Written Spoken

Esther W. Wright

Author, Esther W. Wright, shares curated blog posts and other content to encourage and refresh you, and challenge you to focus on the Word, the One who spoke this world into existence and became flesh to redeem us.

  1. Jun 14

    Tire-Blowout Season: A Spiritual Reflection

    In this episode, we explore the surprising connection between tire‑blowout season and the spiritual life. Just as heat, distance, and heavy loads can push a weakened tire past its breaking point, the pressures of life can strain us when we are spiritually depleted, overloaded, or shaken by unexpected “potholes.” Through Scripture, practical insight, and a closing prayer, we examine: What causes tire blowouts—and how those causes mirror spiritual challenges How to avoid “underinflation” by strengthening the inner man How to stay within your God‑given load index How to navigate spiritual potholes with God’s help How God heals and restores us during our own blowout seasons May this episode encourage you, ground you in truth, and remind you that God provides everything you need for the journey ahead. RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE: Scripture References: Proverbs 18:14 (MSG). Ephesians 3:16-19 (AMP).  James 1:5 (VOICE). 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV). Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV). 1 Corinthians 10:13 (AMP). Psalm 139:1-16 (NLT). Other Resources: Ward Cushman, Christian Living - 4 Tips to Watch for Spiritual Potholes As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Reflection Questions:* Underinflation: Spiritual Depletion Which spiritual practices (prayer, Scripture, worship, gratitude) most consistently replenish your inner strength? What practices have you neglected recently, and what small step could you take this week to re-engage? Overloading — Carrying More Than God Designed What signs of overload—fatigue, irritability, anxiety—have you noticed in yourself lately? Where might God be inviting you to release something that He never asked you to carry? Potholes — Spiritual Disruptions What “spiritual potholes” have you encountered recently—unexpected challenges, disappointments, or disruptions? How does 1 Corinthians 10:13 encourage you when you face temptation, pressure, or discouragement? Reflection Questions generated by Copilot from podcast episode.

    20 min
  2. May 31

    Resurrection Encounter: Peter’s Restoration and Transformation

    In this final episode of the Resurrection Encounter series, we focus on the encounter several of the disciples and Peter had with Jesus near the Sea of Galilee. This encounter freed Peter from the shame of his three-time denial of Jesus the night Jesus was arrested, and fully restored him. Through this encounter we see that Jesus’ questions to us are never to gain information or condemn us but are invitations to reflect and respond honestly. opening the way for transformation. RESOURCES REFERENCED IN TODAY’S EPISODE: Scripture References: Acts 2:1-41 (NIV). John 21:1-19 (NIV).   Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Reflection Questions: Jesus posed two questions to His disciples, and we need to know that His questions are never an attempt to gain information or condemn us. His questions are invitations to reflect and respond honestly, processes that open the door for Him to transform us. The question Jesus asked the group of disciples was, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” Fish can symbolize something we desire and are pursuing. What is Jesus asking you to acknowledge that you desire but currently lack? The question Jesus posed specifically to Peter three times was, “Do you love me?” What is your honest response to this question? Poll questions and responses generated by Copilot.

    13 min
  3. May 3

    Resurrection Encounter: Two Plus One on the Road to Emmaus

    When hope fades and faith feels distant, Jesus still walks beside us. In this episode, we journey with two disciples on the road to Emmaus—confused, heartbroken, and unaware that the risen Christ is right beside them. Through storytelling and reflection, discover how God meets us in the ordinary moments we often overlook. This episode invites you to see divine presence in your daily life and reignite your hope through Scripture, conversation, and prayer. Resources Referenced in Today’s Episode: Scripture Verses (Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture references are from the New King James Version [NKJV]): 1 Corinthians 15:5-8 (NIV). Luke 24:13-21, 25-31. John 2:19-21. 2 Timothy 3:16 (HCSB). 1 Corinthians 13:9. Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Steven Baker, What Do We Know about Cleopas, the Man Who Saw Jesus on the Road to Emmaus? Lisa Degrenia, “Where Do I Meet You?”, www.revlisad.com Five Prayers Inspired by The Road to Emmaus – Luke 24 – Rev. Lisa Degrenia (Used with permission). Reflection Questions: Jesus could have revealed Himself immediately. Why do you think He revealed Himself gradually, beginning with Scripture?How might recognizing Jesus’ presence in everyday moments transform how you see and respond to challenges? When you feel confused or disappointed by events, how could you deepen your understanding of God’s revelation so you interpret life through His truth? This episode is a revised version of an episode published in 2025. "Resurrection Encounter: Two Plus One on the Road to Emmaus.” ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Written Spoken Podcast, created by Esther Wright, Season 20, Episode 4, 2026. Copilot. "Episode Description." Microsoft, 2024.

    16 min
  4. Apr 19

    Resurrection Encounters: Mary Magdalene

    In this episode, we explore one of the most intimate and transformative moments following Jesus’ resurrection — His encounter with Mary Magdalene outside the empty tomb (John 20:1–18). Through Mary’s grief, confusion, and ultimate recognition of the risen Christ, we witness the depth of divine compassion and the personal nature of resurrection hope. This story invites listeners to see how Jesus meets us in our sorrow, calls us by name, and restores our purpose. Listeners will be guided to reflect on how resurrection is not only a historical event but a present reality — one that reshapes how we see ourselves, others, and God’s ongoing work of renewal in the world. Resources in Today’s Episode: Scripture Verses (Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture references are from the New International Version [NIV]): John 20:1-18 (ESV). 1 Corinthians 15:5-8. Luke 8:1-3, Mark 16:9. Matthew 14:26-27. Other Resources:As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Carla Harding’s devotional, “Clinging to the Past.” Levi Lusko’s devotional, “Easter People: A 4-Day Easter Devotional.” Reflection Questions: When you think of the emotions Mary Magdalene was experiencing before Jesus revealed Himself to her, which do you identify with at this time in your life?Jesus knew Mary Magdalene by name, and He knows you by name. What does this mean to you?Jesus did not chastise Mary Magdalene for not recognizing Him. What does this reveal to you about His character? This episode is a revised version of an episode published in 2025. "Resurrection Encounters: Mary Magdalene.” ⁠⁠ Written Spoken Podcast, created by Esther Wright, Season 20, Episode 3, 2026. Copilot. "Episode Description." Microsoft, 2024.

    13 min
  5. Apr 5

    Living the Resurrection of Christ Jesus in Daily Life

    In this episode, we reflect on what Christ Jesus accomplished through His death and resurrection—and what it truly means to live out the Resurrection in our everyday lives. Drawing from Scripture, insights by Matt Perman, and practical examples, we explore how ordinary moments become sacred when surrendered to God. This episode invites you to place your daily life—your routines, responsibilities, and relationships—before God as an offering, and to walk in the transforming power of the risen Christ. RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE Scripture References: Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, New King James Version: Hebrews 10:4 (AMP). John 1:29. Isaiah 53:6. Hebrews 9:26b. Hebrews 2:17. 1 John 4:10. Romans 5:10-11. Galatians 3:13-14. Romans 3:24. 1 Peter 1:18-19. Colossians 2:15. Romans 4:25 (AMP). Romans 5:8. Galatians 2:20. Isaiah 53:5-6. 1 Corinthians 15:14-20. Galatians 2:20 (AMP). John 14:15-18 (AMP). Romans 12:1–2 (MSG). James 5:17 (AMP). 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (AMP). Other Resources:  Matt Perman’s article, “6 Things Christ Accomplished by His Death.” William R. Newell, “At Calvary” (1895). Public Domain. Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God. As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Reflection Questions: When you think about the Resurrection of Christ Jesus, which aspect of His work — expiation, propitiation, reconciliation, redemption, or victory over darkness — feels most personal to you right now? Why?Galatians 2:20 says Christ lives in you. What would change in your daily life if you truly lived from that reality instead of striving in your own strength?Where do you sense the Holy Spirit inviting you to “place your everyday, ordinary life before God as an offering”?Brother Lawrence practiced the presence of God in simple tasks. What ordinary moments in your day could become opportunities for communion with God?What cultural patterns or habits tend to pull your attention away from God, and how might you “fix your attention on Him” more intentionally?In what area of your life do you need to trust the resurrection power of God — the same power that raised Jesus from the dead — to strengthen, guide, or transform you?How does remembering that Elijah “was a man with a nature like ours” encourage you in your own walk of faith?What is one practical step you can take this week to “no longer live for yourself, but for Him who died and was raised”?

    22 min
  6. Mar 22

    Every Step: The Long Walk to the Cross

    In this episode, we focus on Holy Week, a sacred stretch of days that, in 2026, begins on Palm Sunday, March 29, and concludes on Easter Sunday, April 5. We explore a revised version of the blog post, “Every Step,” tracing the intentional, redemptive path Jesus walked from His birth to the Cross to willingly pay the incomprehensible cost to redeem us. RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE Scripture References: Luke 19: 8-42. Zechariah 9:9-10. Matthew 1:17 (NIV). Galatians 4:4-5 (AMP). Luke 2:41-47. Matthew 3:13-17. Matthew 4:1-22. John 2:1-11. Matthew 4:23. Matthew 5:1-7:29. Matthew 8:5-15, 28-34. Luke 8:41-56. John 4:1-42. John 11:1-44. Matthew 21:12-13. Mark 14:32-41. Luke 22:39-46. John 18:1-14, 28-40. Mark 15:16-20. Isaiah 52:14. Mark 15:21. Matthew 27:46. Luke 23:32-46. Matthew 27:57-61. Romans 5:8. Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  “If That Isn’t Love,” by Dottie Rambo. Reflection Questions: Use these prompts to guide your Holy Week meditation: What part of the Palm Sunday narrative stands out to you this year? Which “step” in Jesus’ earthly journey speaks most deeply to your heart right now? How might you slow down this week to honor Christ’s sacrifice? What is God inviting you to repent of, release, or receive during Holy Week? What step is God inviting you to take this Holy Week—repentance, gratitude, forgiveness, worship, slowing down?  How can you create space this week to reflect more deeply on Jesus’ sacrifice?

    18 min
  7. Mar 8

    The True Light Is Already Shining: The Darkness is Passing

    In this final episode of our 5‑part series on the sweeping biblical theme of light vs. darkness, we explore one of the most hopeful declarations in the New Testament: “The darkness is passing and the true light is already shining” (1 John 2:8). When the world feels heavy, confusing, or shadowed by fear, Scripture reminds us that darkness is not winning—because Jesus has already secured the victory. We unpack what it means that darkness is passing, how believers can walk in the light, and why love, obedience, and honesty are essential markers of a life shaped by Christ. My prayer is that this episode will offer practical encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world or the weight of their own circumstances. RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE Scripture References:1 John 2:8-9. John 1:5. John 8:12. Ephesians 5:8. Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Reflection Questions: Use these for personal meditation, journaling, or small‑group discussion. Where do you most feel the weight of darkness in your life right now? In what ways have you seen the “true light already shining” in recent days? Which marker of walking in the light—love, obedience, or honesty—feels most challenging for you at this moment? How might Christ be inviting you to let His light shine through you in a specific relationship or situation? What would it look like this week to take one small step toward walking more fully in the light?

    15 min

About

Author, Esther W. Wright, shares curated blog posts and other content to encourage and refresh you, and challenge you to focus on the Word, the One who spoke this world into existence and became flesh to redeem us.