In this episode, Esther reflects on the spiritual discipline of giving God wholehearted thanks and praise. Drawing primarily from Psalm 138, she explores how gratitude rooted in God’s unchanging character can transform our praise—even in difficult seasons. Esther shares emotional insights, biblical encouragement, and practical ways to speak truth to our souls when our feelings threaten to cloud our thanksgiving and praise to God.

Scriptures Referenced: Psalm 138 (ESV). Psalm 103:1–19 (NKJV). 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (BRG).

Key Takeaways:

• Wholehearted thanks is a choice rooted in commitment, not emotion.
• Emotions are valid but not authoritative—God’s character is.
• Our beliefs about God shape our emotional responses and our praise.
• Speaking truth to our souls, like David did, helps us realign with God’s goodness.
• Even when circumstances shift, God remains worthy of our wholehearted gratitude.

Prayer Highlight:

“Lord, help us to give You wholehearted thanks—not based on how we feel, but based on who You are. Teach us to speak truth to our souls and to praise You with all that is within us.”

Resources & Mentions:

BibleProject: Heart (Lev) Word Study

Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Psalm 138

As One Being Taught Blog ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

August is a month of celebration, reflection, and thanksgiving as Esther honors her birthday all month long. In this special re-release of an episode first shared on October 20, 2024, we turn our hearts toward the Ultimate Giver—God, the Source of every good and perfect gift. Inspired by James 1:17 and the timeless Doxology hymn, this episode invites listeners into a sacred space of praise and gratitude.

Scripture Verses:

Genesis 1:1 (NKJV). Revelation 22:21 (NKJV). John 1:1–3 (NKJV). 1 Chronicles 29:14 (AMP). Hebrews 11:3 (NKJV). Psalm 33:6 (NKJV; TLB). Jeremiah 32:17 (NKJV). Revelation 4:11 (NKJV). James 1:17 (AMP). Psalm 147:4 (AMP]). Ephesians 1:3-8 (NKJV). 2 Corinthians 9:8 (AMP). Psalm 103:1-5 (AMP). Psalm 67:5-7 (GNT). Psalm 147:7 (NIV).

Mentioned Resources:

“The Doxology.” Written by Thomas Ken, 1674. Copyright Status: Public Domain.

Vaneetha Rendall Risner’s article, “What Does It Really Mean to be #Blessed?”

As One Being Taught Blog ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode we explore the profound wisdom hidden in a simple childhood bedtime prayer. Each line of this prayer becomes a doorway into deeper spiritual truths for adults navigating life’s challenges.

Scripture References:

Matthew 6:6-9 (NKJV). Romans 8:14-17 (NKJV). 1 John 3:2 (KJV). Matthew 6:25-33 (NIV). Psalm 38:9 (ERV). Psalm 139: 1-18 (NKJV). Psalm 121:5 (AMP). Isaiah 50:10 (AMP). Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV).

Mentioned Resources:

“In My Little Bed I Lie” - Author Unknown

Walter Harrah, “No More Night”

As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠