YadaFactor

At YadaFactor, one of our core values is “Listening Fiercely.” This is more than just a catchy phrase; it encapsulates our mission to train believers to unlock the depths of knowing God through the key of listening. In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, developing the art of truly listening to God is vital for deepening our relationship with Him.

The Bible is full of passages that emphasize the importance of listening to God. One of the most profound examples comes from the story of young Samuel. In 1 Samuel 3:10, we read, “The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ Then Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.'” Samuel’s willingness to listen set the stage for his entire ministry and demonstrated that God still speaks to those who are ready to hear Him.

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of listening. In John 10:27, He said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This metaphor of sheep recognizing the shepherd’s voice highlights the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers. Listening fiercely to His voice is fundamental to following Him.

But what does it mean to listen fiercely? For us at YadaFactor it means intentionally setting aside time to be still and quiet before God, actively seeking His voice through prayer, reading Scripture, and journaling. It involves being attentive to the nudges and promptings of the Holy Spirit throughout our day. It is a posture of humility and readiness to respond to what we hear.

In a busy and often chaotic world, we can easily become desensitized to God’s voice. Yet, He speaks to us in various ways—through His Word, in the quietness of our hearts, and even through circumstances and other people. Psalm 46:10 encourages us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” This stillness is not merely the absence of noise but a focused and intentional listening that draws us closer to God.

We believe that God still speaks today, and He desires to communicate with each of us personally. By listening fiercely, we unlock the depths of knowing Him in ways we never thought possible. As we listen, we discover His heart, His will, and His plans for our lives. This transforms not only our relationship with God but also how we live out our faith in the world.

The YadaFactor Experience Course is designed to help believers develop this skill of listening fiercely. Participants are guided through practices that help them tune in to God’s voice and discern His guidance for their lives. Through journaling, reflective reading, and sharing insights with others, participants learn to recognize and respond to God’s voice more consistently.

If you’d like to join us for our next YadaFactor Experience course, click here for more information. Registration will open soon for our newly updated fall course with our beautiful new Guidebook. Stay tuned!  

Since its inception in 2018, the YadaFactor Experience Course has reached individuals in 35 states and 12 countries, with Zambia being a recent addition. Years ago, YadaFactor Co-Founder Pegi Richardson had the privilege of meeting a couple from Zambia named Joseph and Alice. Joseph’s dedication to personal growth shone through when he participated in the YFE men’s course in 2019, despite having to wake up in the middle of the night due to the time difference. His commitment remains strong as he continues to practice Yada independently. 

This spring, Alice felt a prompting from the Holy Spirit to enroll in the course, and she was joined by her friends and ministry leaders Sally and Veronica. Inspired by their experience, these women are now eager to introduce YadaFactor into their churches and ministries. Their coach, Sherri Twiggs, was deeply moved by their enthusiasm for hearing God’s voice and now dreams of traveling to Zambia to help them share YadaFactor in their community.  Please keep this initiative in your prayers!

Summer is a season of warmth, relaxation, and a slower pace of life. It’s a time when many of us seek to refresh our minds and spirits. What better way to do this than by diving into the rich, timeless wisdom of the Bible? Whether you’re lounging by the beach, camping in the mountains, or enjoying a staycation at home, summer offers a unique opportunity to deepen your faith and understanding through dedicated Bible reading. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your summer Bible reading journey.

1. Set a Summer Reading Plan

Just as we plan our vacations, setting a Bible reading plan can help us stay on track and ensure a fulfilling spiritual journey. 

Here are a few ideas:

• Thematic Reading: Focus on themes like hope, love, faith, or forgiveness. This can provide fresh perspectives on familiar scriptures and highlight how different books of the Bible address the same theme.
• Chronological Reading: Read the Bible in the order events occurred to gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical context and narrative flow.
• Focus on Psalms and Proverbs: The books of Psalms and Proverbs are particularly enriching for summer reading. Psalms offer prayers and hymns that reflect every aspect of the human experience, providing comfort and inspiration. Proverbs, on the other hand, offer practical wisdom and guidance for everyday living. These books can be read in small, manageable sections, making them perfect for daily reflection.

2. Create a Sacred Space

Finding a quiet, comfortable space for your Bible reading can enhance your experience. Whether it’s a cozy corner of your home, a peaceful spot in your garden, or a scenic view at a local park, having a dedicated space can help you focus and reflect. Consider adding elements that inspire tranquility, like a comfortable chair, a soft blanket, or even a small plant.

3. Incorporate Creative Approaches

Make your Bible reading time more engaging by incorporating creative activities:

• Artistic Expression: If you’re artistically inclined, try Bible journaling with illustrations, calligraphy, or coloring. Many find that visual expression can open new avenues of understanding and worship.
• Music and Meditation: Listen to worship music or instrumental hymns to set a contemplative mood. Pairing your reading with meditation on specific verses can also enhance your spiritual experience.

4. Join us for the YadaFactor Experience 

There are still a few spots open for our summer course. The YadaFactor Experience online course is a unique approach to Bible reading and reflection that helps you hear God’s voice, know His heart, and respond to His leading in your life. The Hebrew word “yada” means “to know” intimately and personally. This 7-week course is designed to help you develop a closer, more personal relationship with God through Bible reading, journaling, and small group discussions.

Click here to enroll for FREE thanks to our generous donors. 

5. Stay Consistent

While summer schedules can be unpredictable, strive to maintain consistency in your Bible reading. Even setting aside just 10-15 minutes a day can make a significant difference in your spiritual growth. Use reminders or alarms if necessary to build a daily habit. You’ll be so glad you did! 

In a world filled with noise and distractions, finding moments of stillness to hear the voice of God can be a challenge. Yet, for centuries, people of faith have turned to one powerful source for guidance, comfort, and revelation—the Word of God. In the pages of Scripture, we encounter the living voice of God speaking directly to our hearts and minds.

The Living Word

The Bible is not merely a collection of ancient texts; it is the living Word of God, relevant and applicable to our lives today. As Hebrews 4:12 reminds us, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Through the Scriptures, God speaks to us, illuminating our understanding, convicting our hearts, and guiding our paths. Each word, verse, and passage is infused with divine wisdom and truth, inviting us into a deeper relationship with our Creator.

Listening with Expectant Hearts

To hear God’s voice through his Word requires a posture of humility, openness, and expectancy. We approach the Bible not as a mere intellectual exercise but as a sacred encounter with the living God. As we open its pages, we do so with the anticipation that God will speak to us personally, addressing our needs, concerns, and questions.

In Psalm 119:18, the psalmist prays, “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.” This prayer reflects the attitude of a heart hungry for divine revelation, eager to uncover the hidden treasures within Scripture. When we approach God’s Word with a similar mindset, we position ourselves to hear his voice in fresh and profound ways.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

Central to the process of hearing God’s voice through his word is the work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised his disciples in John 16:13, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”

The Holy Spirit, who inspired the writing of Scripture, also illuminates its meaning and application to our lives. As we read, study, and meditate on God’s Word, we rely on the Spirit’s guidance to reveal its deeper truths and insights. Through his gentle prompting, the Spirit speaks to our hearts, convicting us of sin, comforting us in times of trial, and empowering us for service.

Practical Steps for Hearing God’s Voice 

Hearing God’s voice through his word is not reserved for a select few but is available to all who seek him with sincerity and faith. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we discover a rich tapestry of divine revelation, guiding us in every aspect of our lives.

May we approach the Bible with reverence and expectation, knowing that within its pages, we encounter the voice of our loving Heavenly Father, speaking words of truth, love, and grace into our lives.

Want to go deeper in your understanding of God’s Word?

Check out our online course here.

Blog by Emily Reed, YadaFactor Marketing Assistant

Love is a central theme throughout the Bible, and one of the most profound and transformative forms of love described is agape love. Agape love, often referred to as unconditional love or divine love, is a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love that seeks the well-being and best interests of others regardless of circumstances or personal gain. This type of love is exemplified throughout the scriptures, providing timeless lessons and guidance for how we can embody and express agape love in our lives today.

The Love of God:

The ultimate example of agape love is demonstrated by God Himself. John 3:16 beautifully captures this essence: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” God’s love for humanity is unconditional and sacrificial, demonstrated through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the redemption of humanity. This divine love serves as the foundation for all expressions of agape love.

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37):

The parable of the Good Samaritan provides a powerful illustration of agape love in action. Despite societal and cultural differences, the Samaritan showed compassion and selflessness towards a wounded stranger, caring for his needs without expecting anything in return. This story challenges us to love our neighbors, regardless of their background or circumstances, and to actively seek opportunities to show kindness and compassion.

Jesus’ Example of Love (John 13:1-17):

In John 13, Jesus exemplifies agape love through his humble act of washing the disciples’ feet. This act of service was not only a demonstration of love but also a powerful lesson in humility and selflessness. Jesus emphasized the importance of serving others and instructed his disciples to follow his example, showing that true greatness lies in serving others with love and humility.

The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32):

The parable of the Prodigal Son highlights the depth and breadth of agape love, both in the father’s unconditional love for his wayward son and the son’s eventual repentance and return. Despite the son’s rebellion and poor choices, the father eagerly welcomes him back with open arms, demonstrating forgiveness, compassion, and unconditional love. This story reminds us of the boundless nature of agape love and the power of reconciliation and forgiveness.

Love Your Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48):

In Matthew 5, Jesus challenges his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. This radical teaching reflects the transformative power of agape love, which transcends personal feelings and extends even to those who may oppose or mistreat us. By loving our enemies, we emulate the unconditional love of God and demonstrate the transformative power of love in overcoming hostility and division.

The concept of agape love is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible, offering timeless wisdom and guidance for how we can embody and express love in its purest form. By studying biblical examples of agape love, we learn valuable lessons about selflessness, compassion, forgiveness, and humility. 

As followers of Christ, may we strive to cultivate agape love in our hearts and lives, seeking to love others unconditionally and reflect the boundless love of God to a world in need.

Written by Emily Reed, YadaFactor Marketing Asst.

We invite you to join us by taking the YadaFactor New Year Challenge.

It’s an opportunity to see God’s panoramic view of your story in His-story!

We’ve provided a free download below to help you get started.

We’d love to hear what you discovered after you finish!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW 

The Greatest Gift: Connecting With God

“How I spend time with God has changed everything for me. Not so much the circumstances in my life–but the faith I have to face each day, knowing and believing God is in control.” -Julie

Some of you saw Julie’s testimonial video in the spring, or you read a snippet of her story in our recent Yada letter. Now, take a deeper dive into her journey.

The Descent Into Darkness

In the darkest corners of life, where declining mental health, life-controlling issues, and addictions held my teenage daughter, Kate, captive, I found myself drowning in despair. Hopelessness enveloped me like a suffocating fog, and I felt powerless to save her. Kate’s struggle with severe anxiety and depression had reached a point where it felt like the ground beneath us was crumbling. 

My desperation drove me to explore any avenue that could offer me a glimmer of light. During this desperate search for help, a friend mentioned YadaFactor’s free class. With nothing to lose, I enrolled, unsure of what it entailed or how it could make a difference.

The Turning Point

YadaFactor changed everything for me. The class taught me to quiet my heart, open my Bible, and ask God a simple yet profound question each day: “What do you want to say to me today, Lord?” This practice became a lifeline, connecting me to a source of strength and guidance I had never fully tapped into before.

For over a year, I wrestled with God, pleading for Kate’s freedom and salvation. As her struggles intensified, so did my cries to the Lord. Things had gotten so bad I wondered each morning if today was the day I would wake to find her lifeless. Yet, in the midst of this darkness, God spoke promises over me about Kate and my whole family, assuring me that He had not forgotten us.

His Divine Intervention

He walked me through Philippians, Hosea, 2 Peter, and the book of John, all the while assuring me that His presence is unwavering and He meets broken people where they are and can transform them instantly. He wept with me before working miracles, just like Jesus did with Mary and Martha in John 11. And through the raising of Lazarus, He demonstrated that life can spring forth when He shouts into the abyss.

Hope Shines Brightly

In early November, a sudden breakthrough occurred when Kate, out of nowhere, requested help—a real and serious intervention beyond what we could provide at home. On the eve of Thanksgiving, we enrolled her in a year-long residential program that offers her freedom from her life-controlling issues through the power and love of Christ. While we are apart, she will receive Christian discipleship, academic support, and critical life skills training to become mentally sound, emotionally balanced, socially adjusted, and spiritually alive.

He Calms The Storm

God is calming the seas for us, just like Jesus did for the disciples in John 6:16-21 when they got caught in the water during a raging storm.  The strong winds blew, and the waters raged. Their boat pitched and rolled. Their feeble efforts did little to get them anywhere. Oh, how I could relate.

Then came Jesus, walking on the water toward them. They welcomed him into their boat, and verse twenty-one says, “Immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.”

While the road ahead for my family will continue to be undoubtedly challenging, I find solace in the promises spoken over me during this past year in my Yada-time with God. He has already reassured me that this was His plan and that He can and WILL  turn things around.

A Glimpse of New Life

Two weeks ago, a message from the school director brought us unexpected joy. Kate had painted a fantastic self-portrait, a testament to her newfound strength and beauty. It is a tangible sign that she is on her path to recovery, and I saw glimpses of her returning to life—but this time, a new, abundant life in Christ.

The Power of Community

Motivated by a profound gratitude for the tools I was given, I became a YadaFactor coach. I want to guide individuals toward a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Lord. Becoming a coach has not only allowed me to pay forward the gift of a deeper connection with God but also opened the door to a vibrant community of incredible women. Together, we navigate our faith journeys, support each other, and rejoice in a more intimate relationship with the Lord.

YadaFactor has been more than a tool for hearing God; it has woven me into a community of like-minded believers—my Yada brothers and sisters. Their unwavering support, prayers, and encouragement have sustained my family through this difficult year.

Today, I hope you are reminded that if God can grant me the faith to endure such trials, He can guide us ALL through the storms of our lives. If you have never taken the online YadaFactor course, it’s only seven weeks and free! Sign up today for the next session before all the spots are full. Maybe you’ve taken the class, but you need a refresher. Sign up again. I took the class twice before I started coaching. 

A Final Message From Julie

The YadaFactor classes are only free because of the generosity of our donors, who give their resources so everyone can access the tools that help them reorient their lives vertically, wrestle truthfully, and listen fiercely to the voice of the Lord. Please consider giving to YadaFactor before the end of 2023. I hope my story shows you that YadaFactor is truly changing lives. 

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Connecting To God’s Plans For His Future

In the tapestry of life, unexpected threads weave themselves into narratives of resilience, faith, and transformation. Jude Garner’s journey is a story of survival, purpose, and the profound impact of YadaFactor.

At the age of 16, Jude became the youngest participant to take the YadaFactor class. He had seen the powerful effect YadaFactor had on his mom’s life and wanted to experience listening to the Lord in the same way. He signed up with his dad and a few other adult friends for the only men’s class offered in 2023.

Life’s Unexpected Turn

Little did he know, his life would take a dramatic turn. Halfway through the YadaFactor course, Jude had a serious skateboarding accident. What started as a leisurely skate ride along a familiar walking trail became a nightmare. Just as Jude picked up top speed going downhill, his wheels hit an obstacle in the pavement, and he went airborne. He landed on the ground, initially unconscious.

Jude was rushed to the emergency room, where he was put under heavy sedation. In the midst of his deliriousness, Jude engaged in conversations with the men from his Yada class, who weren’t really there. He was checking to see how they were doing and telling them about his future plans to serve God with his life. Even during his own crisis, Jude asked the nurses in his hospital room if they knew Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.

Jude’s YadaFactor men may not have actually been in the room with him, but they were praying for him that night. 

A Scar as a Testament

Miraculously, Jude emerged from the accident with only a broken wrist and some bumps and bruises. The incision on his wrist never healed properly and left an unsightly scar. That scar serves as a tangible reminder of the day the Lord spared his life. Now, when people inquire about it, Jude uses it as an opportunity to share his testimony and the transformative power of faith.

Why Jude Loves YadaFactor

YadaFactor taught Jude how to have a deep, intimate connection with God. Through the course, he started to dive into his Bible daily and integrate what he reads into his daily life. He developed a heightened awareness of God’s presence and direct communication through His Word. 

Jude is a worship leader with a heart devoted to God. As a high school senior and the worship team leader for his church’s large student ministry, he often speaks spontaneously from the stage. He relies on the Holy Spirit’s guidance and understands the importance of knowing God’s Word and speaking it truthfully.

Since completing the YadaFactor class, Jude has taken the initiative to share his experience with others. His Yada journal has inspired his generation to listen to God’s voice and apply what He says to their lives.

A Future Defined by Faith

As Jude looks toward the future, he prepares for a unique adventure. Next year, he plans to attend Montana Wilderness School of the Bible, combining the intense study of God’s Word with wilderness exploration. Jude’s heart is open to God’s leading, and he aspires to become a vocational worship leader and further study Bible and Theology beyond his gap year program.

Gratitude to Generous Donors

Jude’s story is a testament to the power of hearing from God daily.  The YadaFactor course that Jude took was made possible by generous donors who support YadaFactor. We want to train more coaches and offer more classes in the coming year.  We are praying for more male coaches to offer the men’s course more frequently.  

Jude’s story is just one chapter in the larger narrative of YadaFactor, where the echoes of gratitude resound, and the power of intimately connecting with God transforms lives. Thank you for participating in this incredible journey as you support YadaFactor through your prayers and generous gifts. 

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“2023 has been an amazing year, and we just want to say—Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”

Rick Ouimet is YadaFactor’s Board Chair, a licensed pastor, and pastoral counselor. He has a sincere message for everyone who has been connected to YadaFactor this year. Whether you have prayed, donated, volunteered, or simply participated, we are grateful for your part in YadaFactor.

It’s Because Of You

Reflecting on this incredible year of YadaFactor, we are grateful for the remarkable community surrounding and supporting our ministry. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the generous donors, volunteers, and prayer warriors who have played a crucial role in helping people hear God’s voice in their everyday lives through the Read It/Write It/Share It method.

Your connection with YadaFactor goes beyond your contributions; it is a testament to your deep commitment to inspiring others to read the Bible more often, integrate what they’ve read into real-life circumstances, and share weekly in their safe community of three to thrive, not just survive. 

Your generosity has fueled our initiatives and become the driving force behind the impact of our online classes.

Here’s Why We’re So Grateful

You’re Empowering Others

At YadaFactor, we believe in the power of connecting others to the Lord and each other. Your participation has empowered individuals to know God is present and speaking to them. 

Their lives changed by asking one question:  “What do you want to say to me today, God?” and then listening through God’s Word. 

You’re Making A Transformative Impact

Because of your support, we can continue to offer our 7-week classes online for free. 

The classes provide intimate fellowship based entirely on God’s Word for people whose life circumstances and relationships often initially overshadow the joy and freedom promised in Christ. All that changes as they learn it’s possible to

Hear God personally through reading, writing, and sharing scripture.

When someone begins to hear God with increased certainty, they are transformed. The Lord unlocks deep intimacy by His power and through His Word.

You’re Building a Community

YadaFactor is not just a ministry or classes; it’s a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for hearing from the Lord. One participant said, “The group was so supportive, inspiring, and encouraging that I found myself really looking forward to our weekly meetings.”

Many YadaFactor participants become life-long friends as they listen fiercely to God and one another.

SEE OUR TESTIMONIES

Gratitude in Action

As we express our gratitude, we want to assure you that nothing is wasted. Every dollar you’ve contributed, every prayer you’ve prayed, and every hour you’ve volunteered has allowed us to dream bigger, reach farther, and impact more lives. 

YadaFactor is not just a ministry; it’s a movement, and you are an integral part of it. THANK YOU!

Looking Forward

With your continued support, we are excited about the future and its opportunities. Together, we can continue to help more people experience God in new and fresh ways. We are currently updating our course to be more robust and effective in the coming year. We want to train more coaches and offer more opportunities for both women and men to experience YadaFactor. 

Can we count on you for your prayer support as we move into the new year? Also, for YadaFactor to continue, we are totally dependent on the Lord to provide donors with unwavering generosity. He has never failed us, and He won’t now. We believe 2024 will be the biggest year YadaFactor has ever had—thanks to people like you and our sovereign, gracious Lord and King.

Help People Connect To God And Each Other

YadaFactor runs on the donations of generous people like you who believe in the importance of hearing the voice of God and growing in our connection to His Word and each other. To continue offering this online course for free, we need financial partners to help us reach more people worldwide. Gifts of all sizes are valuable, and we make monthly donations easy.

GIVE NOW.

Sign up to receive our monthly newsletter.

“YadaFactor is simply the best way I know to help the family of God become more like Jesus.”

Ann Hollensen is YadaFactor’s course administrator, and she first started financially supporting and serving our ministry out of gratitude. She’s so thankful for how Yada has impacted her life that she wants to give back.

One day, when Ann was attending a class at church, the teacher asked a question. 

“What would you do with a million dollars?” 

After thinking a minute, Ann realized she would give it all to YadaFactor. She knew firsthand that as people learn to hear God’s voice and connect more deeply with Him, they heal and become more obedient—able to serve where He leads.  She smiled at the thought of what it would be like to give that kind of gift to YadaFactor, where God would be glorified, and others would be helped. It seemed like the very best investment.  

“Yada is the best way I know of to keep company with God and learn a life of love and listening.”  

Ann is so grateful for the coaches who first taught her how to hear God’s voice. She wants to pay it forward and share YadaFactor with others. She hopes her legacy is how she helped others connect with God, hear his voice, and learn a life of love through YadaFactor.  

If YadaFactor has blessed you, would you pay it forward and make a donation before the end of the year? You may not have a million dollars to give, but every gift of any size helps us offer our course for free. DONATE NOW.

“I want it to be around for my grandchildren and for their grandchildren. And that’s why I give to YadaFactor.” – Ann

Are You Ready For A Deeper Connection?

The greatest outcome of YadaFacor is a deep awareness that God Himself is present and speaking to you. Through the FREE online YadaFactor course, you will go deeper with God, and with training and practice you will read the Bible more often, integrate what you read into real-life circumstances, and share weekly in a safe community of three to thrive, not just survive.

REGISTER NOW

Ephesians. 5:1-2: Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. (The Message)

Help People Connect To God And Each Other

YadaFactor runs on the donations of generous people like you who believe in the importance of hearing the voice of God and growing in our connection to His Word and each other. To continue offering this online course for free, we need financial partners to help us reach more people worldwide. Gifts of all sizes are valuable, and we make monthly donations easy.

GIVE NOW.

Sign up to receive our monthly newsletter.