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CHARACTERISTICS OF A GODLY FATHER/SPIRITUAL FATHER EPHESIANS 6:2; 1 THESSALONIANS 2:11, 12 FATHER'S DAY JUNE 15, 2025 è Character • Consistent: Present (Show up) • Chosen • Commands (not demands) respect • Leader not dictator è Counsel • Correction; protection • Comfort • Willing to speak to the “Uncomfortable” • Life issues (i.e. sexuality, money, friends, etc.) • Humbles himself and admits his own weaknesses, asks for forgiveness è Covering • Ongoing Prayer (salvation, growth, protection, wisdom in life choices) • Affirmation, encouragement

A Time For Repentance, Realignment, And Renewal. 2 Chronicles 7:14-16 (Congregation) 14If 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. 15Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place. 16For now I have chosen and sanctified this house, that My name may be there forever; and My eyes and My heart will be there perpetually. “If My People …” Psalm 139; John 1:12; Romans 8:16, 17 “Who Are Called By My Name …” “Will Humble Themselves …” 1 Peter 5:5-7 “And Pray …” Praise or petition dominant? Every believer's ministry (Isaiah 56:7; Matthew 21:13) “Seek My Face …” Intimacy with the Lord Presence vs. performance “Turn From Our Wicked Ways …” Hebrews 12:6 First Commandment (God, His Agenda, His Kingdom) First Love! (Mark 12:30) First Priority (Matthew 6:33) First Fruits: of income, production: Tithe is Holy (Malachi 3:10, 11) Poison Control: unforgiveness; bitterness; prejudice Unbelief! (Hebrews 11:6; Romans 10:17; Hebrews 3:12, 19; Matthew 13:58) Help my unbelief! (Mark 9:24) THEN … “I Will Hear And Heal …”

Traits Of A Great Mom/Spiritual Mother (Luke 1:5-7; Luke 1:24, 25; Luke 1:39-45; Luke 1:56, 57; Luke 1:76-79) May 11, 2025 ✽God entrusted this woman to carry, birth, and/or spiritually nurture World Changers! What attracted God? Sarah refused to allow the “labels” to define her! (Cultural, religious, familial….) She was NOT Barren in spirit! (Luke 1:7-25) She resisted bitterness, blame, and overcame disappointment. Intimacy with the Lord granted her Faith, perseverance, submission to the process (conception, pregnancy, etc.) Sarah's humility made her attracted to God's favor and promotion! (Luke 14:11) ✽We can and we must have and nourish life in our heart (spirit) when there is death in our circumstances. Sarah's provided a “safe place”, encouragement, and older model of a true “spiritual Mother” to Mary! Sarah pronounced a Blessing on Mary in her time of great need! (Luke 1:42-45) Sarah's pain became the backdrop for God's story! She birthed and mothered, John the Baptist, forerunner of Jesus! Jesus said there was no prophet greater! Continued faith and trust will be rewarded!

In Christ: You Are More, Have More, And Can Do More Than You Thought! 2 Corinthians 5:7-21 May 4, 2025 Walking by Faith: 2 Corinthians 5:7 Faith: Internal Assurance without External Evidence. (Hebrews 11:1; Hebrews 11:6; Romans 10:17) Walk: Live out, make decisions; think, speak, behave “Sight”: Guided by self-dependence, circumstances, feelings, others The Believers Exit Reward (2 Corinthians 5:8) Present …. Not detached, floating, stuck in “holding cell” The Love of Christ: His motivation. He represented us at the cross and resurrection! His identity, not ours, should compel us: To see ourselves as His, not ours! (2 Corinthians 5:15) To view all others through the lens of His Love, His identity in us! (How we see all people in all situations, places, positions. i.e., avoid bait of the enemy to “hero worship”, cultural or political or educational, racial, economic rejection) (2 Corinthians 5:16) Value the New Identity in Christ! (2 Corinthians 5:17) New, reborn spirit, “under renovation” soul; restrained, retrained body (comfort and pleasure are destructive masters) Every believer's appointment: Ambassador (legal representative of another) (2 Corinthians 5:20) The Great Exchange! How God now sees you in Christ! (2 Corinthians 5:21)

The Release of My Sin's Debt Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23; Romans 6:5-9, 11, 14; Romans 8:11; Hebrews 10:17 My Reconnection to Living Hope! (1 Peter 1:3) Hope is that Spiritual force from God that keeps internally reaching for a result not yet externally seen! My Relocation to my Forever Home! John 11:25, 26; John 14:1-3; 2 Corinthians 5:8 My Re-Union with Believing Loved Ones (There is family in Heaven) Ephesians 1:3; John 11:24 Our last images here won't be our first views of our loved ones! The Guarantee that for Believers, there is The Restoration of All Things Broken! (Revelation 21:3-4)

Your Purpose In Your Pain 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 Session 2 April 13, 2025 REVIEW: God's Grace, Encouragement, and comfort through your pain is your ministry opportunity! Your prayers for God's people who are hurting are a strategic ministry with great rewards! (2 Corinthians 1:11; Philippians 1:19) The Lord's Invitation! (Matthew 26:36-41) A Daily Walk With Jesus During Holy Week Matthew 21-27; Mark 11-15; Luke 19-23; John 12-17 Day 1: Sunday The Triumphant Entry (Matthew 21:1-11) Night Spent in Bethany (Approximately 2 miles from Jerusalem) Day 2: Monday On journey back into Jerusalem, Jesus pronounced curse on fig tree. (Mark 11:12-14) Jesus cleanses the Temple (Mark 11:15-17) Confrontation with the religious hierarchy. Back to Bethany for the night. Day 3: Tuesday Discussion about the fig tree and the power of faith (Mark 11:20-25) Confrontation with religious leaders (Mark 11:27-33) Discourse on the Mount of Olives (re: the destruction of the Temple, the end times and Second Coming and final judgement (Matthew 24) Judas secretly betrays Jesus Return to Bethany for rest Day 4: Wednesday SILENCE!! Day 5: Thursday Peter and John prepare Passover in a Jerusalem Upper Room for Jesus and disciples. Judas betrays Jesus (Luke 22:3, 4) Jesus washed the disciple's feet. The Lord's Supper, Communion, established (Mark 14:22-25) Jesus' special message to Peter (Luke 22:31,32) Gethsemane: “The Ultimate Battle” (Matthew 26; Mark 14; Luke 22) “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death.” “Take this cup …. Nevertheless” Judas/Sanhedrin come to take Jesus Could call 12 legions (72,000) angels Day 6: Late Thursday/Early Friday Mock Trials: Caiaphas; Pilate; Herod; Pilate Peter's denial; Judas' remorse Beatings, scourged, crown of thorns, crucifixion, piercing Utterings From The Cross: “Father, forgive them ….” “Today you shall be with Me” “Woman, behold your son” “My God, my God, why ….” “I thirst” “It is finished” “Father, into Thy Hands” Matthew 26, 27; Mark 14, 15; Luke 22, 23; John 18, 19

Your Purpose In Your Pain 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 April 6, 2025 God is our source of Mercy and Comfort and Encouragement in our tribulation and suffering. (Not just physical, but also social rejection, loneliness, disappointment, distress, delays, pressure, pain, trouble.) We should RECEIVE GOD'S mercy and comfort and encouragement that we may become vehicles of that to others He brings into our sphere of influence! (2 Corinthians 1:3-7) The Comforter, Holy Spirit, is a Person who comes along side of, with us! (Our Paracletos, Helper, Advocate, Encourager) The Depth of our suffering, adversity, pressure, pain is an opportunity for self-centered agendas to die and new life to be released! (2 Corinthians 1:8-10) Your powerful ministry opportunity to those in pain! (2 Corinthians 1:11) (Difference makers) Despaired: utterly at a loss; out of options; totally “bottomed out”. Philippians 1:19 2 Corinthians 1 Takeaways: Purpose in our pain: Not popular, not sought There's always those only YOU can BEST reach (encourage comfort, inspire, motivate) Your Journey is your ticket, passport of entry into their lives! Our ministry of comfort (encouragement) is only effective if we have received comfort, encouragement, confirmation of His Presence!

Receiving The “Deep Things Of God” 1 Corinthians 2:9-12, 16 March 23, 2025 1 Corinthians 2:16 – The mind of Christ is In the Believer, by the Spirit! The Holy Spirit, in the believer, reveals the Blessings of God's provision! (1 Corinthians 2:9-12) (Competition to Spirit's voice: Fear, anger, shame) *Can't receive this information naturally! Some things/issues are not readily identified. The Spirit is the Believer's inner witness of the Truth! (John 14:16, 17; John 15:26; John 16:13-15) The Spirit gives witness to the Believer of “the deep things of God”. For example: We have eternal, never ending life with our God! (John 3:16) We have been Blessed with every spiritual Blessing in Christ! A righteous, blessed, personal identity that is connect to our Father now and will forever be manifested in eternity! He saw you, loved you, chose you, accepted you, redeemed you, forgave you …. (Ephesians 1:3-7) Bold access to the Throne of God (Hebrews 4:15, 16) The Spirit is your internal Guide in all of life's issues! (John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:12) ✸The Lord hears what the Spirit is saying in you and prays For You in accordance with God's perfect will for you! (Romans 8:27) And the Father works, oversees, overrules, overcomes and causes it all to work for Good in those who Love Him, trusting and submitting to His perfect plan for us! (Romans 8:28) Hearing the Voice of the holy Spirit Worship Prayer Intake of the Word of God Counsel, input from others Providential orchestration of life events, circumstances

A Kingdom View Of Immigration March 9, 2025 ✸There Seems To Be a Problem! False Assumptions Are Poison! What is an Immigrant? What is an “illegal” immigrant? Beware of False Assumptions! (i.e., all who have not legal documents are here for wrong agenda. Although some have abused the system, committed criminal acts and have evil intentions, and need to be deported, many are NOT in that category!) Matthew 7:1, 2 – danger of judging Many have come legitimately, seeking opportunity, safety, belonging. Many are contributing. (Labor skills, paying taxes, contributing to community, schools, retirements, etc. The system is broken and many who have many years of labor, paying taxes, obeying laws …. Have not been offered a WORKABLE path to citizenship. It seems that God has a special place in His heart for “non-natives”. Our spiritual heritage: (Abraham, Joseph, Moses, etc.) were “migrants”. (Remember: Abraham's seed, i.e. Jacob, Joseph, Moses lived in Egypt) A “stranger”, “alien” was one who was not of covenant family, genetic descent, but who desired to know the God of His covenant people. If a stranger, “alien”, (resident immigrant) wanted to join the Faith and commit to the covenant relationship with God, they are to be loved and welcomed. They were to receive the same covenant benefits as those born into the genetic covenant family! See Leviticus 19:33,34; Deuteronomy 10:19. Every Christian is a spiritual “alien, stranger”! As a citizen of Heaven, we are under a different primary system of government, economy, security, etc. (God is our Provider, Defender, Source of Truth, etc.) Remember Ephesians 2:12, 19; 1 Peter 1:1; 1 Peter 2:11; Philippians 3:20. Believers are “resident foreigners” (stranger, pilgrims). Actions of Grace and Honoring the Righteous (Remember: we are all immigrants) Align my heart with the Lord and His Actions and attitudes. Pride? Anger? Judgement? Rejection? Matthew 7:12; Luke 6:31: View and treat all as you desire to be viewed and treated! My Answer to the Lord's question …. “What would you do? Advocate for Kingdom perspectives! Don't be swept up in non-righteous, non-gracious attitudes! Pray and take corresponding action! (i.e. identify and reward those who have already been acting as solid, contributing citizens! Countless immigrants have long worked, paid taxes, obeyed laws, contributed to the communities and this country. Leaders should find a way to reward them with a workable path to citizenship!!! (Perhaps a tack force to identify and reward the righteous!)

HOPE: Your Highway To Change Hebrews 6:12-20 February 9, 2025 Review: Definition; Connection to Life; Deposited, but must be reinforced. “The enemy within”: Fear of disappointment The “Risk” worth taking! Consider the alternative. (Romans 15:13) Hope Rises Through: The witness of the Holy Spirit! Worship; reception and reinforcement of the Word of God (Romans 4:16-24) Prayer, meditation, recitation! (Joshua 1:8) The development process of “thlipsis” (pressure, trouble, turmoil) (Romans 5:1-5) Waiting is not “wasting” (Hebrews 6:12-20) In the wait, stay Anchored by Hope! True Hope has the attention of Jesus' High Priestly ministry!

HOPE: YOUR HIGHWAY TO CHANGE ROMANS 15:13; ROMANS 5:1-5 FEBRUARY 2, 2025 è Review: Define Hope; the atmosphere of faith; the war re: Hope; the “Throne Reach” of Hope! (Romans 4; Hebrews 6) è By-products of True Hope: Peace, joy (Romans 5:1, 2; Romans 15:13) è The Ultimate Result of True Hope: The Glory of God! (Romans 5:1,2) • The agency of Faith brings the restoration of peace with God! Full payment of sin! (Romans 3:25; 1 John 2:2) Through our Lord Jesus Christ, the agent of our restored relationship with God! (2 Corinthians 5:21) • The Lord's gift of Faith (reception agency) grants us a Standing of God's Grace (favor, ability) (Romans 5:2) Everything from God is received by faith! è Tribulations; Our opportunity to shine, reveal, manifest His Glory! (Romans 5:3; John 16:33) • The “squeeze” brings contents of our inner person to the surface! Thilipsis • Connection to perseverance (See James 1:3,4) (steadfast waiting, continuing) • We are not to “worship” tribulation but give thanks, prayerfully celebrate the working of God during its season.

HOPE: Your Highway To Change Romans 4:16-22; Hebrews 6:12-20 January 19, 2025 Definition And Power Of Hope! Review: Abraham's Hope and example The “thieves” of Hope (circumstances, others, satan, duration, delay) Romans 4:19-21: What do I consider (grant most value to; weigh most heavily) above the Lord's presence, hope, Word? Abraham's Temporary Failures vs. Long Term Track Record. (You are NOT the sum of your worst mistakes!) Hebrews 6:12: Partnership of Faith and Perseverance Hebrews 6:19, 20: The most powerful place your Hope can go and the One who affirms that Blessing!

HOPE: YOUR HIGHWAY TO CHANGE ROMANS 4:16-22 JANUARY 12, 2025 è Hope is a mighty spiritual force that internally reaches for a result that is not yet externally seen! • Romans 15:13: Now may the God of all Hope…. • Comes from God! • Hebrews 11:1: Hope is the atmosphere that encourages faith…. Guard It! è Embracing your God-given Hope • Identify the witness of Hope in you (What is ongoing, legitimate Hope!) • Ask the Lord to speak His Word to you regarding that Hope! (Romans 10:17) • Invest in Hope, resist other voices (nay sayers, circumstances, long waits …. Etc.) (Romans 4:18-21) • Partner with God. (Glorify Him for His ability to grant the manifestation, bring about change!) (Romans 4:20,21)

Get Your Bearings! (Essentials For 2025 Spiritual Success) January 5, 2025 “STUFF” Accumulates! Endorse a “Spiritual Checkup” Invite the Lord to identify issues (anxiety level, fear, anger, bitterness, regret, shame, pride, etc.) Psalm 26:2; Psalm 139:23; Hebrews 4:13 RE-GAIN your bearings (get back to position of strength) Confess sin, especially unbelief! Re-shift focus to how God sees you! Hebrews 4:14-16 Ephesians 1:3-11

WHAT WOULD YOU DO? LUKE 1:5-38 DECEMBER 15, 2024 è God wants to do a work for His Glory in you …. You have to partner/participate to see it come to pass! è God's desire can be a real threat to our agendas! (Will we submit in faith, trust, obedience?) è Compare Mary's response to that of Zacharias. • Zacharias initially believed his circumstances were too much for the Lord. • I must beware of telling God what I am “too old” for (or too anything) that He wants to do in and through me. (too insignificant, too weak, too poor, too challenged, etc.) • Zacharias had a problem believing God could do what He said. Mary's only question was practical, functional. è Mary's responses exemplify that PREPERATION, AND DEVELOPMENT come before MANIFESTATION. • Mary's worship and declaration were evidence of her heart's preparation. (Luke 1:46-55) ✸ Mary's spirit was “pregnant” with the Word of God before her body was pregnant with the Child of God.

HOPE: YOUR HIGHWAY TO CHANGE ROMANS 5:1-5; ROMANS 15:13; PSALM 42:5 DECEMBER 8, 2024 Where is Your: difficulty; pain; failure; brokenness; addiction? è As a Believer, you have HOPE inside you by the Holy Spirit! • A voice, longing, desire …. Doesn't go away è Hope IS: • A mighty force, part of the trinity of Main Spiritual Force (1 Corinthians 13:13) • Salvation and Hope are Inseparable (Romans 8:24) • Hope is that God given spiritual force that internally reaches for a result that is not yet externally seen! • “What am I hoping for?” (Search me, Lord, and affirm or correct and adjust my desires.) è Competing forces to Hope • Circumstances; information; others; satan; time (opposition; delay) (Proverbs 13:12) è Getting Hope Aligned and Developed • The Word of God, prayer, worship • Surrender, adjustment • Perseverance (Romans 5:1-5; Hebrews 6:19) • Romans 4:18-21 YOUR DESTINY: A STORY FOR GOD'S GLORY Psalm 42:5; Psalm 5:9-11; John 9:1-3; 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10 DECEMBER 8, 2024 Review Hope: God's Thermostat; Life's Game-Changer Define Hope è The source of True Hope! (Romans 15:13) è Your Life and Life Challenges: • God is Telling A Story to bring Himself Glory in and through you! è A testimony of His Glory's power! (Trisha's Story) è God is “telling a story” in you that will bring Him glory! (2 Corinthians 12:7-10) Even in our pain, difficulties, He is our strength, shelter, provider, deliverer, defender …. all we need!

The Power Of A Biblical World View

HOPE: Your Highway To Change Romans 5:1-5; Romans 14:13; Psalm 42:5 November 10, 2024 As a Believer, you have HOPE inside you by the Holy Spirit! Hope IS: A mighty force, part of the trinity of Main Spiritual Force (1 Corinthians 13:13) Salvation and Hope are Inseparable (Romans 8:24) Hope is that God given spiritual force that internally reaches for a result that is not yet externally seen! “What am I hoping for?” (Search me, Lord, and affirm or correct and adjust my desires.) Competing forces to Hope Circumstances; information; others; satan; time (Proverbs 13:12) Getting Hope Aligned and Developed The Word of God, prayer, worship Surrender, adjustment Perseverance (Romans 5:1-5; Hebrews 6:19)

è Truth: Daniel 2:21; John 19:11a • No person, political party, agenda is capable of fixing this nation! Only the Lord Jesus Christ, working in and through hearts can save, restore, and bring order, unity, strength, healing to our nation! è The United States is not a Theocracy. True righteousness cannot be legislated by government. The Kingdom of God is the rule of God in our hearts! è However; we are to be salt and light to our culture. We are to pray for, vote for, stand for righteous leadership. We are not controlled by leadership but we are affected by it! • For God to turn hearts of the Electorate. (Daniel 2:21) • For a Return to Kingdom Agenda “You are the salt of the earth” - “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13, 14) • If possible • Check out platforms over personalities • Issues Such As: Immigration, Foreign Policy; Taxation/Economics • Process the “Uncrossable Lines”: Abortion, Parental Rights; Gender Issues • Pray for whoever is elected (1 Timothy 2:1-3) • Jesus' view of authority (John 19:11a; 1 Peter 2:13) • God uses even what He does not initiate Beware of those who, in the guise of compassion actually invite oppression!!!!

WHY AREN'T MY PRAYERS ANSWERED? PSALM 66:18; JAMES 4:2-3 OCTOBER 20, 2024 è Blockages to Answered Prayer 1. Regarding iniquity in my heart. (Psalm 66:18) • Regard; hold onto; continue to pay attention to; hold in place of focus. Excusing, enjoying sin; (i.e. anger, lust,) 2. Failure to Ask. (James 4:2) • Sometimes, our “asker is broken” • Negligence; guilt; false view of God's interest; pre-existing un-belief. 3. Wrong Motives. (James 4:3) • Primary, hidden motive is “my desire, my way, my time.” 4. Timing. • God's calendar and clock are often not the same as ours! • Due time: (1 Peter 5:6; Galatians 6:9) • God is working on something greater than my desire, time frame. è Actions Needed • Forgive me, Lord, for my failure to ASK! (Matthew 7:7; James 4:2; Philippians 4:6) • “Examine my heart, Lord! Reveal to me where I am out of line with Your heart, Your plan, and where I am self-absorbed, focused on me!” (Psalm 139:23, 24) • Grant me Your GRACE (Your favor and ability) to humble myself, to stop demanding my own way. By Your Grace, I will submit my desires and actions to You, Lord! I believe YOU want the BEST for me and I TRUST YOU! (Philippians 4:19; Proverbs 3:5, 6)

EPHESIANS 1: YOUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST OCTOBER 13, 2024 SESSION 6 è Ephesians 2:1-3 -The Depth of my condition before God's Intervention è Ephesians 2:4-7 -The Power of God's Intervention (Motivated by His Love for me) è Ephesians 2:4-10 - The Incredible Position that God has given us in Christ • I was In Him at the Cross (Romans 6:6; Galatians 2:20) • I was In Him at the Resurrection (Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 3:1) • I was In Him at the Ascension (Ephesians 2:6) • I Am Now in Him before the Throne! (Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 3:1-3) If I am not receiving ongoing correction, I am probably not continuing to “walk in the Spirit”. “Whom the Lord loves He corrects! (Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:6) Smooth sailing: NOT PROMISED! Safe Landing: GUARANTEED! Have you forgotten about the Grace you have access to? Have you allowed your present circumstances to keep you from connecting with that Grace? (Grace for Salvation, deliverance, restoration, financial setbacks, disease treatment and recovery, relational brokenness.)

Part 2

Jeremiah Castille September 22, 2024 by Covenant Heirs

Ephesians 1: Your Identity In Christ September 15, 2024 Session 5 Ephesians 1:1-10 Review: In Christ I am…. Blessed with every spiritual blessing Chosen; holy and blameless; loved and predestined to adoption; accepted in Christ; redeemed; forgiven Ephesians 1:10: God has made Jesus Christ the ultimate, consummate expression of Himself! (See Hebrews 1:1-3) Ephesians 1:11: Jesus has left us an inheritance (See Ephesians 1:1-10; John 16:15) All things that the Father has …. Christ's ultimate work for the Believer Ephesians 1:13, 14 The order: Hear the truth; the Gospel of Salvation; believe it (see also Ephesians 2:8, 9); the Spirit's seal, quarantee! The Prayer The revelation: The Hope The deposit of His Inheritance (John 16:15; Ephesians 1:3; 2 Peter 1:3) His power and authority His Body: His Plan; If His Church Will Act as He Desires, NOTHING and NO ONE can Defeat it! (See Matthew 16:19)

EPHESIANS 1: YOUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST SEPTEMBER 8, 2024 SESSION 4 è Ephesians 1:1-10 Review: In Christ I am…. • Blessed with every spiritual blessing • Chosen; holy and blameless; loved and predestined to adoption; accepted in Christ; redeemed; forgiven è Ephesians 1:11: we have an inheritance (not earned by self-righteousness, striving) (See Romans 8:16, 17) è Our pre-set destination in Christ is to be conformed and transformed into His image and likeness! (See Romans 8:29; Romans 12:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 3:18) è “IN DUE TIME” (At the right, God-appointed time) • God exists outside of time, but intervenes in time and space! • Our lives have “due times”…. “appointed times”, • See Ecclesiastes 3:1; Galatians 4:4, 1 Peter 5:6, 7; Galatians 6:7-9 è Ephesians 1:12: In Christ, God is working all things according to the counsel of His will! (See Romans 8:28) ✸Not immediately, but always ultimately for those in Christ! è God grants us direction through: • The inner voice of the Holy Spirit (Philippians 2:13) • His Word • His ordering and overseeing of our life circumstances and events • Other people (get confirmation)

Ephesians 1: Your Identity In Christ August 18, 2024 Session 3 Review: Blessed In Christ: Chosen; Loved; Predestined; Accepted (Ephesians 1:3-6) Ephesians 1:7 – Redeemed; Forgiven; Abounding Grace (See also Romans 5:17) We were slaves! To our own broken condition: self-absorbed motives; unable to “fix me”; anger; guilt; shame; addictive behaviors; mindsets. (By nature, and by choice.) Helpless, condemned, bound … trapped … BUT We were Seen and Loved by God. Jesus redeemed, Bought us off the slave market by His own Blood! (Hebrews 9:12; Revelation 1:5) Jesus paid the price of our ransom! We have to believe Him, trust Him, walk off the slave block and go home with Him! (Trust Him, submit to Him, admitting our need! (See 2 Corinthians 5:17, 21 and Romans 5:17)

EPHESIANS 1: YOUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST AUGUST 11, 2024 SESSION 2 è Background and Review: Grace and Peace è Ephesians 1:3 - The Power Of Blessing • Meaning: Empowered, enabled by God to prosper in spirit, soul, body, relationally, provisionally, productivity in every way! (Genesis 12:3; Deuteronomy 28:1-8; Galatians 3:13, 14, 29) • The opportunity to be a Blessing to God, to others He brings into your circle and leads you to bless! • “The Heavenly Places in Christ” • 3 terms • Christ's location (Romans 8:34) • Christ's blessings (John 16:14, 15) [i.e., Love, Grace, Peace, Identity, Provision, Protection, Wisdom, Favor, Security….] • Our honor, responsibility, to Bless the Lord! (See Psalm 103, i.e.) è Ephesians 1:4 – He chose you in Christ • When? Before time; before you; before your choices • What? (did God see) In Christ, you are loved perfectly, and are holy and blameless. • See 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 – The Great Exchange! • Our problem: failure to see ourselves in Christ and act accordingly! (Unbelief is a Killer!) • Romans 5:17 – RECEIVE!!! è COMMUNION: A holy act of Worship and Thanksgiving! A Holy, intimate connection with Jesus and what happened at the Cross …. The internal, spirit-ministered connection with and response to the body and blood of Christ.

EPHESIANS 1: YOUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST AUGUST 4, 2024 SESSION 1

Immanuel Marsh Preaching about The Gospel In 10 Words.

“God Is For You …. And He Is Undefeated” Romans 8:26-39 June 23, 2024 The Trinity is Working on Our Behalf NOW! (Romans 8:26-39) The Holy Spirit is interceding IN you! (Romans 8:26) The Son of God is interceding FOR you! (Romans 7:27, 34) God the Father is sovereignly, personally overseeing and working all things/matters for your good and His Glory in your life! (Romans 8:28-30) You have been seen, wanted; known intimately; granted a pre-set life destination; called out of destruction into His family; declared righteous in Grace; made a reflector of His presence! (Romans 8:29, 30) God is FOR YOU …. and HE proved it in Christ! (Romans 8:31-39) He is our legal defense Christ is our Advocate and Intercessor Nothing and no one can separate you from His Love!

“Where Are The Fathers?” Father's Day June 16, 2024 1 Corinthians 4:15 – “Not many Fathers ….” Ephesians 6:4 – “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” A LEADER Not a “dictator”: Must be present, humble (Beware of “never good enough”) Not an “enabler” (partner in staying disordered, undisciplined, irresponsible). Discern the difference in “it's ok” and “you're ok”! Not a “shame motivator”. Learn how to “call out” and how to “call up” (You are better than your bad choices!) Stop all the “Rescues” (Sowing/Reaping) (Galatians 6:7) (You are an advocate, but not a savior.) ✸ An affirmer, encourager through the Holy Spirit. ✸ We have to know our Father and how HE sees us, loves us, corrects us, defends us …. PRAY for your children! Part of bringing God's nurture to them!

“Give Me This Mountain” Joshua 14:6-15 June 9, 2024 Caleb's Testimony What he saw with his eyes and what he saw “with his heart” (the Word of God was the difference!) (Joshua 14:7) The testing of close relationship suffering! (Joshua 14:8) See Numbers 13:6 – Numbers 14:10, 24 Those in our inner circle can hurt us most: see Jesus; David; Paul God justified, established and rewarded Caleb in time! Keys to developing and maintaining a conquering spirit! “Watch over your heart….” (Proverbs 4:23) Stay in close fellowship with THE CONQUEROR! (Romans 8:31-38; 2 Corinthians 2:14) The mind-set of the conqueror is set by the Word! (Joshua 14:6-10) Remember Joshua 1:8, 9 – The encouraging, renewing, correcting, power in the Word! We see ourselves and our situations through His Lens! (Hebrews 4:12; John 6:63) Beware of allowing the information from the body and the mind (soul) to become my confession, mind-set. The Spirit is our source of Truth! Stay in a position of Love! Operate by faith, not feelings. (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6) Faith is your connection to God's Grace, God's power. Faith works in the atmosphere of Love! (Galatians 5:6) ✸ “Lord, I confess to You that I am not holding ________________ in a position of love. I repent of that and I will obey You! By faith, as an act of my will, I forgive ________________ and I receive Your Love for ­­­­­­________________. I believe Your Love is in me by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5) and I receive that love for ________________. Bless ________________ with Your highest and best. In Jesus Name and by His Grace! AMEN

Beware Of The Unholy Alliance: Learning Who And What To Trust! Joshua 9; Joshua 10 Sunday, June 2, 2024 Review: Presumptions (failure to consult) leads to defeat! Leads to burdens, maintenance, “drama”, etc. The Wrong Information (and sources of counsel) lead to WRONG RESULTS! “There is a way that seems right, BUT…” (Proverbs 16:25) Example of the disaster of the wrong information: Satan/Adam/Eve; The spirit of deception often comes in “hard to recognize clothing.” (Matthew 7:15; Joshua 9:3ff: have to raise what is birthed. The Power (and difficulty) of Waiting! “Wait on the Lord….” (Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 37:7) Be slow to “anoint and appoint” (1 Timothy 5:22) Seek confirmation: internally and externally (The witness of the Spirit and the counsel of trusted others) The affirmation of 2 or more (2 Corinthians 13:1) The Great Umpire: The peace of the Lord's presence and witness!! (Colossians 3:15)

COMING BACK TO VICTORY! JOSHUA 8 MAY 19, 2024 è Take away from Joshua 7 and Joshua 8: From “Reeling to Dealing” è We need the assurance from God of ultimate victory! (Compare Joshua 8:1, 2, 3, 7 with Joshua 7:2-5) (Revelation/Promise vs. Presumption) • Give “The Keys” back to God! è Victory in our warfare requires “all out assault” on the enemy! • “Declare war” (vs. dissention, disorder, disease and debt, etc.) • Ephesians 6:10-17 – Put on the Whole Armor • 1 Peter 5:6-9 – “Be alert” …. Resist him” ✸ Our fight must be centered in the Spirit! è Victory Requires God's Strength and God's Strategy! • Submit to His plan, His timing, His way of operation (Proverbs 3:5,6; James 1:5) • God knows what to do, how and when to do it! Our part is to Trust and Obey!

The Great Ministry of A Spiritual Mother She is Developed in her Faith and Relationship with God, even with a broken heart! She has faced and worked through trials and the testing of her heart! Elizabeth's example: Her life events do Not determine her Identity! She loves and accepts you, right where you are. She is not judgmental and you are safe with her! (Not worried about “how you look” to others; in her presence, you don't feel judged, rejected, uncomfortable, inferior) (Luke 1:56) She AFFIRMS and BLESSES you and encourages you in Your life assignments (Luke 1:42-45) She is blessed, Energized, Strengthened by her Spiritual Children's Blessings! (Luke 1:41-43) ✸ There are multitudes of teachers, leaders, preachers, ministers …. But not many Spiritual Parents! (1 Corinthians 4:15)

HOW THE ENEMY STEALS YOUR BLESSING: AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT! MAY 5, 2024 è Review: Amazing, Miraculous Victories; Warning è Joshua 7:1-9: The Trap of Presumption! Rooted in pride, self-reliance. • Resulted in pain, defeat! • The poison of personal consumption of that which is Holy (acting like what is God's belongs to me!) (Joshua 7:10-12) • We can Turn it over or IT WILL TAKE US OVER! (Joshua 7:13) è It's really not about money or stuff, IT'S ABOUT LORDSHIP! (The root issue is unbelief, pride, fear.) è Breaking the Power of the Devourer! • Proverbs 3:9, 10 • Malachi 3:8-11 è GOD IS PAYING ATTENTION TO HOW YOU RESPOND TO FINANCIAL LORDSHIP! (James 1:17) • He said the tithe (tenth is Holy) Leviticus 27:30 • He promised to respond to faithful tithing (open “heaven's windows”) (Malachi 3:10) • He will engage the devourer (a personal agent, destroyer) (Malachi 3:10, 11) • Jesus, Himself, our High Priest, sees and receives our tithes! (Hebrews 7:8) è HOW? • Get Desperate for Freedom from Bondage! • Believe the Promise! • Obey the Command (Start where you are.) • TRUST HIM! He can change what you see today! (Ephesians 3:20) ✸ Galatians 3:13 – “Christ has redeemed us from the curse …. Having become a curse for us.”

TAKING YOUR JERICHO: GOD HAS A PLAN FOR THAT! Joshua 5, 6 April 21, 2024 Review: The Promise; the Assignment; three (3) keys to success; Secret Agents; Fearing God and Following Right Leadership; Memorials We Must Get our (spiritual) act together! (Joshua 5:2-9) (see, note re spiritual circumcision) The victory is won in the Spirit realm (Joshua 5:1, Joshua 5:13 – Joshua 6:2) Practical Obedience is the necessary partner to victorious faith! (Joshua 6:3-25) Won in the Spirit, walked out in the natural. The Presence of the Lord, Believed and accessed, honored is the key to approach, engage, and sustain victory! (Priests were agents) Armed Guards: protection in the natural; allies approved by the Lord (counsel, defense, strength and well-being, etc.) Prayer Warriors: an extension of Christ's Intercessory Ministry! Some perspective on God's Judgement in the Old Testament times (see notes) Processing Passages That Reveal God's Judgement ✸ We Don't Know …. A Lot! I.E. How dark the evil, how long the evil, how deep the evil affected the people, the children, the culture. Issue is not God's character, it's our limited understanding The incredible, destructive results of sin (sin is an assault on God's nature) ✸ Focus On What We Do Know! God is Holy, Righteous, Just God is Loving, Merciful, Kind, Gracious! God's patience is far greater than His wrath. Grace is greater than sin! God's mercy is extended to the innocent for their eternal lives. (He will grant revelation/light/truth to those who respond to the light they receive.) ✸ Always View God Through The “Jesus Lens” He is God in visible, perfect expression! (John 14:9; Hebrews 1:3) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ✸ O.T. Circumcision: Sign of spiritual covenant; male reproductive organ, carrier of “seed of life” should bear mark of covenant with God in the reproductive act. (Genesis 17:9-12) In the New Testament, this side of the cross, circumcision for the believer is internal, a matter of the heart being severed from the old, sinful lifestyle! (Romans 2:29; Philippians 3:3) For further information or research contact: Bro. Mike Tribble mtribble1549@gmail.com

When We Pray, Miracles Happen (Jeremiah Castille) April 14, 2024 by Covenant Heirs

G. Wayne Gilliam Speaking The Priority and Power of Praise Praise and Worship is not just the previews for the Church Service, but it is a powerful tool given to us By God for our benefit and His Glory. 1 Peter 2:9 ”But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:“ The Priority Of Praise As the Psalmist says, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord” (Psalm 150:6). The command to praise God is a common one in the Old and New Testaments. Approximately 250 times in the Bible we read commands and declarative statements regarding praising the Lord. Psalm 150:1-6 answer the questions Who, what, when, where and How. Why should we Praise God: He is worthy: Psalm18:3 I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. He is there: Psalm 22:3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. Like the old Rev James Moore sang, When the praises go up, the blessing comes down. How should we praise God: Read Psalm 100 Towdah (Sacrifice of Praise): Praising God even in difficult times, demonstrating complete faith and trust. Yadah (Hands Raised): Surrender and receiving God's blessings. Barak (Quiet Voice): Humility and reverence before God's majesty. Halal (Soul Rejoice): Uninhibited expressions of joy through dance and celebration. Zamar (Instrument Song): Playing instruments to glorify God. Tehilah (Sing Along): Spontaneous and unrehearsed songs of praise. Shabach (Shout for Joy): Loud and enthusiastic expressions of adoration and victory. When should we praise God: Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Psalm 34:1 I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Hebrews 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. The Power Of Praise Biblical Examples: Jehoshaphat 2 chronicles 20: 15, 21 15 And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's. Paul and Silas, Acts 16:2525 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. 26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed. Blessed Assurance Frances Jane van Alstyne, more commonly known as Fanny J. Crosby, was an American mission worker, poet, lyricist, and composer. She was a prolific hymnist, writing more than 8,000 hymns and gospel songs, with more than 100 million copies printed. Blinded at 6 weeks old, Fanny grew up in poverty but had a wealthy friend with a music room. In 1873 her friend Phoebe played a song. Fanny composed some words to go along with the tune. “Blessed assurance was born. My hope and prayer for you this week is that you will praise Him throughout the day and remember when the praises go up, the blessings come down and Jesus is our Blessed assurance.

Easter Sunday March 31, 2024 The Resurrection: Life's Game Changer The Resurrection Guarantees That Our Lord Jesus Christ Is Forever Undefeated! The Resurrection Is Essential To Our Salvation! (Romans 10:9, 10; Romans 5:10; 1 Peter 1:3) The Resurrection Is Key To Our Position In Christ Today! (Romans 6:5-11) God the Father, our ultimate, Holy Judge, legally declared us and presently sees us represented by His Son! The Resurrection Guarantees That Christ's Victory/Life Is Available To Us Now! (Romans 8:11) Through our new birth, we are connected, “plugged in”, to His mighty, eternal LIFE! The Resurrection Guarantees A Forever Home, A Perfect Forever Reunion, And A Resurrected Body For The Believer! (John 11:25, 26; John 14:1-3; Philippians 3:21) “Lord! Grant that Your Resurrected Life in us becomes more than just a fact, but an ever-increasing Living Reality!”

Moving On: Taking The Next Right Step Joshua 3:17; Joshua 4:5-7; Joshua 4:9 Session 6 Review: Where's my security? Connecting with God's Highest and Best; Facing My “Jordan”; Remembering God's Presence; Three keys to victory; God's Secret Agents. Waiting and Wading! (Joshua 3:11-17) What is A Memorial? Remembrance is holy to the Lord (Ark; Passover; Lord's Supper) Memorials “tell a story” that gives God glory! External and internal objects that recognize and honor God and His character and actions (Joshua 4:3 & Joshua 4:9) Examples of Memorials: Objects* (Rod, stone tablets, manna, rocks) *Objects are not to be worshipped. They are reminders to worship the Lord!; Observances (Communion); Special acts of worship and sacrificial gifts; Committed prayer and compassionate giving. God sometimes grants special recognition to acts that He approves! (Matthew 26:13; Acts 10:4) Have you established “Memorials”? Reminders; objects, events that “tell a story of God's Glory”. (written memoirs, journal entry, song, paintings, jewelry, etc.)

MOVING ON: TAKING THE NEXT RIGHT STEP JOSHUA 1-3; HEBREWS 3, 4 SESSION 5 è Review: Where's my security? Connecting with God's Highest and Best; Facing My “Jordan”; Remembering God's Presence; Three keys to victory; God's Secret Agents. è Sanctify yourself! (Joshua 3:5) [Ask the Lord where we need correction and confess our sin. (1 John 1:9) è Keep the Lord's presence and His perspective as our key focus! (Joshua 3:3, 4) • What the Arc of the Covenant represented (contents, track record of blessing) • Why God's perspective is essential. • Losing our focus on Him brings confusion, doubt, fear, stress (See 1 Peter 5:5,6) • The fear (honor, respect, worship) of the Lord is the Key to wisdom. (Proverbs 9:10) • “Wait on the Lord, be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart”. (Psalm 27:14) è Trust the Right spiritual Leadership! (Joshua 3:6-17) • God-appointed, tried and true leaders with a servant's heart and examples if faith and obedience. Leaders need to have a track record of faithfulness in adversity and testing. • God sees and moves “upstream” before I do! (Joshua 3:14-17)

MOVING ON: TAKING THE NEXT RIGHT STEP JOSHUA 1; HEBREWS 3, 4 SESSION 4 è Review: Where's my security? Connecting with God's Highest and Best; Facing My “Jordan”; Remembering God's Presence; Three keys to victory! è God has assigned “agents” of blessing for His Children (Joshua 2) • Not your “usual suspects” • Rahab's past (Joshua 2:1) • Rahab's testimony (Joshua 2:8-11) • Rahab's “special agent” assignment (Joshua 2:6, 15, 16, 21) • Rahab's Faith, rewarded (Joshua 6:22; Hebrews 11:31) è Our Take: Remember – As we faithfully pursue God's Best, He has already chosen “agents” for our protection and success! • God has “agents” working for you in “enemy territory: (Joshua 2) • Regardless of what it looks like, God is at work to bring you into His highest and best! • We must search our hearts and ask the Lord to reveal to us any area where we have judged, condemned, considered anyone “out of God's reach”. • The ACTS 10 Mandate ✸ God's Presence and our faith and obedience is undefeated! (Joshua 1:3-5) ✸ Overcoming Faith is best received by hearing yourself speak the Word of God to, over, about yourself and your life situation! (Romans 10:17; Joshua 1:8)

Moving On: Taking The Next Right Step Joshua 1; Hebrews 3, 4 Sessions 1, 2, 3 ✸ Can become “stuck” through: neglect; paralysis of analysis; absence of True Leadership. Why Joshua? (See Numbers 13, 14; Deuteronomy 34:9) His believing, courageous spirit His forgiving love His uncompromising conviction His respect for and submission to God's chosen leadership! (Deuteronomy 34:9) (leaders have sat/served under leadership) Fundamental essentials to “Move Forward” Removing False Security (Joshua 1:2) Reconnect with God's Promise, Presence and Power (Joshua 1:2-7) To fully embrace God's Best and a New Season, we have to stop pretending the old season is still in operation!! Make the Commitment to Move Forward “Arise and go” (Assumes not moving) (Joshua 1:2) There's usually a “Jordan” facing you! Tread on what God granted. This is a partnership. You/I have a part! (Joshua 1:3, 4) What is My/Your “Jordan River”? Great difficulty, challenging, seemingly impossible barriers Resources? Relationships? Boss? Spouse? Past? Enemies? Ex? Income/receiving? NO! Fear! Condemnation! Anger! Past/worry! i.e.: Fear of disability; loss of relationships; resources; health; rejection, failure; being alone, etc. ✸ No way to “go around” Jordan River to Promised Land!! The “dread” is worse than the journey. (Joshua 1:11) To be dismayed is to be locked down, even broken by fear. We must face and walk towards our Jordan! ✸ Decide to TRUST GOD! Whatever the outcome, Give Him Praise! Stop trying to “Hold God Hostage” with my idea of “How it has to be”. God sees things others don't …. Even you! God's Guaranteed Successful Results (Prosper and Succeed: it's a Process!) (Joshua 1:8-9) The Power of Confession and meditation. Speak, respeak with inner voice and outer voice (spirit and body) (John 6:63; Hebrews 4:12) God's Children's promise of Deuteronomy 28 certainly encouraged and empowered His children to move on! Stay partnered with your warriors!! (Joshua 1:13-15) ✸You won't succeed alone (1 Peter 5:8 – enemy loves isolation) Moses – Aaron and Hur Peter – Church Paul – 2 Corinthians 1 …. Overwhelmed, in despair Jesus – “Watch and Pray” God has already assigned a committed core of prayer warriors. They are rested and ready!!

Moving On: Taking The Next Right Step Joshua 1; Hebrews 3, 4 Sessions 2 ✸ Can become “stuck” through: neglect; paralysis of analysis; absence of True Leadership. Why Joshua? (See Numbers 13, 14; Deuteronomy 34:9) His believing, courageous spirit His forgiving love His uncompromising conviction His respect for and submission to God's chosen leadership! (Deuteronomy 34:9) (leaders have sat/served under leadership) Fundamental essentials to “Move Forward” Removing False Security (Joshua 1:2) Reconnect with God's Promise, Presence and Power (Joshua 1:2-7) To fully embrace God's Best and a New Season, we have to stop pretending the old season is still in operation!! Make the Commitment to Move Forward “Arise and go” (Assumes not moving) (Joshua 1:2) There's usually a “Jordan” facing you! Tread on what God granted. This is a partnership. You/I have a part! (Joshua 1:3, 4) What is My/Your “Jordan River”? Great difficulty, challenging, seemingly impossible barriers Resources? Relationships? Boss? Spouse? Past? Enemies? Ex? Income/Reserves? NO! Fear! Condemnation! Anger! Past? ✸ No way to “go around” Jordan River to Promised Land!! We must face and walk towards our Jordan! God's Guaranteed Successful Results (Prosper and Succeed: it's a Process!) (Joshua 1:8-9) The Power of Confession and meditation. Speak, respeak with inner voice and outer voice (spirit and body) (John 6:63; Hebrews 4:12) Stay partnered with your warriors!! (Joshua 1:13-15)

Moving On: Taking The Next Right Step Joshua 1; Hebrews 3, 4 Session 1 ✸ Can become “stuck” through: neglect; paralysis of analysis; absence of True Leadership. Why Joshua? (See Numbers 13, 14; Deuteronomy 34:9) His believing, courageous spirit His forgiving love His uncompromising conviction His respect for and submission to God's chosen leadership! (Deuteronomy 34:9) (leaders have sat/served under leadership) Fundamental essentials to “Move Forward” Removing False Security (Joshua 1:2) Reconnect with God's Promise, Presence and Power (Joshua 1:2-7) Make the Commitment to Move Forward “Arise and go” (Assumes not moving) (Joshua 1:2) There's usually a “Jordan” facing you! Tread on what God granted. This is a partnership. You/I have a part! (Joshua 1:3, 4) What is My/Your “Jordan River”? Great difficulty, challenging, seemingly impossible barriers Resources? Relationships? ✸ No way to “go around” Jordan River to Promised Land!! God's Guaranteed Successful Results (Prosper and Succeed: it's a Process!) (Joshua 1:8-9) Hearing Directions Sometimes specific instructions – sometimes general parameters (time, opportunities, abilities, etc. (Proverbs 3:5,6 vs. Acts 15:25-28) “Spiritual Traffic Signals”

Principles of Christian Growth Session 3

Immanuel Marsh Continues his series on principles of Christian Growth.

9 Growth Ingredients: Grace and Truth Ephesians 4:11-16 Ephesians 2:1-10 2 Corinthians 9:8

DON'T LET THE (SPIRITUAL) GRINCHES STEAL YOUR JOY!! DECEMBER 17, 2023 SESSION 3 è Review: Joy is a Spiritual Force, manifesting by the Holy Spirit in the believer. It is not just an emotion. It grants strength, energy, perseverance! • Condemnation, culture, conflict and contention steal our experiences of Joy. • Hurt, forgiveness, continuation of relationships. è Joy: The Presence and Witness of the Spirit • Bearing witness of your connection to the Father: “child, heir of God and joint heir of Christ (Romans 8:16, 17) • Bearing witness of the all-conquering Love of God. (Romans 8:37-39; Romans 5:5) • Bearing witness of your present and eternal victory … “He always leads us to triumph”! (2 Corinthians 2:14) • God-given anticipation arising from Spirit of God through faith. (Romans 15:13) • True Joy is connected to Hope and peace. è Rejoice: To connect with internal joy (Philippians 4:4-7) • Expressing Thanksgiving and praise (prayer, songs, Scripture confession) as a lifestyle! (Psalm 28:7)

DON'T LET THE (SPIRITUAL) GRINCHES STEAL YOUR JOY!! DECEMBER 10, 2023 SESSION 2 è Review: Luke 2:8-14; Jesus is the JOY OF THE LORD PERSONIFIED! Is Joy a feeling or a FORCE? • True Joy can involve the emotions but is not just a feeling. • Real Joy is a spiritual force which precedes from your reborn spirit!! • A fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22; John 15:11) • Real Joy sustains us (Nehemiah 8:10; Hebrews 12:2) • Real Joy energizes our will to go on and go through! (James 1:2) è Three “spiritual Grinches” that attack our Joy …. Especially in this season: • Condemnation • Culture è Conflict and Contention • Conflict: the collision of differing views, desires, agendas, strong disagreement • Contention: An ongoing “stirring of strife, disturbing of the peace between 2 or more parties; ongoing strong disagreements that create distance in relationships. (Opportunities for contention will arise out of deep and unresolved conflicts!) è Questions to ask ourselves in disagreements: • Is my issue a principle or a preference? • Have I forgiven my offender, even without being asked for it? • Am I holding onto anger? (Ephesians 4:10) è God's requirement for us re: hurt, conflict, contention (Ephesians 4:25-32) • Forgiveness and grace must be extended • Ongoing anger and bitterness must be resisted è Hurt and contention are not the same although unresolved hurt can lead to contention. • Addressing hurt: • Forgive by faith as act of obedience • Withdraw from strife (poison) (Proverbs 17:14; Proverbs 26:20) • In prayer, in Jesus' Name, bless your offender (Matthew 5:44; Romans 12:19, 20) ✴ Forgiveness is non-negotiable. However, a return to previous relationships is not always possible or immediately workable. (See Acts 15:39; 2 Timothy 4:11)