Calvary Church

What do you do when everything you've worked for seems to fall apart? In the next message of The Pressure Cooker message series, we dive into 1 Samuel 30:1–6, where David returns from battle only to find his home destroyed, his family taken, and his men turning against him. Under the crushing pressure of loss, expectation, and leadership, David is faced with a defining choice.In the midst of overwhelming stress, the turning point comes in one powerful phrase: “But David found strength in the Lord his God.”Join us as we explore how to handle the pressure of work—when responsibilities mount, outcomes disappoint, and exhaustion sets in. Discover how to find strength not in what you do, but in who God is.Listen in and ask yourself: Where am I finding my strength when the pressure is on?

What do you do when the weight of leadership feels overwhelming? In the next message of The Pressure Cooker message series, we look at the life of Moses in Exodus 33:12–15—a leader caught between a struggling people and a holy God. With the weight of an entire nation on his shoulders, Moses doesn't ask for more power or strategy. He asks for one thing: God's presence.In moments of pressure, Moses models the kind of leadership that depends on divine direction over personal strength. His bold plea—“If Your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here”—is a reminder that godly leadership begins with humble dependence.Join us as we explore what it means to lead not from pressure, but from presence.Listen in and ask yourself: Am I leading from my own strength—or leaning on God's?

What do you do when the weight of responsibility feels too heavy to carry? In this first message in The Pressure Cooker message series, we explore the challenge of leading, choosing, and standing firm under the pressure of responsibility. Looking at Joshua 24:14–15, we find Joshua addressing the people of Israel with a clear and courageous call: “Choose this day whom you will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”Responsibility isn't just about tasks—it's about choices. It's about leading ourselves, our families, and our communities with faith and conviction, even when it's hard.Join us as we unpack how to navigate the pressure of responsibility with integrity, faith, and clarity in a world full of competing voices.Listen in and ask yourself: Who am I serving—and what legacy am I building under pressure?

What if your greatest obstacle is actually the gateway to God's greatest provision? In this final message in our Daughters of Wisdom message series, we explore the story of the widow at Zarephath in 1 Kings 17:8–16. Facing a drought, a dwindling supply of food, and the fear of death, this unnamed woman is asked to take a step of faith—feeding the prophet Elijah with her last bit of flour and oil.Her obedience in the face of desperation reveals a deep truth: God meets us in our lack and provides when we trust Him with what little we have.Join us as we unpack how faith, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles, opens the door to God's miraculous provision and purpose.Listen in and ask yourself: What if the obstacle in front of you is the place where God wants to show up the most?

What if quiet faithfulness is one of the most powerful forms of influence? In this message in our Daughters of Wisdom message series, we explore the story of Ruth in Ruth 1:11–18—a woman whose loyalty, love, and commitment reshaped not only one family's future but became part of God's redemptive plan for the world.As Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi, her words—“Where you go, I will go”—echo the kind of influence that flows from selfless devotion and courageous obedience.This story reminds us that influence isn't always loud or public. Sometimes it looks like showing up, standing firm, and walking faithfully with others through uncertain seasons.Join us as we reflect on how God can use our everyday decisions to shape extraordinary outcomes.Listen in and ask yourself: How is God calling me to use my influence today?

What if the moment you're in is the moment God wants to use? In this episode of our Daughters of Wisdom message series, we look at the story of Esther in chapter 4:1–16—a young woman placed in a position of influence at the exact time her people faced destruction. As the stakes rise, Esther is challenged to embrace her moment, step out in courage, and trust that God has positioned her for a greater purpose.Her story reminds us that divine moments often come disguised as difficult decisions—and faith means saying yes, even when fear is loud.Join us as we explore what it means to be faithful right where we are, and how embracing the moment can lead to kingdom impact.Listen in and ask yourself: What if you were made for such a time as this?

What does it look like to reflect God's heart for the vulnerable? In this episode of our Daughters of Wisdom series, we explore Exodus 2:1–10 and the powerful story of the women who helped save baby Moses. From his mother's courage, to his sister's boldness, to Pharaoh's daughter's unexpected compassion—we see a tapestry of women moved by love to protect and provide for a child in need.Their actions remind us that caring for the orphan is not just a calling—it's a reflection of God's own character.Join us as we discover how God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things when we choose to step in, speak up, and love boldly.Listen in and ask yourself: What if God is calling me to be part of someone's rescue story?

What happens when you're given a second chance at life? In this powerful conversation recorded on a Sunday at Calvary Church, we sit down with Lee Vozel to hear his incredible story of battling addiction, surviving a near-death experience, and encountering the radical grace of God.Lee's journey is raw, real, and full of hope. From the depths of despair to a life transformed by God's love, his story reminds us that no one is too far gone for redemption. If you've ever wondered if change is possible, Lee's testimony will challenge and inspire you to believe that with God, all things are possible.Listen in and be encouraged: No matter how broken the story, God is still in the business of bringing dead things back to life.

What if the darkest moment in history was actually the beginning of something beautiful? In this powerful Easter message, we explore how God brings beauty from ashes through the death and resurrection of Jesus. From the sorrow of the cross in Luke 23 to the promise of restoration in Isaiah 61 and the truth that God "has made everything beautiful in its time" from Ecclesiastes 3:11, we see a God who specializes in redemption.The cross looked like the end—but it was the beginning of new life. The tomb looked final—but it was the doorway to hope.Join us for this special Easter message as we remember that no matter how broken our story may seem, God is still writing something beautiful.Listen in and ask yourself: What if the ashes of your life are the soil where resurrection begins?

What if the King we've been waiting for shows up in the most unexpected way? In this episode of our Found message series, we explore Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem from John 12—where He's found not on a warhorse, but on a humble donkey.As crowds wave palm branches and shout “Hosanna,” Jesus rides in fulfilling ancient prophecy and turning expectations upside down. This wasn't the arrival of a conquering hero—it was the approach of a servant King, full of peace, purpose, and love.Join us as we reflect on what it means to find Jesus not in power and pride, but in humility and grace.Listen in and ask yourself: What kind of King am I looking for—and have I found Him in Jesus?

What if the miracle wasn't just about the bread—but about the One who multiplied it? In this episode of our Found message series, we look at the incredible moment in Matthew 14 when Jesus feeds over five thousand people with just five loaves and two fish.Surrounded by a hungry crowd in a remote place, the disciples saw limitation—but Jesus saw an opportunity for compassion, abundance, and faith. In the middle of an impossible situation, Jesus reveals Himself as the provider who meets every need.Join us as we unpack this miracle and discover how Jesus still meets us in our lack, multiplies what we surrender, and satisfies in ways we never expected.Listen in and ask yourself: What if Jesus is ready to do more with what I have than I could ever imagine?

What if the storms in our lives are where we truly find Jesus? In this episode of our Found message series, we step into the boat with Jesus and His disciples in Mark 4. As a furious storm rages, the disciples panic while Jesus sleeps—until they wake Him with a desperate question: "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?"With just a few words, Jesus calms the storm, revealing His power and presence even in the middle of chaos. What does this moment teach us about faith, fear, and trusting Jesus when life feels out of control?Join us as we explore how Jesus meets us in the storms, stills our fears, and reminds us that He is always in the boat with us.Listen in and ask yourself: What if I truly trusted Jesus in the storm?

What if the wilderness is where we truly find Jesus? In this episode of our Found message series, we journey into the barren, desolate place where Jesus spent 40 days fasting, praying, and facing temptation. In the wilderness, He was tested, yet He overcame—standing firm in His identity and mission.Why was Jesus led into the wilderness? What does His victory over temptation reveal about His power, His purpose, and His example for us today? When we find ourselves in seasons of struggle, loneliness, or testing, can we also find Jesus there?Join us as we explore Matthew 4 and discover how the wilderness is not a place of abandonment, but a place of preparation.

What if the moment Jesus stepped into the river was the moment everything changed? In this episode of our Found message series, we explore the powerful scene of Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. As He is submerged in the water by John the Baptist, the heavens open, the Spirit descends, and the Father declares, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."Why was Jesus—sinless and perfect—found in the river, identifying with sinners? What does His baptism reveal about His mission, His identity, and what it means for us today? Join us as we dive into Matthew 3 and discover how Jesus' baptism invites us to follow Him into a life of surrender, renewal, and calling.

Where do we go when we're searching for Jesus? In this message of our Found Lenten series, we look at the moment in Luke 2 when Mary and Joseph lost track of 12-year-old Jesus—only to find Him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening, and asking questions. Even at a young age, Jesus was exactly where He was meant to be—about His Father's business.What does this story teach us about seeking and asking questions in our own lives? Join us as we explore what it means to find Jesus in the place of worship, learning, and discovery.

Before Jesus ever preached a sermon, healed the sick, or calmed a storm, He was found in the most unexpected place—the womb of a young, humble girl named Mary. In this episode of our Found message series, we explore the profound mystery of the incarnation, where God chose to step into humanity in the most vulnerable way.What does it mean that Jesus was found in the womb? How does this moment reveal God's heart for the weak, the unseen, and the ordinary? As we look at Mary's response to this miraculous news, we'll discover how God's presence can be found in the most surprising places—even in our own lives.Join us as we journey through Luke 1 and ask: What if God is moving in ways we never expected?

What if our obedience to God was the key to breakthrough? In this message of our What If series through the book of Nehemiah, we explore how Nehemiah and the people of Jerusalem responded to God's call—not just with words, but with action. Facing opposition, challenges, and personal sacrifice, they chose to obey, trusting that God's plans were greater than their fears.What if we lived with that same kind of obedience? What if we trusted God's direction, even when it was difficult or uncomfortable? Join us as we dive into Nehemiah 6 and discover how obedience unlocks God's power and purpose in our lives.Tune in and ask yourself: What if I truly followed where God is leading?

What if God's people stood together with one heart and one mission? In this message from our What If series through the book of Nehemiah, we see the power of unity in rebuilding what is broken. Nehemiah 3 shows us that restoring Jerusalem's walls wasn't a solo effort—it took families, leaders, and everyday people working side by side for a common purpose.What if we, as the Church, embraced that same spirit of unity? What if we set aside differences and worked together for God's kingdom? Join us as we explore what it means to stand shoulder to shoulder, committed to God's work, and discover how unity fuels transformation.Listen in and ask yourself: What if we truly lived as one?

What if we truly committed to God's calling—no matter the cost? In this episode in ourWhat If series through the book of Nehemiah, we look at what happens when God's people move from concern to commitment. Nehemiah didn't just feel burdened for the broken walls of Jerusalem; he took bold steps of faith, trusting God with the risks and the work ahead.What if we lived with that same determination? What if we committed to God's mission in our families, churches, and communities—fully surrendered and fully engaged? Join us as we explore Nehemiah 2 and discover how commitment can turn vision into reality.

What if our brokenness was the very thing God wanted to use? In this message in our What If series through the book of Nehemiah, we explore what happens when we allow ourselves to truly see the brokenness around us—and within us. Nehemiah's story begins not with action, but with a heart that is shattered for God's people. What if we, too, allowed our hearts to break for what breaks God's? What if our greatest burden could become the foundation for restoration? Join us as we dive into Nehemiah 1 and discover how God moves through a broken and surrendered heart.Tune in, reflect, and ask yourself: What if God wants to use my brokenness for something greater?

In this powerful message, Pastor Nick explores the often-overlooked spiritual disciplines of silence, solitude, and Sabbath, offering a counter-narrative to the relentless pace of modern life. Inspired by John Mark Comer's The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, this message invites you to rediscover the profound importance of slowing down. Learn how these ancient practices can bring peace to your soul, clarity to your mind, and renewed strength to your spirit as you find rest in God's presence. Perfect for anyone seeking to break free from the busyness of life and embrace a deeper, more meaningful rhythm of rest.

Thank you for joining us for the weekly Calvary Podcast featuring thought-provoking messages designed to inspire and challenge listeners in their spiritual journey. In our current series, we delve into The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer, exploring the profound insights it offers for our modern, fast-paced lives. This week's message, entitled The Solution, emphasizes the importance of recognizing our limits, slowing down to be with Jesus, and adopting the way of Jesus. Join us as we uncover practical steps to embrace a rhythm of grace, rest, and intentional living, reflecting the heart of Jesus in every aspect of our lives. Tune in for encouragement, reflection, and guidance on how to live a more abundant, Christ-centered life.

This month at Calvary Church we are going through a conversation about the transformative teachings of Jesus on rest and healthy rhythms. In a world consumed by constant busyness, we dive into the profound problem of living a hurried life and how it impacts our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Join us each week as we uncover the timeless wisdom of Jesus' call to slow down, find rest in Him, and embrace a life of intentional pace and peace. Let's journey together toward a life free from the tyranny of hurry, aligned with the rhythms of grace.

Life often feels like a waiting room—uncertain, uncomfortable, and filled with questions that seem to have no answers. In this powerful message, Pastor Mike Alvarez dives into the purpose and beauty of these in-between seasons. Drawing from Scripture and relatable stories, he explores how God works in the waiting, shaping our character, building our faith, and preparing us for what's next.Whether you're waiting for a breakthrough, clarity, or a sign of hope, this sermon offers encouragement and practical insights to help you trust God's timing and find peace in the process. Tune in and discover the power of waiting well.

The holidays are often portrayed as a season of joy and togetherness, but for many, they also bring pain, struggle, and grief. In this special episode, Pastor Nick sits down with three local therapists to explore the complexities of navigating difficult emotions during this time of year.Together, they discuss practical tools for managing grief, creating healthy boundaries, and finding hope amid the holiday hustle. Whether you're struggling with loss, relational tension, or the weight of expectations, this conversation offers encouragement, insight, and a reminder that you're not alone.Tune in for a candid and compassionate dialogue that meets you where you are this holiday season.

Welcome to this week's episode of Calvary Church, where we explore the heart of Christmas and what it means for us today. This message, titled "Christmas Is About People," dives into the profound truth that God chose to announce the birth of Jesus to humble shepherds—ordinary, overlooked people. Why did God begin the greatest story ever told with such a simple, lowly audience? Join us as we uncover how this moment reveals God's deep love for all people, no matter their status or circumstances, and how it challenges us to see and value others in the same way. This Christmas, let's celebrate the Savior who came for everyone—starting with the least likely among us.

This week on the podcast, we dive into the story of the Magi in Matthew 2 and the meaning behind the gifts they brought to Jesus—gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These treasures remind us of the extraordinary gift God gave to the world: His Son, Jesus Christ. But it doesn't stop there. We are also called to reflect His generosity by being a gift to the world around us, sharing love, hope, and light in this season of giving.Join us for a heartwarming message about how the presents of Christmas point us to the presence of Christ, inspiring us to give of ourselves in ways that make a lasting impact.

Step into the wonder of the season with us as we explore the prophecy and preparation that led to the very first Christmas. In this special message, we uncover how God orchestrated centuries of promises, people, and places to bring the Messiah into the world. But the story doesn't stop there—God's careful preparation is at work in your life today. Discover how His timeless plans and personal care can transform your Christmas, making it a season of purpose, peace, and hope.

In this episode, we dive into the life-changing power of confession and the freedom it unlocks in our lives. The message entitled "The Freedom of Dumpster," challenges us to confront the hidden burdens we carry—the fears, failures, and sins we'd rather keep out of sight. Using a metaphor of the dumpster as a place where we discard what we no longer need, we explore how confession allows us to release the weight of secrecy and shame, clearing the way for healing and connection.Through scripture, we uncover how confession is not just about admitting wrongs but about embracing the courage to trust God and one another with our brokenness. It's in this honest exchange that we find true community and experience the grace of God in profound ways.Tune in to learn how confession can transform your relationships, deepen your faith, and create a space where freedom and connection flourish. Don't miss this liberating and inspiring message!

In this episode, we dive into the challenging yet transformative message from James 1:2-4. Pain and trials are universal experiences, but James invites us to see them not as barriers to growth but as tools in God's hands. This message explores how the trials we endure can produce perseverance, deepen our faith, and ultimately shape us into people of maturity and wisdom.Drawing from real-life stories and biblical insights, we discuss the countercultural idea of considering it pure joy when faced with hardship. What does it mean to trust God's purposes in the middle of pain? How can we lean into His promise of wisdom when we feel lost or overwhelmed?Join us as we uncover the hidden blessings that come through perseverance and learn to see pain not as an end, but as part of the progress God is making in and through us. Whether you're in a season of difficulty or want to prepare your heart for future challenges, this message offers hope, encouragement, and practical steps to grow in faith.About our Speaker, Pastor Alan Hannah:For the past 25 years, Alan Hannah has served the local church in full time ministry. He has spent the majority of that time as a pastor at three different churches in Virginia, Texas, and Pennsylvania, where he currently resides. Many of those years in ministry were dedicated to Worship Arts where Alan was known as an anointed worship leader capable of leading multi-ethnic and multi-generational congregations. He invested much of his energy into raising the bar of authenticity and excellence, leadership, and developing worship artists and creatives.In 2014, God began preparing Alan for a transition into the role of lead pastor. Teaching and preaching were gifts God was developing and stirring in his heart, along with a passion for creating healthy, and empowered church teams. He completed a Master of Divinity from Liberty University Theological Seminary, and in January of 2020, was hired as the next Lead Pastor at Allegheny Center Alliance Church on the North Side of Pittsburgh, PA.Alan completed his undergraduate work at Oral Roberts University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational & Interpersonal Communication with a minor in TV & Radio. This is also where he met his wife Tara. They have two children, Alex and Kadyn. Alan is an avid sports fan who roots for his hometown Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins. He loves to read, write, and share thoughts on his personal blog www.radiantmess.com. In the summer months, you'll find him trying to squeeze in a round of golf, one of his other passions.

Tony Ross is a Vietnam Veteran and he tells his story of being wounded in Vietnam, seeing friends die, and his battle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder when he returned home. After returning from Vietnam, Tony graduated from Western Pennsylvania Bible Institute and has been in the ministry over forty years. In this conversation, Pastor Nick sits down with Tony for our Hero Sunday and talks about the struggles of life, the grace of Jesus and how we overcome the issues with face with God's help and the support of those around us.

In this week's episode, we dive into the powerful message of Philippians 1:12-14, where Paul finds divine purpose even in the midst of his imprisonment. In The Glory of My Chains, we explore how the chains that could have defeated Paul became tools for God's mission, spreading hope and courage among believers. Join us as we unpack what it means to find purpose and even joy in life's most challenging moments, allowing our struggles to reveal God's power and influence those around us. Whether you're facing hardships or seeking encouragement, this message will inspire you to see the ways God is at work, even in the darkest seasons.

In this episode from Calvary Church, we dive into a powerful perspective on the beauty of heaven: it's the people we'll share it with. Pastor Nick brings to life the truth that heaven's splendor isn't just found in breathtaking scenes or golden streets, but in the community of souls gathered in God's presence. If Jesus really prayed, “...your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10), then maybe we should be working to operate here on earth as God intends us to be in the heaven?This is where heaven comes to earth…not when we live by the norms of society, when we do what just feels right or makes sense in our culture, but when were are willing to cross cultural boundaries, when we are willing to be uncomfortable or step into awkward situations and build relationships, show God's love to those that look nothing like us, believe nothing like us or even live nothing like us.

In this message, we dive deep into the splendor and majesty of heaven—God's eternal promise to His people. Exploring scripture through the lens of hope and restoration, we uncover the profound truths of what awaits believers beyond this life. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus and the vivid imagery in the book of Revelation, this message offers a glimpse into the eternal glory of heaven, where sorrow is wiped away, and the fullness of God's presence is experienced. Whether you're seeking comfort in difficult times or simply yearning to understand the beauty of God's kingdom, "The Glory of Heaven" is a message that will uplift your soul and ignite a fresh sense of wonder for the life to come. Join us as we explore the hope-filled reality of heaven and the transformative power it has on our present lives.

Dr. Rob Starner has a rich heritage of ministry that spans over a century! His grandfather, Leo S.Starner, was an ordained Assemblies of God pastor for over 50 years and his father-in-law, Józef Bałuczyński (a vibrant centenarian!) is now in his eighth decade of pastoral ministry! Dr. Starner's lengthy tenure in Christian higher education includes various terms of full-time service at Continental Theological Seminary, University of Valley Forge, Central Bible College, and most recently, Southwestern Assemblies of God University. In addition to his service in the college/university arena, Rob has served as associate pastor, Christian school administrator (Calvary Christian School in Irwin), hospital chaplain, and short-term missionary. He has authored numerous books, articles, blogs, and vlogs. He also has written and/or performed in a number of live theatrical productions and a few films. Ever energetic, Dr. Starner has a passion for local church ministry. He is always looking for opportunities to serve churches and parachurch organizations through teaching, preaching, training in Bible software, and drama ministry. You can get more info at RobStarner.com.

Pastor Mel Masengale is the Lead Pastor of Summit Church with campuses in Indiana, Blairsville and soon to be Johnstown, PA.In the message, he shares about the difficult reality of hell. Is hell real? What does it mean for us today? How do we live in a way that keeps us from hell?

Over the past 40 years, Dr. Thomas Keinath has served as a pastor, evangelist, chaplain, district superintendent, and teacher, and most recently on the faculty of the University of Valley Forge. Dr. Keinath has also served on the teaching faculty of Central Bible College as an adjunct professor for the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (both in Springfield, MO), and as an instructor with the New Jersey District School of Ministry, which he co-founded. You can get more information about the University of Valley Forge at valleyforge.edu.

We live in the world that God is redeeming…we aren't going to escape this place one day, but we will return to this place as part of the final resurrection, the final redemptive work of God.So let's not burn this dumpster to the ground, but let's honor it, care for it, work for it's good and pray for the redemption of the brokenness all around us.That means that we have a responsibility as followers of Jesus to be the answer to Jesus' prayer…”your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”Our hope for what's next becomes our hope for now.And if we are to be people of hope, living with hope not only for our lives but for our world, that should impact how we interact with our co-workers, our neighbors, our friends and even our enemies.So here's my challenge to you:Each day this week, I want you to be intentional to do one thing to bring hope into someone's life.It might mean encouraging someone that's discouraged at work.It might be helping someone out that's struggling at school.It might be going and cutting the grass of that older person on your street.How can you give someone a physical or practical reminder that in the midst of a low moment or a difficult season, that there is this redeeming hope?

Dr. Bob Eby is a 1996 graduate of Central Bible College and has a Ph.D. in Biblical Interpretation and Theology from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. He has held pastoral positions in three churches in Illinois, most recently serving as the lead pastor of Southwest Community Church in Shorewood, Illinois. He currently serves as the Director of Cordas C. Burnett Preaching Center, Associate Professor of Biblical Exposition and Preaching at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary.

Compounded commitment produces what perfectly crafted competence can't.Before God ever asks us to commit, He already commits fully to us.Before you were ever tempted to give up, before you ever faced an obstacle, difficulty or trial, God was so committed to you that He was already working on the solution.And just like Zerubbabel, you may come from a family where your family's past has come back to haunt you and ruin even the good you're trying to accomplish, but then there's this God…this God who refuses to define you by your past or your family's past.God has a plan…a plan to not just see you do well or to see your life survive, but that you would be a carrier of the authority of this King, the King of Kings, the one who with a word can calm the storms, with one sentence can call forth the dead from the grave, with one motion can bring sight to the blind.This same King, this same God, he isn't just calling you, He's committed to you, and that's an entirely different thing.The question I have for you today is are you committed?

Every moment matters to God because every moment carries its own beauty.So rather than comparing, try creating.Rather than asking, how can I replace that or recapture that?And instead of asking, when will this happen in my life?Focus on where you are, what's in front of you…stop comparing yourself or your experience with other people, other times or other places, and start creating something beautiful right where you are.God's purposes for your life, God's dream for your life has you at this moment, this time, this place for a reason.Stop wishing away where you are…start creating with what you have.While we're often focused on what we can't do, ask yourself these three questions:What am I thankful for right now?What is possible now that wasn't before?What unique thing is God wanting to create in my life during this season?

We live in a world that tells us everything is supposed to revolve around us, around our interests, our desires, and our priorities.But throughout the scope of scripture, God presents a very counter-cultural approach…it's an approach that doesn't put our feelings or interests first, but puts God's purposes first.God wasn't criticizing the Israelites for building homes or gardens, but he was pointing out that they had put those things, their interests ahead of God's.This is the powerful and challenging message of the opening chapter of Haggai…that our calling isn't for us, it's for them.Them being those around us, those that will follow us.God has positioned you where he has and when he has for one purpose: to build His Kingdom.While the pressure is to build our dream, to build what makes us happy, the secret is you will find a deeper sense of joy, of contentment and of peace when you pursue God's purposes versus your comforts.And while building God's Kingdom will definitely cost you a lot, it will be uncomfortable and stretch you beyond what you think you are capable of, you will be stepping into what God created you to ultimately be.So here are some questions to process today:What are your words, your actions and your responses building in this world?Is what you're building with your life for your benefit or the benefit of others?What do you need to change to start building God's Kingdom?