Christian Bible Study
In this heartfelt episode of the BeEncourage Podcast, Michelle slows down and reflects on “life lately.” Through a powerful story, we're reminded that things are not always as they seem—and that sometimes, what sometimes looks like a setback is really setting us up for something greater.
A book by Richard FosterPresented by: Michelle Brown Reynolds
Listen in on a live Bible Study on the discipline of prayer.
In this enlightening episode of the BeEncourage Podcast, host Michelle delves into the profound freedoms we possess as followers of Christ, anchored by a reflective exploration of Galatians chapter 5. She illuminates the scripture's teaching that in Christ, we are called to a life of liberty, not bound by the chains of legalism or the yoke of slavery.Michelle emphasizes the singular "fruit of the Spirit," pointing out a crucial aspect often overlooked: that the fruit is a collective whole, not individual pieces to be picked and chosen. This insight leads to a deeper understanding that living by the Spirit encompasses all aspects of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, interwoven and inseparable.A pivotal part of the discussion revolves around the concept of teaching to learn. Michelle unpacks this idea by highlighting how our journey of faith is enriched not just by acquiring knowledge but by sharing it with others. This process of giving and receiving not only deepens our understanding but also strengthens our community in faith.Central to the episode is the powerful reminder that we cannot earn our salvation, grace, or favor with God. Michelle stresses that these gifts, along with all other benefits of being a child of God, are freely given to us. We are invited to receive them with open hearts, acknowledging that our relationship with God is not transactional but a testament to His boundless love and grace.The message of freely giving because we have freely received is woven throughout the episode, encouraging listeners to live out their faith with generosity and kindness. By accepting what God has and wants for us, we embark on a transformative journey of love, growth, and freedom.Michelle's discussion on Galatians 5 serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible freedom we have in Christ. It calls us to live by the Spirit, embrace the fullness of the fruit of the Spirit, and share the love and grace we have received with the world around us.
Don't let comparison steal your joy during this glorious holiday season. For more on the book of Galatians check out BeEcncourage Bible Study series on the Book of Galations at the links below:https://www.buzzsprout.com/944266/12578419-the-book-of-galatians-week1.mp3?download=truehttps://www.buzzsprout.com/944266/12587541-the-book-of-galatians-week-2.mp3?download=truehttps://www.buzzsprout.com/944266/12587821-the-book-of-galatians-week-3.mp3?download=truehttps://www.buzzsprout.com/944266/12587978-the-book-of-galatians-week-4.mp3?download=truehttps://www.buzzsprout.com/944266/12588062-the-book-of-galatians-week-5.mp3?download=true
Scripture about Plank and Spec Matthew 7Parable of counting the cost Luke 14
Greed is a powerful force that can lead us down a dangerous path. It can blind us to the needs of others, make us insensitive to the suffering around us, and cause us to prioritize material possessions over our relationship with God. In the end, greed can lead us to a spiritual blindness that keeps us from experiencing the fullness of God's grace and love.
It's easy to fall into the trap of blaming others when things don't go the way we want them to. It's natural to want to find someone or something to blame when we experience disappointment, frustration, or pain. However, as Christians, we are called to take responsibility for our own actions and attitudes, and to avoid the temptation to blame others for our problems.
Bitterness is a poison that can slowly eat away at our hearts and our relationships. When we hold onto bitterness, it can affect every aspect of our lives, causing us to become resentful, angry, and isolated. However, as Christians, we are called to let go of bitterness and forgive others, just as we have been forgiven by God. Removing bitterness from our hearts is not always easy, but it is possible with God's help. Here in this episode Michelle shared are a few practical steps we can take.
In today's world, there is a lot of emphasis placed on outward beauty. Everywhere we look, we are bombarded with images of "perfect" bodies, flawless skin, and airbrushed faces. It's easy to get caught up in the idea that we need to look a certain way in order to be accepted or successful. However, as Christians, we know that true beauty goes far deeper than what we see on the surface.
As Christians, we are called to be different from the world around us. We are called to live according to God's standards, not the standards of this world. Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
As we go through our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in the busyness and distractions around us. We may find ourselves focusing on our work, our relationships, our hobbies, or our to-do lists. While these things are important, it's important to ask ourselves: what occupies most of our attention?
It's easy to assume the worst in others. When someone does something that bothers us, we might jump to conclusions and assume that they did it intentionally or with malicious intent. However, assuming the worst in others can lead to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and damaged relationships.
As humans, we all desire approval and acceptance from others. We want to be liked, respected, and appreciated by those around us. However, the question we must ask ourselves is: whose approval do we seek?
It's tempting to lie to make ourselves look good in the eyes of others. We might exaggerate our accomplishments, downplay our mistakes, or even invent stories to impress others. We do this for many reasons. My reasons were often caused by not feeling good enough and wanting the approval of others. However, lying to make ourselves look good is a sin, and it ultimately harms ourselves and those around us.
Jesus loves you just the way you are, with all your flaws, imperfections, and weaknesses. He accepts you completely and unconditionally, without any reservations or requirements. His love for you is not based on what you have done or who you are, but on who He is and what He has done for you.
Chapter 1 the introduction.
The Historical context of the Book of Galatians.
This episode will cover chapter 52 and the application.
This is episode covers chapters 46-51 of the book.
This episode will cover chapters 26-45 of the book.
This episode covers the historical context and first seven chapters of the book.
This episode contains a personal testimony for our host Michelle Reynolds and an overview of the Book of Jeremiah.
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