In this engaging conversation, Amanda Hope Haley and Monika Kirkland discusses the importance of understanding biblical texts through the lens of archaeology, addressing common misconceptions, particularly regarding figures like Mary Magdalene. The conversation also explores how artistic interpretations of biblical stories can shape our understanding and the need to approach scripture with curiosity and a desire to learn.

Takeaways:

• Cultural context plays a significant role in interpreting scripture.
• Amanda's journey into biblical archaeology began with a love for scripture.
• Archaeology helps clarify perceived contradictions in scripture.
• Artistic representations of biblical stories often reflect cultural biases.
• Mary Magdalene is misrepresented in popular culture as a sinner.
• The discovery of Magdala provides new insights into Mary Magdalene's background.
• The Bible presents characters with both strengths and flaws.
• God's commitment to humanity is reflected in the stories of the Bible.

CONNECT WITH AMANDA
Her Instagram: @AmandaHopeHaley
Her Website: RedHairedAchaeologist.com
Her Book: Stones Still Speak

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
The best way to connect with me is on Instagram but if you're looking for any of my Resources, Books, Booking Info, or Mailing list you can find all of that here as well! LINK TREE

In this episode, Monika Kirkland addresses the heavy hearts of listeners in light of recent tragic events. She emphasizes the importance of prayer, praise, and processing emotions within a community. Monika shares practical ways to respond to the turmoil in the world, encouraging listeners to seek God, worship, and engage in meaningful conversations with trusted individuals. The episode concludes with a reminder of God's sovereign plan and the hope found in Jesus.

Takeaways:

• Prayer is an active practice that teaches us how to act.
• Worship is a prophetic declaration of God's goodness.
• Processing emotions with trusted individuals is crucial for healing.
• We must not isolate ourselves during difficult times.
• Community helps preserve unity and peace.
• God's plans will prevail despite the chaos.
• In dark times, we should keep our eyes on Jesus.
• Revival starts in our hearts and homes.

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
The best way to connect with me is on Instagram but if you're looking for any of my Resources, Books, Booking Info, or Mailing list you can find all of that here as well! LINK TREE

In this episode of the Inner Revival Podcast, host Monika Kirkland speaks with Brendt Blanks, founder of She Gave It A Go, about her journey from being a marriage and family therapist to becoming an author and content creator. They discuss the importance of reframing negative thoughts, recognizing cultural lies, and anchoring oneself in God's truth. Brendt shares practical tools for discernment and growth, emphasizing the significance of community and mentorship. The conversation concludes with encouragement for women facing lies and the reminder that God's mercies are new every morning.

Takeaways:

• Women often feel pressured to hustle, but God values stillness and connection.
• Practicing gratitude can help ease anxiety and fear.
• It's never too late to start replacing negative narratives.
• Community and mentorship are vital for personal growth.
• God's mercies are new every morning, offering hope.
• Reframing thoughts can lead to better emotional responses.
• Listening to God's truth can transform our lives.

CONNECT WITH BRENDT
Her Instagram: @shegaveitago
Her Website: www.SheGaveItAGo.com
Her Book: Listen Closer

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
The best way to connect with me is on Instagram but if you're looking for any of my Resources, Books, Booking Info, or Mailing list you can find all of that here as well! LINK TREE

In this episode of the Inner Revival podcast, Monika Kirkland interviews Kristen Strong, author of 'Desperate Woman Seeks Friends.' They discuss the challenges of making and maintaining friendships, especially in the context of moving and military life. Kristen shares her personal experiences of feeling lonely and desperate for connection, the importance of managing expectations in friendships, and the pain of friendship breakups. They emphasize the need for intentionality in building relationships, the significance of prayer, and the comfort found in Jesus during lonely seasons. The conversation offers encouragement for those feeling isolated and practical tips for fostering community.

Takeaways:

• Friendship can be challenging, especially in transient lifestyles.
• Expectations in friendships can lead to disappointment.
• It's important to manage your own expectations and not overwhelm others.
• Loneliness can be a season of growth and intimacy with God.
• Friendship breakups can be as painful as romantic ones.
• Creating simple opportunities for connection can foster friendships.
• Prayer is essential in seeking community and support.
• Opening your home can create a welcoming space for friendships.
• It's okay to be the initiator in friendships; it can be a blessing.
• Jesus is our ultimate friend who never fails us.
  
  

CONNECT WITH KRISTEN
Her Instagram: @kristenstrong
Her Website: KristenStrong.com
Her Book: Desperate Woman Seeks Friends

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
The best way to connect with me is on Instagram but if you're looking for any of my Resources, Books, Booking Info, or Mailing list you can find all of that here as well! LINK TREE

• Anxiety can signal a need to turn to God.
• Grief can deepen our relationship with God.
• Waiting on God is an active process, not passive.
• Prayer and scripture reading are vital in tough times.
• Thankfulness can shift our perspective during anxiety.
• God's peace is available despite our circumstances.
• We can be honest with God about our pain.
  
  

CONNECT WITH NATALIA
Her Instagram: @sincerelybykara
Her Website: KaraStout.com
Her Book: An Untroubled Heart

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
Sign up for my monthly email list and receive a FREE PDF copy of my four-week devotional “Draw Near.” https://mailchi.mp/488305f9845f/oh-hello

Follow Monika on Instagram for more faith, lifestyle, & encouragement
https://www.instagram.com/monikakirkland/

In this conversation, Monika Kirkland and Natalia Drumm explore the complex and often avoided topic of the doctrine of hell. They discuss the challenges pastors face in addressing this subject, the importance of biblical literacy, and the various theological perspectives on hell, including eternal conscious torment, annihilationism, and universalism. The conversation emphasizes the need for a deep understanding of God's character, justice, and mercy, and encourages listeners to engage with scripture to find comfort and clarity in their faith.

Takeaways:

• The doctrine of hell is often misunderstood or avoided in modern Christianity.
• God's justice and mercy are intertwined in the conversation about hell.
• Different theological perspectives exist regarding the nature of hell.
• Fear can be a motivator for faith, but it should not be the end point.
• We must accurately teach the character of God to understand hell.
• The gospel offers a way out of hell through Jesus Christ.
• Engaging with scripture is essential for spiritual growth and understanding.

CONNECT WITH NATALIA
Her Instagram: @nataliadrumm
Her Website: www.nataliadrumm.com
Her Podcast: Girlfriends In The Word

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
Sign up for my monthly email list and receive a FREE PDF copy of my four-week devotional “Draw Near.” https://mailchi.mp/488305f9845f/oh-hello

Follow Monika on Instagram for more faith, lifestyle, & encouragement
https://www.instagram.com/monikakirkland/

In this conversation, Monika Kirkland and Jenny Randle explore the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, emphasizing the importance of spiritual gifts, prayer, and the presence of God in everyday situations. They discuss how to walk by the Spirit, the significance of prophecy, and how God can turn our messes into miracles. The conversation culminates in a prayer for listeners to encounter the Holy Spirit in their daily lives.

Takeaways:
- The Holy Spirit is often sidelined in church discussions.
- Cessationism believes spiritual gifts ceased after the apostolic age.
- Continuationism holds that spiritual gifts are still active today.
- Historical figures in the church affirmed the ongoing presence of the Holy Spirit.
- There is a need for balanced teaching on the Holy Spirit.
- Spiritual manipulation can lead to distrust in prophetic words.

CONNECT WITH JENNY
Her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenny.randle/
Her Website: https://www.jennyrandle.com
Her New Book: https://amzn.to/3FtWXOx

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
Sign up for my monthly email list and receive a FREE PDF copy of my four-week devotional “Draw Near.” https://mailchi.mp/488305f9845f/oh-hello

Follow Monika on Instagram for more faith, lifestyle, & encouragement
https://www.instagram.com/monikakirkland/

In this conversation, Ericka and Monika explore the complex relationship between alcohol consumption, mental health, and faith. They discuss the cycle of cravings, the impact of alcohol on anxiety, and the importance of recognizing unhealthy patterns. The conversation emphasizes the need for hope, support, and understanding for those struggling with alcohol, while also providing resources for recovery and encouraging a reevaluation of one's relationship with alcohol.

Takeaways:

• Drunkenness is clearly defined as a sin in the Bible.
• Alcohol can be a self-medication for stress and anxiety.
• It's important to assess if alcohol is serving your life positively.
• Social situations often pressure individuals to drink, creating discomfort for non-drinkers.
• Awareness of others' struggles with alcohol is crucial in community settings.
• Natural solutions can be more effective than alcohol.
• The noise of alcohol cravings can diminish over time.
• Self-blame is common but not necessary in recovery.
• Sharing testimonies can help others feel less alone.
• Grace and compassion are essential for those struggling with alcohol.

CONNECT WITH ERICKA
Her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericka_andersen/
Her Website: https://erickaandersen.com
Her Sobriety Toolkit: https://pitch-publish.myflodesk.com/drinking

Helpful links:
https://www.amazon.com/This-Naked-Mind-Discover-Happiness/dp/0525537236
https://www.theluckiestclub.com/
https://celebraterecovery.com/
https://sobersis.com/

CONNECT WITH MONIKA
Sign up for my monthly email list and receive a FREE PDF copy of my four-week devotional “Draw Near.” https://mailchi.mp/488305f9845f/oh-hello

Follow Monika on Instagram for more faith, lifestyle, & encouragement https://www.instagram.com/monikakirkland/