Hi Reader,
At the beginning of this year, burnout was a real possibility for me as I transitioned from a team of three that helped keep all the plates spinning for Intentional Filling to just me, myself, and I (plus God). It became clear that this year needed to be different.
The "extras" of product development and seasonal sales were scrapped early on, and the decision to discontinue the blog posts and podcast episodes during our studies came quickly on its heels. I've also stepped back from the hustle of social media posting, as well.
As a result of those changes, the income for the ministry has significantly dropped.
Then, during the month of July, while on the ministry's annual sabbatical, God made some other necessary changes more clear to me.
The Future of Intentional Filling
Next year's rendition of the ministry will look very different than what many of you have come to know and expect.
Here's what you can expect in 2026:
- The Intentional Filling Website (intentionalfilling.com) will remain as a living resource for those who enjoy studying Scripture through a Hebraic Lens. Existing blog posts and podcast episodes will be accessible. Periodic updates will be made to continue to grow the library of Biblical study resources that we have collected over the years. Announcements will be made via email when those take place.
- The Intentional Filling Shop (intentionalfilling.com/shop), following a HUGE clearance sale towards the end of August (to hopefully offload much of our physical inventory - think Bible study caddies, apparel, highlighters, etc.), will only retain digital products. Your IF Collective discount will continue to be honored through the end of 2025.
- The Intentional Filling Newsletter will be reduced to periodic announcements.
- Online Biblical Studies (intentionalfilling.com/biblicalstudies) will continue through the end of 2026. A reassessment will be made during the fall of 2026 to determine where I feel that God is leading and if these will continue into 2027.
How Online Biblical Studies will look in 2026:
It is my desire to move forward with Intentional Filling operating as the host for Online Biblical Studies. Think of our online space as a comfortable virtual living room, where we can gather and participate as a group, rather than be specifically leader led.
- Structure of the Study - The structure and contents offered to members of the studies will be less than in previous years. This will alleviate the responsibility on one person to build content and be responsible for attending every discussion throughout the year. Instead, the study community will be invited to participate in developing questions or leading Zoom discussions.
- The Private Facebook Group will remain open for members of the studies; however, the ministry will not be sharing weekly posts as it has in the past. This space will be available for members to share resources, prayer requests, and discuss what is being learned outside of Thursday night Zoom calls.
- Weekly Zoom Calls - These will continue to be held on Thursdays at 9 p.m. EST
- Cost of Membership - To be announced on September 18th on Zoom
I aim to reduce the cost of participating in the studies while still covering the expenses of a designated Zoom account, storage of replays, and an email platform that enables IF to continue offering this service.
Studies for 2026
The Forgotten Jesus by Robby Gallaty
5-week study begins January 18th (first Zoom call on January 22nd at 9 p.m. ET)
(MAY BE RESCHEDULED - DUE TO WEDDING PLANNING)
The "I AM" Statements in the Gospel of John
7-week Deep Dive Study begins April 12th (first Zoom call on April 15th at 9 p.m. ET)
The Good Shepherd by Kenneth Bailey
9-week study begins September 6th (first Zoom call on September 10th at 9 p.m. ET)
I know that it is not beyond God to do more with this ministry, if He desires, as He brought about its resurrection in the fall of 2019, after a three-year hiatus.
However, at this time, I feel that He is calling me to an entirely different path, of which I am excited to share more about in time. Therefore, I welcome your continued prayers for clarity and discernment as Intentional Filling and I enter into this time of transition.
Much love + virtual hugs to you all,
