Living On Purpose In Christ Bible Study | Biblical Encouragement, Aromatherapy, Devotions, Daily Prayer, Journaling Prompts

109 | Holy Oils and Holy Faith: Finding Peace Amid Life Changes

• Paula Behrens | Christian Coach, Pastor, Certified Aroma Freedom Practitioner • Season 2

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Change can feel like standing on moving ground, but we don’t have to face it untethered. We share a simple, embodied way to stay anchored in Christ through Scripture, prayer, and the biblical practice of sacred oils—tools designed for wholeness that engage your senses, settle your mind, and open your heart to God’s steady presence. From the seminary mornings that ran on grace instead of perfection to the small practices that transform a rushed day into a sacred rhythm, this conversation offers a path from anxiety to alignment.

We walk through the rich history and meaning behind myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia, and olive oil, and we unpack the holy incense—onycha, galbanum, and frankincense—as a sensory liturgy that invites focus and calm. Along the way, we address the skepticism around essential oils and re-center them as humble aids, not replacements for faith. Paired with worship and the Word, these gifts become anchors: a cue to breathe, to be still, and to remember that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Grounded in Hebrews 13:8, Psalm 46:10, Psalm 34:18, and stories of Abraham, Esther, Israel, and Peter, we explore how trust grows when we release control and keep our eyes on Christ through every season. You’ll leave with practical steps—short prayers, breath-and-verse pauses, journaling prompts, and aroma cues—to cultivate stillness, build resilience, and find clarity when life shifts. If you’re craving a slower, Spirit-led rhythm that holds you steady, this one’s for you.

If this helped you breathe easier, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review so others can find it. Ready for more support? Book an Aroma of Christ coaching hour at PaulaBehrens.com/coaching and start your Peace Reset today.

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Paula Behrens:

I know, friend. Life moves quickly, and sometimes it feels like the ground beneath our feet is shifting faster than we can keep up. One moment everything feels familiar and steady, and the next it's completely unrecognizable. A job change, a move, a health challenge, or even a shift in your spiritual walk can leave you feeling unstable and unsure of the next step. Change is inevitable, yet how we respond to it can either draw us closer to God or leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. In today's episode, we'll delve into the practical tools that God provides to keep us grounded, tools he crafted for our well-being from the start. But before we dive in, let me share a bit about my early seminary days.

Paula Behrens:

When I first began my seminary work while serving two church congregations full-time, everyone assumed I had my daily devotional time perfectly organized. But truth be told, there were mornings I could barely find five minutes to catch my breath, let alone dive into deep reflection. One day, as I rushed out the door with mismatched shoes, I realized that even in my chaos, there was a lesson. Embracing God's grace and self-forgiveness, I realized that true success in my devotional life requires prioritizing my spiritual practices.

Paula Behrens:

Are you finding it challenging to maintain your spiritual practices or yearning for a more peaceful, God-aligned day? I'm Paula, and I've been there too. Balancing spiritual habits with a busy life can be difficult. I longed for a deeper connection with God but struggled with consistency. Then I found the perfect approach. If you seek simple ways to deepen your connection with God, this podcast is for you. Please take a moment to follow the show, leave a review, and share with your friends who need a little biblical encouragement today.

Paula Behrens:

Hey friend, I know what it's like to feel far from God even when you're doing all the right things. You're showing up, you're praying, you're reading your Bible, but inside something feels disconnected. You wonder if you're doing enough, if God is even listening. You feel a little ashamed that your quiet time isn't what it used to be or what you hoped it would be. I want you to know you're not alone and you're not failing. God isn't asking for your perfection. He's just asking for your presence. That's what the aroma of Christ's coaching hour is all about. No pressure, no performance, just God's presence. And as a special touch, you'll receive a free essential oil sampler ahead of time so you can experience how these simple tools can enhance our time together, creating an environment where peace and clarity can flourish. Let me walk with you into a slower Spirit-led rhythm that will help you reconnect with the One who's been waiting to refresh your soul all along. Say yes to peace, say yes to presence. Book your Aroma of Christ coaching hour now at PaulaBehrens.com /coaching. That's Paula Behrens, B E H R E N S .com /coaching (no spaces). All right, it's time to get started. Grab your Bible, dust off your journal, and cozy up to your favorite beverage and let's dive in.

Paula Behrens:

For many of us, change stirs both excitement and fear. It can be a blank canvas, a chance to grow and explore, or it can spark worry and uncertainty. The good news is that no matter how unpredictable life gets, we have a constant we can cling to, Jesus Christ, who never changes. Hebrews 13.8 reminds us, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. While the world shifts, his love, guidance, and promises remain steadfast. Seeing change through God's perspective transforms it from a threat into an opportunity, an opportunity to rely on his strength, trusting his timing, and grow in ways we never imagined. And sometimes God gives us tangible tools to help us stay anchored, tools he designed for our wholeness from the very beginning, like the sacred oils mentioned throughout Scripture.

Paula Behrens:

Have you ever wondered why essential oils are mentioned over 600 times in the Bible, or why the wise men brought gifts of frankincense and myrrh to Jesus? Oils weren't trends, they were sacred tools for healing, worship, and protection. The Creator himself gave Moses the exact recipe for the holy anointing oil in Exodus 30. Each ingredient carried a specific purpose, both physical and spiritual. Let me walk you through a few of them. Myrrh was known for its ability to fight infection, soothe skin, and calm inflammation. Spiritually, it symbolizes surrender, purification, and deep inner healing. Cinnamon was one of the strongest antibacterial and circulatory oils. It brought warmth to the body and zeal to the soul, a symbol of holy passion and the fire of the Spirit. Calamus supported the nervous system and digestion. Its upright stalk represented integrity, humility, and balance, aligning body and spirit. Cassia was a powerful purifier used to drive out diseases, strengthen immunity, and cleanse sacred spaces. It symbolizes authority and sanctification. Olive oil, the carrier of the anointing, was rich in nutrients and symbolic of the Holy Spirit, the One who empowers, heals, and sets apart.

Paula Behrens:

And then there is the sacred tradition of the Holy Incense. Three powerful ingredients come together onycha, galbanum, and pure frankincense. Onycha is known for its rich, sweet aroma. Spiritually, it symbolizes the deep cleansing and preparation required to approach the divine. This element of the incense serves as a reminder of our journey toward purification and transformation in God's presence. Galbanum, a resin with a strong earthy scent, is often associated with grounding and centering. Within spiritual ceremonies, it represents stability and steadfastness, reminding us to remain firm in our faith yet open to God's guidance. Its inclusion in the Holy Incense calls us to stand resolute and anchored in our spiritual journey. And finally, pure frankincense, an integral part of sacred rituals, signifies our intimate connection to God. Beyond its spiritual symbolism, frankincense offers medicinal benefits, including immune support, calming of the mind, and promotion of cellular healing. It was also used by Aaron in the stopping of a plague. Inhaling its fragrance draws us into a deeper encounter with the sacred, enriching both body and spirit. Together, these three ingredients create a profound experience, drawing us closer to God through their combined symbolism and healing properties.

Paula Behrens:

This wasn't random, it was divine chemistry. God designed each oil and resin with exacting wisdom to protect His people. Body, that's the physical, mind, the emotions, and spirit, our connection with God. And yet today, many mock essential oils as snake oil. Why? Because God's natural medicine has often been buried beneath systems that profit by keeping us dependent rather than empowered. But God's design hasn't changed. The same oils that healed wounds, purified temples, and calmed anxious hearts still hold that power today. I've personally used essential oils for almost nine years now, and I've seen how combining them with prayer, scripture, and worship creates a sacred rhythm that strengthens the soul, calms the mind, and nurtures emotional and spiritual wholeness. They're not a replacement for faith, of course. They're a tool, though, a tool to help you engage your body, mind, and spirit in harmony with God's design.

Paula Behrens:

When we embrace change, God often invites us to new levels of dependence on Him. Life may challenge us in ways we didn't anticipate, but each season carries a divine purpose. Remember Abraham? He left everything familiar to follow God's call. Esther stepped into a role she never sought, and the Israelites learned daily dependence during their wilderness wanderings. Their stories remind us that God's plan often unfolds in ways we cannot predict, but that his presence is constant. The key to thriving in change is trust. It means releasing control, surrendering outcomes, and leaning into the One who never wavers. Matthew 14 tells us that Peter walked on water toward Jesus, but began to sink when he focused on the storm. That's a vivid picture of what happens when we focus on circumstances rather than on Christ. The waves may be real, but when we keep our eyes on Him, we can walk through storms with faith, not fear. Psalm 46.10 says, Be still and know that I am God. Stillness doesn't always mean inactivity. It's resting in the assurance that God is already at work, even when we can't see it. In the same way, integrating essential oils as a sensory anchor can help us cultivate that stillness. The aroma of frankincense during prayer or the soothing scent of cedar wood while reflecting on scripture reminds us that God is present and in control.

Paula Behrens:

Change can also bring discomfort. Loss, heartbreak, or uncertainty can shake our faith. Psalm 34.18 offers comfort, saying, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. God doesn't stand at a distance, he draws near, he carries our pain and turns our suffering into growth. Even when life feels chaotic, he is shaping us into vessels of purpose and faith. Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us that there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens. Even when we don't understand why a door closes or a plan shifts, God is orchestrating our story with intention. Seasons of waiting aren't wasted. They're sacred space where our faith can deepen and our character can be strengthened.

Paula Behrens:

Ultimately, change can either be a barrier or a bridge. Think about that. Change can distance us from God or it can draw us closer than ever. The difference lies in our response. Choosing faith over fear transforms every detour into divine direction. The anxiety of the unknown gives way to the peace of God, and confusion becomes clarity. As Christians, we have the opportunity to model a different way of being in a world that changes rapidly, don't we? By grounding ourselves in prayer, scripture, worship, and yes, even God-designed sensory tools like essential oils, we become beacons of faith and hope. We live on purpose, not in reaction to life's chaos, but on purpose in Christ. We anchor our hearts in what never changes, Jesus Christ. And we navigate every season with resilience, peace, and purpose.

Paula Behrens:

So if you're walking through a season of change, I encourage you to create a rhythm that nurtures your body, mind, and spirit. Lean into God's word, invite him into every shift and transition, breathe in his presence, use the tools he designed to support you, and above all, trust that he is faithful. His timing is perfect, and his plans for you are good, my friend. Yes, life will evolve, seasons will turn, but the God who holds your heart remains the same, yesterday, today, and forever. And when you anchor yourself in him, you can step forward into every change, not with fear, but with faith, peace, and purpose.

Paula Behrens:

Let us pray. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you that you never change, even when everything else around us does. Thank you for your love, for your guidance, and for your faithfulness. Help us to trust you in every season of change. Teach us to lean into your word, rest in your presence, and find peace in your unshakable love. Use the tools and gifts you've designed for us, for our bodies and our minds, and our senses, to draw us closer to you. May we live each day with hearts anchored in Christ, confident that you are working all things together for our good. It is in Jesus' precious and Holy name that we ask these things. Amen.

Paula Behrens:

Take a deep breath, and if you'd like, whisper a simple affirmation. Say, God is my anchor, his love is my peace. I trust him in every season. Allow that truth to sink in as you step forward into whatever this new season holds. Change may come, but your purpose in Christ is unshakable.

Paula Behrens:

If you'd like personal guidance for navigating life's changes with faith and peace, I invite you to book an Aroma of Christ coaching hour plus Peace RESET with me. In this one-hour session, we'll pray together, explore spiritual rhythms, and uncover practical ways to anchor your heart in God's presence. You'll also receive a free essential oil sampler to use during our coaching hour, giving you a tangible way to connect with God through his creation. And by the end of our time together, you'll walk away with renewed confidence, clarity, and a deeper sense of peace, ready to navigate every season with purpose and trust in God. Save your seat now at PaulaBehrens.com/coaching. That's Paula Behrens B-E-H R E N S .com/coaching (no spaces). You'll be glad you did.

Paula Behrens:

Thank you for tuning in today. And remember, just like setting biblical boundaries, it's okay to say no to things that don't serve you well, like that third piece of cake at the church potluck. If you were blessed by this episode, be sure to share it with a friend and leave a review so that we can reach even more listeners like you. Check the show notes for all the links. Join us next week as we continue to discover how to live on purpose In Christ. Until then, keep leaning into Him and walking in His wisdom. See you next time.