The Rooted Word http://www.cgi.org CGI Digital Network roaringcreek@mac.com CGI Digital Network The Rooted Word is a Bible-centered, women-focused podcast that delivers encouragement, insight, and practical application through thoughtful conversations rooted in Scripture. The Rooted Word is a Bible-centered, women-focused podcast that delivers encouragement, insight, and practical application through thoughtful conversations rooted in Scripture. en © 2026 CGI Digital Network no From the Throne of Judgment to the Throne of Grace Episode 16 Anne Reed, Olivia Doyle, Blake Silverstein <p>The book of Esther is remarkable because God is never explicitly named, yet His hand appears to be everywhere. In this episode of The Rooted Word, Anne Reed, Blake Silverstein, and Olivia Doyle examine Esther's story alongside themes of judgment, intercession, grace, sacrifice, and deliverance. They also discuss what it means to recognize God's work when life seems ordinary, difficult, or uncertain. Perhaps the place you find yourself today is exactly where you are needed for such a time as this.</p> <p>The book of Esther is remarkable because God is never explicitly named, yet His hand appears to be everywhere. In this episode of The Rooted Word, Anne Reed, Blake Silverstein, and Olivia Doyle examine Esther's story alongside themes of judgment, intercession, grace, sacrifice, and deliverance. They also discuss what it means to recognize God's work when life seems ordinary, difficult, or uncertain. Perhaps the place you find yourself today is exactly where you are needed for such a time as this.</p> The book of Esther is remarkable because God is never explicitly named, yet His hand appears to be everywhere. In this episode of The Rooted Word, Anne Reed, Blake Silverstein, and Olivia Doyle examine Esther's story alongside themes of judgment, intercession, grace, sacrifice, and deliverance. They also discuss what it means to recognize God's work when life seems ordinary, difficult, or uncertain. Perhaps the place you find yourself today is exactly where you are needed for such a time as this.

]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4332 1 df0e451a7b8d0e66c6f2411b3cd0c8ab no The Scroll of Ruth: Naomi's Restoration Episode 15 Olivia Doyle, Anne Reed, Blake Silverstein <p>The Book of Ruth is often remembered as the love story of Ruth and Boaz, but Naomi’s transformation reveals another powerful story unfolding behind the scenes. After leaving Bethlehem full and returning broken and bitter, Naomi gradually discovers that God has not abandoned her and is already working to restore what was lost. This episode also examines what Ruth teaches Christians about compassion, hospitality, national identity, and living as spiritual sojourners awaiting the permanent Kingdom of God.</p> <p>The Book of Ruth is often remembered as the love story of Ruth and Boaz, but Naomi’s transformation reveals another powerful story unfolding behind the scenes. After leaving Bethlehem full and returning broken and bitter, Naomi gradually discovers that God has not abandoned her and is already working to restore what was lost. This episode also examines what Ruth teaches Christians about compassion, hospitality, national identity, and living as spiritual sojourners awaiting the permanent Kingdom of God.</p> The Book of Ruth is often remembered as the love story of Ruth and Boaz, but Naomi’s transformation reveals another powerful story unfolding behind the scenes. After leaving Bethlehem full and returning broken and bitter, Naomi gradually discovers that God has not abandoned her and is already working to restore what was lost. This episode also examines what Ruth teaches Christians about compassion, hospitality, national identity, and living as spiritual sojourners awaiting the permanent Kingdom of God.

]]> Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4304 2 e8838cba67ca92a5df9b719371f224f1 no Wisdom From Above Episode 14 Blake Silverstein, Anne Reed, Olivia Doyle <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, the discussion turns to James 3:13-18 and the difference between earthly wisdom and the wisdom that comes from above. The Bible study explores how knowledge, zeal, and even being right can become spiritually harmful when they are not guided by love, humility, and meekness. It challenges viewers to consider whether their words and conduct reflect peace, mercy, and teachability. This thoughtful conversation offers a timely reminder that God’s people are called to hold fast to truth while allowing the Holy Spirit to shape the heart behind it.</p> <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, the discussion turns to James 3:13-18 and the difference between earthly wisdom and the wisdom that comes from above. The Bible study explores how knowledge, zeal, and even being right can become spiritually harmful when they are not guided by love, humility, and meekness. It challenges viewers to consider whether their words and conduct reflect peace, mercy, and teachability. This thoughtful conversation offers a timely reminder that God’s people are called to hold fast to truth while allowing the Holy Spirit to shape the heart behind it.</p> In this episode of The Rooted Word, the discussion turns to James 3:13-18 and the difference between earthly wisdom and the wisdom that comes from above. The Bible study explores how knowledge, zeal, and even being right can become spiritually harmful when they are not guided by love, humility, and meekness. It challenges viewers to consider whether their words and conduct reflect peace, mercy, and teachability. This thoughtful conversation offers a timely reminder that God’s people are called to hold fast to truth while allowing the Holy Spirit to shape the heart behind it.

]]> Fri, 15 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4149 3 1ee0bb32c61c21cfbf9f9c57126d41b2 no Made and Called to Be a Helper Episode 13 Olivia Doyle, Anne Reed, Blake Silverstein <p>Discover a deeper, richer meaning behind one of the most misunderstood words in Scripture—helper. In this episode of The Rooted Word, we explore Genesis 2:18 through the original Hebrew and uncover a powerful truth: this role reflects strength, partnership, and divine purpose. Through biblical examples like Esther, Abigail, and Deborah, this conversation highlights how God uses women to provide essential support, wisdom, and strength exactly when it’s needed most. Don’t miss this encouraging and thought-provoking discussion that brings clarity, balance, and inspiration to God’s design.</p> <p>Discover a deeper, richer meaning behind one of the most misunderstood words in Scripture—helper. In this episode of The Rooted Word, we explore Genesis 2:18 through the original Hebrew and uncover a powerful truth: this role reflects strength, partnership, and divine purpose. Through biblical examples like Esther, Abigail, and Deborah, this conversation highlights how God uses women to provide essential support, wisdom, and strength exactly when it’s needed most. Don’t miss this encouraging and thought-provoking discussion that brings clarity, balance, and inspiration to God’s design.</p> Discover a deeper, richer meaning behind one of the most misunderstood words in Scripture—helper. In this episode of The Rooted Word, we explore Genesis 2:18 through the original Hebrew and uncover a powerful truth: this role reflects strength, partnership, and divine purpose. Through biblical examples like Esther, Abigail, and Deborah, this conversation highlights how God uses women to provide essential support, wisdom, and strength exactly when it’s needed most. Don’t miss this encouraging and thought-provoking discussion that brings clarity, balance, and inspiration to God’s design.

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4364 4 abf72a2c41d13770f1e3d89cc5341690 no The Power of Fasting Episode 12 Anika Sandy-Hanson, Blake Silverstein, Anne Reed <p>Breakthrough begins when we make space for God, and in this episode you’ll discover how fasting serves as a powerful spiritual weapon to overcome the flesh and draw closer to Him. Through scripture, practical insight, and real-life testimony, you’ll learn how to reset your focus in a distracted world and experience true transformation. Fasting isn’t punishment—it’s positioning for God to work in your life.</p> <p>Breakthrough begins when we make space for God, and in this episode you’ll discover how fasting serves as a powerful spiritual weapon to overcome the flesh and draw closer to Him. Through scripture, practical insight, and real-life testimony, you’ll learn how to reset your focus in a distracted world and experience true transformation. Fasting isn’t punishment—it’s positioning for God to work in your life.</p> Breakthrough begins when we make space for God, and in this episode you’ll discover how fasting serves as a powerful spiritual weapon to overcome the flesh and draw closer to Him. Through scripture, practical insight, and real-life testimony, you’ll learn how to reset your focus in a distracted world and experience true transformation. Fasting isn’t punishment—it’s positioning for God to work in your life.

]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3706 5 f26b4664f9ccbc446611d876c5f4cb8e no My Grace Is Sufficient: Strength in Weakness Episode 11 Blake Silverstein, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Anne Reed <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, hosts Anika, Anne, and Blake focus on a Bible study from 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, where Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” becomes a living lesson in humility and spiritual strength. They unpack God’s reply—“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness”—and explore how weakness doesn’t disqualify believers, but can become the very place Christ’s power is most clearly seen.</p><p>The discussion connects Paul’s experience to everyday Christian living: letting go of perfectionism, resisting shame, and learning to surrender trials instead of being ruled by them. The hosts highlight practical ways to stay rooted—praying God’s promise over your “thorn,” embracing dependence on the Holy Spirit, and allowing the church to be a place of honesty and support—so that even in hardships, believers can learn the paradox Paul declares: “When I am weak, then I am strong.”</p> <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, hosts Anika, Anne, and Blake focus on a Bible study from 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, where Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” becomes a living lesson in humility and spiritual strength. They unpack God’s reply—“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness”—and explore how weakness doesn’t disqualify believers, but can become the very place Christ’s power is most clearly seen.</p><p>The discussion connects Paul’s experience to everyday Christian living: letting go of perfectionism, resisting shame, and learning to surrender trials instead of being ruled by them. The hosts highlight practical ways to stay rooted—praying God’s promise over your “thorn,” embracing dependence on the Holy Spirit, and allowing the church to be a place of honesty and support—so that even in hardships, believers can learn the paradox Paul declares: “When I am weak, then I am strong.”</p> In this episode of The Rooted Word, hosts Anika, Anne, and Blake focus on a Bible study from 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, where Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” becomes a living lesson in humility and spiritual strength. They unpack God’s reply—“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness”—and explore how weakness doesn’t disqualify believers, but can become the very place Christ’s power is most clearly seen.

The discussion connects Paul’s experience to everyday Christian living: letting go of perfectionism, resisting shame, and learning to surrender trials instead of being ruled by them. The hosts highlight practical ways to stay rooted—praying God’s promise over your “thorn,” embracing dependence on the Holy Spirit, and allowing the church to be a place of honesty and support—so that even in hardships, believers can learn the paradox Paul declares: “When I am weak, then I am strong.”

]]> Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4365 6 c83661a25f8c8979f0ec38df32dbf786 no From Endings to New Beginnings: God’s Path Through Change Episode 10 Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Blake Silverstein <p>The Rooted Word returns with Blake Silverstein, Anne Reed, and Anika Sandy-Hanson for the first episode of 2026—blending practical Bible application with a Biblical worldview on current events. Anne leads a timely study exploring how Christians can navigate transitions with hope, faith, and peace. The team discusses the “ending,” “neutral zone,” and “new beginning” stages through Scripture-driven examples and real-life insights. The episode wraps with conversation on headlines and cultural topics, offering grounded perspective for Christian living today.</p> <p>The Rooted Word returns with Blake Silverstein, Anne Reed, and Anika Sandy-Hanson for the first episode of 2026—blending practical Bible application with a Biblical worldview on current events. Anne leads a timely study exploring how Christians can navigate transitions with hope, faith, and peace. The team discusses the “ending,” “neutral zone,” and “new beginning” stages through Scripture-driven examples and real-life insights. The episode wraps with conversation on headlines and cultural topics, offering grounded perspective for Christian living today.</p> The Rooted Word returns with Blake Silverstein, Anne Reed, and Anika Sandy-Hanson for the first episode of 2026—blending practical Bible application with a Biblical worldview on current events. Anne leads a timely study exploring how Christians can navigate transitions with hope, faith, and peace. The team discusses the “ending,” “neutral zone,” and “new beginning” stages through Scripture-driven examples and real-life insights. The episode wraps with conversation on headlines and cultural topics, offering grounded perspective for Christian living today.

]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 4775 7 d6f5596805449077f2066f4202f21508 no Rooted Strength Episode 9 Anika Sandy-Hanson, Anne Reed, Blake Silverstein <p>This episode of The Rooted Word focuses on building deep spiritual “roots” rather than chasing quick results, showing how faith shapes everyday life. Through practical teaching, it connects the armor of God and the fruit of the Spirit to real-world stewardship—especially caring for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The discussion emphasizes intentional growth, unseen discipline, and trusting God through seasons of challenge and rebuilding. Viewers are invited to reflect on where God is calling them to develop deeper foundations so lasting fruit can follow.</p> <p>This episode of The Rooted Word focuses on building deep spiritual “roots” rather than chasing quick results, showing how faith shapes everyday life. Through practical teaching, it connects the armor of God and the fruit of the Spirit to real-world stewardship—especially caring for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The discussion emphasizes intentional growth, unseen discipline, and trusting God through seasons of challenge and rebuilding. Viewers are invited to reflect on where God is calling them to develop deeper foundations so lasting fruit can follow.</p> This episode of The Rooted Word focuses on building deep spiritual “roots” rather than chasing quick results, showing how faith shapes everyday life. Through practical teaching, it connects the armor of God and the fruit of the Spirit to real-world stewardship—especially caring for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The discussion emphasizes intentional growth, unseen discipline, and trusting God through seasons of challenge and rebuilding. Viewers are invited to reflect on where God is calling them to develop deeper foundations so lasting fruit can follow.

]]> Fri, 26 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4029 8 d193ee5f8b02ea224578062f046d6538 no What Your Words Reveal Episode 8 Blake Silverstein, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Anne Reed <p>In this episode, the hosts revisit the Third Commandment and quickly reveal that it’s far more profound than most people realize. What starts as a conversation about speech becomes an unexpected journey into how our words shape us, expose us, and align us with something greater. They tug on threads of Scripture, personal experience, and human behavior in ways that challenge comfortable assumptions. By the end, you’re left rethinking not just what you say—but why you say it, and what it reveals about your walk with God.</p> <p>In this episode, the hosts revisit the Third Commandment and quickly reveal that it’s far more profound than most people realize. What starts as a conversation about speech becomes an unexpected journey into how our words shape us, expose us, and align us with something greater. They tug on threads of Scripture, personal experience, and human behavior in ways that challenge comfortable assumptions. By the end, you’re left rethinking not just what you say—but why you say it, and what it reveals about your walk with God.</p> In this episode, the hosts revisit the Third Commandment and quickly reveal that it’s far more profound than most people realize. What starts as a conversation about speech becomes an unexpected journey into how our words shape us, expose us, and align us with something greater. They tug on threads of Scripture, personal experience, and human behavior in ways that challenge comfortable assumptions. By the end, you’re left rethinking not just what you say—but why you say it, and what it reveals about your walk with God.

]]> Mon, 01 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4027 9 1c5f5aa5f837062489c506d18ee62e24 no The Weight of His Name Episode 7 Blake Silverstein, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Anne Reed <p>In this The Rooted Word episode, the hosts explore the incredible power of words—how they shape our world, reveal our faith, and even reflect the divine nature of Christ, the Logos. They unpack the Third Commandment, showing that taking God’s name in vain goes far beyond profanity—it’s about how we represent His character through our speech and actions. The discussion dives into the spiritual and even neurological impact of the words we speak, both to others and to ourselves. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that our words carry creative power—and with them, the responsibility to honor the God whose name we bear.</p> <p>In this The Rooted Word episode, the hosts explore the incredible power of words—how they shape our world, reveal our faith, and even reflect the divine nature of Christ, the Logos. They unpack the Third Commandment, showing that taking God’s name in vain goes far beyond profanity—it’s about how we represent His character through our speech and actions. The discussion dives into the spiritual and even neurological impact of the words we speak, both to others and to ourselves. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that our words carry creative power—and with them, the responsibility to honor the God whose name we bear.</p> In this The Rooted Word episode, the hosts explore the incredible power of words—how they shape our world, reveal our faith, and even reflect the divine nature of Christ, the Logos. They unpack the Third Commandment, showing that taking God’s name in vain goes far beyond profanity—it’s about how we represent His character through our speech and actions. The discussion dives into the spiritual and even neurological impact of the words we speak, both to others and to ourselves. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that our words carry creative power—and with them, the responsibility to honor the God whose name we bear.

]]> Fri, 31 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3932 10 1f891dfa025152f18aa8780180d751c3 no Refined By Fire Episode 6 Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Blake Silverstein <p>This episode of The Rooted Word explores how the refining of silver illustrates God’s work in shaping our character. Just as fire brings out impurities in silver, life’s trials reveal hidden flaws in us so God can purify our hearts. The ultimate goal is that Christ’s image—marked by humility, love, and faith—shines through our lives. Viewers are reminded that challenges are part of God’s refining process, preparing us to be made new in Him.</p> <p>This episode of The Rooted Word explores how the refining of silver illustrates God’s work in shaping our character. Just as fire brings out impurities in silver, life’s trials reveal hidden flaws in us so God can purify our hearts. The ultimate goal is that Christ’s image—marked by humility, love, and faith—shines through our lives. Viewers are reminded that challenges are part of God’s refining process, preparing us to be made new in Him.</p> This episode of The Rooted Word explores how the refining of silver illustrates God’s work in shaping our character. Just as fire brings out impurities in silver, life’s trials reveal hidden flaws in us so God can purify our hearts. The ultimate goal is that Christ’s image—marked by humility, love, and faith—shines through our lives. Viewers are reminded that challenges are part of God’s refining process, preparing us to be made new in Him.

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3762 11 6f21d0319ca1ccb5bfa83e84d61c4fed no The Seven Domains of Life Episode 5 Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Blake Silverstein <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, Anika Sandy-Hanson builds on a previous study of “root work” by exploring how the Fruit of the Spirit, the Armor of God, and the Seven Domains of Life fit together like parts of a three-dimensional cube. Viewers learn how to apply these biblical principles across seven key areas—spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, financial, relational, and social—for a well-rooted Christian life. With relatable testimonies, engaging visuals, and practical exercises, the program offers tools to strengthen faith, maintain peace, and keep God’s kingdom first.</p> <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, Anika Sandy-Hanson builds on a previous study of “root work” by exploring how the Fruit of the Spirit, the Armor of God, and the Seven Domains of Life fit together like parts of a three-dimensional cube. Viewers learn how to apply these biblical principles across seven key areas—spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, financial, relational, and social—for a well-rooted Christian life. With relatable testimonies, engaging visuals, and practical exercises, the program offers tools to strengthen faith, maintain peace, and keep God’s kingdom first.</p> In this episode of The Rooted Word, Anika Sandy-Hanson builds on a previous study of “root work” by exploring how the Fruit of the Spirit, the Armor of God, and the Seven Domains of Life fit together like parts of a three-dimensional cube. Viewers learn how to apply these biblical principles across seven key areas—spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, financial, relational, and social—for a well-rooted Christian life. With relatable testimonies, engaging visuals, and practical exercises, the program offers tools to strengthen faith, maintain peace, and keep God’s kingdom first.

]]> Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3870 12 a7b3eb70959d4074cf03644f2fe9ea0c no Misunderstanding the Bible with American Eyes Episode 4 Anika Sandy-Hanson, Anne Reed, Blake Silverstein <p>In this episode, Blake Silverstein leads a Bible study on how our Western worldview can distort the meaning of Scripture, emphasizing the importance of understanding the original cultural context. He uses Laodicea’s “lukewarm” water and Jesus’ conversation with Peter to show how deeper cultural awareness can reshape familiar interpretations. The team explores how language, geography, and communal values all influence biblical meaning. Tune in to discover how ancient perspectives unlock deeper truth in God's Word! </p> <p>In this episode, Blake Silverstein leads a Bible study on how our Western worldview can distort the meaning of Scripture, emphasizing the importance of understanding the original cultural context. He uses Laodicea’s “lukewarm” water and Jesus’ conversation with Peter to show how deeper cultural awareness can reshape familiar interpretations. The team explores how language, geography, and communal values all influence biblical meaning. Tune in to discover how ancient perspectives unlock deeper truth in God's Word! </p> In this episode, Blake Silverstein leads a Bible study on how our Western worldview can distort the meaning of Scripture, emphasizing the importance of understanding the original cultural context. He uses Laodicea’s “lukewarm” water and Jesus’ conversation with Peter to show how deeper cultural awareness can reshape familiar interpretations. The team explores how language, geography, and communal values all influence biblical meaning. Tune in to discover how ancient perspectives unlock deeper truth in God's Word!

]]> Thu, 17 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3840 13 2ba3fe2d253de4729bfe83d94a34acdf no Tending the Garden Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Blake Silverstein Sat, 14 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4493 14 bd46a8981ee496b58fa20de533ff3ebf no Root Work: Tend the Roots and Reap the Fruits Episode 2 Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Blake Silverstein <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, we dig deep—literally. Join us as we explore Root Work: Tend the Roots and Reap the Fruits, a Bible study on building lasting faith through the Fruit of the Spirit, the Armor of God, and life's key spiritual domains. From Sabbath reflections to kingdom-minded living, this conversation will inspire you to go beyond surface faith and grow real, lasting roots in Christ.</p> <p>In this episode of The Rooted Word, we dig deep—literally. Join us as we explore Root Work: Tend the Roots and Reap the Fruits, a Bible study on building lasting faith through the Fruit of the Spirit, the Armor of God, and life's key spiritual domains. From Sabbath reflections to kingdom-minded living, this conversation will inspire you to go beyond surface faith and grow real, lasting roots in Christ.</p> In this episode of The Rooted Word, we dig deep—literally. Join us as we explore Root Work: Tend the Roots and Reap the Fruits, a Bible study on building lasting faith through the Fruit of the Spirit, the Armor of God, and life's key spiritual domains. From Sabbath reflections to kingdom-minded living, this conversation will inspire you to go beyond surface faith and grow real, lasting roots in Christ.

]]> Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 4575 15 7a191c0f8523f7680e8b0447e3295bdd no Equipped for Battle: Understanding the Armor of God Episode 1 Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, Blake Silverstein <p>The Rooted Word podcast, hosted by Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, and Blake Silverstein, introduces discussions about spiritual readiness and applying biblical principles to everyday life. In the first episode, they focus on understanding the Armor of God, emphasizing its relevance to the spiritual battles Christians face and how it empowers believers to withstand challenges. They also explore the importance of truth, spiritual awareness, and the active influence of the spiritual realm in their faith journey.</p> <p>The Rooted Word podcast, hosted by Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, and Blake Silverstein, introduces discussions about spiritual readiness and applying biblical principles to everyday life. In the first episode, they focus on understanding the Armor of God, emphasizing its relevance to the spiritual battles Christians face and how it empowers believers to withstand challenges. They also explore the importance of truth, spiritual awareness, and the active influence of the spiritual realm in their faith journey.</p> The Rooted Word podcast, hosted by Anne Reed, Anika Sandy-Hanson, and Blake Silverstein, introduces discussions about spiritual readiness and applying biblical principles to everyday life. In the first episode, they focus on understanding the Armor of God, emphasizing its relevance to the spiritual battles Christians face and how it empowers believers to withstand challenges. They also explore the importance of truth, spiritual awareness, and the active influence of the spiritual realm in their faith journey.

]]> Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3936 16 34e74b8356198643160e1716f1f3d7eb no