A New Beginning with Greg Laurie

Some professions have specialty clothing . . . and it saves lives. Firefighters have “turnout pants and jackets” to protect against heat. Police officers wear kevlar vests. Soldiers have vests and helmets and boots. As we’ll learn today, Christian soldiers have specialty clothing, as well. But too many of us don’t know much about it. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us get to know our six pieces of spiritual armor, and how we can use them in spiritual battle. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Evangelism is a God-given calling every Christian must answer in obedience. In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie shares principles of a good "fisherman." Notes: Luke 5 There are right and wrong ways to go fishing.And there are also wrong ways to share our faith. The problem today isn’t that Christians are sharing the gospel the wrong way.It’s that 8/10 Christians never share the gospel in any way. Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel.” Do you want to know how to share the gospel effectively? Do you want to go fishing for men? Read Luke 5:1–10 This is a story of how a miracle of Jesus touched the lives of three men,Peter, James, and John. This terrific trio accompanied Jesus on many occasions.They were there at the transfiguration.They were there when Jesus raised Jairus’s daughter.They were there during His agony in Gethsemane. Were they afforded these privileges because they were better than the others? Maybe Jesus was essentially saying, “I need to keep my eye on you, boys.” Peter’s misstatements were legendary. There were never three men who had less promise or natural ability.Yet they became three of the greatest missionary preachers in church history. Luke 5:3 (NLT)Stepping into one of the boats, Jesus asked Simon, its owner, to push it out into the water. So He sat in the boat and taught the crowds from there. John 1:42 (NLT)Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, "Your name is Simon, son of John--but you will be called Cephas" (which means "Peter"). Jesus looks at Simon and sees what he will become. There was another time Jesus looked at Peter.It was after Peter’s denial of Jesus.That was a look of understanding. It appears that Peter, James, and John had a spiritual lapse of sorts.Or perhaps they were just unsure of what it meant to follow Jesus. Peter, James, and John did not realize the potential Jesus had for them. Jesus was making them into powerful spiritual leaders who would touch their world.They had the privilege of writing the very scripture we hold in our hands. Have you sensed God’s call on your life to do a certain thing and then not done it? When Jonah ultimately stepped up to the plate, a national revival happened in the wicked city of Nineveh. Not to respond to God’s call on your life can be an actual sin.It is a sin of omission. Luke 5:4 (NLT)"Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish." Luke 5:5 (NLT)"Master," Simon replied, "we worked hard all last night and didn't catch a thing." Fishing at this time was back-breaking work because it involved laying out a great net in a semi-circle. It encompassed over 100 feet. Then it had to be drawn in hand over hand. Luke 5:5 (NLT)"Master," Simon replied, "we worked hard all last night and didn't catch a thing. But if you say so, I'll let the nets down again." Peter used an interesting term for Jesus when he called Him, “Master.”It was a nautical term, "Captain of this boat." Peter let down the net instead of the nets.The result was that the net started breaking. This was supernatural, and these fishermen all knew it. Jesus gave Peter fish because that is what Peter understood. It’s amazing how Jesus can reach the academic and the uneducated,the certified genius and the little child. Augustine lived for drinking, partying, and rampant immorality. Weeping, Augustine heard the voice of a child repeating, “Take and read.”Augustine saw this as God entering his world. This is a reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God. Peter is overwhelmed with gratitude and guilt as Jesus gives him a great catch. God is not looking for self-confident people.He is looking for people who are aware of their inadequacies and weaknesses. When you encounter the Holy God, you realize how sinful you are. Jesus replied to Simon, “Don’t be afraid! From now, on you’ll be fishing for men!”(Luke 5:10) The Lord said we can catch men alive.Either we do it, or the devil does. Luke 5:11 (NLT)And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus. The word for followed signifies the “deepest inward attachment.” #1 A fisherman needs to be patient. The Bible compares evangelism to farming.1 Corinthians 3:6–8 We live in a microwave society, but God often works like a slow cooker. Ecclesiastes 7:8a (ESV)Better is the end of a thing than its beginning. #2 A good fisherman must persevere. God doesn't grade us on our closing percentage.He grades us on our obedience. #3 A good fisherman must know to go to the right place at the right time. #4 A good fisherman must have skill. We learn effective skills through experience. We learn to build a bridge rather than to burn it. One of the best ways to share the gospel with someone is to listen. Know the word of God.2 Timothy 2:15 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. # 5 A good fisherman must know how to work with others. Cooperation is the key to effectively sharing your faith. God specializes in turning sinners into saints. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On January 21, Harvest Riverside hosted the first stop of TPUSA Faith's Make Heaven Crowded Tour, a gospel-centered gathering calling people to repentance, faith, and bold obedience to Jesus. Listen in to Pastor Greg Laurie's full speech, where he encourages Christians to remember the urgent calling of evangelism and invites nonbelievers to receive Jesus Christ. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The old evangelist Billy Sunday said, “Temptation is the devil looking through the keyhole. Yielding is opening the door and inviting him in.” How many of us have our fingerprints on the doorknob, and wonder why we fell to the devil’s lures? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us good insight on the spiritual environment we’re living in. It’s a look at the spiritual battle being waged all around us, whether we realize it or not . . . and how we’re all combatants in the fight. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the days of the pony express, riders would blaze across trails, up hills, down embankments, across grassy meadows and through blazing deserts. They had one job: deliver the mail. They may have had plenty of reasons to abort their mission: weather, hunger, sickness, attacks by Paiute Indians – but they persevered. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out we have a much more important message to deliver, and that message must get through. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We live in the information age. If we have a question, the answer should be just a mouse-click away. The trouble is, for every question, you’ll find a million answers on the Internet. And yet with all that information, depression and hopelessness are at an all-time high. Is there just no way to find hope . . . or have we just been looking in the wrong places? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, as Pastor Greg Laurie continues his study of Jonah, we’ll find hope in the same place Jonah found hope. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a pilot’s in a bad mood, is he allowed to re-route all his Toronto-bound passengers to Hawaii, just for kicks? No. If a firefighter is feeling a little down, is he allowed to take his sweet time responding to a fire? No. We do the right thing no matter how we feel. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, from the story of Jonah, Pastor Greg Laurie shows us how to look beyond our feelings to the faithfulness of God. We’ll find hope in hopeless situations. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They’ll know we’re Christians by . . . our protests? By . . . our self-righteousness? By . . . all the things we’re against? Sometimes it might seem that way. Jesus actually said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us reevaluate how our faith is seen by others. Is it off-putting . . . or irresistible? As we consider the bad example of the prophet Jonah, we’ll ask ourselves if our witness is working. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scripture reveals we were not only created on purpose, but for a purpose. And while that purpose may bring opposition, it also brings authority and sends us forward. Notes: Luke 4 Why do you exist?Why were you created? The Bible says we were not only created on purpose,but that we were created for a purpose. Luke 1:3 (NLT) Luke 1:4 (NLT) What is God’s purpose? Luke 4:14–30 #1 Purpose Brings Opposition Before you accomplish the purpose of God, you need to have the Spirit of God. Hebrews 4:15 (NKJV) Luke 4:18–19 (NKJV)"The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me,Because He has anointed MeTo preach the gospel to the poor;He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,To proclaim liberty to the captivesAnd recovery of sight to the blind,To set at liberty those who are oppressed;To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD." Jesus doesn’t just bring comfort.He claims authority.He is the Messiah. Luke 4:30 (NKJV)Then passing through the midst of them, He went His way. Luke 4:30 (MSG)But He gave them the slip and was on His way. Living for God’s purpose brings opposition. Live for God’s purposes rather than your own. Luke 4:31–37 #2 Purpose Carries Authority Opposition is confirmation that we are on the right track. Sometimes opposition is correction.Sometimes opposition is immaturity.Sometimes opposition has consequences. "The world has yet to see what God can do with a man fully consecrated to Him."—D.L. Moody But Jesus isn’t just authoritative, He’s compassionate.He’s not just powerful, He’s loving and merciful. Luke 4:38–44 #3 Purpose Sends You Forward Jesus had authority in the synagogue,compassion in the home, andmercy in the streets. Luke 4:43 (NKJV)but He said to them, "I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent." What is your purpose? — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special episode shares Pastor Greg Laurie’s commentary over the years on the truth of God’s Word regarding the topic of abortion. With insight into God’s perspective, he helps the Christian answer: Does life really begin at conception? What biblical support is there for the pro-life argument? Does God forgive those who had abortions? And can Christians ever support abortion? As Sanctity of Human Life Sunday approaches this year, get the biblical take on the topic of abortion. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes seatbelts are uncomfortable. They’re confining, they need constant adjustment, and they can rub a person the wrong way. But in a traffic accident, they can literally save your life. Sometimes we chafe under the corrective guidance of God, but in the end it’s for our own good, and may save our life. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us recognize and realign ourselves with God’s plan, as we study the wrong way to respond from the life of Jonah. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are many places in the country where the locals say, ‘If you don’t like the weather, just wait 20 minutes.” Weather changes . . . constantly. It’s the same with the storms of life. They come, and they go. Some of us feel like a rain cloud has been hovering over our heads for months! But today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us find the help and reassurance we need for those times of crisis in our lives. Today’s study is one of our most requested messages. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever been the target of a scam? Many of us have, some without even realizing it. None of the scammers admit they’re trying to rip you off. They play upon your fear, or your kindness. They find a weakness or a vulnerability. Satan is like that, only he’s been practicing a lot longer. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie warns us about his tactics and strategies. We’re each in his crosshairs, but as believers we’re under the protection of The Cross. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Angels, unfortunately, suffer from a good deal of bad press. Fake news. Inaccurate reporting. They’re not plump little babies sitting on clouds playing harps, sporting a glowing halo. And not all angels are the good guys. What’s the truth about these heavenly beings? Pastor Greg Laurie has the answer today on A NEW BEGINNING from the only reliable source: God’s Word. Today’s message is one of our listeners’ most requested studies. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We can have a steady diet of donuts and burgers and then blame the giant carbohydrate conglomerates for our weight gain. We can speed and blame the cop for our traffic ticket. But at some point, we all need to take personal responsibility for our choices. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out no one goes to hell by accident. God gives opportunity after opportunity to choose the path that leads to heaven. Today, we’ll examine the clear choice where we spend eternity. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We can expect to face temptation in the Christian life. But in this encouraging episode, Pastor Greg Laurie not only reminds us victory is possible—but shows us exactly how to obtain it. Today, we look to Jesus as our inspiration for overcoming temptation. Notes We belong to God 1 Cor 6:19–20 — “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price.” Temptation/testing can produce good James 1:12 — “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation.” When does temptation often come? Frequently after great spiritual blessing (e.g., after Jesus’ baptism → wilderness temptation). Where does temptation come from? We play a key role in our own temptation. Where there is no desire on our part, there is no temptation. James 1:14–15 (NKJV) Temptation always starts in the realm of your mind. Best place to be when temptation comes? In the will of God. Primary weapon against temptation? The Word of God. Jesus’ 3 Temptations -- Luke 4 — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you knew 2026 was your last year on earth, would you live any differently? In this revisited, powerful message, Pastor Greg Laurie urges us to make this our strongest spiritual year yet, drawing timeless wisdom from two biblical figures who knew their time was short: King Hezekiah and the apostle Paul. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are things we don’t like to talk about in polite company. Politics, of course. How about embarrassing moments, a troubled past, those times we didn’t tell the truth, the date that went very badly. Near the top of the list would have to be death and the existence of hell. But today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that our knowledge of hell may be dangerously limited . . . or worse yet, influenced by all the things we’ve heard in books or on TV or movies. We’ll get the truth today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They say the best form of advertising is word of mouth. When one person tells another about his experience, it’s very persuasive. Well, that form of expression was around long before Madison Avenue brought it to radio and TV. The Lord invited us to tell others what He’s done for us. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie shows us what we can learn on this issue from the prophet who ran from God – Jonah. We’ll see, when Jonah finally turned around, so did an entire city! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some people are so easy to get along with, you can’t not like them. Know what I mean? Then there are others . . . Well, let’s just say there are others. How eager are you to share Christ with those who are less likeable? How about someone who makes you uneasy . . . or someone who intimidates you? Or someone whose lifestyle is so unlike yours? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us see how God’s love can help us go where our comfort zone leaves off. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where does your electricity come from in your home? The electric company, right? You’re connected directly. Your neighbor is connected directly. You’re not running an extension cord over to the neighbor’s to power up your lights. (At least I hope not.) Well, we each need a direct spiritual connection to our Heavenly Father. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how that sheds light on Paul’s injunction to “work out our own salvation.” Glad you’re along today for one of our best-of messages. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We live in the information age. Facts and figures fly at us faster than we can absorb. And opinions, suppositions, rumors and innuendos come screaming at us from every form of media – especially social media. Where do we find an escape? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out our respite is right in the pages of God’s Word. Not only do we find solace, we find the soothing salve of Scripture. This is one of our most requested messages. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a strange day indeed when a “man of the cloth” runs from the Lord. Jonah was a prophet of God . . . but when God gave him an assignment, he literally left town in the opposite direction. That solved everything, right? Not at all. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out, when we run from God, He still knows where we are, and He has some amazing ways to get our attention. And He may stop at nothing to get us back on track. Let’s learn more. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first word of the Great Commission is an important one . . . and a challenging one. “GO and make disciples.” “How ‘bout if we STAY and make disciples? Can’t we just phone it in. Can we text them? Maybe a clever meme on social media?” No, today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how we need to go and share our faith on their turf. We can’t expect them to come to church, Jesus expects us to go and meet them right where they are. Today’s talk is from our series of best of messages. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How many prodigals does the Bible tell us about? Well, most Bible students would say one. Pastor Greg Laurie has pointed out before that the prodigal son had an older brother who could also be considered a prodigal. So . . . two? Would you believe there may be three prodigals in the Bible? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg points out that Jonah could be considered the prodigal prophet. But when he turned his life around, he helped an entire city turnaround and come to God. Spiritual momentum is building! Help us continue to meet this unique moment by supporting our evangelistic efforts in 2026—give before the year ends! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever accidentally gone the wrong way on a one way street? Things don’t go well, do they? People are honking, shouting, waving their arms. Not usually smiling either. Seems kind of hostile. Well . . . things don’t go well when we go the wrong way in our faith either. People seem hostile . . . or maybe it’s us. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, as we launch our best-of series of messages, Pastor Greg Laurie shows us the effects of Jonah going in the wrong direction. Spiritual momentum is building! Help us continue to meet this unique moment by supporting our evangelistic efforts in 2026—give before the year ends! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God has built into us a hunger for Him . . . it’s an insatiable longing that nothing else can fill. And He’s given believers a pivotal message – the Gospel message – that has the power to bring people to Him. The ingredients are there. It just needs our willingness to share that message. Are you willing to be used that way? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us a number of practical principles to help us share that life-giving message more effectively and confidently. Spiritual momentum is building! Help us continue to meet this unique moment by supporting our evangelistic efforts in 2026—give before the year ends! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After experiencing God’s blessings, the people of Israel still returned to their old ways. Sound familiar? If you’ve found yourself drifting spiritually and falling into the same patterns—a fresh start is close by. Spiritual momentum is building! Help us continue to meet this unique moment by supporting our evangelistic efforts in 2026—give before the year ends! Notes: Focus verse - Nehemiah 10 #1 Starting strong is good, finishing strong is better. Samson started well but did not finish that way. Marriage is like our relationship with God. The moment you begin to neglect and take your marriage for granted, trouble follows.The same is true of our Christian life. The bible says, “Work out your own salvation.” #2 Stay focused. When we take our eyes off the Lord, we will get discouraged. Nehemiah 4:14 Israel did not remember the Lord. This was not just about the physical state of the walls.This was about the spiritual state of their lives. #3 Israel promised to carefully follow all the commands of scripture. Read Nehemiah 10:28–29 Jesus is the unique and only miracle working Son of God who died and rose again. #4 Israel chose to obey the word of God. The surrender to God’s word happened from top down.Nehemiah 10:28 It’s one thing to believe the word of God, it’s another thing to surrender to it. #5 Israel separated themselves from ungodly influences.Nehemiah 10:28–30 To live a godly life, you need to separate yourself from some things and join yourself to others. The three most important decisions you will make in life are:What am I going to do with Jesus Christ?What am I going to do with my life?Who am I going to marry? Israel was pulled down by ungodly people. 2 Corinthians 6:14 Separation does not mean isolation. #6 Israel was invested in God’s kingdom.Nehemiah 10:32 If we follow God’s principles about giving, we can expect Him to meet our needs.2 Corinthians 9:8 Nehemiah 13:8 Little compromises lead to bigger problems. Jesus finished what he started. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like David, we all have giants we face in life—it could be depression, marital problems, or financial issues. But the good news is no giant is too big for our God. In this powerful and timely message, Pastor Greg Laurie equips each one of us to face our personal giants with Him in the new year. Spiritual momentum is building! Help us continue to meet this unique moment by supporting our evangelistic efforts in 2026—give before the year ends! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In scholastic debates, they keep score. It’s a competition, and each side wants to win big. All too often, believers think sharing their faith is some kind of competitive debate. If they can score enough points, they win . . . and the other person automatically comes to Christ. But that approach can suddenly end the conversation, and even end the friendship. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how we’re to win souls, not debates. Good encouragement coming today. Spiritual momentum is building! Help us continue to meet this unique moment by supporting our evangelistic efforts in 2026—give before the year ends! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the day we celebrate God incarnate, the baby Jesus born in a humble stable. It was a miraculous birth . . . on many levels. And yet the simple circumstances masked the enormity of how deity came to dwell among humanity. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us connect the past and the future as we consider how Jesus could return at any time. His return will be no less miraculous. And today, a lesson on “patient expectation.” Spiritual momentum is building! Help us continue to meet this unique moment by supporting our evangelistic efforts in 2026—give before the year ends! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In any gathering, there are a few people in the spotlight, so to speak, and there are a few on the periphery. Those in the spotlight may seem like the most interesting people in the room, but those on the periphery sometimes have the most fascinating stories. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie takes us to the birth of Christ and helps us meet a couple of people who seem to be on the periphery of the story, but who have much to teach us about having a love for Christ. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Follow anyone on social media? People choose their favorites — travel bloggers, DIY geniuses, chefs who can cook practically anything with practically nothing. (And yes, Pastor Greg Laurie is on all the major platforms, too.) But today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg points out a similar choice in the Christmas story. When Jesus was born, some people hit “follow” right away, and others just scrolled on by. And believe it or not, that same decision is still in front of us today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it that God didn’t know how to stage a spectacular entrance for His Son? The God who created heaven and earth, hung the stars in the sky, and summons forth thunder and lightning. Was the heavenly event planner on vacation the day Jesus was born in a humble stable? No, today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how the birth of Christ happened quietly, with little fanfare, and revealed to the least likely. It was on purpose . . . and it speaks of our purpose. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The true Christmas story is far more powerful—and far more personal—than the version we often see wrapped in sentiment and tradition. Through Luke 2, Pastor Greg looks at how Christmas has been romanticized and even sidelined, yet the real story remains explosive: God stepped out of Heaven and into human history. Notes: Taking Christmas Back Luke 2 The real Christmas story is explosive. That’s because the gospel is the power of God unto salvation. Christmas has been hijacked. Christmas has been emptied of its meaning. Portland, Oregon just had its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Christmas has perhaps been far too romanticized even by well-meaning Christians. The beauty of the true Christmas story has explosive power. The night when God Himself came to this earth. The first Christmas is when God stepped out of Heaven and entered history. Mary was living in Nazareth, a town known for its wickedness. Mary was a nobody in a nothing town in the middle of nowhere. The angel Gabriel had announced to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah. Luke 1:28–30 (NLT) Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!" Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. "Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! Read Luke 2:1–7 Joseph is the unsung hero of the Christmas story. God’s selection of Joseph was just as significant as His selection of Mary. God, the Father in Heaven, chose Joseph to be a stepfather or father figure on earth for Jesus. Jesus grew up in many ways like any other child. We are in danger of becoming a fatherless society in America. That’s why Joseph matters. Hearing that Mary was pregnant, Joseph was willing to simply “put her away quietly,” to break the engagement. But the angel of the Lord came to Joseph, too. Matthew 1:20–21 (NKJV) But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins." Luke is very meticulous in his reporting. Luke was not an eyewitness to the life of Jesus. He carefully researched and had first-person interviews with the principal characters of the story. It was his desire to bring a historical and accurate record of the life of Jesus. These are not fairy tales or legends Luke invented. Luke 1:3 Caesar Augustus was the first real Roman emperor. His real name was Caius Octavius. The Roman Republic was now the Roman Empire. One inscription that was found called Augustus Caesar “the savior of the whole world.” Luke 2:11–12 (NKJV) "For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." The angel was saying, “Augustus is not the savior of Rome, Jesus is.” In a time when man wanted to be God, God became a man. God incarnate born on the dirt floor of a filthy cave. God became a fetus. Deity in diapers. Babies are so amazing and so helpless. You have to cradle their heads. “It was clearly a leap down— as if the Son of God rose from his splendor, stood poised on the rim of the universe irradiating light, and dove headlong, speeding through the stars over the Milky Way to earth’s galaxy . . . where he plunged into a huddle of animals. Nothing could be lower.” — R. Kent Hughes This symbolized Jesus’s whole life on this earth, from the cradle to the cross. 2 Corinthians 8:9 (NKJV) For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. Luke 2:7 (NKJV) And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. That phrase became emblematic of Jesus’s life and ministry on earth. Christ said, “In my Father’s house are many mansions.” We didn’t have any room for Him, but He has many rooms for us. We effectively lose Jesus at Christmas. We say things like, “I would like to go to church, but I’m just too busy.” When Mary and Joseph got back home, they realized Jesus was gone. This can happen to us, too. Not that we lose our salvation, but we can lose sight of Jesus. It’s not about Christmas presents but His Christmas presence. The message of Christmas is, “let us worship.” We need a savior because we are sinners. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the key words here are Harvest Ministries and A NEW BEGINNING is just two letters: Go! In fulfilling the Great Commission, that may be the hardest step. Go. Get up and get started. Today, on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps kindle a fire within us . . . a fire that won’t let us remain silent. We’ll see sharing our faith is a joy and a privilege. We’re featuring a message Pastor Greg recently presented at The Bold For Jesus evangelism conference in Spokane, Washington. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever try to run up a downward escalator? Sounds silly, but kids try it all the time, just to see if they can. When we try to fight against the lures of temptation on our own strength, we’re running up a downward escalator. The momentum against us is just too much. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us change escalators and embrace the power and provision of God through prayer. When we’re moving in the same direction as the Spirit of God, the journey is much easier. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you facing a challenge right now? A trial, a tragedy, a crisis, a loss? God knows what you’re going through. He’s concerned about what you’re going through. And He has the power to get you through. But today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out He wants us to come to Him and ask for His help. Prayer is a vital part of surviving the toughest of challenges life throws our way. And today, Pastor Greg helps us pray effectively using the Lord’s model for effective prayer. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Because of the deluge of robocalls we all get, if an unfamiliar number pops up on the phone, many people just don’t answer. Who wants those calls? Do we feel like we’re an unfamiliar number popping up God’s phone when we call on Him in prayer? Do we wonder if He’ll pick up the phone? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that God not only answers the phone, He answers our requests. We’re not an unfamiliar number at all. No, we’re family. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s said that Abraham Lincoln had an open-door policy for citizens. They could literally come right into the While House and talk with him. My how things have changed. Today, VIPs are universally unreachable . . . with one notable exception. Our God not only allows us to come to Him, He invites us, in fact He urges us. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us take full advantage of the open door we call prayer. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If God can perfectly order the events of the Christmas story, we can entrust Him with stories of our own. We should mirror Mary's surrender and submission to God's plan. Notes: Galatians 4:4 (NKJV)But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. READ Luke 1:26–33 #1 God Is Always On Time Luke 1:28 (NKJV)“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” Luke 1:29 (NKJV)But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. God is always on time. READ Luke 1:34–38 #2 God’s Timing Requires Our Surrender Luke 1:38 (NKJV)“Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Matthew 6:10 (NKJV)Your kingdom come.Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. READ Mark 8:34–36 God’s plan is always better. Surrender doesn’t mean God makes everything comfortable.It means God makes everything count. Surrender always leads to Christ. Psalm 84:10 (NKJV)For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my Godthan dwell in the tents of wickedness. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”—Jim Elliott READ Luke 1:39–45 #3 Our Obedience Has A Radius Luke 1:15 (NKJV)For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. What is God asking you to do? What areas in your life is God calling you to submit and surrender? Too many Christians are satisfied with comfort when God is offering conquest. Obey God.Submit to scripture.Live a life of integrity committed to God. Let it be to me according to your word. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Someone has said worry is the advanced interest you pay on troubles that seldom come. An old Swedish proverb says worry gives a small thing a big shadow. What shadow is looming over you right now? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie continues a series called Faith 101: A Crash Course on the Christian Life. We’ll tackle the problem of worry and anxiety. Pastor Greg points out that the Lord has given us a very powerful tool to help us put our worries to rest. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly 25 million real Christmas trees decorated homes last Christmas. And about 25 million Christmas trees became kindling not long after the holiday. There’s a spiritual parallel. Today, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how to keep our faith from drying out. We’ll learn to keep it re-kindled by sharing the hope we have with others. Glad you’re along for A NEW BEGINNING as Pastor Greg brings us some practical pointers on effective evangelism. It’s a good opportunity to take notes. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Greg Laurie has the opportunity to share the Gospel with countless people each year. He does so through films, crusade events, through social media and right here on A NEW BEGINNING. We’ve seen more than a million professions of faith in the 50 years of Harvest Ministries. So there must be a secret formula for successful evangelism, right? Pastor Greg would be the first to say there is no secret formula. But there are some practical pointers, and he explains them today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If there’s a war raging, and someone mistakenly stumbles into the middle of it, the warriors don’t suddenly stop and say, ‘Hey, wait a minute, fellas, this guy isn’t part of it. Let’s wait ‘til he gets outta the way.’ No people who stumble into battle unaware often get caught in the crossfire. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie wants to make sure that doesn’t happen to us. He points out that we’re surrounded by spiritual warfare, and we need to be prepared to fight, and fight victoriously. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A pilot said, “the basics of aviation are really quite simple. You push the control stick forward and the houses get real big; you pull it back and the houses get real small.” But imagine if a pilot did lose track of the basics – can’t remember what those switches do, or even why they’re important. Well today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us with a refresher course on the basics of the Christian faith. It’s a good reminder of the fundamentals that’ll keep us all from crashing and burning. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s more to the Christmas story than you may realize. There’s a prequel... In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us to the story of a godly, elderly couple named Zechariah and Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist. Notes: Luke 1 Luke gives us the prequel, the story before the story. Luke opens by saying, “In the days of Herod.”That’s like saying, “In Germany, in the days of Hitler.” Heaven’s light was about to break. Read Luke 1:5–17 Luke’s narrative finds Israel in the midst of a long night of spiritual darkness. Israel was now under the control of mighty and cruel Rome.But there was something in the air that things were about to change. A promise to Israel of better days to come – Malachi 4:2 NIVBut for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Malachi 3:1 NIV“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. John the Baptist was the bridge between the Old Testament and the New Testament. God was now going to answer the prayer and heart cry of Israel. God sent the mighty angel Gabriel. The last appearance of an angel had been to the prophet Zechariah nearly five centuries earlier. Whenever angels appeared, they would say, “Do not be afraid!” Gabriel came to an elderly couple, Zacharias and Elizabeth. The name Zacharias means, “God remembers.”Elizabeth means, “My God is an oath.” God remembers His promises and always keeps His word. God was making up for lost time, and He gave them a baby like no other,John the Baptist. #1 Zacharias was a humble man. James 4:6 ESV“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” The obsession with ourselves is at the root of our problems. The humble Zacharias was a country priest. There were many priests in Israel at this time.To be a priest meant you represented the people to God. The priest also represented God to the people.The priest would interpret scripture, counsel, and provide wise judgment for the people. I understand that I, too, am a representative of God to people. You, too, are a priest.And you, too, represent God to people. You are the only bible some people will ever read. #2 Zacharias was a faithful man. God called:Moses, when he was tending sheep.David, while he was watching sheep,Elijah, when he was plowingPeter and John, when they were mending nets.God calls busy people. It’s hard to steer a parked car. If you are faithful in small things, God will give you greater opportunities. God has given to every believer spiritual gifts. Romans 12:6 NLTGod has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. Romans 12:7 NLTIf your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. Romans 12:8 NLTIf your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. Paul told Timothy to “not neglect the gift that is in you.” Zacharias was faithful to do what God had set before him. #3 Zacharias and Elizabeth were godly and blameless people. Luke 1:6 NKJVAnd they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. To be blameless does not mean they were sinless. They lived lives of integrity, not perfection. “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Not to have any children was thought to be a curse from God. Little did they know that God would answer their prayers and give them a prophet. Their son, John, would be the greatest prophet of the Old Testament. Perhaps you are going through a time of difficulty right now. God was preparing Zacharias and Elizabeth for this day, and now the reward for faithfulness has come. Luke 1:13 NKJVBut the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. God hears our prayers as well. God promises us that if we call out to Him, He will hear and answer.Psalm 34:15 Jeremiah 33:3 NKJV“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Just because our prayers are not answered does not mean God does not hear them. There is an amazing story in Daniel 10 where a mighty angel appeared before the prophet.The angel told Daniel that the prophet’s prayer had been heard in heaven 21 days earlier. God’s delays are not necessarily his denials. The devil and his fallen angels are very active right now. Revelation 12:12b NIVThe devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short. The bible tells us that in the last days there would be “satanically energized times” and that things would go from bad to worse. So, what should we do in light of this?We need to use our two secret weapons, preaching and prayer. We have no idea of what is going on in the invisible world of angels and demons.Revelation 8:3–4 God hears and stores our prayers; not one is wasted. Every prayer is answered with either yes, no, or wait. God is aware of each and every request made for His glory and in His will. God heard and recorded the prayer of this godly couple. Zacharias prayed for 30 years for a son.The reason he was surprised when Gabriel came was because he had prayed for so long. In the same way, your prayers are in God’s to-do box.Even if you have forgotten about them, God has not. Don’t give up on your prayers. This happened with the believers praying for the deliverance of Simon Peter.When the answer to their prayer arrived, they did not believe it. #4 Zacharias was human and flawed just like us! Luke 1:18 NKJVAnd Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” Luke 1:19 NKJVAnd the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. Luke 1:20 NKJV“But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words.” Zacharias could have rejoiced, but instead he questioned. We can choose to worship God, or we can choose to question God. It’s not a bad thing for a Christian to struggle or even ask God, “Why?” Some people have experienced tragedy and disappointment and have questions for God. But there comes a point when we choose to trust. Even John the Baptist had a momentary doubt.He misunderstood the mission of the Messiah like so many others. John, the greatest Old Testament prophet, sitting in a dungeon, sent word to Jesus, “Are You the One, or should we look for another?” Jesus reassured John and sent him back to the scriptures. Zacharias couldn’t speak, so he tried to explain what happened through hand gestures.Luke 1:21 Lessons from the lives of Zacharias and Elizabeth:To be humble and wait on the Lord and serve HimTo keep praying and not give up because our prayers are heard and rememberedTo believe what God tells you and act in faith, not by feeling The biblical characters were quite ordinary.They were hopelessly human, remarkably unremarkable. They were also available and obedient to the Master’s call. A 1964 Aston Martin sold for $4.6 million. The value is not in the car, but in the one who drove it. The same is true of us. The value isn’t in the vessel; it’s in the One who fills it. For centuries, the world waited. For decades, a faithful couple prayed.And at just the right time, God said, “Now!” Maybe you’ve been praying for something. Your “now” can begin today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine sitting in the driver’s seat of your parked car. And you start disassembling your steering wheel. You loosen the nut that holds your steering wheel in place. Now, the steering wheel is barely connected to your front wheels. Are you willing to hit the open highway without that control? Only if you like ditches. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, from the series Heroes of the Bible, Pastor Greg Laurie points out some people choose to do that with their very lives . . . and wind up in some kind of ditch. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Funambulism is the skill of walking the tightrope . . . the high wire. And performers face mortal danger . . . it’s a long way down. The last thing they want (literally) is to make it only half way across the high wire. Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out it’s even more important to finish the race of life well. There’s mortal danger, there’s uncertainty and breathless moments. But thankfully, when we fall, the Lord is there to catch us and restore us. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world has been through a hailstorm of crisis and calamity . . . sickness, death, economic upheaval, uncertainty about the future. Hope may seem in short supply. But today on A NEW BEGINNING, we’ll see it’s only in short supply if we’re going to the wrong supplier. Pastor Greg Laurie introduces us to a man who faced an epic challenge but depended on God’s provision to see him through. We’ll learn to follow in his footsteps as Pastor Greg introduces this Last Days believer. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scripture warns us that wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction. Lots of folks going that way. It’s the way that “seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie shows us an alternative. He helps us through the narrow gate. It won’t make us popular or politically correct. But better to live in a way that’s pleasing to God, even if it displeases people, rather than the other way around. This Giving Tuesday, help us meet the spiritual moment! Give now. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.