Ep 142 // How to Understand Scripture (and Love It Again) with Seminarian Monica Ritchie

Have you ever opened your Bible and thought, “I should love this more than I do”? You want to hear God’s voice, but the words feel confusing, repetitive, or even distant. You long to experience Scripture the way others describe it—alive, personal, and powerful—but you’re not sure how to get there. If that’s you, this conversation will feel like a deep breath.

In this heartfelt and eye-opening conversation, Megan Nilsen sits down with author, podcaster, and theologian Monica Ritchie to talk about what happens when you accept God’s invitation to go deeper.

Monica shares how seminary took her faith “from black and white to full color,” and how learning to read Scripture with context, curiosity, and humility can completely transform the way you relate to God. Together, Megan and Monica unpack how theology becomes embodied in our everyday lives—and how a more accurate understanding of the Bible leads to greater intimacy, not just information.

Whether you’ve been walking with Jesus for decades or are just rediscovering your faith, this episode will give you practical tools and spiritual encouragement to fall in love with God’s Word all over again.

Key Takeaways:

• Faith in Color: When you learn to read Scripture deeply, your faith becomes vibrant, not formulaic.
• Hearing God’s Invitation: God’s leading often feels like an impression or invitation, not a loud command.
• Theology in Real Life: What you believe about God shapes how you love, lead, and live—it’s not just head knowledge.
• Permission to Slow Down: You don’t need to “finish” your Bible reading plan; you need to linger with God.
• Read with Curiosity: You can honor God’s Word by asking questions, studying context, and inviting the Holy Spirit to illuminate truth.

Favorite Quotes:

“Seminary took my faith from black and white and moved it into a whole lot of color.”

“The goal of hearing God’s voice isn’t certainty—it’s intimacy.”

“Before I’m broken, I’m loved. That truth changes how much grace I give myself and others.”

“If we love the Bible so much, why wouldn’t we want to learn to read it well?”

Reflection Question:

Where might God be inviting you to slow down and see His Word with fresh eyes?

Stay connected with Megan:

• Website: meganbnilsen.com
• Social: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
• Grab the Book: Untangled Faith+Companion Journal
• Free Gift: 30-Day Grace + Truth (Daily) Devotional
• Book a free discovery call to see if Kingdom Life Coaching could help you unlock your next right step!

Connect with Monica Ritchie:

• Website: MonicaRitchie.com → Download her free Read Your Bible Better guide.
• Instagram: @itsmonicaritchie
• Podcast: Theologically Fashioned
• Upcoming Book: Fashioned by Faith (Releasing August 2026)