Small Steps with God

Jill from The Northwoods
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Small Steps with God is a practical guide to learning how to study the Bible thoughtfully and faithfully. Through clear teaching on exegesis, historical context, and careful reading, this podcast helps listeners move beyond surface-level interpretations and grow in confidence as students of Scripture. Episodes explore how meaning is drawn from the text—not read into it—along with series like MIRRORS, which examine biblical figures and historical groups to reflect on faith, obedience, and daily life. This is a place for steady growth, honest thinking, and learning to walk closely with God—one small step at a time.

  1. 4D AGO

    140 - Circumcision of the Heart: Why God Has Always Wanted More Than Ritual

    Circumcision of the heart sounds strange, even unsettling—but it carries one of the deepest spiritual truths in Scripture. This ancient phrase cuts straight through ritual, tradition, and appearances to expose what God has always wanted. If faith has ever felt mechanical, empty, or performative, this conversation explains why. This episode explores the biblical phrase “circumcision of the heart” and unpacks what it truly means for faith, obedience, and transformation. Rather than focusing on physical rituals or outward markers, the discussion traces how this concept begins with Moses, is echoed by the prophets, and finds its fulfillment in the New Testament. The heart—understood as the center of will, emotion, and loyalty—has always been God’s focus. The episode challenges the tendency to replace meaningful obedience with hollow routine and reframes circumcision as a spiritual work accomplished by God, not human effort . Top Topics CoveredOrigins of Circumcision of the Heart The phrase originates with Moses, not later Christian writers. As Israel prepared to enter the promised land, Moses emphasized loyalty and obedience that went beyond physical signs. Circumcision of the heart addressed Israel’s repeated failure to remain faithful, identifying the real issue as inner resistance rather than outward noncompliance. Ritual Without Transformation Physical circumcision, temple sacrifice, and other religious practices were never meant to stand alone. Over time, these acts became routine, stripped of their meaning. The episode draws parallels to modern religious behaviors—acts done out of habit, pressure, or convenience rather than love or surrender. Prophets, Paul, and the Heart’s Renewal Prophets like Jeremiah expanded the metaphor to include “uncircumcised ears” and lips—organs incapable of responding to God. Later, Paul the Apostle clarified that true circumcision is spiritual, accomplished by the Spirit through Christ. This explains why physical circumcision became unnecessary as a requirement, even while obedience and faithfulness remained central. Cultural Sensitivity vs. Salvation Requirements The episode also explains why Timothy was circumcised while Titus was not, showing how cultural accommodation differs from adding requirements to salvation. Faith adapts to context without compromising truth. Key TakeawaysCircumcision of the heart represents inner transformation, not external conformity. It confronts pride, self-reliance, and identity rooted in performance rather than grace. Rituals lose their power when detached from genuine faith, but when the heart is transformed, outward expressions regain meaning. Ultimately, God has always wanted hearts aligned with Him. From the covenant with Abraham to the teachings of Christ, the goal has never been labels, heritage, or ritual compliance—but a heart capable of love, repentance, and obedience empowered by God’s Spirit.

    27 min

  2. FEB 3

    139 - Why Paul Wrote Ephesians: Identity, Power, and Spiritual Confidence

    A powerful ancient city. A fearful spiritual world. One letter that redefined identity, belonging, and courage for generations. This episode explores why Paul the Apostle wrote the Epistle to the Ephesians, and why this letter mattered so deeply to believers living in the city of Ephesus. Ephesians was not written in abstraction—it addressed real people living in a powerful, wealthy, and spiritually overwhelming environment. The letter focuses less on correcting bad behavior and more on grounding believers in who they already are in Christ. In a world driven by fear, power, and status, Paul wrote to remind them that their identity was secure, their unity mattered, and Christ already reigned over every unseen force. Ephesus: A Spiritually Noisy City Ephesus was a major hub of commerce, politics, and religion in the Roman Empire. Home to the Temple of Artemis, the city thrived on ritual worship, magic practices, and spiritual fear. Religion shaped economics, identity, and daily life, making belief in Christ both radical and costly. Why Paul’s Relationship Mattered Paul did not merely pass through Ephesus—he stayed for nearly three years, teaching publicly and forming leaders who shaped the wider region. His emotional farewell and warnings about future pressure shaped the tone of the letter. Ephesians flows out of deep relational knowledge and pastoral concern. Identity Over Behavior Rather than correcting scandals, Paul answers a foundational question: Who are believers now? He emphasizes being chosen, adopted, redeemed, and sealed by the Holy Spirit. Identity comes before action. Believers are called to live from who they already are, not to earn belonging through performance. Power, Unity, and Spiritual Security Paul reframes power by pointing to Christ’s authority over all heavenly realms. The letter reassures believers that the universe is not chaotic and that spiritual warfare is real—but already won. Unity between Jewish and Gentile believers becomes essential evidence of the gospel at work. Key TakeawaysEphesians teaches that fear no longer defines believers—belonging does. Identity in Christ replaces anxiety driven by unseen forces, cultural pressure, or performance-based worth. Unity is not optional; it is the visible proof of God’s reconciling work. The armor of God is not symbolic bravado but practical confidence rooted in truth, righteousness, faith, and trust in Christ’s authority. Believers are not called to escape difficult cultures but to stand firm within them, living as heirs who already carry God’s seal and purpose.

    14 min

  3. JAN 27

    138 - Saul: The King Who Couldn’t Trust—What His Life Says About Ours

    In this episode of the Mirror Series, we take a deep look at the life of Saul, Israel’s first king. At first glance, Saul seems like the perfect leader—tall, strong, chosen by God, and celebrated by the people. But beneath the surface, his story reveals a struggle many of us know too well: the tension between being called and feeling unqualified, between obedience and control, and between God’s approval and the crowd’s applause. Saul started humble and ended haunted, and in the space between, we find powerful lessons about faith, fear, and the choices we make. Top Topics Covered: 1. The Mirror Framework: We explore how biblical figures like Saul serve as reflective mirrors for our own spiritual journey. Each character is examined through the lens of Moment, Identity, Right Choices, Risks & Wrongs, Ongoing Message, and Small Steps. 2. Saul’s Humble Beginning: Saul never chased a crown—he was simply looking for lost donkeys when God chose him. His anointing wasn't political; it was divine. Early on, Saul shows promise, leadership, and even moments of spiritual power. But these early victories mask deeper insecurities that slowly unravel his life. 3. The Shift from Trust to Control: Saul’s fear of losing influence led him to take matters into his own hands, stepping into roles God never asked him to fill. His downward spiral wasn’t dramatic at first—it started with small compromises, delayed obedience, and a need to please the people. Each decision chipped away at his trust in God. 4. The Tragic Pattern of Half-Obedience: From offering sacrifices without Samuel to sparing the Amalekite king against God’s command, Saul’s actions reveal a dangerous trend: obeying only when convenient. His spiritual downfall teaches us that delayed or partial obedience still counts as disobedience. 5. The Jealousy Toward David: Once David enters the scene, Saul’s insecurity becomes toxic. What could have been a mentorship turns into paranoia, obsession, and violence. Instead of shepherding Israel, Saul spends his final years chasing shadows and losing himself in fear. Takeaways: Saul’s story reminds us that being chosen isn’t the same as being faithful. His life warns us that fear and insecurity can hollow out even the most promising beginnings. God gave Saul every opportunity to trust, repent, and lead with humility. But Saul chose control over surrender, image over obedience, and fear over faith. So what do we do when we’re tempted to obey halfway? When waiting feels unsafe and we try to “fix” things ourselves? Saul shows us that trusting God fully, even when it’s uncomfortable, leads to lasting peace and purpose. His life is a sobering but necessary reminder: you can start strong and still miss the mark if you let fear drive your choices. We’re invited to choose differently. To obey completely. To surrender control. And to trust that God is enough—even when the crowd is loud, the wait is long, or the outcome feels uncertain. Let Saul’s mirror reflect what needs to change in us—and give us the courage to follow through. Download blank templates, schedules here: https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8 Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows Jill’s Links https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/ a href="https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    15 min

  4. JAN 18

    137 - Letters to the Galatians - Understanding the Galatians: History, Culture, and Paul’s Urgent Message

    Understanding the Galatians: History, Culture, and Paul’s Urgent Message In this episode, we explore the background of the Book of Galatians and why Paul wrote such a passionate and pointed letter to this particular group. Before jumping into the text itself, we take a closer look at who the Galatians were, their unique cultural identity, and the spiritual crisis that prompted Paul’s response. The historical, political, and theological context of this letter reveals why Galatians stands out among Paul’s writings and why its message still resonates today. Top Topics Covered: 1. Who Were the Galatians? The Galatians were descendants of Celtic tribes originally from Gaul—modern-day France—who migrated through Europe and eventually settled in what is now central Turkey. Fierce warriors by reputation, these tribes were eventually absorbed into the Roman Empire but retained much of their cultural identity. Understanding their roots in rebellion, warrior spirit, and eventual assimilation helps explain their temperament and the urgency behind Paul’s words. 2. Why Did Paul Write to Them? Paul was responding to a theological crisis: Gentile believers in Galatia were being pressured by Jewish Christians—or perhaps even non-Christian Jews—to adopt full Jewish customs, including circumcision, in order to be accepted as true followers of Christ. Paul writes with intensity, skipping his usual greetings, because he is alarmed by how quickly the Galatians are turning away from the gospel of grace and embracing a law-based system. 3. When Was the Letter Written and To Whom? Scholars debate whether Paul wrote to Southern or Northern Galatia, which influences the dating of the letter—either around 49 AD (making it possibly Paul’s earliest letter) or later in the mid-50s. Regardless of timing, the issues at hand were the same: whether faith in Christ alone is enough, or if salvation requires adherence to the Jewish law. 4. The Core Message: Grace Over Law Paul emphasizes that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works or ritual observance. His concern is not just theological—it’s pastoral. He sees his spiritual children in danger of trading freedom in Christ for another form of slavery. His message is both a warning and a plea: don’t reduce the gospel to a checklist. God wants transformation of the heart, not just outward compliance. Key Takeaways: This episode is a powerful reminder that spiritual freedom and identity in Christ are not about following a rulebook, but about living in relationship with God. The Galatians were tempted to replace grace with structure, looking for reassurance in rituals. Paul’s letter pushes back with clarity: the gospel is sufficient, and our transformation comes from the inside out—not by returning to the law but by living in the Spirit. The relevance today is striking. Just like the Galatians, many still wrestle with the temptation to define faith by performance instead of grace. Paul’s passionate tone reminds us that adding anything to the gospel subtracts from its power. Whether dealing with doubt, legalism, or a desire for spiritual certainty, the message of Galatians challenges us to embrace the freedom Christ offers—not as another set of rules to follow, but as an invitation to live as beloved sons and daughters of God. Tune in as we begin the journey into Galatians—a short but powerful letter that still speaks truth to hearts seeking God in a complex and demanding world. Download blank templates, schedules here: https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8 Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows Jill’s Links a...

    19 min

  5. JAN 13

    136 - The Bible Changes You: Exegesis vs. Eisegesis and the Way We Read Scripture

    The Bible Changes You: Exegesis vs. Eisegesis and the Way We Read Scripture In this episode, we’re unpacking one of the most essential practices in Christian life: how we read and interpret the Bible. At the heart of this conversation are two critical approaches—exegesis and eisegesis. Understanding the difference between them can shape how we experience Scripture, how we grow in faith, and how we relate to God's word. This episode offers a practical, thoughtful exploration of why the Bible must be read to discover God—not simply to confirm what we already believe. Top Topics: What Are We Really Looking for in Scripture? We often come to the Bible with a personal agenda—seeking comfort, validation, or answers about ourselves. But the deeper question should be: What does this passage tell us about God? When we shift our focus from ourselves to Him, we begin to understand the transformative power of Scripture. Exegesis vs. Eisegesis—Why It Matters Exegesis means drawing meaning out of the text as it was originally intended. It involves understanding the historical context, the author's purpose, the genre, and how the passage fits within the broader story of the Bible. Eisegesis, on the other hand, happens when we read our own assumptions, desires, or cultural perspectives into the text. It often starts with what we want to believe and finds verses to support it. Understanding the difference helps preserve the integrity of God’s Word. How Different Traditions Approach Interpretation Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant traditions all recognize the value of exegesis but apply it differently. The Catholic Church emphasizes interpretation within the magisterium and tradition. The Orthodox Church prioritizes the communal and liturgical reading of Scripture. Protestants often empower individual believers to read and study the Bible with the aid of context, commentaries, and community. Each approach reveals something valuable, but all caution against the dangers of personal interpretations that distort Scripture. Why ‘Looking for Ourselves’ Can Be Misleading It’s natural to want to find ourselves in biblical stories. But when we make ourselves the main character, we reduce the Bible to a self-help book with God in a supporting role. Instead, the goal is to look for God first. His mercy, holiness, patience, and faithfulness reveal more about who we are than any self-focused reading ever could. Takeaways: Reading the Bible through the lens of exegesis requires humility and a willingness to be shaped by God’s word—not the other way around. When we let the Bible speak on its own terms, we discover who God is and how He relates to His people. That revelation then helps us understand ourselves more truthfully. The Bible isn’t there to reflect our image back to us; it’s there to reflect God’s character and transform ours. By keeping God at the center of our reading, we’re drawn into the bigger story—His story—and find our true place within it. This episode is an invitation to read the Bible faithfully, thoughtfully, and with the right questions. Not “What does this say about me?” but “What does this tell me about God?” When we get that order right, transformation naturally follows. Download blank templates, schedules here: https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8 Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows Jill’s Links https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/ a href="https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    28 min

  6. JAN 7

    135 - Build a Bible Habit That Actually Sticks

    Build a Bible Habit That Actually Sticks In this episode, I share why so many Bible reading plans fall apart—and offer a practical, grace-filled approach to making your Bible reading more meaningful and sustainable. Whether you’re a first-time reader or a long-time believer feeling stuck, this conversation will help you reframe your relationship with Scripture and build a practice that lasts. Top Topics: Why We Quit Bible Reading Plans: January often starts strong with fresh plans and new motivation, but burnout sets in quickly. I explore the root causes—overly ambitious plans, guilt from missed days, and treating Bible reading like a task instead of a relationship. Shifting to a Sustainable Practice: Learn how to turn your Bible time into a space of reflection, presence, and transformation instead of checklist pressure. We talk about the value of curiosity, asking good questions, and giving yourself permission to go slow. Different Study Methods That Work: I outline multiple ways to approach Scripture—book studies, topic studies, liturgical readings, chronological Bibles, companion podcasts—and help you find what fits your season of life and personality. Finding the Right Translation: We explore the differences between word-for-word, thought-for-thought, and paraphrased Bibles. I also share which ones I personally use and why, along with how to combine them for clarity and depth. Takeaways: It’s not about finishing the Bible in a year. It’s about engaging with it in a way that shapes your heart and draws you closer to God. Consistency matters more than volume. Missed days aren’t failures—they’re invitations to return. Find a study rhythm that brings joy and depth, and don’t be afraid to go slow. Whether you’re reading alone, in a group, or listening on a walk, Scripture can meet you right where you are—and change your life one step at a time. Download blank templates, schedules here: https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8 Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows Jill’s Links https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com “Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.” Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. “The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”. Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/ Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible...

    32 min

  7. JAN 7

    134 - 2 Corinthians: Ministry, Pain, and the Power of Reconciliation

    2 Corinthians: Ministry, Pain, and the Power of Reconciliation In this episode, we explore the profound emotional and spiritual depths of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians. Far more than a follow-up to his first letter, this message reads like a vulnerable journal entry from a pastor who has been wounded, but still loves deeply. It captures the messiness of real ministry, the challenge of reconciliation, and the radical power of God working through weakness. 1. The Chaos of Corinth We begin by setting the scene. Corinth was a booming port city, filled with wealth, corruption, and religious confusion. Paul planted a church there, but it faced enormous cultural challenges. The believers were struggling to separate their new faith from old habits, making ministry in Corinth especially difficult. 2. The Painful Visit and the Missing Letter Between Paul’s first and second letters, something dramatic occurred. A painful visit ended with public humiliation for Paul. Betrayed and grieved, he left and wrote a severe letter—now lost to time—pleading for repentance and healing. 3. The Emotional Heart of 2 Corinthians Unlike the instructive tone of 1 Corinthians, the second letter is emotional and poetic. Paul opens up about his suffering, his fears, and the critics who questioned his apostleship. He shares his vulnerability and the toll that real ministry takes on the human spirit. 4. Strength Through Weakness Paul pushes back against the idea that external success equals divine favor. Instead, he explains that his many hardships are the very places where God’s power shines brightest. Suffering becomes a platform for God’s strength. 5. A Message for Today’s Church This letter isn’t just ancient history. It speaks powerfully to our current struggles in ministry, leadership, and church life. Reconciliation is messy, but worth it. Weakness isn’t disqualification—it’s the doorway to divine grace. Takeaways: Ministry isn’t glamorous. It’s often heartbreaking, emotional, and full of setbacks. Yet through all of it, God calls us to keep loving, keep leading, and keep forgiving. 2 Corinthians encourages us to stop measuring success by worldly standards and instead embrace the power of God working through our brokenness. If you’ve ever felt unqualified, betrayed, or worn out in your faith journey, this episode is for you. You’re not alone—and your weakness may be the very thing God is using for something greater. Download blank templates, schedules here: https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8 Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows Jill’s Links https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com “Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.” Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian...

    14 min

  8. 12/30/2025

    133 - Why “Share” Completes the RAMPS Bible Study

    Why “Share” Completes the RAMPS Bible Study This episode explores the essential final step in the RAMPS Bible study method—Share. Originally structured as Read, Analyze, Meditate, and Pray, the method served as a powerful tool for personal growth in Scripture. However, the realization soon emerged that something critical was missing: the outward expression of faith. Scripture is not only meant to transform the heart, but to ripple outward into the world. Without the “Share” step, spiritual insights remain sealed within. With it, Bible study becomes a lived and visible testimony that builds up others and deepens faith. Why “Share” Was Added to the RAMPS Method The RAMPS method initially focused on internal transformation. Yet Scripture repeatedly calls believers to share what they’ve received. “Faith comes by hearing,” and hearing requires someone to speak. Sharing completes the spiritual cycle by moving the message outward. Sharing Strengthens Both the Giver and the Receiver When biblical truth is expressed out loud or in action, it moves from short-term understanding to long-term conviction. The act of articulating Scripture to others not only encourages them—it cements those truths in the sharer’s own heart as well. Simple, Everyday Ways to Share God’s Word Sharing doesn’t require a sermon or a platform. It can take the form of a kind word, a thoughtful message, a Scripture shared in conversation, or a visible act of grace. It’s about honest expressions of faith that fit naturally into daily life. Scriptural Models of Sharing The Bible is filled with examples of people who encountered God and immediately shared their experience. The Samaritan woman ran to tell her village. The shepherds proclaimed what they saw. Andrew invited his brother to meet Jesus. These weren’t theological lectures—they were simple, powerful moments of witness. Takeaways: Sharing is the outward breath of everything breathed in during time with God. It brings the truth of Scripture into conversations, relationships, and actions. Faith is not meant to remain internal; it is meant to be lived, spoken, and shown. Adding “Share” to the RAMPS method transforms study into movement. It turns reflection into relationship and converts knowledge into action. The most lasting spiritual change often begins with a small expression of truth spoken, written, or lived out in front of others. This step completes the circle of spiritual growth and makes space for God’s Word to multiply—one seed at a time. Download blank templates, schedules here: https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8 Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows Jill’s Links https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com “Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.” Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright ©...

    12 min
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About

Small Steps with God is a practical guide to learning how to study the Bible thoughtfully and faithfully. Through clear teaching on exegesis, historical context, and careful reading, this podcast helps listeners move beyond surface-level interpretations and grow in confidence as students of Scripture. Episodes explore how meaning is drawn from the text—not read into it—along with series like MIRRORS, which examine biblical figures and historical groups to reflect on faith, obedience, and daily life. This is a place for steady growth, honest thinking, and learning to walk closely with God—one small step at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Jill from The Northwoods
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    144
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
  • Show Website
    Small Steps with God