope by Melissa Kruger I’m Praying for You: 40 Days of Praying the Bible for Someone Who Is Suffering by Nancy Guthrie Piercing Heaven: Prayers of the Puritans edited by Robert Elmer Every Moment Holy series Related Resources Prayer (Disciplines of Devotion series) by Courtney Reissig In Prayer, Structure Serves Spontaneity 7 Ways to Fight Distraction in Prayer DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Do you have a routine for prayer? When and where do you usually pray? 2. What strategies do you use to organize your prayer time and guard against distractions? 3. How has God used prayer to rightly orient you toward seeking his will above your own? 4. When have you struggled to persevere in prayer or to accept an answer to prayer? 5. What benefits have you experienced as a result of praying with others (family, friends, or ministry partners)? 6. What next step will you take in your practice of prayer? What do you want to start, stop, or continue doing? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Melissa and Courtney talk with Jen Oshman about the lie that our worth is measured by what we possess. They discuss why we try to fill a God-shaped hole with earthly things and how to recognize materialism in our lives. They talk about strategies to combat materialism, including inviting trusted friends into your financial decisions, seeking to be as generous to others as possible, and setting your heart on heavenly possessions rather than earthly ones. Resources Mentioned: Heaven by Randy Alcorn The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn Related Resources: Materialism, Money, and Me Culture Materialism Is Easy to Decry and Hard to Avoid Covetousness: The Sin Behind the Sin DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. In what ways do you see materialism connected to deeper desires in your heart? How might you be settling for lesser gifts instead of storing up treasure in heaven? 2. What types of things most often capture your attention or stir up desire (e.g., clothes, home decor, technology, experiences)? 3. What rhythms or practices (daily, weekly, or monthly) could help you become more mindful of how you consume, spend, and steward what God has given you? 4. Share a time when you experienced God’s abundant provision. How does remembering his care grow your desire to trust him and reflect his generosity? 5. What Scriptures or truths about God’s character help reorient your heart when you feel the pull toward “more”? 6. How could other believers help you with accountability or input in the areas of spending, consumption, and giving? 7. What’s one next step you would like to take based on what you’ve heard and discussed today? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney Doctor talks with Colleen Chao about how her faith has grown and flourished through living with a terminal cancer diagnosis. They discuss the difficulty of knowing she may not live to see her son grow up, what keeps her clinging to Jesus, and what excites her about the life to come. Colleen expounds a rich theology of suffering accompanied by contagious joy in the Lord. Resources Mentioned: She Laughs at the Days to Come (Colleen’s story) Related Resources: The Secret to Living Hope in the Face of Death How to Help When Cancer Strikes Your Church Experiencing God in Your Affliction Review: "Out of the Shadow World" by Colleen Chao DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. How do you practice “setting your mind on things above” amid ordinary life or in seasons of suffering? 2. What circumstances or experiences have made you more aware of your limitations? 3. How have you experienced the closeness of your Shepherd in dark or fearful seasons? In what specific ways has his nearness been your good? 4. What does it mean to think of suffering as something you’re “entrusted with”? How does that perspective shape the way you steward hard experiences? 5. As you think about eternity with God, what excites or comforts you most about the life to come? 6. What does it look like to entrust those we love most to God when the future feels uncertain? 7. What truths from God’s Word have most strengthened or steadied you in seasons of suffering? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa talk with Christine Hoover about why we need friends and how to make them. They discuss how to get over the awkwardness of walking into a room where you don’t know anyone, why our friendships may shift in different life stages, how our friends shape us, and how an idealized view of friendship (where your friends never disappoint you) runs counter to the gospel. RESOURCES MENTIONED: The Hard Work of Lifelong Friendships RELATED RESOURCES: Want to Grow in Wisdom? You Need Gospel Friends. Why Ministry Partners Are Better than Instagram Friends How to Be the Friend You’ve Always Wanted Messy Beautiful Friendship by Christine K. Hoover DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. How has your experience of making friends changed in different seasons of your life? Which seasons have been most challenging, and why? 2. In what ways are your current friendships gospel-centered? Where do you sense room for growth? 3. Where has God placed you—at church, at work, at home, or in your community—to notice and include those who may feel overlooked or alone? 4. What qualities of a faithful, Christlike friend are you asking God to grow in you right now? 5. How does the gospel speak to the fears or expectations that hinder our friendships? 6. How are you intentionally prioritizing fellowship with Christ? How does your relationship with him shape what you offer in your friendships? 7. What next step is God calling you to take in your pursuit of gospel-centered friendship? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Courtney and Melissa talk with Jen Wilkin about how they each related to their siblings while growing up, how those relationships have changed over the years, and how to foster a healthy relationship with adult siblings. In this laughter-filled conversation, they talk about how they dealt with conflict among their own children, words of wisdom they wished they’d heard sooner, and how to encourage kindness and love between siblings throughout their lives. RESOURCES MENTIONED: I Am the Light of the World (Jen’s message at TGCW24) Being Mortal by Atul Gawande RELATED RESOURCES: Help! My Kids Won’t Stop Fighting Raising an Alien Child How to Handle Family Conflict This Holiday Season DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. What was your relationship with your siblings like as you were growing up? How has it developed over the years? 2. What patterns of dealing with conflict do you see in your family (past or present)? 3. What has God taught you about conflict resolution through your sibling relationships? 4. How do you see your children (or children you’re close to) developing friendships in their sibling relationships? What’s challenging about this? How would you like to encourage this more? 5. As you interact with your adult siblings, in what ways might you be reverting to childhood roles? How can you guard against this? 6. How are your siblings navigating (or planning to navigate) care for aging parents? What advice from this episode was helpful as you consider how to do this well? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Melissa and Courtney talk with Raechel Myers and Amanda Bible Williams about how they learned to love the Bible. They discuss both the challenges and rewards of studying Scripture, memorizing it, and learning to interpret it in community. They explain the difference in thinking the Bible is written to you and understanding that it was written for you. Resources Mentioned: She Reads Truth The Bible Is for You: A Devotional Journey Through Every Book of the Bible Edited by Raechel Myers and Amanda Bible Williams Daily Light Related Content: How to Study the Bible Keep Reading Your Bible, Even If You Don’t Understand It TGC Course: Mining God’s Word DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. In a few words, describe your current attitude toward and practice of engaging with God’s Word. 2. How has your approach to reading and studying Scripture changed over time? What habits or rhythms are helping you prioritize it in your current season? 3. How did this conversation deepen your understanding of the unique nature and power of God’s Word? 4. How has your understanding of God grown as you’ve spent time in his Word? 5. How has Scripture ministered to you in difficult circumstances? How is his Word ministering to you currently? 6. In what ways has studying the Bible alongside others encouraged or shaped you? 7. What’s one thing you want to start, stop, or change in your practice of engaging with Scripture? Pick up a copy of Stand In Awe wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/standinawe to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Get 20% off a course of your choice when you use code DEEPDISH20 at checkout. Learn more and register now at lifeway.com/academy . That’s lifeway.com/academy Check out The Pour Over Podcast — politically neutral news for people who want the facts without the spin, and with a brief biblical perspective Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition! Click here to sign up for notification of on-demand access to keynotes and breakout sessions from our recent conference, TGCW26! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.