The negative voice in your head doesn't have to win. That persistent inner critic—whispering doubt, planting seeds of fear, and questioning your worth—can be silenced through a divine blend of scripture and scent.

Many believers struggle with this internal dialogue while simultaneously finding it challenging to maintain consistent spiritual practices in their busy lives. Drawing from personal experience, including my journey through seminary while serving congregations and later transitioning into retirement, I share how the Aroma Freedom Technique provided a breakthrough that removed layers of old wounds and brought clarity to my path forward.

Scripture offers profound guidance for managing our thoughts. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us that "as he thinks in his heart, so is he," while 2 Corinthians 10:5 encourages us to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." These verses underscore the importance of recognizing and actively managing the negative voice within us. Through awareness, journaling, challenging thought validity, and replacing negativity with scriptural affirmations, we can transform our mental landscape.

Biblical boundaries serve as spiritual scaffolding that protects our inner peace and aligns our minds with God's will. Even Jesus modeled boundary-setting by withdrawing for personal renewal. The Aroma Freedom Technique, developed by clinical psychologist Dr. Benjamin Perkus, offers a unique approach that combines essential oils with focused reflection. This technique works with the brain's limbic system—responsible for emotions and memories—to support mood regulation and build resilience against negative thoughts.

By integrating natural aromas (as God created them) into prayer, journaling, and worship, we create sacred spaces where God's presence is felt more profoundly. Through these holistic strategies, you can silence the negative voice, embrace your worth, and walk confidently in faith. Subscribe to continue discovering how to live on purpose in Christ, and join our community at BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com to connect with others on this journey.

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

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New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

Feeling uncertain about God's call on your life? Gideon's journey from fearful wheat thresher to mighty warrior reveals powerful truths about how God works through our weaknesses to achieve His purposes.

This episode opens with a story from my early ministry days—standing in the pulpit for the first time, legs shaking, praying desperately not to throw up or pass out. That terrifying moment laid the foundation for over twenty years of pastoral service, demonstrating how embracing God's calling requires leaning on His strength when fear threatens to overwhelm us.

The heart of this episode explores Gideon's transformation as recorded in the book of Judges. We examine Israel's oppression under the Midianites, Gideon's humble beginnings hiding in a wine press, and God's surprising greeting: "Mighty warrior!" Despite Gideon's doubt and requests for confirmation through the fleece tests, God patiently affirms His calling. Through obedience in tearing down Baal's altar and following God's counterintuitive battle strategy, Gideon witnesses a miraculous victory with just 300 men against a vast Midianite army.

This biblical account offers profound applications for today's believers: God sees potential in us beyond our self-perception, our doubts can become opportunities for growth, faithfulness in small matters precedes greater responsibilities, God's strength shines through our weaknesses, and His unconventional wisdom surpasses human understanding. The episode provides rich discussion questions and journaling prompts to deepen your personal reflection on these timeless truths.

For additional resources to enhance your Bible study experience, visit faithbuildingclub.com, where you'll find printable prayer journals, devotionals, comprehensive study guides, reading plans, as well as the printable resource for this study, designed to nurture your spiritual growth and enrich your group's faith journey.

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

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New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

The weight of ministry can feel crushing—every congregation member's need resting on your shoulders, every spiritual crisis demanding your immediate attention. But what if God already provided natural remedies to help you manage this unique burden?

Get the full episode here: Soothe Your Soul - Natural Remedies for Stress >>> https://paulabehrens.com/blog/40904/sooth-your-soul-natural-remedies-for-stress

That's exactly what I discovered during COVID-19 while pastoring two East Texas congregations. When most churches remained closed, I felt called to reopen our doors after just seven weeks, knowing many members lacked internet access for virtual services. Guided by biblical wisdom, we diffused frankincense throughout our sanctuaries—the same essence Aaron used to halt a plague in Numbers 16—and employed immune-supporting oil blends to sanitize between services. The results were remarkable: everyone stayed healthy, and hospital visits plummeted during this challenging time.

In this episode we delve into how essential oils can transform clergy stress into renewed spiritual vigor. Lavender promotes restful sleep after those late-night emergency calls. Frankincense grounds your prayers and meditation. Bergamot lifts your spirits after difficult pastoral encounters, while Ylang-Ylang helps you release work thoughts at day's end. These aren't just pleasant scents—they're powerful tools created by God on the third day specifically to support our emotional and spiritual well-being.

Remember Jesus' words about the birds of the air? "They do not sow or reap, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" The same God who provides for these creatures has given us natural remedies for the unique challenges of ministry. By embracing these aromatic gifts, we experience the abundant life Christ promises while becoming more effective servants. Self-care isn't selfish—it's essential to sustainable ministry. Your congregation deserves a pastor who's grounded, present, and spiritually vibrant. Discover how God's natural remedies can help you become exactly that leader.

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

---

New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

Have you ever achieved everything society says should make you happy, yet still felt an inexplicable emptiness? That was my reality—a beautiful home, loving family, successful career—and a persistent void that nothing could fill.

From being dropped off at church as a child to dropping off my own children years later, I believed adults should be self-sufficient, creating happiness through hard work and material success. That all changed one day at my desk when, feeling that familiar emptiness, I uttered a genuine prayer: "God, if you are really out there..." What followed was a heart transformation so profound I couldn't deny something beyond myself had occurred—my first real evidence that God existed.

The Freedom Formula explores how freedom in Christ liberates us from sin's bondage, legalism's constraints, and fear's paralysis. Through scriptural foundations like Galatians 5:1 and Romans 8:1, we discover that spiritual freedom isn't merely intellectual but carries profound implications for daily life—from approaching God without condemnation to loving others selflessly. We examine how embracing the mind of Christ develops character traits including love, compassion, humility, and servant leadership that reflect His nature in our lives.

My journey from church drop-off kid to ordained pastor took 12½ years, but God remained present throughout, strengthening and carrying me when necessary. True fulfillment comes not from external achievements but from alignment with our Creator. Ready to discover how filling that God-shaped void in your heart can transform everything? Download our resources at faithbuildingclub.com and join us on this journey to authentic spiritual freedom.

Become an Insider >>> BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

---

New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

Ever rushed out the door with mismatched shoes while trying to squeeze in your devotional time? You're not alone. The struggle to balance daily spiritual practices with the demands of a busy life is real, and finding that sweet spot where faith meets emotional wellbeing can feel impossible.

Drawing from my own journey, I share how small, intentional practices transformed my relationship with God and revolutionized my emotional intelligence. This episode unpacks three powerful 10-minute devotional routines that anyone can implement—even on the busiest days.

These aren't complicated systems requiring hours of uninterrupted quiet time—they're grace-filled approaches for real people living messy, beautiful lives. Whether you choose one approach or weave all three throughout your day, these practices will empower your spiritual journey and bring greater peace to your relationships. Remember, emotional intelligence isn't just a psychology buzzword—it's a biblical principle that transforms how we show up in the world.

Want to start implementing these practices today? Click the FOLLOW button now to continue discovering how small spiritual practices yield profound results in everyday life.

Become an Insider >>> BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

---

New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

Mid-Week BONUS Bible Study Lesson episode...

Tune in to hear how my faith and the Holy Spirit empowered me to overcome obstacles/giants on my path to ordination as a pastor. I am still in awe today as I look back on how, with God's strength, I triumphed against all odds, all for His glory.

This lesson is designed to help you dig deeper into the layers of this remarkable narrative, exploring the principles of faith, courage, and trust in God's strength that are as relevant now as they were in the days of ancient Israel.

You'll uncover the symbolism behind Goliath as a representation of fear and doubt, and see how David's unwavering faith set him apart from the paralyzed Israelite army.

We'll explore the significance of David's anointing by Samuel and how it shaped his journey, as well as the themes of obedience and patience that defined his life. You'll be inspired by David's righteous anger and his willingness to confront Goliath head-on, despite the skepticism he faced from King Saul.

As we examine the climactic battle where faith meets fear, you'll gain practical insights into how to apply David's lessons to overcome your personal giants. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how trusting in God's power can lead you to victory in the face of your most formidable challenges.

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

---

New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Become an Insider >>> BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

Biblical boundaries often get a bad rap in Christian circles. Many view them as restrictions that limit our freedom in Christ, but what if the opposite is true? What if boundaries are actually God's divine protection system—sacred guardrails designed not to constrain us but to create the space where true spiritual freedom flourishes?

This eye-opening exploration of "Unlocking Holy Spirit Verses" reveals how recognizing and respecting boundaries can transform your spiritual life. Starting with the profound wisdom of Proverbs 4:23—"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it"—we unpack the biblical foundation for setting healthy limits in five critical areas of Christian living.

Discover how relationship boundaries honor both yourself and others, reflecting the Matthew 22:39 principle of loving your neighbor as yourself. Learn from Mary and Martha's story about establishing time boundaries that prioritize Jesus over busyness. Explore how taking thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5) and filtering them through Philippians 4:8 protects your mind from destructive patterns. Understand emotional boundaries that prevent anger from giving "the devil a foothold" (Ephesians 4:26-27). And finally, see how structured spiritual practices create space for deeper connection with God.

As a former pastor who struggled to maintain boundaries while serving congregations full-time, I share personal insights about how embracing limits ultimately enhanced my ministry. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by obligations, struggling with people-pleasing, or simply seeking a more balanced spiritual life, these biblical principles will equip you to live with greater intention and peace. Ready to experience the freedom that comes from God's loving boundaries? Listen now and transform your understanding of spiritual health forever.

Become an Insider >>> BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

---

New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

Mid-Week BONUS Bible Study Lesson episode...

The story of Esther captivates us with its dramatic twists and profound spiritual truths. From humble beginnings as an orphaned Jewish girl to becoming Queen of Persia, Esther's journey reminds us that our positions in life are rarely coincidental—they're providential.

In this episode, we unpack ten powerful principles from Esther's story that remain profoundly relevant today. We explore how God positions ordinary people in strategic places for extraordinary purposes—and how we might recognize our own "for such a time as this" moments. Whether facing workplace challenges, family difficulties, or community crises, Esther's example empowers us to step forward with courage when divine appointment meets human obedience.

As you listen, consider how incorporating weekly biblical wisdom into your routine can nurture the courage and clarity you need to seize divine opportunities in your life. What position has God placed you in? And what might He be calling you to do with it?

Subscribe to Sound Wisdom Bible Study Lessons to download the accompanying printable resources for this lesson.

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Tune in to Episode 3 > Are we Underestimating the Power of Oils in Biblical Teachings? >>> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-challenging-traditions-are-we-underestimating-the/id1748454615?i=1000658362480

---

New PRINTABLE Resources every month! > FaithBuildingClub.com

Unlock your FREE Coaching Call with me > WhyEssentialOils.com#FreeCoachingCall

Plug into our Community here > https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithcollective

Find my favorite Essential Oils here > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy of my study > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI