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. JAN 11

    The True Light is Already Shining: Let There Be Light

    In the opening episode of our series, we return to the very first words God speaks in Scripture: “Let there be light.” Why does the Bible begin with light? What does this reveal about God’s character, His intentions for creation, and His relationship with us? In this episode, we explore light as God’s first gift — a symbol of order, life, and revelation — and discover how this foundational theme shapes the entire biblical story. If you’ve ever felt surrounded by chaos or confusion, this episode will remind you of the God who still speaks light into darkness. RESOURCES IN TODAY’S EPISODE Scripture References: Genesis 1:1-5. Psalm 33:6. Psalm 119:105. John 8:12. 1 John 1:5. Ephesians 5:8. Psalm 119:105, 130. Exodus 3:1-10. Exodus 13:21-22. Exodus 40:34. Exodus 34:29-35.Isaiah 41:10. Joshua 1:9. Psalm 27:1. John 1:5. John 17:25-26. Colossians 1:5. Colossians 2:9. Hebrews 2:1-3. Ephesians 1:7. Romans 5:10. Ephesians 2:8-9. Other Resources: As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Biblehub.com, “Light and Revelation.” REFLECTION QUESTIONS Where in your life do you currently feel “formless and empty,” and how might God be speaking light into that place?  What does it mean to you personally that God is light and has no darkness at all? How has God brought clarity or order to your life in the past? Are there areas where you’re resisting God’s illumination because it feels uncomfortable?  What part of God’s character shines most clearly to you right now — His purity, His truth, His wisdom, or His presence?

    19 min
  2. 12/14/2025

    Advent Week 3: Joy

    In this third week of Advent, we explore the theme of Joy—a joy that goes far beyond fleeting happiness or favorable circumstances. What does Scripture teach us about true joy? How can we experience joy even in seasons of adversity?Join us as we: Contrast cultural and biblical definitions of joy Discover that joy is a gift of the Spirit and rooted in God’s presence Reflect on powerful examples from the Apostle Paul’s life and Elizabeth’s and John's response to Immanuel Pray for a renewed awareness of God’s presence this AdventKey Insight: “Christian joy is a profound decision of faith and hope in the power of Jesus’ life and love.” Tune in and be reminded: Joy isn’t manufactured—it flows from God Himself. Resources References in Today’s Episode: Scripture Verses: Acts 5:41(NKJV). Philippians 3:1(NKJV). Romans 15:13 (NKJV). 2 Corinthians 6:10 (ESV). Psalm 43:4 (NIV). Galatians 5:22-23 (AMP). Psalm 5:11-12 (AMP). Psalm 16:11 (AMP). Psalm 21:6 (ESV). Luke 1:39-45 (ESV). Isaiah 7:14 (NKJV). Matthew 1:23 (AMP). John 1:14 (NKJV).  John 1:5 (ESV). John 15:11 (NKJV). Nehemiah 8:10c (NKJV). Other Resources: Bible Project’s word study “Joy.” Henry J. van Dyke, “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” As One Being Taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asonebeingtaught.wordpress.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Reflection Questions: How do you usually define joy in your life—by circumstances or by something deeper? Psalm 16:11 says, “In Your presence is fullness of joy.” How can you cultivate awareness of God’s presence this week? What practical steps can you take to choose joy even when life feels hard? How can you encourage someone else to experience biblical joy this Advent season?

    18 min
  3. 12/07/2025

    Advent Week 2: Reflections on Peace

    In this Advent devotional episode of the Written Spoken Podcast, we explore the second theme of the season: Peace. What does true peace look like in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty? Together, we will reflect on Scripture, discover that God not only gives peace but is peace, and learn practical ways to access His perfect peace through trust and prayer. Join us as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ—the Prince of Peace. Scripture Focus: Isaiah 9:6. John 14:27. Philippians 4:6-7. Ephesians 2:14. Ephesians 3:20. Isaiah 26:3. Judges 6:1-6. Judges 6:23. Judges 6:24. Philippians 4:6-7. John 14:27. Psalm 116:2. Revelation 19:11-12. Resources Mentioned: Ann Voskamp, The Greatest Gift: Unwrapping the Full Love Story of Christmas. The Bible Project’s word study Shalom / Peace. As One Being Taught Blog ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠as one being taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. Reflection Questions: When you think about peace, do you usually picture calm circumstances—or the presence of Christ in the midst of chaos? What areas of your life feel unsettled right now, and how might trusting God more fully bring His peace into those spaces? Isaiah 26:3 says God keeps in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast. What practical steps can you take this week to keep your mind focused on Him? Philippians 4:6–7 invites us to turn worries into prayers. What specific concern can you bring to God today and exchange for His peace?

    16 min
  4. 11/30/2025

    Advent Week 1: Hope

    The Advent season invites us to pause and prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus—past, present, and future. In this first episode of the 2025 Advent series, we focus on Hope: what it truly means, why it matters, and how it transforms our lives. Discover the difference between secular and biblical hope, explore its benefits, and reflect on powerful Scriptures that remind us God is both the source of our hope and our hope itself. Join us for encouragement, reflection, and prayer as we begin this journey of anticipation and worship. Scripture Focus: Hebrews 11:1. Hebrews 6:19-20. Isaiah 40:30-31. 1 Thessalonians 1:3. Romans 15:13. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17. Psalm 71:5. Deuteronomy 31:6, 8. Hebrews. 13:5. Lamentations 3:22-26. Romans 15:13. Genesis 3:15. Psalm 71:14. Resources Mentioned: Meg Butcher’s article, “7 Beautiful Advent Hymns of Hope,” published on www.crosswalk.com. Anonymous, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” O Come, O Come, Emmanuel > Lyrics | Anonymous/Unknown, published on timelesstruths.org. Adam P. Stern, MD, “Hope, why it matters,” published on www.health.harvard.edu.    John Piper,, “What is Hope?” published on www.desiringGod.org. The Bible Project’s Word Study on Hope Hope (Yakhal) Advent Word Study (bibleproject.com) As One Being Taught Blog ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠as one being taught – Encourage. Challenge. Replenish. Reflection Questions: Which aspect of Advent—past, present, or future coming of Christ—feels most meaningful to you right now? Why? How can you cultivate praise, gratefulness, and awe during these four weeks? When you hear the word “hope,” what comes to mind? How does that compare to the Biblical definition shared in the episode? Which of the three benefits of hope (anchors the soul, renews strength, inspires endurance) do you need most today? How does remembering God’s past faithfulness help you trust Him for the future? Where do you need hope most in your life today? How can you invite God into that area?

    16 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.