Episode 72: Bride

Listen to this episode from Hope for Right Now: A Walking with Purpose Podcast on Spotify. Join Lisa and Laura for Unshakable Identity. During these four weeks we look at four different aspects of our identity as women and the corresponding characteristics of our feminine genius. As daughter, it’s sensitivity. As sister, it’s generosity. As bride, it’s receptivity. As mother, it’s maternity. Our goal is that as we explore each of these, we will gain a better understanding of our true identity. Today, Lisa and Laura dive into what it means to be a bride. In the Old Testament, God is referred to as Israel’s divine husband, and in the New Testament, Jesus is described as the Church’s bridegroom. What is experienced corporately, we can also experience personally, because of the intimate love God has for each one of us. Do you thirst to be loved? Of course you do! Grab a cold drink and settle in. Your faithful Spouse has a word for His bride (that’s you!). Open your Heart to our key Scripture. Hosea 2:7–17 Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode. 2 Timothy 2:13: If we are faithless, he remains faithful. Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Hosea 2:16: Therefore, I will allure her now; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak persuasively to her. 2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. Ephesians 5:25: Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. Matthew 9:14–15: Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?” John 3:29: He who has the bride is the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice; therefore this joy of mine is now full. Revelation 22:17: The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let him who hears say, “Come.” And let him who is thirsty come, let him who desires take the water of life without price. Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection. How have you experienced God protecting and providing for you as a loving Husband? In what ways might you spurn the love of Jesus? What pulls you away from Him? What tempts you to look elsewhere for help, hope, and fulfillment? Show mentions. Walking with Purpose offers many ways to gather to study Scripture. With 653 Bible study programs worldwide and virtual groups starting monthly, there's no reason for you to be alone—we've got a community for you. Find a group near you! Francine Rivers, Redeeming Love Lisa Brenninkmeyer and Mallory Smyth, Walking with Purpose, Passionate Discipleship God’s Word Translation Kimberly Hahn, The Magnificat (July 2025 issue) Let’s stay connected. Don’t miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.  Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community. Stay in the know. Connect with us today.  We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ. Learn more about WWP on our website. Our shop. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube.