Tell Me More - A Southland Christian Church Podcast

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Suffering and Comfort Oct 28, 2024

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, we take a look at James 5:7-12, a passage that speaks to patience, perseverance, and trusting God through difficult times. We’ll explore how these verses encourage us as women to remain steadfast in our faith, even when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. We'll discuss what it looks like to wait patiently for God's timing, avoid grumbling, and hold on to the hope of His promises as well as live lives of integrity.

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Opening Question: Tell us about a personal experience where you had to exercise patience and endurance, especially in the midst ofsomething hard.

Read James 5:7-12 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?
What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to betransparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more,etc.)
1. Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?
Have you witnessed examples of peoplein your life who have persevered through suffering well? Like Job and the prophets, who have you seen who has waited on the Lord and shown patience?
Read verse 8 together. What does it look likefor you to actually “be patient and stand firm?” Some versions translate this as “take courage” or “establish your hearts.” What resonates with you? How do you livethat out in theface of suf ering?
Read verse 12 together. What kind of words and language does suf ering or trials “squeeze” out of you? Can others trust what you say is true and reliable, even if you’re frustrated or being challenged?
What is something from this passagethat is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

Action Step:

You’ve almost studied the whole book of James! Get ready for episode 11 by reading the rest of the book (5:13-20). Write down any questions you have or whatstands out to you.

Want our recommendationsfor additional Bible Study Resources? Go here. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jMNi9lOjjRiosGgh30phWoUqck0dxTbB/view

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Arrogance and Humility Oct 21, 2024

In this episode of Tell Me More, we’ll explore James 4:13-5:6, where James warns us about the dangers of pride and planning without God. We’ll talk about what it means to live with humility, recognizing that our lives are in God’s hands and not our own. As we dive into this passage, we’ll also reflect on the warnings against living independently from God and neglecting to remember that He is in control instead of us. We’ll also be reminded of the importance of living generously as women of faith. Join us as we learn to surrender our plans to God, trust His will, and live with an eternal perspective!

Opening Question: Share a time when you had big plans that went wrong (or went a different direction that ended up being for your good, thanks to God’s will!).

Read James 4:13-5:6 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?
What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to be transparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more, etc.)
1. Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?
Do you think that in this passage, James is teaching us that God doesn’t like planning?
Have you heard of sins of COmission versus sins of Omission? What does this passage tell us about that?
Why do you think James (and Jesus!) seem to have so many warnings for rich people?
What material things do you tend to put your hope and trust in? Money? A sense of security? Your plans? Your job? Abilities? Etc.? What does trusting God instead of those things look like in your life this week?
What is something from this passage that is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

Action Step: Get ready for episode 10 by reading James 5:7-12. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you.

Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources? Go here. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jMNi9lOjjRiosGgh30phWoUqck0dxTbB/view

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Worldliness and Godliness Oct 14, 2024

In today’s episode of Tell Me More, we’ll dig into James 4:1-12, where James challenges us to confront our pride and exchange it for humility. As women seeking to live out our faith, we’ll discuss the dangers of pride, selfish desires, and worldliness, and how they can lead us away from God's peace. More importantly, we’ll unpack the beauty of God's grace and His invitation to draw near to Him in humility. Tune in as we talk about surrendering our pride, resisting the enemy, and finding true freedom and closeness with God.

Opening Question:

Was there a desire that you had as a kid (like wanting a certain toy, or to go somewhere, or have some sort of experience) that you never ended up getting?

Read James 4:1-12 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?

What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to be transparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more, etc.)

Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?

How should this passage affect your prayer life and the things you desire?

What does it mean to “have friendship with the world” in the way that James uses that phrase? Why do you think he calls that adultery?

Verses 7-10 give us ten (ten!) commands of what we should do, but it also highlights how God responds to us. What does this tell us about ourselves? About God?

What is something from this passage that is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

BONUS QUESTION: Did you read the additional resource we linked last week? If not, you can find it here. If so, what did you learn? What helped your understanding of this passage?

Action Step:

Get ready for episode 9 by reading James 4:13-5:6. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you.

Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources? Go here.

Tell Me More About The Book of James: False Wisdom and True Wisdom Oct 07, 2024

In this episode, we’ll look at James 3:13-18, and explore what it means to live a life marked by true wisdom. Together, we’ll unpack how God calls us as women to cultivate humility, gentleness, and peace, contrasting it with the world's version of wisdom, which often leads to disorder and strife. Whether you’re navigating personal relationships, work, or ministry, this passage offers practical insights on embracing a life that reflects God’s heart. Join us as we discuss how to discern wisdom from above and apply it in our everyday lives.

Opening Question:

Share one or two “tidbits” of wisdom that someone passed along to you that have proven

true (or handy).

Read James 3:13-18 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?
What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to be transparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more, etc.)
1. Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?
Based on what James teaches here, what are some “red flags” that are a sure sign of false wisdom? Where do you see that playing out around you?
Some of the characteristics of God's wisdom that James identifies are:
1. pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
2. What of these things seems the most counter-intuitive to you? How can you invite God’s wisdom to give you more “good fruit”?According to verse13 how does someone demonstrate wisdom and understanding?
What is something from this passage that is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

Action Step (read closely!):

Get ready for episode 8 by reading James 4:1-12. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you. In addition to reading the Bible verses for next week, HERE is an article that we recommend reading to provide some additional commentary and insight to next week’s passage.

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Blessing and Cursing Sep 30, 2024

In today’s episode of Tell Me More, we’ll explore James 3:1-12 and the profound impact our words can have. This passage highlights the power of the tongue—both to build each other up and to tear each other down. How can we learn to control our speech and reflect Christ in what we say? How can we use our speech to edify others and treat them as the image-bearers of Jesus that they are? Join us as we discuss the challenges this scripture issues, the importance of speaking life-giving things, and how our words can be used for good and to honor God.

Opening Question:

All of us can remember kind things and cruel things that were said to us. Share a time when a single word, phrase, or sentence had a significant impact on your life.

Read James 3:1-12 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?

What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to be transparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more, etc.) Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?

How does our control over our tongues relate to our overall spiritual growth and relationship with God?

When is it appropriate to remain silent rather than speak? How can silence be a form of wisdom?

James paints six different pictures of the tongue in this passage: the bit, the rudder, the fire, a poisonous animal, a fountain, and a fig tree. Which of these metaphors sticks out to you, and why?

How can our words contribute to unity and harmony within the church and our communities?

What is something from this passage that is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

Action Step:

Get ready for episode 7 by reading James 3:13-18. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you.

Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources?

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jMNi9lOjjRiosGgh30phWoUqck0dxTbB/view

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Faith and Works Sep 23, 2024

In this episode, we dive deep into James 2:14-26, a passage that challenges us to examine the connection between faith and works. What does it mean for our faith to be alive? How do faith and works intertwine and what do they look like practically in our lives? Join us as we unpack these verses, exploring the balance between belief and behavior, and how our everyday choices can reflect a genuine, active faith.

Opening Questions: What is a non-negotiable part of your morning routine?

What is one of the mostselfless acts you’ve everseen or heard ofsomeone doing?

Read James 2:14-26 together and discuss.
- Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?
What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to betransparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more,etc.)
- Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?
These verses from James havelong been controversial because of how they appear to contradict that we are “saved by gracethrough faith” in Eph 2:8. Paul’s major contention is that we are justified by faith, not works. How can wereconcilethese with James’ argument that “faith without works is dead”? If the Bible doesn’t contradict itself...what does this mean?
- If you need help understanding this, check THIS out. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NQHGdRAUzf2GjrRb7-O_lSeBhXW9i-NH0jMegsdT0JI/edit
Which iseasier for you: talking about your faith with others or demonstrating your love toward them?
What is something from this passagethat is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

Action Step: Get ready for episode 5 by reading James 3:1-12. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you. Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources? https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jMNi9lOjjRiosGgh30phWoUqck0dxTbB/view

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Judgment and Mercy Sep 16, 2024

In today’s episode, we’ll explore James 2:1-13, where James challenges us to confront favoritism and embrace a life marked by mercy and love. We’ll unpack what it means to treat others with the same grace God has shown us, regardless of their social status or appearance.

James reminds us that faith and partiality cannot coexist and that true faith is revealed through loving others as ourselves. Join us as we dig deep into this powerful passage and discover how to cultivate a heart that reflects God’s love for all people.

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Opening Question: Are you more of a rule follower or a rule breaker? Give an example of what you mean. Read James 2:1-13 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?
What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to be transparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more, etc.)
1. Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?
In what ways have you seen favoritism displayed in your life, both personally and in the world around you?
What do you think it means to be "rich in faith" as described in verse 5?
How does the idea of being judged by the law contrast with being saved by grace?
Can you think of a time when you were shown mercy when you deserved judgment?
What is something from this passage that is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

Action Step: Get ready for episode 5 by reading James 2:14-26. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you.

Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources? Go here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jMNi9lOjjRiosGgh30phWoUqck0dxTbB/view

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Hearing and Doing Sep 09, 2024

In this episode, we dive into James 1:19-27, where James gives us practical wisdom on how to live out our faith in everyday life. We'll talk about being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger—important keys to living in peace with others. We’ll also explore what it means to be "doers" of the Word, not just hearers, and how living out God’s Word leads to true freedom.

From taming our tongues to caring for the vulnerable, James shows us how our faith should be reflected in our actions. Tune in as we discuss aligning our hearts, words, and deeds with God's perfect will!

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Opener:

Optionally, play the game that Jess and Sarah played at the beginning of the podcast. If that doesn’t fit the vibe of your group, here’s some questions to get conversation flowing!

What are the non-negotiable parts of your morning routine?
When you get frustrated about something, do you tend to stuff down or speak up?

Read James 1:19-27 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?
What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to be transparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more, etc.)
1. Did you do any research about those questions? What did you learn?
In what areas of your life do you struggle with controlling your tongue? How can you seek God's help to improve?
How does the definition of "pure religion" in this passage challenge your understanding of faith/spirituality?
This passage really leans into the challenge of not just listening to the Word but applying it to our lives. So, let’s practice that now.
1. What is something from this passage that is hard for you to obey? How can you grow in obedience of God’s Word (don’t be afraid to get specific!)?

Action Step:

Get ready for episode 4 by reading James 2:1-13. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you.

Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources? Go Here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jMNi9lOjjRiosGgh30phWoUqck0dxTbB/view

Tell Me More About The Book of James: Trials and Temptations Sep 02, 2024

In today’s episode of the Tell Me More podcast, we’ll be walking through James 1:1-18, where James kicks off his letter with a powerful message about faith, trials, and God's unwavering goodness. We’ll explore how trials and temptations test our faith, the blessings that come from perseverance, and how God never fails to provide wisdom when we ask.

Join us as we unpack James’ encouragement to find joy in difficult circumstances and trust in God's perfect timing and provision. Whether you’re facing a challenge or simply seeking to grow in your faith, this episode will inspire and equip you with practical truth straight from the Word.

_______________________________ The opening passage of James talks about going through life’s trials, so start out group time by playing this silly game.

WOULD YOU RATHER:

Get a flat tire or have a cavity?
Never be able to listen to music again, or never be able to watch movies/tv again?
Never have an empty sink, no matter how often you wash dishes, or never have a clean floor, no matter how often you sweep?
Feel 15 years older than you actually are or look 15 years older than you actually are?
Have your wallet stolen or a bad haircut?

Read James 1:1-18 together and discuss.

Was there a phrase or word that stood out to you?
What questions does this bring up? (this is an opportunity for us to be transparent about what we don’t understand, or need to dig into some more, etc.)
What does this passage teach us about the difference between “trials” and “temptations?”
1. What does this passage teach us about how to respond to those things?
What is something from this passage that is hard for you to obey?
1. How can you grow in obedience to what this text teaches us?
Time to get real-- share a trial or a temptation that you are currently facing. Close your time together by praying for one another.

Get ready for episode 3 by reading James 1:19-27. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you. Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources? Go here.

Tell Me More About The Book of James Aug 26, 2024

Our hosts are back for Season 3 of the Tell Me More podcast, and this season we’re doing things a little differently. Over the next 12 episodes, we’ll be reading through the book of James, a powerful letter in the New Testament that offers timeless wisdom for navigating the challenges of life.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the context for this book, who James was, and briefly explore the key themes of the book. Whether you're new to the Bible or a seasoned reader, this episode will provide fresh insights and practical applications for your daily walk with Christ. Grab your Bible and join us this season as we take a deeper look at the teachings of James!

______________________ Share one good thing that’s happened in your life recently! As the Tell Me More podcast is going through the book of James together, we invite you to join along with us.

1. What are your excitements or hesitations about the new approach we’re taking in Season 3?

2. By going through James alongside us, what are you hoping for?

In your journey of reading God’s Word, have you ever taken the time to learn the context of what you’re reading to help your study go deeper?

3. If yes, how has that made a difference in your understanding of the Bible? What tools do you use for additional study?

4. If no, what questions do you have?

Jess, Lydia, and Sarah talked about various pieces of context to help set us up for studying the book of James (like major themes, the author of the book, the original audience of the book, and even some pieces of historical context).

5. Was there anything that stood out to you about the background of the book of James? What was new information to you?

Get ready for episode 2 by reading James 1:1-18. Write down any questions you have or what stands out to you.

Want our recommendations for additional Bible Study Resources? Go here.

Tell Me More About The End of Season 2 Jun 17, 2024

In the final episode of Tell Me More, our hosts get together to talk about what we’ve learned over this season and what we hope to accomplish in Season 3. Thanks for joining us for these last eight episodes! If you have suggestions for Season 3, head to southland.church/podcast or email us at general@southland.church.

Tell Me More About Gratitude Jun 10, 2024

In this episode of Tell Me More, our hosts are back together to talk about the discipline of gratitude and how we can practice that discipline no matter what season we find ourselves in. Gratitude can be easy when things are going well, but what about when life gets hard? We’ll hear what methods our hosts have put in place to practice that attitude of gratitude no matter what.

Tell Me More About Being a Light in the Workplace May 27, 2024

In this episode of Tell Me More, Jess and Sarah sat down with Leann Vandemark to talk about being a light in the workplace. Leann had a ton of wisdom to share about serving others with kindness and modeling her love for Jesus in environments that aren’t always accepting of who He is, and we’re excited to share her story and her experience on today’s episode!

Tell Me More About Healthy Dating & Marriage | Episode 5 Apr 01, 2024

In this episode of Tell Me More, our hosts dig into healthy dating and marriage.

As Christian women, we want to pursue holiness in our relationships regardless of our season of life, so we’ll sit down in this episode to discuss how we’ve pursued that in our own lives and talk about some of the experiences we’ve seen people we love walk through.

Tell Me More About Stewarding Your Sexuality | Episode 4 Mar 26, 2024

In this episode of Tell Me More, join our hosts as they talk about stewarding your sexuality as a Christian woman, what God has called us to, and what that looks like in various seasons of life.

Resources:

Counseling
Other podcasts:

Lust sermon from earlier this year:

Slaying Dragons -- Lust

Pornography recovery:

The Freedom Fight

Online resources:

Authentic Intimacy (Dr. Juli Slattery)

Sexual betrayal in marriage:

Redemptive Living - Jason & Shelley Martinkus

Books:

Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With by Sam Allberry
Darling, by Aanna Greer
Various books by Cliff and Joyce Penner
Holy Sexuality and the Gospel, Christopher Yuan

Tell Me More About Celebrating Each Other | Episode 3 Mar 19, 2024

Let’s face it. It can be difficult to celebrate the good things that happen to others when the gift they’ve received is one you’ve been praying diligently for. In this episode of Tell Me More, our hosts will talk about how to genuinely celebrate the good things that happen to others while also acknowledging the feelings of disappointment we might be experiencing.

Tell Me More About Serving | Episode 2 Mar 11, 2024

In this episode of Tell Me More, we’ll join back up with our hosts to talk about what serving each other looks like. As women, there are many things vying for our time and attention, and it is up to us to prioritize serving others. During different seasons, that will look different, but we are called to serve Biblically, and this episode will challenge us to recognize ways we can live out this aspect of our faith!

Tell Me More About Living A Healthy Life | Episode 1 Mar 04, 2024

Our hosts are back for Season 2 of Tell Me More! In this episode, join Sarah, Lydia and Jess as they talk about what living a healthy life looks like spiritually, physically and emotionally. They’ll discuss what practices they’ve put in place to maintain that health and the struggles they’ve faced as they’ve navigated various seasons of life where maintaining health was more difficult. Listen to Tell Me More: https://tellmemorescc.libsyn.com/

Watch Tell Me More: https://www.youtube.com/playlistlist=PLesnWgFzJH_vhpoBx8rDVKnQdUbuyxEmL

Parenting Podcast - Episode 1 - Parenting Begins in Our Hearts Jan 08, 2024

There isn't a tougher job on the planet than parenting! At the same time, there are a ton of voices speaking into how to do it.

We are releasing a new podcast for parents that focuses first on the heart of the parent because at the end of the day, you can't give what you don't have. We want so many things for our kids, but often what matters most when it comes to our parenting is the condition of our own hearts. That's what our new podcast is all about.

This first episode is published here on the Tell Me More podcast feed. To subscribe to future episodes, find, "Parenting - a Southland.Church podcast" on your favorite podcast platform, or listen on our website at https://southland.church/podcasts

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Episode 1: Parenting Begins in Our Hearts

The most influential thing on the hearts of our children—for good or for bad—is the state of our own hearts and what comes out of us.

We have all been influenced by our own individual experiences growing up. Some of us only had one parent around. Some of us didn’t have a strong faith component in our lives growing up—no map to guide us on what to do. Some of us may have grown up in a family where faith was a key part of daily life, but maybe we never had that personal relationship with the Father.

Our hosts for this podcast have been in some of those places, and we’ll discuss how getting our own hearts right with God is the first and most important step we can take as parents.

Tell Me More About Christmas | Episode 11 Dec 12, 2023

On this festive episode of Tell Me More, join our hosts as they talk about Christmas traditions, some of their favorite ways to celebrate, and dig into the importance of keeping our eyes focused on Jesus during what can sometimes be a chaotic time of year.

Be sure to head to Southland.Church/podcasts to weigh in on what topics your hosts should cover in season two of Tell Me More!

Tell Me More About Change | Episode 10 Nov 13, 2023

In this episode of Tell Me More, we’ll join our hosts and special guest, Keene Howard, as we talk about the changes life constantly throws at us and how we can navigate that with grace and faith in God’s plan. Keene shares with our hosts some of her story and talks about the changes she’s seen and how God has remained constant in her life.

Be sure to check out the podcast homepage at southland.church/podcasts to let us know what topics you’d like us to cover in season two!

Tell Me More About Emotional Maturity | Episode 9 Nov 07, 2023

In this episode of Tell Me More, we’ll join our hosts and guest, Annie VandenBerg, to talk about emotional maturity. Annie works with middle school students at Southland and shares how she’s personally walked through a journey of emotional maturity and what she’s seeing in the students she works with.

Watch Tell Me More on Youtube: http://bit.ly/tellmemorepod

Find other Southland.Church Podcasts: https://southland.church/podcasts

Tell me More About Conflict | Episode 8 Oct 30, 2023

In this episode of Tell Me More we’ll join Jess, Sarah and Lydia to talk about conflict. There are healthy ways to handle conflict, the Biblical way, and unhealthy ways to handle those situations, and our hosts dive into all the various facets of conflict and how to walk through it.

Watch Tell Me More on Youtube: http://bit.ly/tellmemorepod