Bite-Sized Biblecast: Finding Rest in Jesus (Matthew 11:28-29)

Episode Summary: In this episode of the True Grit podcast, I share a "bite-sized Biblecast" focused on the powerful promise found in Matthew 11:28-29. I unpack the practical steps listeners can take to truly find the rest Jesus offers, including the 4-7-8 breathing technique, verbally surrendering to Christ, and aligning our will with God's. As we navigate the fast-paced, overwhelming demands of modern life, this episode provides encouragement and actionable guidance to help you experience the peace and rejuvenation that comes from resting in the Lord.

Key Points with Timestamps:

Introduction to the True Grit Podcast ⁠[0:00:00]⁠ Rachel Grit welcomes listeners and introduces the purpose of the podcast.

Explanation of the Bite-Sized Biblecast Format ⁠[0:00:17]⁠ Rachel explains the concept of the bite-sized Biblecast and its goal of providing short, encouraging scripture discussions.

Practical Application of Matthew 11:28-29 ⁠[0:03:40]⁠ Rachel shares her personal struggle with applying the concept of finding rest in Jesus and introduces the 4-7-8 breathing technique as a practical solution.

Additional Practical Steps to Find Rest in Jesus ⁠[0:04:16]⁠ Rachel suggests verbally surrendering to Jesus and praying for God to align one's will with His as additional steps to experience the rest Jesus offers.

Recap and Conclusion ⁠[0:16:16]⁠ Rachel summarizes the three practical steps and concludes with a prayer for God's rest, guidance, and protection.

Mentioned Links:

• Free Download: ⁠Guided Journal to Find, Identify, and Eliminate Sources of Noise and Chaos in Your Life⁠

• NIH article on 4 7 8 breathing

Supporting Verses:

All verses are in ESV unless otherwise noted.

Matthew 11:28-29 "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Action Steps:

1. Try the 4-7-8 breathing exercise to calm the mind and reduce stress.2. Verbally surrender to Christ, giving Him control over your life.3. Pray for God to align your will with His own.

Topics Covered:

- Finding rest in Jesus- Practical application of biblical principles- Reducing stress and anxiety- Surrendering to God's will- Aligning one's desires with God's desires

- 4 7 8 breathing

- Breathwork for anxiety

Related Posts and Episodes:

⁠Episode 2 | How Comparison is Killing Your Faith (& How to Fix It!)⁠

The True Grit Podcast | Episode 2 | How Comparison is Killing Your Faith (& How to Fix It!)

Episode Summary: In this episode of the True Grit podcast, I delve into the insidious and pervasive issue of comparison, particularly in the realm of faith. I share my own struggles with comparison and how it can damage our authentic connection with God. I challenge listeners to identify the sources of influence in their faith and focus on what helps them personally connect with the Lord, rather than falling into the trap of comparing themselves to unrealistic standards.

Key Points with Timestamps: Introduction and Podcast Purpose 0:00:00 - I introduce the True Grit podcast and its mission to help listeners seek, find, and live an abundant life with Jesus. Challenges in Recording the Episode 0:01:52 - I open up about the technical difficulties and lack of focus I faced in recording this episode due to being up since 11:30 PM. Impact of Social Media on Comparison 0:03:17 - I discuss how social media has exacerbated the issue of comparison, particularly with idealized content from influencers and unrealistic beauty standards. Historical and Biblical Context of Comparison 0:07:38 - I trace the origins of comparison back to the story of Eve and the original sin in the Garden of Eden, highlighting its pervasive nature in human life. Comparison in Faith 0:10:17 - I shift the focus to comparison in the realm of faith, noting the many "shoulds" that can influence our personal faith journey. The Role of Social Media in Faith Comparison 0:16:48 - I acknowledge the positive aspects of social media while warning about its negative impact on faith, leading to comparison and unrealistic standards. The Importance of Authentic Connection 0:22:17 - I emphasize the need for authentic connections in both personal relationships and with God, and how comparison can be toxic to these connections. Practical Steps to Eliminate Comparison 0:28:08 - I challenge listeners to identify the sources of influence in their faith, compare them to scripture, and focus on what helps them personally connect with God.

Mentioned Links: Download the ⁠free guided journal ⁠I created to help you find, identify, and make a plan to eliminate sources of noise and chaos in your life. It'll only take one hour and will give you the tools to deepen your connection with God while reclaiming a bit of your sanity.

Supporting Verses: "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5 ESV) - This verse supports the importance of maintaining an authentic, connected relationship with God, as opposed to comparison which can damage that connection.

Social Media Links: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/rachel.grit/⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@rachel.grit⁠

Action Steps:

1. Reflect on the sources of influence and inspiration that are informing your faith.

2. Identify what helps you personally connect with God and focus on that, rather than comparing yourself to others.

3. Download the free guided journal ⁠One Hour to Cut the Noise⁠ from Rachel Grit's website to help with this process.

Topics Covered:

• Comparison in faith

• Christian faith

• Social media and its impact on Christians

• Authentic connection with God

• Personal growth as a Jesus follower

How to Grow Your Faith with Low Effort

Episode Summary: This episode challenges the idea that growth of faith requires a lot of effort. It explores the concept of "low-effort" faith and how small steps can lead to big changes.

Key Points with Timestamps:

• The Dangers of Comparison: Social media and curated online presentations of faith can create unrealistic expectations (0:42)
• Finding What Works for You: Ditch the "shoulds" and discover practices that resonate with your brain and lifestyle (2:12)
• Taking Small Steps: Incremental progress is key to avoiding overwhelm and staying consistent (4:12)
• Atomic Habits: The book "Atomic Habits" offers a framework for building sustainable habits (5:12)

Low-Effort Ways to Engage with Faith:

• Baby Steps to Growth: Low-effort practices are a stepping stone to more in-depth engagement (10:23)
• Starting Your Day with Scripture: The YouVersion Bible app offers a daily verse (11:23)
• The Power of Tiny Habits: Breaking down goals into minuscule, achievable steps (14:23)
• Taking Action: Identify a "teeny tiny" step you can take to move forward in your faith (16:12)

What's Next?

• Download the One Hour to Quiet the Noise guided journal (it's free!)
• Implement the "tiny step" you identified during the episode.
• Share your experience and next steps with Rachel via email rachel@rachelgrit.com)

Additional Resources:

• Rachel's Website: http://rachelgrit.com/
• Rachel's Email: rachel@rachelgrit.com
• Rachel on Instagram: @rachelgrit
• Rachel on TikTok: @rachel.grit (or search for Rachel Grit)
• YouVersion Bible App: https://www.youversion.com/
• Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40121378-atomic-habits