Emily Wickham began her writing and speaking journey in 2005. She writes for Lifeway Christian Resources and enjoys serving the Lord as an author, speaker, and podcaster. She teaches via Indestructible Life, a podcast that helps women discover the life Jesus is and treasure the life God's Word gives. Emily also shares brief messages about the return of Christ on her YouTube channel. Please connect with Emily by subscribing below to her blog, Heart Stirrings.
Betrayed, Excited, New Things, & More
Dear Readers,
Why does it feel like huge life change occurs toward the beginning of each year? Perhaps I carry this sense because 2021 surprisingly involved teaching high school English. And now 2023 marks a tremendous decision: my husband and I have put our beloved home of almost 18 years on the market. We carry a bittersweet feeling as we move forward in faith.
Though we’ll miss our house and neighborhood, we’re excited about God’s plans for this next stage of life. With all our children grown, we intend to downsize and build a small home. Ministry will be impacted between packing, moving, unpacking, and settling into a rental home. Even so, I know the Lord’s got this. And I’m super glad.
Please join me in praying for the right buyer and the right price at the right time. I also appreciate your prayers as I pack—wisdom about what to keep and what to pass along as well as strength and joy in the process. Thank you.
And who knows? I’m sure this adventure will supply more life lessons that just might make their way into future articles for Journey and Homelife. God never wastes anything. For now, however, it’s a delight to share the latest in Proclaiming Him to Women…
The Glory of Jesus: Betrayed
“And he went away and discussed with the chief priests and the officers how he might betray Him to them” (Luke 22:4, NASB).
It’s difficult to understand how Jesus called Judas as a disciple, walked with him for three years, and loved him without reserve. Because all the while, the Lord knew Judas would betray him one day. Perhaps we’ll never comprehend this aspect of Jesus’ glory until we’re with Him face to face.
At the same time, let’s probe this curiosity. How did Jesus welcome Judas and minister in his presence? Didn’t the knowledge of Judas’s ultimate choice deeply disturb Him? Yet God is love. He maintained the integrity of His character even while one of His disciples lacked character.
As humbling as it is, I can sometimes see parts of Judas in me—his selfishness and his lack of loyalty. But Jesus loves me. Even though I don’t deserve it, God’s identity as love outweighs my deficiencies. He grants me awareness of my sin plus forgives and restores me. And I’m forever grateful. Can you relate?
Christian Writers Conference
I’m so excited! Although I’d gained peace about not attending a conference this year, the Lord redirected my steps. So, I’m registered to attend the Write to Publish Conference in Wheaton, Illinois on June 13-16. I’m planning to attend with a dear writing friend, and we’re looking forward to meeting plus learning from new professionals. It also will be enjoyable to reconnect with others we know from years past.
Please pray for the Lord’s perfect will to be accomplished at this event. Evidently, this conference constitutes a piece of God’s good plan for my writing and speaking journey, so I want to participate according to His desire. Thank you so much.
Indestructible Life
Season One of my podcast officially wrapped up on February 28. To God be the glory for initiating Indestructible Life, using it in women’s lives, and bringing me joy in the process. “The LORD has done great things for us; We are glad” (Psalm 126:3).
Season Two is scheduled to begin on April 11, and I hope you’ll tune in. I’m excited to continue studying Bible people, yet this time each of their stories will be from the gospel of John. Please take the opportunity to read John in advance if you’d like. Also, please consider forming a small group of women who can listen together and discuss each message.
In the meantime, you can catch up on missed episodes or even review what you’ve already heard. The most recent teaching covers John the Apostle, and you can listen by clicking the image below. Or you can tune in to your episode of choice via the podcast player above.
HomeLife
This month’s issue includes my article, “Grieving with Hope,” which was inspired by a precious friend’s story as well as an acquaintance’s experience. Many people are dealing with grief, so I pray God uses this piece to comfort and strengthen those in need. His Word soothes and heals the cracks in our hearts.
Manuscript Progress
I’m grateful to share that just this morning, the Lord helped me complete the manuscript sample of my Acts Bible study. This will form part of my book proposal, so I’m greatly encouraged as I plan to move ahead on this project. While this month will be filled with packing and moving, Lord willing, I also intend to tackle this vital document. Please pray I will start and finish my proposal this month. Thank you ever so much.
A New Idea
Tears crept into my eyes as I recently opened a card containing an unexpected ministry gift. It was given with such love, and God be praised! He knows our needs. He faithfully provides. May our trust in Him grow day by day.
I thank the Lord for using His people to support Proclaiming Him to Women. Sometimes I even consider creating an online store filled with ministry-related items like mugs, bookmarks, cards, and more. What do you think? Please contact me if you’re excited by this idea. Your feedback is very helpful.
A New Opportunity
At some point, YouTube Music will start containing podcasts, and this venue will furnish a fantastic opportunity for Indestructible Life. Although my podcast topic, Bible people, differs from my YouTube focus, Bible prophecy, this option to join YouTube Music could combine these two ministry arms. If a podcast tab becomes available for existing channels, I could connect with current YouTube subscribers while reaching new podcast listeners. God is good! I’ll plan to keep you posted as details develop.
Until Next Time
After reading this verse earlier, I’m excited to share it with you: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).
In Christ’s Love,
I'm so excited! I'm registered to attend the Write to Publish Conference in Wheaton, Illinois on June 13-16. #writetopublish #writingcommunity #christianwritersconference Share on X Season Two of Indestructible Life is scheduled to begin April 11. I hope you'll tune in to learn more about God and yourself through the lives of Bible people. #podcast #Christian Share on X
I’ll be praying for all those requests and more my friend. You and Mr. Mark are prayed for daily. Ms. Diane and I were married in Wheaton, IL; you’re going to love the quaintness of this big little city. While you’re there, say “Howdy” to Mr. Dan Balow of the Steve Laube Agency and don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at Portillo’s. Order a combo for me please. Of course, you’ll have to eat it for me too. 🙂
Hi, J.D.,
Thank you ever so much! Your prayers are so valuable and appreciated. How fantastic that you and Diane were married in Wheaton, IL! Thanks for the restaurant recommendation, and I look forward to sharing your regards with Dan Balow if at all possible.
Blessings to you in Christ,
Emily