Living Strategically

On the day The Harbinger II: The Return was released, Jonathan Cahn wrote a message that included: “The ancient template leads up to where we are right now. What I have written in The Harbinger II, I believe all the more is that the present moment is most critical and dangerous – one that could seal America’s future once and for all, for judgment or redemption.” Reed and Elizabeth Hewitt were blessed to meet Jonathan Cahn in April 2019 at The Jerusalem Center (one of the largest Messianic Worship centers in the world) located in Wayne, New Jersey. And that is the main theme in his new book. America is on the verge of judgment, if it does not return to its foundation in being one nation under God. Join us for a review of this timely new book, as well as a discussion of the broader themes of repentance and revival in America. If you’ve never read a book by Jonathan Cahn, get ready for a different way of looking at the world — in a good way! Just as we believe his message is important, Jonathan Cahn’s methods provide a fresh perspective on prophecy and history to help us understand the world we live in today. Jonathan Cahn is a watchman, and a prophetic voice, for this generation. God has used him to sound the alarm of warning to anyone who will listen, and he has been faithful in his calling. We are grateful that God allowed us to discover his work back in 2013, so we could better understand what is going on in our nation and consider how to respond to things that are still to come. In case you couldn’t tell already, we really think you should go get this book! Purchase it through our affiliate link here: https://www.christianbook.com/the-harbinger-ii-return/jonathan-cahn/9781629998916/pd/998916?event=AFF&p=1205899& Scripture from this Episode “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28, NASB “The Lord will command the blessing upon you in your barns and in all that you put your hand to, and He will bless you in the land which the Lord your God gives you. The Lord will establish you as a holy people to Himself, as He swore to you, if you keep the commandments of the Lord your God and walk in His ways. So all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by the name of the Lord, and they will be afraid of you. The Lord will make you abound in prosperity, in the offspring of your body and in the offspring of your beast and in the produce of your ground, in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers to give you. The Lord will open for you His good storehouse, the heavens, to give rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hand; and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow. The Lord will make you the head and not the tail, and you only will be above, and you will not be underneath, if you listen to the commandments of the Lord your God, which I charge you today, to observe them carefully, and do not turn aside from any of the words which I command you today, to the right or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.” Deuteronomy 28:8-14, NASB “So all these curses shall come on you and pursue you and overtake you until you are destroyed, because you would not obey the Lord your God by keeping His commandments and His statutes which He commanded you. They shall become a sign and a wonder on you and your descendants forever.” Deuteronomy 28:45-46, NASB “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:13-16, NASB “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”  2 Chronicles 7:14, NKJV Suggested Resources Sermons by Jonathan Cahn through Hope of the World Ministries The Harbinger II: The Return by Jonathan Cahn This page contains affiliate link(s) from ChristianBook.com. If you choose to make a purchase, your price will not be affected and we receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!

From studying God’s Word, we understand the big picture. We see the signs of the times and we fully trust in God’s plan. Now it is time for biblical Christians to live each day with prophetic urgency. As it says in Romans 12:11-12, “Keep serving the Lord, rejoicing in hope, enduring in distress, persisting in prayer…” Perhaps the best example of a man who understood prophetic urgency was Noah. God gave Noah a prophetic revelation about the coming judgment of his generation and He assigned Noah a task to prepare for it. It says in Genesis 6:5, that Noah lived in an age where “every intent of the thoughts of [man’s] heart was only evil continually”. But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord, being a righteous man who was blameless and walked with God. The Lord declared that Noah and his family would be spared from the coming destruction, because Noah was the only righteous one in his time. Our mission at Living Strategically is to help you strategically pursue your God-given purpose, especially in these prophetic times that we live in. God hasn’t called you to the same assignment as Noah, but He has given all of His children specific callings. Through faith and obedience, we need to be following God’s will for our lives. No matter how bad things get in these prophetic days, we can take courage knowing that God will always keep a remnant for Himself, and He has a purpose for that remnant. Scripture from this Episode “As He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, ‘Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?’ And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, “I am the Christ,” and will mislead many. You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.’ ” Matthew 24:3-8, NASB “Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming.” Matthew 24:42, NASB “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” Hebrews 11:6-7, NASB “Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. The Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. The Lord said, ‘I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, from man to animals to creeping things and to birds of the sky; for I am sorry that I have made them.’ But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. These are the records of the generations of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his time; Noah walked with God.” Genesis 6:5-9, NASB “Then the Lord said to Noah, ‘Enter the ark, you and all your household, for you alone I have seen to be righteous before Me in this time.’ ” Genesis 7:1, NASB “Noah did according to all that the Lord had commanded him.” Genesis 7:5, NASB “Then he came there to a cave and lodged there; and behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and He said to him, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?’ He said, ‘I have been very zealous for the Lord, the God of hosts; for the sons of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars and killed Your prophets with the sword. And I alone am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.’ ” I Kings 19:9-10, NASB “Yet I have preserved seven thousand in Israel whose knees have not bowed to Baal and whose mouth has not kissed him.” I Kings 19:18, Tree of Life Version (TLV) “For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be.” Matthew 24:37-39, NASB “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” Psalm 91:1-2, NASB “Because he has devoted his love to Me, I will deliver him. I will set him securely on high, because he knows My Name. When he calls on Me, I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble, rescue him, and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation.” Psalm 91:14-16, TLV “Keep serving the Lord, rejoicing in hope, enduring in distress, persisting in prayer…” Romans 12:11b-12, TLV Suggested Resources Understanding Prophetic Urgency article www.livingstrategically.com/2020/understanding-prophetic-urgency/ Biblical End Times Signposts article www.livingstrategically.com/2018/end-times-signposts/ Podcast Episode 10: Living in the End Times www.livingstrategically.com/2019/podcast-ep-10-living-in-the-end-times/ Get our free e-Book and learn how to live more strategically! www.livingstrategically.com/newsletter/

When it comes to studying end-times prophecy, there are books, blogs, and Bible studies beyond number. In our personal search, however, we have found that most resources go into extreme detail. It’s easy to be overwhelmed before you even get started. This is our attempt to take a step back, look at the big picture, and share some signposts that can help us identify where we are on the biblical, prophetic roadmap. God has given His children knowledge of these signposts ahead of time so we will know how to best use our time and prepare for what comes next. That is what living strategically is all about. Scripture from this Episode A list of birth pangs – Matthew 24, Luke 21, and Mark 13 “Gog of Magog” war – Ezekiel 38-39 War between the powers in the Middle East – Daniel 8:1-14, 21 “And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week [a week of years, meaning seven years], but in the middle of the week [after 3.5 years] he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate.” Daniel 9:27, NASB (Brackets added.) “Therefore when you see the abomination of desolation which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. […] For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will.” Matthew 24:15-16, 21, NASB “Now we request you, brethren, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, that you not be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed either by a spirit or a message or a letter as if from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, displaying himself as being God.” 2 Thess. 2:1-4, NASB “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His bond-servants, the things which must soon take place…” Revelation 1:1, NASB Seal Judgments – Revelation chapters 5-7 Trumpet Judgments – Revelation chapters 8-9 Bowl Judgments – Revelation chapters 15-16 Rapture – Revelation 14:14-16 Wrath of God – Revelation 14:17-20 Battle of Armageddon – Revelation 16:13-21 Suggested Resources Biblical End Times Signposts article www.livingstrategically.com/2018/end-times-signposts/ Understanding Prophetic Urgency article www.livingstrategically.com/2020/understanding-prophetic-urgency/ Podcast Episode 10: Living in the End Times www.livingstrategically.com/2019/podcast-ep-10-living-in-the-end-times/ Get our free e-Book and learn how to live more strategically! www.livingstrategically.com/newsletter/

Christian financial advisor Ron Blue shares, “Financial freedom comes from having an open hand with our money and trusting God to direct us in how to use it.” When we connect our faith with our finances, we will find the abundant life that God has planned for us. In the final episode of our podcast series on managing money and possessions as wise stewards, we take a look at what it means to find true financial freedom. We talk about our goals as we aim for financial freedom, and the character traits required to get there. We also share our take on Dave Ramsey’s “baby steps”, as a guide for transforming your finances. Christians managing God’s resources in accordance with biblical priorities is what being a wise steward is all about. Join us on the journey of reaching true financial freedom! Scripture from this Episode “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:20-21, NASB “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.” Matthew 6:24, NASB “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5, NASB Suggested Resources Video: Why Has America Been Blessed by Reed and Liz Hewitt Article: What is Biblical Stewardship by Liz Hewitt Article: Money, Wealth, and the Book of Proverbs by Reed and Liz Hewitt Class: Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey Book: Master Your Money written by Ron Blue and published by Moody Publishers in 1986/updated in 2016. Book: Debt-Free Living written by Larry Burkett and published by Moody Publishers in 1999/updated in 2010.

When it comes to personal finance, one of the best lessons to learn is avoiding the use of debt. Debt has become widely accepted in our culture, to the point where some would argue that they cannot survive without it. We are here to tell you there is a better way. When you invite God into your finances, you can live a debt-free lifestyle. Join us for the fourth episode of our current podcast series about money management and biblical stewardship. It may just transform your finances! Scripture from this Episode “…we are helpless because our fields and vineyards belong to others.” Nehemiah 5:5b, NASB “Now it shall be, if you diligently obey the Lord your God, being careful to do all His commandments which I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you obey the Lord your God…” Deuteronomy 28:1-2, NASB “But it shall come about, if you do not obey the Lord your God, to observe to do all His commandments and His statutes with which I charge you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you…” Deuteronomy 28:15, NASB “The Lord will open for you His good storehouse, the heavens, to give rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hand; and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.” Deuteronomy 28:12, NASB “He shall lend to you, but you will not lend to him; he shall be the head, and you will be the tail.” Deuteronomy 28:44, NASB “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender’s slave.” Proverbs 22:7, NASB “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.'” Isaiah 55:8-9, NASB “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19, NASB Suggested Resources Video: Why Has America Been Blessed by Reed and Liz Hewitt Article: What is Biblical Stewardship by Liz Hewitt Article: Money, Wealth, and the Book of Proverbs by Reed and Liz Hewitt Class: Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey Book: Master Your Money written by Ron Blue and published by Moody Publishers in 1986/updated in 2016. Book: Debt-Free Living written by Larry Burkett and published by Moody Publishers in 1999/updated in 2010.

Thanks for joining us for the Living Strategically podcast! In our current series, we are talking about money and possessions and what the Bible says about biblical stewardship. In this episode, we ask ourselves, “Do we have enough?” and “How can Christians find true and lasting happiness?” The answers can be found in cultivating contentment in our lives. At Living Strategically, we define contentment as “the attitude of gratefully accepting what God gives, while gracefully releasing what He withholds”. We believe that contentment is not about a number, or achieving a certain amount of wealth to be satisfied. It’s about the attitude of the heart, being content with whatever God blesses you with to manage for His glory. Christian financial advisor Ron Blue summarizes contentment this way: “No financial principle can have a greater impact on you or free you up more than this truth: Money is not the key to contentment! Contentment has everything to do with your relationship with God and nothing to do with your money. Once you are free from the love of money and the pursuit of it, you can have a lot or a little and be content all the same. At that point you have learned the secret to contentment.” If we want to take hold of that which is life indeed, then we need to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness! By prioritizing that which really matters in life, sort of recalibrating our priorities, we can reach a point of true fulfillment in life. Now that is thinking strategically! Scripture from this Episode “When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.” Genesis 3:6, NASB “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income. This too is vanity.” Eccl. 5:10, NASB “Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by not keeping His commandments and His ordinances and His statutes which I am commanding you today; otherwise, when you have eaten and are satisfied, and have built good houses and lived in them, and when your herds and your flocks multiply, and your silver and gold multiply, and all that you have multiplies, then your heart will become proud and you will forget the Lord your God who brought you out from the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” Deut. 8:11-14, NASB “Otherwise, you may say in your heart, ‘My power and the strength of my hand made me this wealth.’ But you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.” Deut. 8:17-18, NASB “Then He said to them, ‘Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.'” Luke 12:15, NASB “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” I Timothy 6:6-10, NASB “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.” I Timothy 6:17-19, NASB Suggested Resources Video: Why Has America Been Blessed by Reed and Liz Hewitt Article: What is Biblical Stewardship by Liz Hewitt Article: Money, Wealth, and the Book of Proverbs by Reed and Liz Hewitt Book: Master Your Money written by Ron Blue and published by Moody Publishers in 1986/updated in 2016. Book: Managing God’s Money written by Randy Alcorn and published by Tyndale House in 2011.

It’s time for the second episode in our latest podcast series on biblical stewardship and managing money and possessions. We define biblical stewardship as Christians managing God’s resources in accordance with biblical priorities. This requires the conversion of our hearts, minds, calendars, and pocketbooks. It means that decisions on how to invest our resources are really spiritual decisions that require faithfulness and wisdom. It can be difficult to keep a biblical stewardship perspective in today’s culture. But in the end, godliness and contentment are key to living a strategic life! (Audio note: Can you tell we picked a rainy day to record under a metal roof? Sorry about that! Even so, we give thanks to the Lord for sending rain to South Texas.) Scripture from this Episode “Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.” I Cor. 4:1-2, NASB “Then He said to them, ‘Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.’” Luke 12:15, NASB “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.” I Timothy 6:17-19, NASB “Know the state of your flocks, and put your heart into caring for your herds, for riches don’t last forever, and the crown might not be passed to the next generation.” Proverbs 27:23, NLT “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing…” Proverbs 3:9-10, NIV “You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.” James 4:3, NASB “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” I Peter 4:10, NASB “In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.” Prov. 21:20, NIV “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” Proverbs 6:6‐8, NIV “Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another…” Romans 13:8a, NASB “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender’s slave.” Prov. 22:7, NASB “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21, NASB Suggested Resources Video: Why Has America Been Blessed by Reed and Liz Hewitt Article: What is Biblical Stewardship by Liz Hewitt Article: Money, Wealth, and the Book of Proverbs by Reed and Liz Hewitt Book: Master Your Money written by Ron Blue and published by Moody Publishers in 1986/updated in 2016. Book: Managing God’s Money written by Randy Alcorn and published by Tyndale House in 2011.

This is the first episode of a new series for the Living Strategically podcast about money and possessions and what the Bible says about biblical stewardship. We start the series off by discussing that everything under our care ultimately belongs to the Lord. He owns it all and we are merely His managers (or stewards). For Christians who are new to the topic of stewardship, this is the ultimate paradigm shift! How about you…are you seeking God for the answers to your financial decisions? Are you relying on Him for your provision? We believe that financial decisions are really spiritual decisions. What we do with our money and how we use our possessions shows where our heart is. It all comes down to giving full ownership back to the Lord. (Audio note: Can you tell we picked a rainy day to record under a metal roof? Sorry about that! Even so, we give thanks to the Lord for sending rain to South Texas.) Scripture from this Episode “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for He founded it on the seas and established it upon the waters.” Psalm 24:1-2, NIV “Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all, and in Your hand is power and might; and it lies in Your hand to make great and to strengthen everyone. Now therefore, our God, we thank You, and praise Your glorious name.” I Chronicles 29:1-2, NASB “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the counsel of the Lord will stand.” Proverbs 19:21, NASB Suggested Resources Video: Why Has America Been Blessed by Reed and Liz Hewitt Article: What is Biblical Stewardship by Liz Hewitt Article: Money, Wealth, and the Book of Proverbs by Reed and Liz Hewitt Book: Master Your Money written by Ron Blue and published by Moody Publishers in 1986/updated in 2016.

Are we living in the end times? That’s the big question on today’s episode of the Living Strategically podcast. Join us as we discuss biblical prophecy and cover the final two keys to living strategically — prophetic urgency and a biblical framework. Reed and Elizabeth Hewitt were blessed to meet Jonathan Cahn in April 2019 at The Jerusalem Center (one of the largest Messianic Worship centers in the world) located in Wayne, New Jersey. We began our current podcast series telling listeners about the impact that Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn had on us in 2013, which led us to start Living Strategically. It seems fitting to end our podcast series by reviewing Jonathan Cahn’s new book, The Oracle: The Jubilean Mysteries Unveiled, which was released in September 2019. We’ve read all of the books from best-selling author Jonathan Cahn, since he first released The Harbinger. (The Oracle and The Book of Mysteries are now our two favorites.) Through Rabbi Cahn’s new book, you’ll learn about the prophetic history of Israel, from it being reborn as a nation in 1948 to present day events, and see the fingerprints of God through Jubilean mysteries. OUTLINE OF THE EPISODE 1:10 – Are we living in the End Times? 3:08 – Signs of the Times 5:42 – Cultural Christians 7:34 – Israel’s Prophetic History in The Oracle 9:14 – God’s Recurring Patterns from the Bible 10:14 – Israel’s Return to the Holy Land 11:36 – Prophecies Fulfilled, Following God’s Plan 12:53 – Jubilee of 1867 and the Ottoman Empire 13:23 – Jubilee of 1917 and the British Empire 15:05 – America’s Support of Israel in 1948 16:19 – Jubilee of 1967 and the Six-Day War 17:13 – Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel 18:09 – Jubilee of 2017 and President Trump’s Declaration 19:04 – Messianic Movement 20:13 – Worldly Pagan Roots 20:56 – Wrap Up Scripture from this Episode “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.” Hosea 4:6, NASB “But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, NASB “But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief; for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness; so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6, NASB “If your outcasts are at the ends of the earth, from there the Lord your God will gather you, and from there He will bring you back. The Lord your God will bring you into the land which your fathers possessed, and you shall possess it; and He will prosper you and multiply you more than your fathers.” Deuteronomy 30:4-5, NASB Suggested Resources End Times Signposts article by Reed Hewitt Sermons by Jonathan Cahn through Hope of the World Ministries The Oracle: The Jubilean Mysteries Unveiled by Jonathan Cahn

We are so glad you’ve joined us for today’s episode! We are currently in a series exploring our “five pillars of living strategically” and today we are focusing on living more simply…in order to have a fuller life. Simple living is an attitude of the heart that God calls His children to live by in order to find true fulfillment. The world will tell you to aim for quantity over quality, but that actually leads to a stressful life. When we stay content with a more simple lifestyle, it helps us prioritize the essential and live more intentionally. In our upcoming episode, we’ll continue to “unpack” the core principles of Living Strategically, so be sure to subscribe to this Christian podcast! SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17, NASB “There is a grievous evil which I have seen under the sun: riches being hoarded by their owner to his hurt.” Ecclesiastes 6:13, NASB “Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting: to eat, to drink and enjoy oneself in all one’s labor in which he toils under the sun during the few years of his life which God has given him; for this is his reward.” Ecclesiastes 6:18, NASB “Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.” Genesis 2:15, NASB “When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.” Genesis 3:6, NASB “For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10, NASB “I cared for you in the wilderness, in the land of drought. As they had their pasture, they became satisfied, and being satisfied, their heart became proud; therefore they forgot Me.” Hosea 13:5-6, NASB “And others are the ones on whom seed was sown among the thorns; these are the ones who have heard the Word, but the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and choke the Word, and it becomes unfruitful.” Mark 4:18-19, NASB

In our current series for the Living Strategically podcast, we have been exploring our “five pillars of Living Strategically” which include: a biblical framework, an eternal perspective, stewardship, prophetic urgency, and our topic of today…freedom. We see these five elements as the key to living a strategic life. We believe that wise Christians make their days count during our short time here on earth. And not just count for anything, but count in the ways that God has intended for our lives. Sometimes we Christians come against obstacles that hinder our effectiveness, even hindering us from fulfilling our life’s calling. And that’s why the topic of freedom is so important. We need to aim for living unhindered! Here are some examples of encumbrances in our modern culture, that may not cross the line of sin, but can still keep you from living in freedom: the endless accumulation of possessions the pursuit of financial success and status financial debt being distracted with screen time and social media being too busy disfunction in a family or a workplace tolerating toxic relationships 1 Corinthians 6:12 says, “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.” That’s the standard we have to apply to everything in our lives. Whenever you feel something weighing you down, or competing with the Holy Spirit for control of your life, that’s probably something that you need to prune back or remove entirely. The bottom line is when we walk by the Spirit, it keeps us on the straight and narrow, because we see sin for what it really is (captivity) and we see submission to God for what it really is (freedom). We pray that you will pursue things that lead to freedom in your life, so that you can live a life unhindered! In our upcoming episodes, we’ll continue to “unpack” the core principles of Living Strategically, so tune in weekly and subscribe to this Christian podcast! SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.” 1 Corinthians 6:12 “…through Him [Jesus Christ] forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things, from which you could not be freed through the Law of Moses.” Acts 13:38-39 “…walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 “…where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 Suggested Resource Living Strategically Book Recommendations

It’s been said that everyone ends up somewhere in life. But few people end up somewhere on purpose. If we aren’t careful, we’ll look back one day and realize how quickly our lives have passed us by. That will not be the time to evaluate our life’s purpose and why God has placed us on this earth. If you don’t already know your God-given purpose, then this podcast episode will help you figure it out. We also talk about the special calling that God gave to Abram/Abraham in Genesis 12 and how he demonstrated intentional focus and obedience to head toward the Promise Land as soon as he received that calling. It says in Genesis 12:4, “So Abram went forth as the Lord had spoken to him…” His obedience reminds us of the quote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” This is where you start walking. Just like Abram, you start taking steps in the direction that God is leading you. As Christians, we should live each day purposefully and intentionally. In order to do that, we must live our lives in response to God’s call. Once you answer that call, you are on your way to a fruitful and abundant life! In our upcoming episodes, we’ll continue to “unpack” the core principles of Living Strategically and study what the Bible says about this concept, so tune in weekly and subscribe to this Christian podcast! SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 “Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” I Corinthians 10:31 “Everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for My glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made.” Isaiah 43:7 “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 “Now the Lord said to Abram, ‘Go forth from your country, and from your relatives and from your father’s house, to the land which I will show you. And I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great; and so you shall be a blessing.” Genesis 12:1-2 “So Abram went forth as the Lord had spoken to him…” Genesis 12:4 “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 “So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 Suggested Resource Living Strategically Book Recommendations

Today we are starting a new series for the Living Strategically podcast where we dive deeper into the aspects of a life lived with intention, or as we like to say, “lived strategically”. We explore what we call our “five pillars of Living Strategically” which include: eternal perspective, stewardship, prophetic urgency, freedom, and most importantly…a biblical framework. When these aspects come together, we can live the abundant life that God has called us to live. There’s no greater joy to be found in life than fulfilling the calling that God has given you. And the impact it can have on others, both here on earth and for eternity, is astounding! In our upcoming episodes, we’ll continue to “unpack” the core principles of Living Strategically and study what the Bible says about this concept, so tune in weekly and subscribe to this Christian podcast! SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” Isaiah 5:20, NASB “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17, NASB SUGGESTED RESOURCES Jonathan Cahn at the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9xMxkNROto&list=WL&index=3&t=0s Why has America been blessed? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoN9-Qnpmfg

After eight weeks of traveling around America and seeing 35 states, we have safely arrived back home to South Texas. We have been looking forward to our homecoming, especially towards the end of the trip. It was an epic journey but there is something special about returning to familiar territory. As Christians, we should never lose sight of where our eternal home is because that affects all of our actions and decisions while on earth. The Bible tells us that Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven and we should all be seeking that city which is to come, the new Jerusalem (see Revelation 21 and 22). It also reminds us that our real citizenship is in heaven and we should eagerly await our Savior’s second coming. A glorious homecoming awaits us at the end of this present age! At Living Strategically, we believe that we can make an impact for eternity during our relatively brief time on earth by using our time, energy, money, and abilities for kingdom purposes. These are all temporal assets that need to be invested for eternal dividends. In his book The Treasure Principle, author Randy Alcorn describes this mindset as living for the line rather than the dot. Life on earth is like a single dot compared to the line that extends from it and goes on forever, representing how long Christians will live in eternity. He challenges us to “live for the line” with an eternal perspective, storing up treasures in heaven that will last. SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 “For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come.” Hebrews 13:14 “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14:2-3 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17 “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself.” Philippians 3:20-21 SUGGESTED RESOURCE The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn

Our journey through 35 states over the course of eight weeks in an RV continues with this week’s episode that we are calling “Of Pioneers and Homesteaders”. Throughout the trip, we have been reading the Little House on the Prairie book series and we are currently in the middle of book seven of nine. It has been an added bonus on the trip to see a replica of the Ingalls’ family cabin near Independence, Kansas, as well as staying on the original homestead property they owned in De Smet, South Dakota. Reading these books, we are amazed at how little the Ingalls family had to make do with and yet how much abundance they felt like they had. They were pioneers and knew how to live off the land. At times they had harsh weather and endured financial hardships. Through it all, they had contentment, which is a strategic mindset, multiplying the effectiveness of their circumstances. The Ingalls family also lived a very simple lifestyle, especially compared to American standards in today’s culture. They held possessions loosely and valued relationships over material gain. Being content with what God supplied allowed them to overcome challenges and leave an enduring legacy that still inspires readers today. SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” I Timothy 6:6-8, NASB “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:11-13, NASB “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.” I Corinthians 9:24 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8 Suggested Resource Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder

As we travel through 35 states to accomplish a bucket list dream of visiting all 50 states, we have seen some spectacular scenery. God’s creation is amazing! And in some areas it can also be dangerous, if we don’t heed the warning signs, guardrails, and barriers. Those frequent boundaries that we have seen at tourist stops around the country gave us the idea for today’s podcast episode on hedges of protection. The Bible tells us that God is a shield around the righteous and ultimately the only One who can protect us from harm. But a hedge of protection can work two ways. It is both a defense against dangers on the outside, and it is also a boundary to keep us inside the bounds of safety. When we go outside God’s boundaries, natural consequences will take their course. Scripture from this Episode “For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O Lord, You surround him with favor as with a shield.” Psalm 5:12, NASB “He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.” Ecclesiastes 10:8, KJV “What more was there to do for My vineyard that I have not done in it? Why, when I expected it to produce good grapes did it produce worthless ones? So now let Me tell you what I am going to do to My vineyard: I will remove its hedge and it will be consumed; I will break down its wall and it will become trampled ground.” Isaiah 5:4-5, NASB “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” Isaiah 5:20, NASB “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1, NASB

From dodging bad weather to the hazards of traveling 12,000 miles across America, our road trip to see 35 states had the potential for numerous ups and downs and uncertainties. We know that God holds our future in His hands, and we trusted Him to carry us through it all. As Christians, we similarly need to have a response of faith ready for the trials of life, ahead of when they hit. What will your response be the next time a loved one passes on to eternity? Or you face a financial hardship or loss? God knows our needs before we need them, and many times circumstances are completely out of our control. In this episode, we encourage listeners to rely fully on the Lord through the uncertainties of life, for He is faithful and He will always protect His children. SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:31-34 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

The brand new Living Strategically podcast is hosted by Reed and Elizabeth Hewitt, who want to help you strategically pursue your God-given purpose and make the most of your time on earth. As the Hewitts prepare for an epic adventure around the USA in an RV, they invite listeners to come along on the journey and discover life lessons that God shows them over the course of eight weeks. In this first episode, Reed and Liz compare their upcoming trip to a Christian’s journey through life. It starts with preparing for what is to come and knowing your purpose. You must also have a plan, while staying flexible and dependent on God’s guidance. And remember to “pack light” and take only what is necessary. There are many more spiritual truths to be discovered on this trip of a lifetime, so tune in weekly and subscribe to the new Living Strategically podcast! SCRIPTURE FROM THIS EPISODE “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 “Man is like a mere breath; his days are like a passing shadow.” Psalm 144:4 “Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.” James 4:14 “Then He said to them, ‘Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.’ And He told them a parable, saying, ‘The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began reasoning to himself, saying, “What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?” Then he said, “This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, ‘Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?’ So is the man who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.'” Luke 12:15-21 “The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9