In this week’s episode of the Summer Q&A Series, Nicole answers a deeply personal and universally relevant listener question: “How do you repair a relationship when trust has been broken—and you know you’ll never accept their point of view?”

With pastoral care, biblical grounding, and hard-earned wisdom, Nicole unpacks the spiritual and emotional nuance of reconciliation. Drawing from Matthew 18 and the parable of the unforgiving servant, she explores what it means to truly forgive someone from the heart—and how that differs from rebuilding trust or restoring a broken relationship.

Nicole challenges the common myth that forgiveness equals relational closeness, and instead introduces a framework for discerning when and how to rebuild a relationship. Listeners will walk away with clarity, compassion, and a path forward for their most complex relational wounds.

Main Takeaways

• Forgiveness and Reconciliation are not the same: You can forgive someone fully without restoring the relationship to what it once was.

• Forgiveness is about release: Releasing the debt someone owes you doesn't mean ignoring the pain or pretending it didn’t happen.

• Trust Must Be Rebuilt: Trust after betrayal requires mutual effort—both people must be willing to rebuild from their side of the breach.

• Respect is the Minimum Requirement: You don’t need to share the same worldview to have a relationship—but both parties must be willing to listen and respect one another.

• Relationships exist on a spectrum: Not every relationship needs to be fully restored. Some may be repositioned to a more distant—but still loving—place.

• Scripture challenges us to forgive radically: Jesus’ parable in Matthew 18:21–35 underscores the magnitude of the forgiveness we've received—and the forgiveness we're called to extend.

📜 Bible Verse References

• Matthew 18:21–35 – Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

• Jeremiah 17:9 – “The heart is deceitful above all things…”

• Psalm 139:23–24 – “Search me, God, and know my heart…”

• Matthew 6:12 – “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”

Want More from Nicole?

• Subscribe to How to Study the Bible so you don’t miss a week of the Summer Q&A Series.

• Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts—your feedback helps others discover the show.

• Check out Nicole’s book, The Miracle Moment, for a deeper dive into relational repair and forgiveness.

• Visit nicoleunice.com for additional resources, Bible studies, and updates on the upcoming fall series.

• Share this episode with someone walking through a difficult relationship—they don’t have to walk it alone.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of the Summer Q&A Series, Nicole responds to a powerful and timely question:
“What happens when we dehumanize others, and what might we be avoiding in ourselves when we do it?”

Rooted in Scripture and shaped by years of teaching and discipleship, Nicole explores how dehumanization—both subtle and overt—can reveal deeper emotional and spiritual struggles, particularly among women. Through biblical reflection and honest personal insights, she identifies three key areas often lurking beneath this behavior: fear, anger, and pride.

Listeners will walk away challenged and encouraged to reexamine how they view others—and how they might bring hidden heart issues before God for healing and transformation.

Main Takeaways

• Dehumanization is subtle but dangerous: We often strip others of their God-given dignity by grouping them into labels, roles, or categories.

• Words carry weight: Name-calling and group labels are not just emotional reactions—they violate the biblical truth that every person bears the image of God.

• Why we dehumanize: It's often an avoidance tactic for deeper emotional realities.

• Three Common Roots Behind Dehumanization in Women:

  1. Fear – Of being wrong, hurt, rejected, or vulnerable

  2. Anger – Especially unspoken or culturally suppressed anger

  3. Pride – The insidious belief that we know best, or can determine what's fair or right outside of God

• The Bible’s Response: God calls us back to humility, self-examination, and compassion. Transformation starts with asking God to search our hearts (Psalm 139).

Bible Verse References

• Genesis 1:27 – “God created mankind in His own image…”

• Psalm 139:13–14 – “You knit me together in my mother’s womb…”

• Jeremiah 2:13 – God describes forsaking Him as abandoning living water

• Jeremiah 17:9 – “The heart is deceitful above all things…”

• Psalm 139:23–24 – “Search me, God, and know my heart…”

Calls to Action (CTAs)

• Subscribe to How to Study the Bible to follow the rest of the Summer Q&A Series.

• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more people discover the show.

• Visit nicoleunice.com for Bible studies, teaching tools, and Nicole’s books.

• Invite a friend to listen and reflect on this episode together—great for small groups or mentoring relationships.

• Join the conversation on Instagram @NicoleUnice or use #HowToStudyTheBible.

🔗 Relevant Links & Resources

• NicoleUnice.com – Teaching resources, devotionals, and books

• BibleStudyTools.com – Scripture reference and Bible tools

• Recommended Reflection: Write out a prayer of surrender using Psalm 139.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of the Summer Q&A Series, Nicole tackles one of the most common (and courageous!) questions: “I’ve never read the Bible cover to cover—where should I start?”

She breaks down practical, grace-filled strategies for reading the Bible in a way that actually works, offering insights for both new and seasoned believers. From choosing the right translation to dealing with confusing or difficult passages, Nicole empowers listeners to start reading with confidence and purpose. Whether you’ve felt overwhelmed, confused, or discouraged by Scripture in the past, this episode will give you a clear and doable way forward.

🧠 Main Takeaways

• You’re Not Alone: Many faithful Christians have never read the whole Bible—and it’s never too late to start.

• Don’t Start at Genesis (at least not right away): Many fall off around Leviticus. Instead, begin with:

  • Luke – A detailed and compassionate account of Jesus’s life

  • Acts – The story of the early church

  • Romans – A powerful explanation of the gospel

  • Then continue through the New Testament before tackling the Old Testament

• Use a Study Bible: Even a basic study Bible can provide helpful context, intros, and notes for difficult passages.

• Mark Your Progress: Write in your Bible, underline verses, and make notes—it can become a spiritual journal and legacy.

• Don’t Get Stuck in the Weeds: Your first time reading is a flyover—aim for big-picture understanding, not perfection.

• Psalms & Proverbs: Consider mixing in chapters of Psalms or Proverbs for encouragement and wisdom along the way.

• Read With a Plan (or Not): Try chronological Bibles, one-year plans, or even 90-day “boot camps”—but always choose what fits you.

• Give Yourself Grace: Falling behind is normal. Focus on steady progress, not perfect performance.

📜 Bible Verse References

• Luke 1:1–4 – Introduction to the Gospel account

• Acts 1:1–3 – Continuation of Luke’s writing, the story of the early church

• Romans 1–16 – Understanding theology and Christian living

• Psalm 139:13 – “You knit me together in my mother’s womb…”

Want More? Start Here:

• Subscribe to How to Study the Bible to follow the full Summer Q&A Series.

• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps others find the show.

• Visit nicoleunice.com for Bible study tools and Nicole’s books.

• Download a reading plan or grab a study Bible to get started today.

• Share this episode with someone beginning their Bible reading journey.

Links & Resources

• NicoleUnice.com – Bible study resources, books, and teaching

• BibleStudyTools.com – Read and search Scripture online

• Recommended Bible Translation for Beginners: New Living Translation (NLT)

• Nicole’s Book: Brave Enough (includes Scripture promises for encouragement)

• Explore past episodes for deep dives into Romans, James, and more.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this opening episode of the Summer Q&A Series, Nicole addresses one of the most heartfelt and relatable spiritual struggles: “What do I do when I can’t hear God’s voice?”

Drawing from James 1:2–8, Nicole unpacks why God may feel silent in seasons of confusion or pain—and how that silence could actually be an invitation. With compassionate insight and biblical depth, she offers listeners practical wisdom for enduring trials, examining their hearts, and pressing deeper into God’s promises. This is a powerful episode for anyone feeling stuck, discouraged, or distant from God.

Main Takeaways

• You’re Not Alone in the Silence: Even faithful believers experience seasons of unanswered questions or silence from God.

• James 1 Offers a Roadmap:

  • Troubles are opportunities for growth, not obstacles to joy.

  • When we ask for wisdom, God will give it—but we must ask with faith and undivided loyalty.

• Mixed Motives Can Muffle God’s Voice: Sometimes our desires are entangled with fear, selfishness, or cultural pressure. Regular self-examination can purify our requests.

• Endurance Builds Spiritual Maturity: The waiting seasons are formative. Joy, wisdom, and clarity come with time and perseverance.

• God’s Promises are Steady Anchors: Holding tight to the truths of Scripture can help steady your faith during spiritually dry times.

For Further Bible Study: Bible Verse References

• James 1:2–8 – Consider trials as joy and ask for wisdom with faith

• Jeremiah 29:13 – “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

• Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened…”

• John 10:10 – “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

• John 14:6 – “I am the way and the truth and the life…”

• John 16:33 – “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Want More?

• Subscribe to How to Study the Bible to follow the full Summer Q&A Series!

• Leave a review to help more listeners discover biblical answers to real-life questions.

• Visit nicoleunice.com for Bible study tools and Nicole’s books.

• Get Nicole's book Brave Enough

• Submit a Question for future Q&A episodes via social @NicoleUnice.

• BibleStudyTools.com – Verse reference and study help

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this final episode of the Activated series, Nicole tackles the practical call to speak about your faith. She explores 1 Peter 3:8–16 and Colossians 4:2–6, offering a clear, scripturally grounded approach to sharing “the reason for the hope that you have.”

Nicole dives into the fears and hesitations many feel when talking about faith, emphasizing that every story is a miracle, no matter how dramatic or simple it might seem. She also highlights prerequisites for effective witness—like compassion, humility, and living a life that shines hope even in dark times. With tangible insights and relatable encouragement, this episode is a guide to confidently and gently living and sharing your testimony.

🧠 Main Takeaways

• Every Story Matters: Your testimony is a miracle, whether it’s dramatic or quiet—God can use your story to inspire and invite others.

• Three Groups to Engage:

  • Those inside the faith

  • Outsiders curious about faith

  • Those opposed to the faith

• Prerequisites for Witness: Live with humility, compassion, sympathy, and love—these qualities create the context for hope to be visible.

• Be Ready to Answer: Scripture calls us to always be prepared to share the reason for our hope, with gentleness and respect.

• Practical Tips:

  • Be watchful and prayerful for open doors.

  • Let your words be gracious and seasoned with salt—speak truthfully, but with a spirit of kindness.

  • Focus on building relationships, not winning arguments.

• Little Actions Matter: Simple daily choices of kindness, patience, and listening are tiny seeds of hope that others notice.

📜 Bible Verse References

• 1 Peter 3:8–16 – Living with compassion and readiness to answer about your hope
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• Colossians 4:2–6 – Conversations full of grace and wisdom
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• Matthew 5–7 – Foundations for living in the Kingdom of God
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

📢 Calls to Action (CTAs)

• Subscribe to How to Study the Bible for more insightful teaching.

• Leave a review wherever you listen—your feedback helps others find the show.

• Visit nicoleunice.com for free Bible study tools and resources.

• Share this episode with a friend who wants to grow in confidence in sharing their faith.

• Join the conversation on social media using #HowToStudyTheBible and tagging @NicoleUnice.

🔗 Relevant Links & Resources

• NicoleUnice.com – Bible studies, teaching resources, and tools

• BibleStudyTools.com – Scripture references and study helps

• Want to send Nicole a question for a future Listener Questions episode? Email her at nicole@nicoleunice.com

  📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox:
  https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk

  📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For
  → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at:
  https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this fifth installment of the Activated series, Nicole explores what it means to truly follow Jesus in our actions. Focusing on John 10:7–11 and 27–30, she highlights how Jesus presents Himself as both the gate and the Good Shepherd, contrasting His life-giving presence with the destructive force of the thief.

Listeners are invited into a deeper reflection on what it means to hear God's voice, enter into relationship with Him, and follow where He leads. Nicole breaks down these core actions and reveals the beautiful outcome: a life of confidence, safety, and transformation in Christ.

What Does It Say?

• Jesus is both the Gate and the Good Shepherd: He provides access to salvation and nurtures us in safety and truth.

• Three Actions of the Faithful Sheep:

  • Know His Voice – Learn to recognize God’s presence and guidance.

  • Enter through Him – Accept the invitation of relationship and redemption.

  • Follow His Lead – Focus your life around Jesus and take daily obedient steps.

• Opposing Kingdoms Are Real: Jesus names the thief who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy—but He comes to offer life to the full.

• God’s Voice is Knowable: Through Scripture, prayer, and community, we can discern His guidance and grow in relationship.

• Focus Drives Following: Where we place our attention is where our actions will follow.

• Tiny Obediences Matter: Everyday choices like patience, kindness, and self-control are the building blocks of a transformed life.

📜 Bible Verse References

• John 10:7–11; 27–30
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• John 14:6 – “No one comes to the Father except through me.”
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• Genesis 15 – God’s covenant with Abraham
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 – The institution of the Lord’s Supper
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

RESOURCES

• Want to send Nicole a question for a future Listener Questions episode? Email her at nicole@nicoleunice.com

  📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox:
  https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk

  📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For
  → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at:
  https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor

  📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture?
  Check out Help! My Bible is Alive!

  🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we study James 2:14–26, unpacking the powerful message that faith without action is dead. Through a blend of biblical teaching, cultural insight, and personal reflection, Nicole walks listeners through what it means to live out an activated faith—a faith that doesn’t stop at belief but blossoms into transformed choices, emotions, and behavior.

She explores the Jewish tradition of Midrash, connects teachings from both the Sermon on the Mount and the Old Testament, and shows how stories of Abraham and Rahab illustrate the principle that genuine faith leads to meaningful action.

What Does It Mean for Me?

• Faith transforms everything: True faith should visibly impact how we think, feel, act, and make decisions.

• Faith and deeds are inseparable: Good works are not the cause of faith, but the evidence of a changed life.

• Biblical examples matter: Abraham and Rahab demonstrate that active obedience is the fruit of authentic belief.

• Scripture speaks urgently: James’ tone invites us to ask tough but necessary questions about how we’re living out our faith.

• Spiritual maturity means visible change: Real transformation isn’t private—it’s relational, observable, and ongoing.

• Simple obedience is powerful: A daily prayer of surrender—"Lord, I want to go where you go. I want to do what you do."—can reorient our lives around God’s kingdom priorities.

📜 Bible Verse References:

• James 2:14–26
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• Matthew 5–7 (Sermon on the Mount)
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• Genesis 15:6 (Abraham believed God...)
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• Joshua 2 (Rahab and the spies)
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• John 14:15 "If you love me, keep my commands."
  Read on BibleStudyTools.com

• Subscribe to How to Study the Bible so you never miss an episode!

• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—your feedback helps others discover the show.

• Download Nicole’s free Bible Study Tools at nicoleunice.com.

• Join the conversation on social media using #HowToStudyTheBible and tag @NicoleUnice.

• Share this episode with a friend or small group member who’s exploring how to live out their faith.

🔗 Relevant Links & Resources

• NicoleUnice.com – Devotionals, teaching, and resources

• BibleStudyTools.com – For all verse links and study aids

• Previous episode: Activated Week 3 – Living the Kingdom Way

• What Does ‘Faith without Works is Dead’ Really Mean?

• Want to send Nicole a question for a future Listener Questions episode? Email her at nicole@nicoleunice.com

  📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox:
  https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk

  📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For
  → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at:
  https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.