Podcasts about amp therefore

Called to HOLINESS #1 This is not a clever chosen topic, it's a God calling for every Christian. By Pastor George Lehman ”A man is what he appears in God's eyes, and not the slightest bit more.” We can outwardly put on an OSCAR award performance. But God knows. For us to see Jesus active and alive in our lives and our ministry “Holiness must be our lifestyle.”   Romans 11:36 (Amp) – For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.(For all things originate with Him and come from Him; all things live through Him and all things center in and tend to consummate and to end in Him] To Him be glory forever! Amen (so be it).   Romans 12:1 (Amp) – I APPEAL to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your seasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. I don't believe God is going to do a new thing. (Isaiah 43) I read this prophetic word that went out some time ago ! Explain: God sitting as a judge in a Court room, banging with His gavel saying: “Order in My House” Order comes when we put things back the way they were or where they are supposed to be. Jeremiah 6:16 This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads* and look; ask where the good old way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”  Crossroads = is a place of decision-making. We all want new Revelations, new interesting facts and new understanding As God's church we have chased after New Things. And been disobedient to the Old Things. We have sadly allowed the basic old way to slip by and therefore our foundation has crumbled. We've become educated beyond our obedience. (We know more than what we are obedient to.) The New Converts pick up the bad habits of the old people. God wants us to have “Revival.” Revival is to bring back an active life that was once in our hearts and lifestyle. Isaiah 66:1-2 - “This is what the Lord says: “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me a temple as good as that? Could you build me such a resting place? 2 My hands have made both heaven and earth; they and everything in them are mine. I, the Lord, have spoken! “I will bless those who have humble and contrite*(Berouvolle) hearts, who tremble at my word. Hosea 10:12 - “It's time to Sow Righteousness, its time to break up your unplowed ground, for its time to seek the Lord. Make a choice to Plow up That hardened heart, that disobedient lifestyle, that half hearted commitment. God is calling His children to a “A life of Holiness”   Holiness is not: A once off experience, a Feeling or an emotion or an optional extra. It's a direct result of a Jesus filled heart. A life of Holiness without Jesus in your heart is not possible.   1 Peter 1:15-16 (Amp) - 15“But as the One who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all your conduct and manner of living.” 16“For it is written You shall be holy for I AM holy.”   Leviticus 11:44 – “I Am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I Am holy….” Holiness: Greek word used Hagiasmos and means: Sanctify – Purity – clean – to be different (dedicated to God's purpose- Set apart.) 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Amp) -Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come! Jesus prayed this for us in John 17:15-19 - “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. 17 Sanctify them by[a] the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. 19 For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.   Can I just say this? The holiness we are seeking goes much deeper than merely cleaning the outside of the cup. (Luke 11:39) we whitewash but God washes white. True holiness does not come from following rules – (so many Christians make up their own set of rules about Holiness what's right of wrong in their own minds – what God's word says is not to important.) Holiness comes from following Jesus Christ Being different being like Jesus John 3:30 - “He must increase, but I must decrease. [He must grow more prominent; I must grow less so.] Galatians 5:25 (Msg) - Since this is the kind of life we have chosen the life of the spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. This must be our Goal – our aim and our Determination. If your goals are less than Christ likeness If you are happy and content with yourself This word on Holiness will pass right over you. Isaiah 66:2 - This is the man to whom I will look and have regarded him who is Humble.   HUMILITY PRECEDES HOLINESS!!!   Allen Bond - “The bigger I grow in God, the smaller I become.” A holy man is a humble man. Why discuss Humility, while on the subject of Holiness? Simply because holiness is the product of grace and God gives grace only to the Humble. Jesus said: Matthew 11:29 - “Learn of me. I am gentle (meek) and humble in heart.”   The holiest, most powerful voice that ever spoke described Himself as: Gentle, Meek, and Humble in heart. It's important we understand, Jesus did not condemn sinners.  He condemned hypocrites. A hypocrite is a person who excuses his own sin while condemning the sins of another. No one can remain a hypocrite and find Holiness at the same time. That's why everyday the first step we take to Sanctification* (to be: Pure, clean, different, set apart and dedicated to His purpose.) Is admitting we are not as Holy as what we would like to appear. This 1st step is called Humility 1 Peter 5:5 (LB) - God gives special blessings to those who are humble but sets Himself against those who are Proud. Pride is the only a disease known to man that makes everyone sick except the one who has it. It's at the crossroad*(Place of decision) that: Holy men and Hypocrites are Bred. Those who choose Holiness see their need: Repent, change and pay the price, make the adjustments and “Run to win” Those who choose to be Hypocrites see their sin, excuse it and remain unchanged. A life of Holiness Begins with our determined refusal to hide from the condition of our hearts It will call for deep, serious honesty – everyday. So many Christians want to live double lives: Holy when it's convenient. Unholy when it's inconvenient. The very sad part of all this is: so many think it's okay! Think about this: Hebrews 12:14 - Strive to live in peace with everybody and pursue that consecration and Holiness, without which no one will (ever) see the Lord.   “ORDER IN MY HOUSE.” “What kind of house will you build for ME?” asks God A half-hearted attempt is a wholehearted failure! A man is what he appears in God's eyes, and not the slightest bit more.  

JESUS TAUGHT THAT FAITH SPEAKS Mark 11:22-23 (NKJV) – Have faith in God (have the God kind of faith) 23 For assuredly, I say to you,whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in hisheart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.John 6:63 (NKJV) - The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) - For the word of God is alive and powerful.Isaiah 55:11 (AMP) - So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me void(useless, without result), Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matterfor which I sent it. Ephesians 5:1 AMP - Therefore be imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example],Ephesians 5:1 (MSG) - Watch what God does, and then you do it…  Mark 9:23 (GNB) - Everything is possible for the person who has faith. Replace what you're saying with the word…..possiblePAY ATTENTION TO WHAT WE'RE SAYING  Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV) - Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eatits fruit. Proverbs 18:21 (MSG) - Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose.  “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me“  “its gonna kill me if I have to go to that class again” “my kids are never going to listen to me” “I just keep getting sick all the time” “no matter who much money I make, I will never be enough”We have to be careful, not to reduce God to our level of thinking.Proverbs 30:32 (TPT) - if you've thought about saying something stupid, you'd better shut yourmouth. (put your hand on your mouth) 1 Peter 3:10 (NLB) - If you want a happy, good life, keep control of your tongue, Proverbs 6:2 (ESV) - you are snared in the words of your mouth, caught in the words of your mouth, Matthew 12:36–37 (MSG) - Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going tocome back to haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously.37 Words can be your salvation (set free). Words can also be your damnation (put in bondage).” James 3:4–5 (NKJV) - Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds,they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a littlemember and boasts great things.Mark 11:23 (NKJV) – whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' anddoes not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whateverhe says.WORDS BRING DELIVERANCEProverbs 12:6 (NKJV) - But the mouth of the upright will deliver them.Daniel 3:17 (NLT) - If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to saveus. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty.WORDS BRING GOD'S BLESSING & FAVORPsalm 84.11 NLV - The Lord gives favor and honor. He holds back nothing good from those who walkin the way that is right.THE MIRACLE WILL MEET YOU… HEAR THE WORD OF GOD SPEAK THE WORD OF GOD

JESUS TAUGHT THAT FAITH SPEAKS Mark 11:22-23 (NKJV) – Have faith in God (have the God kind of faith) 23 For assuredly, I say to you,whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in hisheart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.John 6:63 (NKJV) - The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) - For the word of God is alive and powerful.Isaiah 55:11 (AMP) - So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me void(useless, without result), Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matterfor which I sent it. Ephesians 5:1 AMP - Therefore be imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example],Ephesians 5:1 (MSG) - Watch what God does, and then you do it…  Mark 9:23 (GNB) - Everything is possible for the person who has faith. Replace what you're saying with the word…..possiblePAY ATTENTION TO WHAT WE'RE SAYING  Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV) - Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eatits fruit. Proverbs 18:21 (MSG) - Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose.  “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me“  “its gonna kill me if I have to go to that class again” “my kids are never going to listen to me” “I just keep getting sick all the time” “no matter who much money I make, I will never be enough”We have to be careful, not to reduce God to our level of thinking.Proverbs 30:32 (TPT) - if you've thought about saying something stupid, you'd better shut yourmouth. (put your hand on your mouth) 1 Peter 3:10 (NLB) - If you want a happy, good life, keep control of your tongue, Proverbs 6:2 (ESV) - you are snared in the words of your mouth, caught in the words of your mouth, Matthew 12:36–37 (MSG) - Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going tocome back to haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously.37 Words can be your salvation (set free). Words can also be your damnation (put in bondage).” James 3:4–5 (NKJV) - Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds,they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a littlemember and boasts great things.Mark 11:23 (NKJV) – whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' anddoes not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whateverhe says.WORDS BRING DELIVERANCEProverbs 12:6 (NKJV) - But the mouth of the upright will deliver them.Daniel 3:17 (NLT) - If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to saveus. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty.WORDS BRING GOD'S BLESSING & FAVORPsalm 84.11 NLV - The Lord gives favor and honor. He holds back nothing good from those who walkin the way that is right.THE MIRACLE WILL MEET YOU… HEAR THE WORD OF GOD SPEAK THE WORD OF GOD

Pastor Will Brocker's message, titled "Our Humble Savior," at Grace and Truth Church. Isaiah 7:14 AMP — “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Listen carefully, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and she will call his name Immanuel (God with us).”

Pastor Will Brocker's message, titled “Christmas Preparations,” at Grace and Truth Church. Isaiah 7:14 AMP — “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Listen carefully, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and she will call his name Immanuel (God with us).”

Matthew 6:31-33 (AMP) “Therefore do not worry or be anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted), saying, ‘What are we going to eat?' or ‘What are we going to drink?' or ‘What are we going to wear?' 32, For the [pagan] Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; but do not worry, for your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33, But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness, His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God, and all these things will be given to you also.”

“Hope For Hard Times” Part4 – “Trust does not need to see first” – RECAP of Ruth 1 * Elimelech, Naomi, 2 sons, Mahlon & Chilion – Bethlehem * Severe famine – head to land of Moab * Elimelech dies * Sons marry Moabite women – 10 yrs. & die too * 2 OUT OF 3 Widows – Naomi, Ruth [Orpah] * Famine Ends – Return to Bethlehem/Judah Naomi & Ruth - Trust does not need to see first - Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. - Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount - Mathew 7:7-8 NKJV - "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. (8) For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. - Mystery and Victory - 1Corinthians. 15:58 AMP Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labor [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].

JUDGING #1 by Pastor George Lehman People tend to judge others about various aspects, including: Appearance Personality Behaviour Choices Beliefs Mistakes Background Successes Remember, judging others often stems from personal biases, insecurities, or limited understanding. Practicing love, empathy and self-reflection – these will help us become more accepting and less judgmental.  “In public, guard your tongue.  In private, your thoughts.” I think, when it comes to the subject of Judging. It's possibly one of the misunderstood and difficult subjects to come to grips with, because it starts with me first. Why do I say this? Well, it's because Christians are partly ignorant and partly disobedient. The result is, we act contrary to scripture “and thereby, just satisfy the flesh”. Our default is to judge. And OH!! Boy can we get ourselves in hot water. “We should be rigorous (strong) in judging ourselves and gracious in judging others.”  - John Wesley I think we need to look at this teaching on Judging with the following scripture as our guide. Romans 2:1-3 (Amp) - “Therefore you have no excuse or defence or justification, O man, whoever you are who judges and condemns another. For in posing as judge and passing sentence on another, you condemn yourself, because you who judge are habitually practicing the very same things [that you censure and denounce]. 2 [But] we know that the judgment (adverse verdict, sentence) of God falls justly and in accordance with truth upon those who practice such things. 3 And do you think or imagine, O man, when you judge and condemn those who practice such things and yet do them yourself, that you will escape God's judgment and elude His sentence and adverse verdict? The word Judging (oordeel) as shown throughout the New Testament scripture. The Greek word used in the bible 114 times is “KRINO”: To Judge in the sense of condemnation, to sentence or punish. – To express a usually negative opinion about someone or something, to criticize. When I do this I open a door to the enemy and I am the one who suffers. Just by reading this we can see for ourselves that Judging this way is very bad, unacceptable and dangerous. Because it gives the devil a foothold, destroys relationships, breaks up ministries and neutralises your testimony. How important is this: Make sure you have all the facts before you set yourself up as judge. Most problems arise from this very important failure!! Taking sides. Think about this.  What colour robe does Jesus give to believers? White. What colour robe do judges wear – Black.  There might just be a lesson here. Galatians 2:6 Paul says – “God does not judge by “external appearances” In other words, God looks where it's really going wrong: - He looks at the heart. God is in the heart correcting business. Jeremiah 17:9 - “The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is exceedingly perverse and corrupt and severely, mortally sick! Who can know it [perceive, understand, be acquainted with his own heart and mind]?   Scripture warns us not to judge others based on our own self-righteousness because we all fall short of the glory of God and only God can know the state of anyone's heart You see judging is a heart thing, and an attitude thing. Jesus said in John 7:24 – Be honest in your judgement and do not decide at a glance (superficially and by appearances); but judge fairly and righteously) It's when I've done the mirror on the wall test first – In other words, I Corinthians 11:31 - “For if we searchingly examined ourselves [detecting our shortcomings and recognizing our own condition], we should not be judged and penalty decreed [by the divine judgment].   A guy was sailing for Europe on one of the great transatlantic ocean liners. When he went on board, he found that another passenger was to share the cabin with him. After going to see the accommodations, he came up to the reception's desk and inquired if he could leave his gold watch and other valuables in the ship's safe. He explained that ordinarily he never availed himself of that privilege, but he had been to his cabin and had met the man who was to occupy the other berth. Judging from his appearance, he was afraid that he might not be a very trustworthy person. The receptionist accepted the responsibility for the valuables and remarked, 'It's all right, bishop, I'll be very glad to take care of them for you. The other man has been up here and left his for the same reason!'“ Jesus tells us, “Judge not lest ye be judged” Matthew 7:1 It should be obvious to any practicing Christian; Jesus didn't intend for this verse to obliterate (uitwis) our ability to judge between behavior that the Bible encourages and behavior that the Bible forbids. The beam (balk) Splinter thing Then and only then may I even look at the situation – then with an attitude of great care and caution make your judgement. What a different place this world our homes our work, our church and our relationships would be like if we practiced judging at this level. We are all struggling, so let us be gentle with one another. We most times don't know what their struggles are.   Let us focus on our own growth, and issues we need to overcome. We all have lots to deal with. 1 Corinthians 11:31 – For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. Romans 2:4 (Amp) - Or are you [so blind as to[ trifle with and presume upon and despise and underestimate the wealth of His kindness and forbearance and long-suffering patience? Are you unmindful or actually ignorant [of the fact ] that God's kindness is intended to lead you to repent (to change your mind and inner man to accept God's will)? Next week we will be looking at things like – Who is authorized to Judge? When is judgement called for? What are we authorized to Judge? Where are our limits? Why does our attitude matter?

Hebrews 10:19 NKJV: Hold Fast Your Confession Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, NIV: Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, AMP: Therefore, brethren, since we have full freedom and confidence to enter into the [Holy of] Holies [by the power and virtue] in the blood of Jesus,

The inward life. by Pastor George Lehman   Our outward life is what we project on the outside and it reveals what's going on, on the inside. Philippians 1:6 (Amp) – And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.   The outward work will never be weak, small, insignificant or inadequate if the inward work is great. “A man who, as a physical being, is always turned toward the outside, thinking that his happiness lies outside him, finally turns inward and discovers that the source is within him.” -  Soren Kierkegaard (We try living our lives from the outside – inward) You don't have to come out of the spirit realm. This is the great discovery The same closeness, strength, joy, confidence and direction you experience on a Sunday service… …. God intends for you to walk in the rest of the week. The measure of a man is not what he does on Sunday, but rather who he is Monday through Saturday. The devil is waiting to ambush you the moment you leave church. He wants to bring to your mind thoughts of fear, failure, doubt, unbelief and destruction. You got the Monday blues...?  Put on your Holy Ghost shoes! We must “Arm ourselves” – as believers we must guard our minds and hearts. The Armour of God is a Spiritual Armour, not a flesh armour. Like an alarm Keypad when you put in the correct code the property is ARMED and no one can break in without the alarm being activated. The code is the word of God!   As spiritual creatures the word says: 2 Corinthians 5:5-7 (NIV) – 5 Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.  6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 7 For we live by faith, not by sight. Clearly, we are commanded to live in the Spirit and not in the natural. Romans 8:5 (NIV) – Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.    Romans 8:8-9 (NIV) – 8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.  9 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.  We must be conscious of our inner life all the time. It's the engine room from where we live. Romans 8:14 (NIV) – For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.   Romans 8:16 (NIV) – The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.    Proverbs 20:27 (NIV) – The human spirit is the lamp of the Lord that sheds light on one's inmost being.   Isaiah 60:1 (NIV) – “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. Your inner life is your most valuable possession. As Christians we can expect God to enlighten us and to guide us by the powerful inner working of the spirit. With the inner life we are magnificently equipped to face whatever life throws at us. Ephesians 3:16 (Amp) – May He grant you out of the riches of His glory, to be strengthened and spiritually energized with power through His Spirit in your inner self, [indwelling your innermost being and personality], The Peasants story: The story of John Tauler, the 14th century Dominican monk whose writings so greatly influenced Martin Luther. One day, we are told, Tauler was walking in the city of Strasbourg when he met a peasant. By way of greeting the man, the monk said, “God give you a good day, my friend”. “I thank God I never have a bad day,” answered the peasant. Astonished, Tauler was silent for a moment, then tried again.  “God give you a happy life, my friend.” The peasant replied, “I thank God I am never unhappy.” “Never unhappy?” cried Tauler, bewildered.  “What do you mean?” “Well,” came the response, “when it is fine I thank God, when it rains I thank God, when I have plenty I thank God, when I am hungry, I thank God, and since God's will is my will, and whatever pleases Him pleases me, why should I say I am unhappy when I am not?” Tauler looked at him with awe. “Who are you?” he asked. “I am a king” said the peasant. “A king?  Where is your kingdom?” The peasant smiled, “In my heart,” he whispered. The problem is many times we seek answers and guidance by some means other than the way God said we should. When we do we get into trouble. Our inner man is always willing but our natural man resists. Jesus warned us: Matthew 26:41 (NIV) –  “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Clearly continuous prayer keeps the inner life alive. The advantage of living the inner life in the Spirit is that it keeps us on the right path. Galatians 5:16-17 (NIV) – 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. You can be absolutely sure of this as the inner life goes, so goes the outward life. Have bulldog inward faith: “The nose of the bulldog is slanted backwards so he can continue to breathe without letting go.” - Winston Churchill One person with commitment, persistence and endurance will accomplish more than a thousand people with interest alone. Hebrews 12:1 (LB) – Since we have such a huge crowd of men of faith watching us from the grandstands, let us strip off anything that slows us down or holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up; and let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us. The stronger the inner life, the harder it is to quit!!! 1 Corinthians 15:58 (Amp) –  Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm (steadfast), immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord [always being superior, excelling, doing more than enough in the service of the Lord], knowing and being continually aware that your labor in the Lord is not futile [it is never wasted or to no purpose].

Death Is Not the End Pastor George Lehman It's important to be reminded regular that this life is preparation ground for the next life. 1 Timothy 4:8 (Amp) – For physical training is of some value (useful for a little), but godliness (spiritual training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way, for it holds promise for the present life and also for the life which is to come. ” What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson Two of history's wisest men, Job, and Solomon, thought deeply about the possibilities of an afterlife for human beings, and both concluded that something better awaited men and women on the other side of death. Realizing that God "has put eternity in their hearts" Ecclesiastes 3:11, (We were created to live forever) Solomon writes at the end of the book that, although the physical body "will return to the earth as it was, . . . the spirit [of man] will return to God who gave it" (Ecclesiastes 12:7). Job concludes that a time would come when, despite his being dead in the grave. Job 14:14-15(Amp) – 14If a man dies, shall he live again? All the days of my warfare and service I will wait, till my change and release shall come. 15[Then] You would call and I would answer You; You would yearn for [me] the work of Your hands. Both men knew there would be life after death. The New Testament consistently teaches the doctrine of life after death through the resurrection from the dead (You can read this in I Corinthians 15 for the Bible's most concentrated teaching on it.) 1 Corinthians 15:14 (Amp) – And if Christ has not risen, then our preaching is in vain [it amounts to nothing] and your faith is devoid of truth and is fruitless (without effect, empty, imaginary, and unfounded). While many understand that those who have given their lives to Jesus in this life will rise from their graves at the return of Christ to enjoy their eternal rewards: I Corinthians 15:51-52 - “Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed 52 in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. I Thessalonians 4:14-17 - “For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord's word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. The Bible reveals that all humanity will live again! Revelation 20:11-15 (NIV) - “11 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.   “The moment we start to live, we begin to die.  Death is the end of dying, not the end of living.” -Charles Spurgeon   Here's a question: When you leave this world, how would you like to leave? A few days before his death, Dr. F.B. Meyer wrote a very dear friend these words: “I have just heard, to my great surprise, that I have but a few days to live.  It may be that before this reaches you, I shall have entered the palace.  Don't trouble to write.  We shall meet in the morning.” Hudson Taylor, founder of China Inland Mission, in the closing months of his life said to a friend “I am so weak.  I can't read my bible.  I can't even pray.  I can only lie still in God's arms like a little child and trust.” There was an elderly man at home, upstairs, dying in bed.  He smelled the aroma of his favourite chocolate chips cookies baking.  He wanted one last cookie before He died.  He stumbled down the stairs and crawled into the kitchen where his wife was busy baking cookies.  With his last remaining strength, he crawled to the table and was just barely able to lift his withered arm to the cookie sheet.  As he grasped a warm, moist chocolate chips cookie, his favourite kind, his wife suddenly whacked his hand with a spatula.  Gasping for breath, he asked her, “Why did you do that?”  She replied, “those are for the funeral”. In preaching a funeral sermon, a preacher made the following remarks… “We have here before us only the shell – the nut is gone.” A committed Christian man, being asked during his terminal illness, whether he thought about himself dying “Really, friend, I care not whether I am or not, for if I die, I shall be with God, if I live, He will be with me.” Thomas Hobbs, the well-known English philosopher, said at the end of his road, “If the whole world belonged to me, I would give it all to live one day longer.  I am now departing on my last journey.  It is my turn now to take the frightful leap into the dark.” Caesar Borgia, a statesman, said something at the end of his earthly road that many others have surely also said:, “I have made provision for everything during my lifetime.  Only not for death; and now I must die totally unprepared.” The last words of Woodrow Wilson, American president who died in 1924, were short and sweet “I am ready”. Luke 16:19-31  Rich man and Lazarus Luke 16:22-23 (Amp) – 22And it occurred that the man [reduced to] begging died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. 23And in Jades (the realm of the dead), being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far away, and Lazarus in his bosom. Like you set your alarm for a ‘wake-up call', this is a wake-up call to each of us. Ephesians 5:14 (Amp) - Therefore, He says, awake o sleeper and arise from the dead, and Christ shall shine (make day dawn) upon you and give you light. A Rabbi regularly in a sermon said: “Repent, the day before you die.”  Every time someone would come to the Rabbi and say, “How can I repent the day before I die?  We don't know when we are going to die.”  “Exactly!!  Because you don't know when you're going to die, TODAY is the right time.” Hebrews 3:7-8 (Amp) - So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…” Thomas Watson said, “A man's greatest care should be for the place where he lives the longest; therefore, eternity should be his scope.” Eternity to the godly is a day that has no sunset; eternity to the unsaved, is a night that has no sunrise. Question: Do you want someone to tell you what you want to hear, or do you want to really hear the TRUTH?

Mit Ausharren & deshalb siegreich beten | Pray with perseverance & therefore victoriously - Thierry by Every Nation Kirche Berlin

A visit to Calvary's Cross By Pastor Ian September Leaflet: “When it becomes a deep rooted revelation of what Jesus Christ did for you at Calvary, you will never walk away.” Key Scriptures: Isaiah 53:5; John 3:16; John 15:13; Eph. 5:1; 1 Cor. 11:23-29 1 Cor. 11:28 Good morning church, on this very special Sunday, no ordinary Sunday, but the greatest day in history; He has risen, just as He said he would! As the Scripture said He would. Today we celebrate Resurrection Sunday, the most important Sunday on the Christian calendar, and we can know for sure, that He is alive, the stone's been rolled away, death could not hold Him,  and the grave could not contain Him! Hallelujah! So, as we look at our sermon topic today, we should understand that it is important to visit Calvary often, to remind ourselves of the finished work on the cross, where Jesus Christ the  Messiah, laid down His life, voluntarily & completely so that you and I may be washed, healed & made whole! The name Calvary comes from the Latin word meaning “the place of skulls” and the Greek word Golgotha, in its original meaning “the hill of skulls”. But the most meaningful aspect of Calvary or Golgotha, is what happened there, nearly 2000 years ago! Isaiah 53:5 says this about the event that brought us life. (Read from verse 4). Isaiah 53:4-5 (NIV) – 4Surely He took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered Him punished by God stricken by Him, and afflicted. 5But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. This all happened on Calvary hill, where our Saviour was tortured beyond recognition, bruised & broken for our transgressions, sin & shame… and with that in mind, when we as believers look at the cross, we will discover & be aware of our sinfulness, short-comings & iniquities! Can I just say, that you cannot look at the empty cross & not be challenged, church. It is quite normal for people to conceal, ignore, excuse, justify & even explain their sins, but if you fully understand the wondrous cross, and Jesus's body on that cross, you will find it almost impossible not to confess & forsake our sins! When we visit Calvary, we will discover the very nature of God: John 3:16 (NIV) – For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. It's on Calvary's Hill that God reveals His amazing grace & mercy towards sinners, giving us what we do not deserve, and not, not giving us what we do deserve! The Bible teaches us in John 15:13 (NIV) – Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. Jesus laid down His life, although He had legions at His disposal, He said: “Father, not my will, but your will be done”! Are you prepared to lay down your life for Him, church? It is sad, but true, that every rejecter of God's love, mercy & grace is crucifying the Son of God all over again (think about that…). When we visit Calvary, or Golgotha, we will find that the world's only hope & future, is in Christ alone! You see, many people, including myself, went to great extremes, to find happiness, love, joy and peace….. Some will spend millions in pursuing the ultimate, but when we visit Calvary, we will find that the “ultimate” is just a confession away! Ultimate love, joy, peace & happiness is found at the foot of the cross, on your knees before the Almighty God! When we visit Calvary, we will find inspiration for serving God & others! Jesus' death on the cross, must surely be one of the greatest acts of self-denial ever! The spotless Lamb of God, Christ the Messiah without blemish, sin or shame laying it all down, so that we may have it all! The Bible says in Ephesians 5:1 (Amp) – Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father] (Be imitators of Christ). So the questions would naturally be: are you prepared to give yourself, deny yourself, and surrender yourself, for the Kingdom of God & others? I would now like to spend some time on the Lord's Supper, or communion, as instructed by the Lord Himself, and especially as we celebrate Resurrection Sunday, after His body was physically broken & bruised, He appeared in the flesh to His disciples & many others… just as He said He would. 1 Corinthians 11: 23-29 (NIV) – 23For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” 25In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”  26For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. 27So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. 29For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgement on themselves. After reading vs. 24, it is clear that the Lord's Supper is a time to remember, we ought to remember what He did for each one of us, on Calvary's Hill. Communion as an act to remember Him! We have this memorial service, to honour our Great God & to commemorate His great deeds, and to call Him affectionately to remembrance. The Lord's Supper holds deep significance to all believers, and should not be taken casually or its power under estimated! The Lord's Supper is also a time of shared or mutual fellowship with other believers, who all bear testimony that Christ is the Messiah, is the Son of the living God! The Lord's Supper or table, is also a proclamation, and as you partake of the elements, you proclaim to your own heart, and to others, your faith in God & His risen Son. The Lord's supper is also a time of self-examination (1 Cor. 11:28) as we examine ourselves as to the manner & motive in which we participate & celebrate the risen Christ. The Lord's supper is also a loud prophesy, as you silently prophesy the second coming of God, for He is coming back again, amen? As we then church, as believers, partake in the Lord's Supper, let us focus our minds on that most significant event in all of history, Christ rising from the dead, and our relationship with Him! As we visit Calvary, the hill of skulls, let us inform our minds, our intellect & emotions, concerning God's great Agape' love for us all, and allow this experience to stir our faith in Him, and cause us to love & trust Him more intimately! Let us make decisions during this experience to reflect on our lives, change our ways & bring glory & honour to the One, who descended into greatness, conquering Calvary's Hill! Because He died for us, let us also now live for Him! So it's with humbleness of hearts, gratitude of souls, with confession of every known sin and a plea for assistance to forsake all evil, let us now partake in the Lord's Supper, communion as believers! Remembering the brokenness of His body & the pouring out of His blood for each & every one of us!

Disclaimer: This podcast episode includes adult themes that are not intended for young ears.   Pornography: Protecting Children, Personal Healing, Victory, and Recovery in Christ with Sam Black   James 5:16 (AMP) "Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and restored. The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) can accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power]."   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Thank You to Our Sponsor: Dream Seller Travel, Megan Rokey   Questions and Topics We Cover: Are there any common denominators present in these men and women who struggle with pornography addiction? Satan can make people feel like this stronghold will last forever, but what hope can you share with someone engaged in this battle right now? What would be helpful for the church to understand, speak about, and offer as resources for healing and recovery?   Sam Black is a renowned author and expert in the field of pornography recovery. As the Director of Recovery Education at Covenant Eyes, he brings a wealth of experience to his work, having joined the organization in 2007 after a distinguished 18-year career as an award-winning journalist. Sam is the author of two groundbreaking books: "The Healing Church: What Churches Get Wrong About Pornography and How to Fix It" and "The Porn Circuit: Understand Your Brain and Break Porn Habits." He has also edited 16 other books on the impact of pornography and regularly speaks at parenting, leadership and men's events across the country. Sam's deep knowledge and compassionate approach have helped countless individuals and families find healing and hope. The Healing Church Website The Victory App (Through Covenant Eyes) Sam's Email Address: sam.black@covenanteyes.com   Other Episode Mentioned from The Savvy Sauce: 91 Technology and Parenting with Arlene Pellicane   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on our Website   Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)   Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”  

It's essential to improve your mindset when you desire to improve your eating habits, because every thought you think and word you speak influences how you feel and behave. If you find your mind is consumed by thoughts about food and body, inner criticism, and a victim mentality that you'll never get better, then this episode will inspire you to choose a more positive mental attitude to support you in making the habit changes you desire. Your mindset matters!  The 7 mindset shifts I cover are:How to make positive meaning of your eating struggles.Viewing your eating episodes not as a problem, but as a window into your healing.From thinking your body is the enemy to viewing her as a friend.Why you don't have a willpower problem, but rather a coping problem.Going from prohibition to permissioning your desired foods.Stopping labeling foods as “good” or “bad.”Learning to make choices from a place of “I love myself, therefore…”I also provide you with some activities you can do on your own to help you make these mindset shifts. Enjoy!Interested in applying to work with Sarah? Check out my services here, join my waitlist, or book a complimentary discovery call with me.Connect with Sarah Emily: Website | www.sarahspeers.comInstagram | www.instagram.com/sarahemilyspeers/Love this show? Please leave a review! We deeply appreciate you sharing the love with others who may benefit from listening too.Music by MBB:https://www.youtube.com/c/mbbmusichttps://soundcloud.com/mbbofficialhttps://www.instagram.com/mbb_music

Hey Girl! Do you wish you had more motivation, willpower, and self-control to really accomplish your goals?  Today in episode 23, we are talking about motivation - the different types of motivation and why you can't rely on it to help you crush your goals.  After you listen, if today's episode was good for you and the Spirit leads... Please rate and write a review to help others find us and receive some of the value that you got today!    Check out these mentions from today's episode:  Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:1 - AMP // Therefore, since we have this ministry, just as we received mercy [from God, granting us salvation, opportunities, and blessings], we do not get discouraged nor lose our motivation.  2 Timothy 1:7 - CEV // God's Spirit doesn't make cowards out of us. The Spirit gives us power, love, and self-control.    Psychology Today  Article about motivation. Adventures of Deanna's YouTube Channel Subscribe to the HealThy SPIRIT email list here. Watch us on YouTube here.    Ok, until next time, I'll see you over in the Heal-Thy SPIRIT Facebook group (link below).    May grace and peace be yours in abundance.   XOXO,   Tia

On this episode of Sh*t Talk, Liz has some follow-up thoughts to last week's episode on Ozempic.She then discusses a few recent studies that show how much the company you keep impacts your gut microbiome. Liz gets into how cohabitating and married partners impact each other's gut and oral microbiome, and how this impacts our immunity, mood, and overall health.The company you keep matters!Get in touch with Liz: on Insta @liz_broder on TikTok @lizbroderWork with Liz 1:1 at The EB Method 20% off your first order from Sakara! Click HERE, and use code XOLIZB15% off Pique Sun Goddess Matcha and Pique BT Fountain Beauty Electrolytes by clicking through this link, and discount will be automatically applied at check-out.

This message by Pastor Mark Butler is from the Sunday service on November 6, 2022 at Harvest Bible Church in Stockton, California.

This message by Pastor Mark Butler is from the Sunday service on November 6, 2022 at Harvest Bible Church in Stockton, California.

The power of YOU'RE WORDS “The words we speak today, will determine the lives we live tomorrow.” Today I would like to share with you, on a subject that not many pay much attention to! (Non chalant) about it. Topic: The power of your words Please realise today church that your words have energy & power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, hurt, harm & humiliate, and destroy! Yes, it does! That is why it is important that we carefully consider our words, church! Proverbs 18:21 (Amp) – Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words. That is why we need to discipline ourselves to speak only in a way that conveys respect, gentleness, humility & encouragement! Jesus clearly set the standard as we read of His many encounters with people. Not once did He judge, criticise, or condemn! Ephesians 5:1 (Amp) – Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]. Amen or Enia? We read of many examples in the word where Jesus spoke to & commanded demons to flee & by His words, He calmed the seas & rebuked the storms. By His very words, people received their healing & deliverance and He even commanded (by His words) Lazarus to be raised from the dead! We also read in the Old Testament, how God our Father, spoke the world into existence “Let there be light”………………. By God's words, the heavens were created, and night and day were separated. Would you agree with me then, that there is indeed power in the words that we speak? Amen! Why then, is it that our tongues are so difficult to control, and that it will leave us with regret if we do not use it, wisely? Psalm 19:14 (Amp) – Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable and pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my [firm, immovable] rock and my Redeemer. 1 Peter 3:10 (Amp) – The one who wants to enjoy life and see good days [good-whether apparent or not], must keep his tongue free from evil and his lips from speaking guile (treachery, deceit). So, what is God trying to say to us, church, visitors? I can almost hear Him say: “Be sure to taste your words before you spit them out, because you may have to eat them sometime” Or: Think twice before you speak, for the words you say can only be forgiven, but not forgotten.” Ephesians 4:29 (Amp) – Do not let unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless, vulgar] words ever come out of your mouth, but only such speech as is good for building up others, according to the need and the occasion, so that it will be a blessing to those who hear [you speak]. Edify people with your words! And be selective in what you say, put your brain in gear before you put your mouth in action! (Think before you say something) (You get my drift, church?) Realise that kind words can be short & easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless! Amen Question is: When last did you say something kind to anybody? How many times will you find that people just needed a kind word, or a word of approval & praise? “Well done,” “Thank you.” When last did you encourage somebody church? Listen: It may seem insignificant to say a word or two, but when we give encouragement, what wonders it can do!” Amen? How many kids out there crave (verlang) for some small sign of approval, or even a word of recognition, and an honest expression for the good we see in them & the work they do! Realise church, that a word of encouragement can make the difference between giving up or going on to succeed! Examples: God's word is clear church, that our words have incredible power to bring blessings & life, or curses & death! Today I would like to pose a few questions to you all: Are you intentional with your words? (Do you mean what you say?) Is it true (lying lips) necessary (really)          c. is it kind (or salted with sarcasm) Do you speak from your heart, or your head? Is your communication honest (opreg) and your motives pure or do you flatter (smooth talk) people? “sugar-coat” Does your words inspire & uplift others to greater heights, or are they forever negative & critical? Do people seek & enjoy your company & conversation, or do they avoid & dodge you because of what is coming out of your mouth! Psalm 141:3 (Amp) – Set a guard, O Lord over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips [to keep me from speaking thoughtlessly]. James 3:4-5(Amp) – 4And look at the ships. Even though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the impulse of the helmsman determines. 5In the same sense, the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See [by comparison] how great a forest is set on fire by a small spark! You see church, our words have a lasting impact, long after we speak to them (anybody remember?) You see, people may say of you & me: You will never amount to anything, you're a drop-out just like your dad or mom……. Your reply should be: I choose to believe what the Word of God says about me…. “I am more than a conqueror, a royal priesthood, a holy nation!” Created in the image of God. You can't do this, or that & life is hopeless. Your reply: “I can do all things through Christ & life is full of possibilities!! Your birth was never planned & it was a mistake. Your reply: God knew about me before the beginning of time, even when I was formed in the secret depths of my mother's womb! So, as we conclude today & as you reflect back on your own life, what has been coming out of your mouth lately? Do you find yourself: judging, nagging, complaining, criticizing, moaning, negative & miserable all the time? Or are you an imitator of Christ…. That can & will use the power of your words to speak & declare: Healing & restoration to the sick & needy Proclaim freedom to those in bondage Salvation to those who don't know Christ yet Quote Joel Osteen: “The power to see change, in your life, can be found in the words that you speak. You have the power to set the destination of your life, by the words that comes out of your mouth” Amen. You are the sum total today, of the words that you've spoken over yourself, yesterday! Amen.

Glory be to God! **

 Two WorldsPart 4 2/13/22 Everything about this series hinges on the reality that the moment we give our lives to Jesus we're born into a new world, into the Kingdom of Heaven, all while still confined to this natural world. But here's the deal, most of us, most of the time are more aware of and committed to this natural world than our new world because its just easier, it's more real to us. It's what we're use to. And until we get to the place where spiritual things are a reality, they will stay this, mysterious will of God kind of thing. This is what I love about Ephesians, it provides clarity for our new world. And the number one reality Ephesians drives home is that the church is His body, us in Him, Him in us, expressing the fullness of His reality. Ephesians 1:22-23,NKJV-  He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all. We have to understand, being successful in our new world isn't any different than being successful in this world. Remember what God says in Jeremiah, When you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed.” This is one of Paul's key points in this letter in Ephesians. He isn't praying for God to do a something new, he's praying the we can see, that we can comprehend what God has already done. In chapter 3, he makes it very clear that the moment we're born again we become fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ. Don't forget, His intention from the very beginning was a to display His fullness through us, His church.And this is Paul's second prayer that takes things to another level. Ephesians 3:14-21,NKJV- For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,15, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,16, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man,17, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love,18, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—19, to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.20, Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,21, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.  Remember, to Him be the glory!And make no mistake, God will never share His glory. That way no one can say, we caused God to move because of our great faith. Everything about His creation, His Kingdom and His grace all points to Him. His grace has been poured out, it's the same towards everyone, but be sure of this, the more we expose ourselves to His grace, the more our souls are transformed through faith, we wont stay the same toward Him. Think about this, God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient” Here's the deal, there's still revelation we need to take away from chapter 3, and going into to chapter 4 has very specific instructions concerning our day to days, so we'll circle back next week to some of Paul's most divinely inspired realities. But as we continue our journey through Ephesians, because we're going into to Valentine's Day, how fitting that chapter 5 deals very clearly with the subject of marriage. The import thing to remember is that Ephesians wasn't written in chapter and verse. This is a letter written from their shepherd on embracing their born again lives in Christ, right in the face of humanity. And after giving very specific instructions in chapter 4 about embracing our new, born again nature, Paul starts chapter 5 with this very profound statement; “Imitate God as dear children” Ephesians 5:2,AMP- Walk continually in love, that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God. Listen to me very carefully, if you ever plan on walking in the spirit, it starts with walking in love. Because God is love and God is spirit. Something else to stay aware of is the fact that there's nothing we can do to make God love us any more or less. But I promise you this, the closer we walk with Him, we will absolutely love Him more. Ephesians 5:17-21,NKJV- Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.18, And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit,19, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord,20, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,21, submitting to one another in the fear of God. Ephesians 5:22-32,NKJV- Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.23, For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body.24, Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.25, Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her,26, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,27, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.28, So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself.29, For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.30, For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.31, For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.32, This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.  Genesis 2:24,NKJV- Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. God ordained the institution of marriage as an eternal memorial of His covenant between Him and His creation. He calls it a covenant. It's sharing life, discovering life, united as one, even though still acknowledging our individuality. Striving for that unity in the faith. Ecclesiastes 4, “Two are better than one.” Seriously, every young couple I counsel, I tell them marriage is a full time job. There are no great marriages on accident. But here's what's really sad, way too many wonderfully born again, heaven bound Christians don't think they need any help being a better husband or wife. And the enemy will do everything in his power to make sure you stay there. He knows that if he can destroy the family, he can keep the church weak. Remember what Paul told us in v.32, This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. As a matter of fact, go back to v.17, Do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And that includes His will for marriage. Anything we're good at, we invest in. In other words, if you're going to be great at it, you're going to have be on purpose about it. 99% of marriage problems can be answered in Ephesians 5:22-32. Stop allowing the world, stop allowing television and social media to tell you how to treat your spouse. In Matthew 7, Jesus said, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them. So the next time you're mad at your spouse, go back to this scripture and ask Jesus what He thinks. Stop playing your selfish, childish mind games because you didn't get you're way. What's sad is, the more selfish we become, the more judgmental we get. And do kid yourself, it's impossible to be a judger and a doer a the same time. So a a person of faith, use it! Stop allowing selfishness to destroy what God designed to be great. Just like Christ and the church, marriage is an on purpose adventure. Remember, God said it in Genesis, and Jesus said it in Matthew, “The two shall become one.” At the end of the day, marriage is a covenant founded on love, the nature of God Himself. Remember, chapter 5 starts with love. Ephesians 5:1,AMP- Therefore become imitators of God, copy Him and follow His example, as well-beloved children imitate their father. MSG, Watch what God does then you do it! Everything about this series hinges on the reality that the moment we give our lives to Jesus we're born into a new world, into the Kingdom of Heaven, all while still confined to this natural world.

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How to get through divorce, and strengthen the new you with God as your partner.Succeeding in your soul is just as important as your career.God Love's you FOREVER, and understands your situation.Potential solutions to begin the healing process in your heart (soul).BIBLE VERSES:Deuteronomy 28:13 AMP - The LORD will make you the head - Bible GatewayRomans 5:8 AMP - But God clearly shows and proves His - Bible Gateway2 Corinthians 4:16 AMP - Therefore we do not become discouraged - Bible GatewayWebsite: The Yala Code:https://theyalacode.wixsite.com/mysiteEmail: info@theyalacode.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eurydice-bain/Listen, Write a Review, Rate, Follow and Subscribe on:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yala-life-with-                      eurydice/id1521933203Stitcher Podcast:https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yala-life-with-eurydiceANDROIDPodchaser: Yala Life with Eurydice Podcast | PodchaserPodcast Addict: Yala Life with Eurydice - Podcast AddictGoogle Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/Yala%20Life%20with%20EurydiceFollow "Yala Life with Eurydice on:Spotify, iHeart RadioMusic: Scott Holmes- Up Beat Party, Soyb & Amine Maxwell - Anything, David Gwyn Jones you care for me instrumental

Our FREE Tickets! Our FREE tickets, one is issued, however we have the choice to refuse it! The other is a GIFT that we need to accept and receive! The opening scripture is very direct, please listen carefully: Mark 7:21-22(AmpCE) - 21For from within, [that is] out of the hearts of men, come base and wicked thoughts, sexual immorality, stealing, murder, adultery, 22Coveting (a greedy desire to have more wealth), dangerous and destructive wickedness, deceit; unrestrained (indecent) conduct; an evil eye (envy), slander (evil speaking, malicious misrepresentation, abusiveness), pride (the sin of an uplifted heart against God and man), foolishness (folly, lack of sense, recklessness, thoughtlessness). This sounds like our culture today and is a stern reminder to David's words in Ps. 51 and 53; I will read a couple of verses. Psalm 51:5 (Amp) - I was brought forth in [a state of] wickedness; In sin my mother conceived me [and from my beginning I, too, was sinful]. Psalms 53:3 (Amp) - Every one of them has turned aside and fallen away; together they have become filthy and corrupt; There is no one who does good, no, not even one. Please allow me to clarify my statement about the above scriptures, as it's written in GOD's Word, before we encounter GOD, JESUS CHRIST or the HOLY Spirit we operate in the flesh, we do things according to the worldly carnal way of life, our carnal desires and flesh rule. For this reason, I say, one of our free tickets is issued, it's actually received at birth, by the sin that entered the world through Adam, yes, we are all on a journey to hell because of our “humanity” ticket, we received. The heading of this section of scripture I am sharing now is "Unbelief and it's consequences." I am sharing this with you as I believe the Author of the book of Romans nailed it. It's quit a long passage so please read with me. Romans 1:18-32 (Amp) - 18For [God does not overlook sin and] the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth, 19because that which is known about God is evident within them [in their inner consciousness], for God made it evident to them. 20For ever since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through His workmanship [all His creation, the wonderful things that He has made], so that they [who fail to believe and trust in Him] are without excuse and without defence. 21For even though they knew God [as the Creator], they did not honour Him as God or give thanks [for His wondrous creation]. On the contrary, they became worthless in their thinking [godless, with pointless reasonings, and silly speculations], and their foolish heart was darkened. 22Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23and exchanged the glory and majesty and excellence of the immortal God for an image [worthless idols] in the shape of mortal man and birds and four-footed animals and reptiles. 24Therefore, God gave them over in the lusts of their own hearts to [sexual] impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them [abandoning them to the degrading power of sin], 25because [by choice] they exchanged the truth of God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. 26For this reason, God gave them over to degrading and vile passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural [a function contrary to nature], 27and in the same way also the men turned away from the natural function of the woman and were consumed with their desire toward one another, men with men committing shameful acts and in return receiving in their own bodies the inevitable and appropriate penalty for their wrongdoing. 28And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God or consider Him worth knowing [as their Creator], God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do things which are improper and repulsive, 29until they were filled (permeated, saturated) with every kind of unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil, full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice, and mean-spiritedness. They are gossips [spreading rumours], 30slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors [of new forms] of evil, disobedient, and disrespectful to parents, 31without understanding, untrustworthy, unloving, unmerciful [without pity]. 32Although they know God's righteous decree and His judgment, that those who do such things deserve death, yet they not only do them, but they even [enthusiastically] approve and tolerate others who practice them. Does this not describe the current condition of our world, the current state of society? I know, it's harsh words and you might feel offended, however it is never the intention of GOD'S Word to offend, but rather to correct and guide. By reading the above I want us all to do serious introspection to realise where and who we are as people, what standard are we living? Ok enough thinking. BUT GOD! Why do I say But GOD? Well, I am sure that all of you that is watching this has made the correct decision, however, many have made the choice to refuse the free ticket that's on offer Please think of what JESUS CHRIST did for all of us on the cross, the sacrifice GOD made by offering HIS SON is so overwhelming and I am eternally greatful for what I have experienced in my life since accepting this free Alternative ticket. I have received so much, just to name a few: Freedom, Blessings, Love, Salvation, Anointing and most of all, Peace that my mind can't phathom or verbalize. I get so excited, just reading this scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Amp) - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Saviour], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]. Hallelujah, thank YOU LORD Yes, we can all be excited; there is no cost to being renewed. By making the choice to be renewed we are filled with joy as we have accepted JESUS CHRIST as SAVIOR and REDEEMER, we can eternally live a grateful and thankful life in service to GOD ALMIGHTY our KING. Galatians 2:20(AmpCE) - I have been crucified with Christ [in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ (the Messiah) lives in me; and the life I now live in the body I live by faith in (by adherence to and reliance on and complete trust in) the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. I want us all to think of this and then of other people, the world out there, friends, family and loved ones, have we shared or are we sharing the GIFT we received? Is there an urgency in your soul to see others come to salvation? Have they made the choice to acknowledge, accept and receive the BLESSING, the Alternative Ticket namely JESUS CHRIST after encountering us? JESUS speaking, HE said the following: John 14:20-21 (AmpCE) - 20At that time [when that day comes] you will know [for yourselves] that I am in My Father, and you [are] in Me, and I [am] in you. 21The person who has My commands and keeps them is the one who [really] loves Me; and whoever [really] loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I [too] will love him and will show (reveal, manifest) Myself to him. [I will let Myself be clearly seen by him and make Myself real to him.] Are we seeing GOD manifest Himself in our lives and those of other people as we pray for them, do we see GOD working, do we see miracles and healing taking place, living a loving life in JESUS CHRIST through faith will bring GOD to the forefront, confirming HIS presence in our world? Romans 12:2 (Amp) - And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs] but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]. In the above scripture it is clear that we have a part in this renewing of our minds, let's take up this responsibility, let's study GOD through HIS Word and be transformed. I want to urge you, yes, you who are watching me right now, to share the GIFT of Life that we have received through the HOLY SPIRIT, let's share this GOOD News, let's share the Life giving ticket JESUS CHRIST, let's share HIS Unconditional Love! A reminder to all: there is pleasure, fun and much satisfaction in Giving! Living this unconditional love in CHRIST JESUS, we will contribute in making this world a better and happier place! GOD bless, with much love from me and my family, goodbye.

Today my friend Kisa Raye (Season 1 Episode 22; Season 3 Episode 5) and I are exploring the impact of God's love on our hearts and souls. Listen in as Kisa shares how meditating, pondering and unpacking the Cross has altered her life and those she has studied with. Knowledge in the New Testament emphasizes knowing God not simply as an intellectual apprehension, but a response to faith and an acceptance of Christ. It includes perceiving, learning, understanding, willing, performing, and experiencing. (https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/know-knowledge/) This is the time for us to be shored up in Biblical knowledge of God's love. There is a hurting world out there who need God's love. Let's KNOW Him and His love so we can be conduits for others. Please help us get the word out by commenting, sharing and rating this Podcast. Resources: "Matchless: The Life and Love of Jesus", Angie Smith Tony Evans (The Tony Evans Bible Commentary, pg. 1377) 1 John 4:9-10 1. Love is visible 2. Love is an act of will 3. Love is sacrificial 4. Love serves the unlovable 5. Love addresses sin “We have come to know [by personal observation and experience], and have believed [with deep, consistent faith] the love which God has for us. God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides continually in him.” 1 John 4:16 AMP "Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]; and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance." Ephesians 5:1-2 "There is no fear in love [dread does not exist]. But perfect (complete, full-grown) love drives out fear, because fear involves [the expectation of divine] punishment, so the one who is afraid [of God's judgment] is not perfected in love [has not grown into a sufficient understanding of God's love]." 1 John 4:18 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/angel-h-davis/message

God is so good!!! Thank You Jesus for your word. Thank You JESUS THAT YOU ARE THE WORD!!! “So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me void (useless, without result), Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55:11‬ ‭AMP‬‬ “Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father];” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5:1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Take control of Adversity (In my experience many Christians allow adversity to take control of them.)   The good news is: “We are not as frail, weak, incapable, or defeated as the devil will make us believe.”   By Pastor George Lehman You can relax, sit back listen and allow God to speak. Romans 8:18 (Amp) – [But what of that?]  For I consider that the sufferings of this present time (this present life) are not worth being compared with the glory that is about to be revealed to us and in us and for us and conferred on us! We are empowered by God to face more than what we think we can. We have no right to ask when adversity or sorrow comes – “Why did this happen to me?” ……unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness, provision and blessing and wonderful breakthroughs that comes our way. We must be thankful and joyful in all circumstances. “Extraordinary people survive under the most terrible circumstances and then become more extraordinary because of it.”  Robertson Davies   The truth is the pain of adversity never leaves us the same. It’s either better or bitter; encouraged or discouraged; rejoicing or complaining; joyful or miserable. Adversity:  Is a difficult or unpleasant situation, misfortune, trouble, hardship, distress, disaster, suffering, sorrow, misery, heartbreak, torment, pain. [Adversity – teenspoed, agteruitgang, beproewing, daling.] Notice – all these words describe something that wants you to slow down, drop out, give up and become discouraged. Take control of adversity By this explanation we can see that adversity forms a part of our everyday life. If the road is easy, you’re likely going the wrong way. Sometimes things need to go wrong in order to go right. You know it’s the ones who have endured adversity, the hardships and difficulties in their lives and who overcome them… they are the ones who we admire – the history makers the legacy leavers. There is No statue erected for people who give up. The lion has scares on him from every fight.  The wound is healed, and the scar is there but he remains the overcomer and victorious. If our testimonies are strong on this point and if we feel the absolute assurance that God loves us, we will change our questions… We won’t ask, “Why did this happen?” or “Why doesn’t God care about me?” Instead, our questions will become “What can I learn from this experience” (teachable spirit) or “How does the Lord want me to handle this”. That is a TAKE CONTROL life!! We don’t choose adversity – but we choose our response to it. The sooner we realise that we don’t go through adversity for the sake of adversity, you’ll discover you go through adversity for the sake of promotion. There is something about facing life’s adversities that enlarge our capacity. These are both external and internal. Internally we change and increase in our ability to grow stronger, to have fuel for future battles. That’s why the bible is a book of overcoming adversities – the “How to” manual. Joseph, Moses, Samson, David, Paul and the recorded many in Hebrews 11. Hebrews 12:1 (Amp) – Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us, It’s these biblical principles and characters that fuels my journey to Run well so I can Finish strong. – To take control of adversity We become like Joshua & Caleb.  We get this great, internal strength and look at our giants courageously. Numbers 13:30-33 (Amp) – Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once and possess it; we are well able to conquer it.  31 But his fellow scouts said, We are not able to go up against the people [of Canaan], for they are stronger than we are.  32 So they brought the Israelites an evil report of the land which they had scouted out, saying, The land through which we went to spy it out is a land that devours its inhabitants. And all the people that we saw in it are men of great stature.  33 There we saw the Nephilim [or giants], the sons of Anak, who come from the giants; and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight. Numbers 14:9-11 (Amp) – Only do not rebel against the Lord, neither fear the people of the land, for they are bread for us. Their defense and the shadow [of protection] is removed from over them, but the Lord is with us. Fear them not.  10 But all the congregation said to stone [Joshua and Caleb] with stones. But the glory of the Lord appeared at the Tent of Meeting before all the Israelites.  11 And the Lord said to Moses, How long will this people provoke (spurn, despise) Me? And how long will it be before they believe Me [trusting in, relying on, clinging to Me], for all the signs which I have performed among them? Take control #1 Adversity introduces us to ourselves. Adversity always gets our attention - we can’t ignore it. It stops us to take stock of our situation.  Adversity is an opportunity for self-discovery. Every adversity carries with it the seed of equal or greater benefit.  Napolean Hill 1 Peter 5:10 (ESV) –  And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. Experience is a hard teacher because it gives the test first, the lesson afterwards.   - Chinese proverb   Self discovery lessons learned: When you’ve gotten off the track and seemingly lost – you’ll learn that the road to victory and success is not always a road. When you’ve been exhausted and frustrated – you’ll learn that trying times are not the time to stop trying. When you’re discouraged with your progress and growth – you’ll learn not to let what you were doing get to you before you get to it. When you’ve failed – you will learn that you will not be judged by the number of times you have failed but by the number of times you got up and succeeded. #2  Adversity brings pain but it brings great profit if we expect it. The movie “Black Hawk Down” - in a vehicle full of wounded soldiers, standing in the middle of the road with Somali bullets flying in every direction, the officer in charge tells a soldier to get in and drive. The soldier says, “I can’t, I’m shot”.  “We’re all shot” responds the officer.  “Get in and drive”. In life we should all expect adversity – it’s part of life. The question is – are you going to let it stop you from becoming what God has planned for your life? Acts 14:22 (Amp) – Establishing and strengthening the souls and the hearts of the disciples, urging and warning and encouraging them to stand firm in the faith, and [telling them] that it is through many hardships and tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. Sometimes we find our destiny, our calling and our true worth on the road we most seek to avoid. Job 23:10 (Amp) –  But He knows the way that I take [He has concern for it, appreciates, and pays attention to it]. When He has tried me, I shall come forth as refined gold [pure and luminous]. I look for God everywhere, but I cannot see him – Job 23:8-9. You never win Gold without hurting.  - Bob Richards Nobody ever says, “go for silver”.  NO!!  They always say, “Go for gold”. This is greater than gold we should hunger for, seek for, go after, desire – because it will ultimately determine the way you Take control of Adversity   Psalm 19:9-11 (Amp) – The [reverent] fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.  10 More to be desired are they than gold, even than much fine gold; they are sweeter also than honey and drippings from the honeycomb.  11 Moreover, by them is Your servant warned (reminded, illuminated, and instructed); and in keeping them there is great reward. What kind of story will adversity write in your life? Is it encouraging? Is it uplifting? Is it positive? *****

Spiritual Growth – My job or God’s If wrinkles must be written upon our brow, let them not be written upon the heart. The spirit should not grow old. (We are renewed inwardly day by day.)   Pastor George Lehman   2 Corinthians 4:16 Therefore we do not become discouraged (utterly spiritless, exhausted, and wearied out through fear). Though our outer man is [progressively] decaying {and} wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day after day. As you look back on the past months, I am certain you experienced highs and lows, you encountered blessings and victories alongside with hardship and heartache. As you face an uncertain tomorrow be sure that your attitude toward life is providing you with a healthy godly perspective and reflection that is needed for you to finish strong. Wonderful story – hoping to get a glimpse into history, an interviewer asked an 87-year-old woman, “What was the world like back in your day?”  “Hmph!” she responded, “This is my day!” I love her attitude.  Instead of being passed focused on the years behind her, the elderly lady’s mindset was on making the most of the day in front of her. We are either progressing or regressing all the while; there is no such thing as remaining stationery in this life.   - Clark  Philippians 2:12-13 (Amp) - Therefore, my dear ones, as you have always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent, work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust, with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ).  [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight. Who’s job is sanctification and spiritual growth? It’s a joint project between us and God. Many people live like its Gods job and by all appearances He is not doing a good job. An Example: The cooperation is like man and the wind directing a sailboat as opposed to the man-driving a speedboat. Growth and sanctification are an established norm – it is not optional.  Our spirit is always being transformed, either by God or by the evil one. Romans 12:2 (Amp) - Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]. Scripture states that sanctification is God’s will for us. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 (Amp) - For this is the will of God, that you should be consecrated (separated and set apart for pure and holy living) The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge, but to change our lives.  - D.L. Moody Change comes through growth. Paul speaking to the Corinthian church: 1 Corinthians 3:2-3 (Amp) - I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not yet strong enough [to be ready for it]; but even yet you are not strong enough [to be ready for it], For you are still [unspiritual, having the nature] of the flesh [under the control of ordinary impulses]. For as long as [there are] envying and jealousy and wrangling and factions among you, are you not unspiritual and of the flesh, behaving yourselves after a human standard and like mere (unchanged) men? It’s God’s intention for us to grow up and live Holy lives. 2 Peter 3:18 (Amp) - But grow in grace (undeserved favour, spiritual strength) and recognition and knowledge and understanding of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ... Our part of the job: (who knows, God is fully committed to His part) #1 It doesn’t come with age.  (I know some old babies) #2 It doesn’t happen automatically or overnight. #3 Growth and sanctification takes time, obedience, commitment and energy and effort (descending into growth).   Signs of a maturing, growing disciple; doing their job well. Their sense of sin is deeper. Not just any old life is acceptable. Psalm 19:14 (NIV) - Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight... Their faith is stronger. They endure, are steadfast and patient. James 1:3 (Amp) - Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. Their hope is brighter. Hebrews 6:11 (Ampl) - But we do (strongly and earnestly) desire for each of you to show the same diligence and sincerity (all the way through) in realizing and enjoying the full assurance and development (your) Hope until the end. Their love is more extensive. There’s a genuineness about a growing disciple – the way they love. 1 John 4:7 (LB) - Dear friends, let us practice loving each other, for love comes from God and those who are loving and kind show that they are the children of God... And that they are getting to know Him better.   There is a clear mark of self-control and spiritual- mindedness. Galatians 5:23 (Amp) - The fruit the Spirit produces in us is self-control. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (Amp) - And as for you, brethren, do not become weary[moeg/sat] or lose heart in doing right (but continue in well-doing without weakening). Doing the right thing for a short while will not bring the godly growth you need to finish strong. To God alone are we accountable for our growth and sanctification.  Therefore, it is before Him and in His presence that we must stand for a Spiritual Evaluation. Growth and Holiness matters. 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 (Amp) - Therefore, whether we are at home [on earth away from Him] or away from home [and with Him], we are constantly ambitious and strive earnestly to be pleasing to Him. For we must all appear and be revealed as we are before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive [his pay] according to what he has done in the body, whether good or evil [considering what his purpose and motive have been, and what he has achieved, been busy with, and given himself and his attention to accomplishing]. *****

Discipleship series #15 A PROFILE OF A SUCCESSFUL DISCIPLE By Pastor George Lehman    “The world is full of willing people:  some willing to work, the rest willing to let them.” (Like the 80:20 principle, 20% do 80% of the peoples work.) Your success as a disciple wont come from a slack life. Ephesians 4:1 (Amp) – So I, the prisoner for the Lord, appeal to you to live a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called [that is, to live a life that exhibits godly character, moral courage, personal integrity, and mature behaviour-a life that expresses gratitude to God for your salvation.] The profile I want us to look at is: - A Servant (Dienskneg) Dictionary says: - 1)      Devoted follower (we give up our right to vote, we                                      are De- voted)         2)      Person willing to serve another.  (You have been bought with a price – you are God’s possession.) Everyone really in their hearts wants to do what God says. Everyone wants to please God (otherwise you wouldn’t be in Church now or tuned in to the media right now). Everyone wants to be used by God. Everyone wants to have an intimate loving close relationship with God. I believe we all really want this for our lives – BUT!!! Here is the difference: - This separates the church goers from true Disciples. Those who only have an interest, those who are committed. Here the masks come off – but not so much amongst one another, but between me and God - and - me and myself. Someone said you are mad about wearing a mask to church, but you’ve been doing it for years already! Most people are willing to live and practice all these things above.   “Here is the key”. As long as it costs me nothing, I’m willing, everyone’s committed until it’s going to cost me something. The key to a committed successful Disciple - lies in the price you are willing to pay. The sacrifices you willing to make. The cost – David said in II Samuel 24:24 I will not offer to God that which cost me nothing. (How keen we are to offer to God everything that really costs us nothing.) Luke 6:46 - 48A (NIV) – 46”Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say? 47As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. I will show you what they are like. 48They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came the torrent struck that house but could not shake it because it was well built.” Verse 48: - We have to dig – it will cost us to be a servant. What was Jesus’ words on “Servant hood” John 6:38(NIV) – For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. Jesus came to lay down His life and to serve. He paved the way for us to follow.   Luke 6:40 (NIV) – The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher. If Jesus is the Master then we are going to have to submit to His teaching and example. I Peter 2:21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.   Jesus said – John 8:28b I do nothing of myself, but as my FATHER taught me, I speak these things. Jesus set us a clear pattern of submission to His FATHER –    John 5:30 “Not my will but they will of the Father who sent me.” His submission guaranteed His success. Jesus’ success was guaranteed because His agenda was the FATHER’S agenda. John 20:21 Then Jesus said to them again, peace to you!  [Just] as the FATHER has sent me forth, so I am sending you. The Father sent me to serve! Now I’m sending you! We are called to serve Ephesians 6:7 “Serve whole-heartedly, as if you were serving the Lord not man” Colossians 3:23 (NIV) – Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. 3) What if, God answered our prayers the way we answer His call to service? Serve means:-- devoted follower a person willing to serve another. Jesus came to show, that the “ME FIRST’ pattern so deeply ingrained in all of us can be broken. Maybe not overnight but through a growth process. Luke 6:40 (NIV) – The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher. This is why He spent so much time teaching them a new way of living. “MINE” became “YOURS” “GETTING” became “GIVING” “RULER” became “SERVANT” “ DOWN” resulted in “UP” (Descending into Greatness) “BITTER” became “BETTER” “UNFORGIVING” became “FORGIVING” Misconceptions (wanbegrip) about being a servant 1)      Many people serve, but they (actually serve themselves) Why are you doing what you are doing? Is it to get honour and praise for self, self-recognition? Peter Block says “The choice we make is between service and self-interest” i.e. (what do I get out of the deal) Matthew 6:1 Take care not to do your good deeds publicly or before men in order to be seen by them; otherwise you will have no reward (reserved for and waiting for you) with and from your FATHER who is in heaven. John 5:44 How can you believe if you accept praise from one another yet; make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God. 2)      I “deserve better”: - Always want to be patted on the back, when we do things. Seek acknowledgement: - A person who thinks they deserve cannot serve. Jesus said Luke 14:11 for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled (ranked below others who are honoured) or rewarded and he who humbles himself (keeps a modest opinion of himself) and behaves accordingly will be exalted. Here’s a wonderful testimony of air show stunt pilot. While making a huge flower in the sky, with smoke one jet went out of control. Not to crash land on a village full of people the pilot crashed his plane in an open field with great effort. Nobody got hurt only the pilot died. An old man – eyewitness said the plane was coming for us – the pilot pulled it over us and crashed.  He did not eject – this man died for us – “A bit like Jesus” the old guy said – In the pilot’s wallet they found a card that said – God 1st others 2nd.  I’m 3rd. Humility is not inferiority (Minnerwardig) Inferiority says – I’m no good Humility a servants heart say’s God first Pride says me first. We need to re look at our lives and ask ourselves are we 3rd. We need to: - Pray Lord help me lay down my agenda’s so that Your Kingdom can come – May I become the servant you want me to be   I Corinthians 15:58 (Amp) – Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labour [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].   What would your profile look like tonight? Would you fit the profile, or would you be disqualified?

In this episode, we are diving into a topic that is so important when you’re thinking about being in a relationship or if you’re already in a relationship. Take the time to read these amazing scriptures: “But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A CONSECRATED NATION, A [special] PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies [the wonderful deeds and virtues and perfections] of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:9‬ ‭AMP‬‬ “Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life].” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5:17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Discipleship series #6 - The Disciple and his DISCIPLINE Nothing is more harmful to the service than the neglect of discipline; for discipline, more than numbers, gives one army superiority over another. -George WashingtonBy Pastor George LehmanDiscipline:  A way of life aimed at self-control; trained to obedience.If you don’t have discipline, you don’t have anything. That is the truth in every walk of life“Bad habits that cause a lack of discipline are like a good bed; easy to get into but difficult to get out of”.Without self-discipline, success is impossible, period! The greatest composer does not sit down to work because he is inspired but becomes inspired because he is working. God is waiting for you to move. God is waiting for you to move. Remember: (God moves with the movers - He doesn’t sit with the sitters)That’s why it’s called self-discipline.  Self-discipline produces positive results.Acts 24:14-15 Paul talks about a resurrection of the righteous and the unrighteous – that Jesus is coming back!Acts 24:16 (Amp) - Therefore, I always exercise and discipline myself (mortifying my body, deadening my carnal affections, bodily appetites and worldly desires, endeavoring in all respects) to have a clear (unshaken, blameless) conscience void of offense toward God and toward man. The fruit of the Spirit is self-control or self-discipline.The reason why self-discipline is so important for us to develop is that we don’t have anybody telling us what we have to do to live a godly Christian life. I.E. You don’t have anybody telling you:How many hours a week you must read your bible/pray.That you must attend church / home cells.That you must ensure your priorities are in place.That you must live a Holy life – share your faith with others.There is only one thing that will keep you doing all these things.  That one thing is your OWN SELF-DISCIPLINE.It takes a lot more character to have the self-discipline to do something on your own, than it does to be told, pushed, pulled and begged for what to do and when to do it.God disciplines us so that we can be disciplined –Hebrews 12:11-12 (NIV) – 11No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. 12Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Proverbs 10:17(NIV) – He who heeds discipline shows the way of life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. Only the disciplined ever get really good at anything.  This is true to every aspect of our lives. Many people have great ambitions and intentions that will never be accomplished; goals that will never be reached; visions that will never materialize simply because they have no self-discipline.If you don’t have discipline, ‘no plan’ can possibly succeed. Having the discipline to follow through is what brings great plans to pass.Thomas Edison, explained that the vast majority of his inventions were someone else’s.  He just finished what others started.Discipline is what you need to get you to where you want to go. Discipline isn’t somewhere waiting to be discovered, it is created.One cannot be a disciple without learning discipline. A disciple is - a disciplined learner.1 Timothy 4:7b (NASB) - … discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness. It will not come without discipline. No discipline: ungodliness will become your way of life. If you are going to grow in your Christ-like character, there will have to be certain disciplines or HABITS you need to practice as a part of your lifestyle.Sow a thought, reap an act.Sow an act, reap a habit.Sow a habit, reap a character.Sow a character, reap a destiny. – What kind of Legacy will you leave? Discipline was the key to our Lord Jesus fulfilling the will of the Father.Hebrews 5:8 (NLT) - … even though Jesus was God’s Son, He learned obedience. (If Jesus had to learn Self-Discipline how do you think we can sidestep it)The great problem with Christians is we are flooded with information and starving for revelation – or should I say, APPLICATION. Discipline opens the doors to revelation. Hebrews 2:1-3b (Amp) - Since all this is true, we ought to pay much closer attention than ever to the truths that we have heard, lest in any way we drift past [them] and slip away. For if the message given through angels [the Law spoken by them to Moses] was authentic and proved sure, and every violation and disobedience received an appropriate (just and adequate) penalty, How shall we escape [appropriate retribution] if we neglect and refuse to pay attention to such a great salvationBecause of a lack of discipline many brilliant / gifted / talented people will never be anything more than ordinary and average because they aren’t willing to make the disciplined sacrifices necessary to become great.A disciplined life – John Wesley:He travelled an average of 50km’s a day for 40 years, got up every morning at 04:00, he preached over 40 000 sermons, produced 400 books and knew 10 languages. At the age of 83 he was annoyed because he couldn’t write more than 15 hours a day because of his eyes that hurt. He even complained in his diary that there was an increasing tendency to lie in bed until 05:30.I’m not suggesting this schedule for your life, but it’s still true that the person who learns the power of self-discipline is going to be the person who accomplishes great things for God, his family, ministry and work. In closing , “How Disciplined are you?*****

Discipleship series Walking with Jesus – a journey that never ends. #1 By Pastor George Lehman Just to be bring a bit of perspective to a Disciple and a Christian The disciples were first called Christians. (Acts 11: 26B) A disciple is a disciplined learner. “A disciple is a person who has decided that the most important thing in their life is to learn how to do what Jesus said to do.” - Willard 2 Corinthians 7:1 (Amp) - Therefore, since these [great] promises are ours, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates* and defiles body and spirit, and bring [our] consecration to completeness in the [reverential] fear of God. *Contaminates means “Blending two into one” like sin and godliness – To make something less pure Many Christians have said, “It is HARD to follow God”.  Well it depends on your definition of “HARD”.  Why is it hard, what is making it hard? The question is: Does following God come at a cost?  ABSOLUTELY!  Are there things and desires that you give up?  All the time! But is it “HARD” to follow God?  The answer is a resounding “NO”!  Cost and self-sacrifice do not make something hard. Nobody feels sorry for an athlete who wins an Olympic medal even though it required serious effort behind the scenes – all for one brief moment of glory.  The medal, once attained, minimizes every cost and sacrifice. Paul said: 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 (Message) - Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You're after one that's gold eternally.    I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself. There are costs and a sacrifice to follow God.  But it doesn’t mean it is “HARD” to follow God. What does it mean to follow God? It’s more than: Sheep and Shepherd Servant and Master Creation and Creator I’m the follower and He is the leader. God is so much MORE!  Scripture says… He is our Father… Romans 8:15 (Amp) - For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father! He is our Brother… Hebrews 2:11 (NIV) - Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters. He is our Intercessor… Romans 8:34 (Amp) - Who is there to condemn [us]? Will Christ Jesus (the Messiah), Who died, or rather Who was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God actually pleading as He intercedes for us? In addition scripture says I am… I am a child of God Romans 8:16 (Amp) - The Spirit Himself [thus] testifies together with our own spirit, [assuring us] that we are children of God. I am a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Amp) - Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come! I am a sharer in His inheritance. Romans 8:17 (Amp) - And if we are [His] children, then we are [His] heirs also: heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ [sharing His inheritance with Him]; only we must share His suffering if we are to share His glory. When I began to fully realise that Jesus was my Lord and Saviour, my Brother, Intercessor, Father and Friend my relationship dramatically changed. No longer is it “HARD” but it is a great an honour to serve Him. Jesus greeted His future disciples with, “Come follow me”.  He didn’t tell them the same thing everyday because they were already with Him!! Jesus is with us every moment too!! Clearly God wants more of a relationship with us than a slave has with his master or a King with his subjects. It never stops to amaze me that God would pick a foul-mouthed, drunken, messed-up sinner like me to inherit everything He has for me. It’s called grace!  Grace means that ‘God does it all’. Not to confuse grace with mercy, here are the definitions: Mercy is letting you off the hook for something you did or rightly deserve. Grace is giving you something you do not deserve and could not gain, buy or earn no matter how hard you try. Ephesians 2:8 (Amp) - By grace you have been saved. Nobody deserves salvation and there is not a single person who could work their way to heaven. Many Christians are trying to please God by doing good works to remain in right standing with God. Righteousness is not from what we do, but from who we are as believers in Christ. It is possible to take grace too far, doing your own thing, living a life that is an embarrassment to Christ. Not if you really love God, because if “you love God”, you will do what pleases Him. In a nutshell - I am free to do whatever I want, since what you want is what God wants. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amp) - But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me! As we journey with Jesus, there are many detours that will promise a better way, an easier way or a smoother way. One such detour is, “The path of least resistance”. If you choose not to obey God and instead do what you want to do you have just taken the path of least resistance. This is when serving God as a true committed disciple begins to become HARD when you focus on yourself and not on HIM! It’s when you think… This is too hard. I’m tired of giving up my WANTS and dreams. What I want becomes more important. This is taking the path of least resistance. God doesn’t ask us to give up everything, but there are times when His plans and our plans do not match. When we die to our own agenda and obey what God says, we stay on course. Dying to self does not guarantee smooth sailing, but obstacles along God’s path are designed to mature us. In Him, every setback is a setup to come back! Denying self treats the symptoms. Dying to self solves the problem. The more we understand the process of walking this journey, the more we will allow our selfish ambitions to die. As a result, you willingly trade: Your wants for His wants. Your ‘big’ dreams, for His dreams. Your plans for His plans. Your goals for His goals. Your life for His life. Matthew 24:13 (Amp) - But he who endures to the end will be saved. *****

Discipleship series Walking with Jesus – a journey that never ends. #1 By Pastor George Lehman Just to be bring a bit of perspective to a Disciple and a Christian The disciples were first called Christians. (Acts 11: 26B) A disciple is a disciplined learner. “A disciple is a person who has decided that the most important thing in their life is to learn how to do what Jesus said to do.” - Willard 2 Corinthians 7:1 (Amp) - Therefore, since these [great] promises are ours, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates* and defiles body and spirit, and bring [our] consecration to completeness in the [reverential] fear of God. *Contaminates means “Blending two into one” like sin and godliness – To make something less pure Many Christians have said, “It is HARD to follow God”.  Well it depends on your definition of “HARD”.  Why is it hard, what is making it hard? The question is: Does following God come at a cost?  ABSOLUTELY!  Are there things and desires that you give up?  All the time! But is it “HARD” to follow God?  The answer is a resounding “NO”!  Cost and self-sacrifice do not make something hard. Nobody feels sorry for an athlete who wins an Olympic medal even though it required serious effort behind the scenes – all for one brief moment of glory.  The medal, once attained, minimizes every cost and sacrifice. Paul said: 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 (Message) - Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You're after one that's gold eternally.    I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself. There are costs and a sacrifice to follow God.  But it doesn’t mean it is “HARD” to follow God. What does it mean to follow God? It’s more than: Sheep and Shepherd Servant and Master Creation and Creator I’m the follower and He is the leader. God is so much MORE!  Scripture says… He is our Father… Romans 8:15 (Amp) - For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father! He is our Brother… Hebrews 2:11 (NIV) - Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters. He is our Intercessor… Romans 8:34 (Amp) - Who is there to condemn [us]? Will Christ Jesus (the Messiah), Who died, or rather Who was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God actually pleading as He intercedes for us? In addition scripture says I am… I am a child of God Romans 8:16 (Amp) - The Spirit Himself [thus] testifies together with our own spirit, [assuring us] that we are children of God. I am a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Amp) - Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come! I am a sharer in His inheritance. Romans 8:17 (Amp) - And if we are [His] children, then we are [His] heirs also: heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ [sharing His inheritance with Him]; only we must share His suffering if we are to share His glory. When I began to fully realise that Jesus was my Lord and Saviour, my Brother, Intercessor, Father and Friend my relationship dramatically changed. No longer is it “HARD” but it is a great an honour to serve Him. Jesus greeted His future disciples with, “Come follow me”.  He didn’t tell them the same thing everyday because they were already with Him!! Jesus is with us every moment too!! Clearly God wants more of a relationship with us than a slave has with his master or a King with his subjects. It never stops to amaze me that God would pick a foul-mouthed, drunken, messed-up sinner like me to inherit everything He has for me. It’s called grace!  Grace means that ‘God does it all’. Not to confuse grace with mercy, here are the definitions: Mercy is letting you off the hook for something you did or rightly deserve. Grace is giving you something you do not deserve and could not gain, buy or earn no matter how hard you try. Ephesians 2:8 (Amp) - By grace you have been saved. Nobody deserves salvation and there is not a single person who could work their way to heaven. Many Christians are trying to please God by doing good works to remain in right standing with God. Righteousness is not from what we do, but from who we are as believers in Christ. It is possible to take grace too far, doing your own thing, living a life that is an embarrassment to Christ. Not if you really love God, because if “you love God”, you will do what pleases Him. In a nutshell - I am free to do whatever I want, since what you want is what God wants. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amp) - But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me! As we journey with Jesus, there are many detours that will promise a better way, an easier way or a smoother way. One such detour is, “The path of least resistance”. If you choose not to obey God and instead do what you want to do you have just taken the path of least resistance. This is when serving God as a true committed disciple begins to become HARD when you focus on yourself and not on HIM! It’s when you think… This is too hard. I’m tired of giving up my WANTS and dreams. What I want becomes more important. This is taking the path of least resistance. God doesn’t ask us to give up everything, but there are times when His plans and our plans do not match. When we die to our own agenda and obey what God says, we stay on course. Dying to self does not guarantee smooth sailing, but obstacles along God’s path are designed to mature us. In Him, every setback is a setup to come back! Denying self treats the symptoms. Dying to self solves the problem. The more we understand the process of walking this journey, the more we will allow our selfish ambitions to die. As a result, you willingly trade: Your wants for His wants. Your ‘big’ dreams, for His dreams. Your plans for His plans. Your goals for His goals. Your life for His life. Matthew 24:13 (Amp) - But he who endures to the end will be saved. *****

Living worthy of our calling Revelation 19:17(NIV) – “Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come and his bride has made herself ready.”  Living worthy is not an optional extra to Christianity. We rate ability in men by what they finish, not by what they attempt.  By: Pastor George Lehman  Your legacy is how you ran your race not how you started it. Acts 26:19-20 (Amp) - Wherefore, O King Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision, But made known openly first of all to those at Damascus, then at Jerusalem and throughout the whole land of Judea, and also among the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works and live lives consistent with and worthy* of their repentance. *Qualities that are required Matthew 3:8 (Amp) - Bring forth fruit that is consistent with repentance (let your lives prove your change of heart). The church today is full of “Defeated, lukewarm Christians”. A “worthy living life” is a difference-making life. Dr. Bob Moyer’s train ride: I will never forget Dr. Bob Moyer’s story of how, one day, as he was riding on a train between speaking engagements, he noticed a young man acting strangely.  He would run his hand over the plush-lined seats and as he did, he kept saying, “Wonderful. Wonderful.”  Then he would stare out of the window at the passing countryside and, as he did so he kept saying, “Wonderful. Wonderful.”  He picked up a newspaper, fingered it gingerly and said, “Wonderful.  Wonderful.”  He walked up and down the train coach examining every detail, all the time repeating one word, Wonderful.  Wonderful.” Finally, Dr. Moyer, overcome with interest left his seat and sat down beside the young man.  “I hope you’re not offended,” he said, “but tell me, why do you keep repeating the word ‘Wonderful’?  Do you feel well? Are you all right?”  The young man smiled broadly and said, “I guess I do appear to be acting strangely, but up until today I was blind.  Several months ago, they began a series of operations on my eyes.  Today they removed the last bandage and for the first time in my life, I can see.  Look there!  See that little stream and old rail fence?  Isn’t it wonderful?  And look! There’s a farmer with a team of horses.  Isn’t it wonderful?” Dr. Moyer describes how, as the train slowed for the next station he went back to his seat.  The young man gathered up his baggage and, as the train came to a stop, took one last look around and said, “Wonderful.  Wonderful.” “I watched him as he jumped from the train.  I saw a lovely young lady wave at him, and then, when he waved back, run into his arms.  I watched them embrace for one long moment, and then I saw him push her out to arms length; hold her there as he looked at her for the first time.  Then I saw his lips move, and they whispered, ‘Wonderful.  Wonderful’. Truly, this is a wonderful salvation.  It surpassed our finite understanding.    Blinded eyes are open.  Sin-stained hearts are cleansed.  Broken lives are healed.  There is new peace.  A new power for today.  A new promise of eternal life tomorrow.  Thanks be to God for such a precious gospel, such a glorious hope, such an awesome Savior.  Saved by the blood of the Lamb. How I wish men and women would not only receive this New Birth, but also glory in it, glow in it and grow in it. The saddest, most unhappy person in the world is a Christian living outside the will of God. Those who once tasted the Lord is good. WHY? Because they know what they missing. They know the peace and indescribable joy of walking close to God. They know the thrill of having prayers answered and seeing souls saved. They know the comfort and protection when all seems lost. They also know their present state and knowing what they could have or should have been. NB!! I believe that there are three steps in this falling away from our Christ calling. #1 Preoccupation (Beheptheid) When a persons life is occupied with the things of the world. (Sower / Seed) Story of the hunter who purchased a new hunting dog: On the hunting trip the dog picked up the trail of a buck.  A fox crossed that trail so he followed the fox’s trail.  A rabbit crossed that trail and off the dog went after the rabbit.  A squirrel crossed the trail and the dog went after the squirrel.  When the hunter caught up with the dog, he found him barking triumphantly at the hole of a field mouse. Like so many Christians:  Such a fine beginning, but such a tragic end. They end up busy with things that have no real eternal significance. End up going through life with no zeal, no passion and no enthusiasm. #2 Indifference (Onverskilligheid) Lack of interest, poor quality, unimportance. The truth is there are those who have grown cold and indifferent to the love of God. Revelation 2:4-5 (Amp) - But I have this [one charge to make] against you: that you have left (abandoned) the love that you had at first [you have deserted Me, your first love].  Remember then from what heights you have fallen.  Repent (change the inner man to meet God’s will) and do the works you did previously [when first you knew the Lord], or else I will visit you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you change your mind and repent. It’s understandable for an unsaved person to feel that way, but for a Christian it seems impossible, but the church is full of them. Christians who loved God, prayed and read the Bible regularly, never missed a gathering, a prayer meeting or cell or a church service. But because of preoccupation of the world, they become indifferent to God’s things. Out of indifference grows the 3rd step. #3 Wilful rejection of God’s will for your life. Becoming a Christian is only the start of the race.  It really does matter how you live. Acts 26:20 (Amp) - … and do works and live lives consistent with and worthy of their repentance We cannot just have exterior appearances of a Christian. Our lives must be a reflection of… Acts 24:16 - (Amp) - Therefore I always exercise and discipline myself [mortifying my body, deadening my carnal affections, bodily appetites, and worldly desires, endeavoring* in all respects] to have a clear (unshaken, blameless) conscience, void of offense toward God and toward men. *endeavouring = to earnestly do things 1 Thessalonians 4:3 (Amp) - It is God’s will that you should be sanctified* … *Sanctified:  Set apart; separated for pure and holy living. (Devoted) Ephesians 5:17 (Amp) - Therefore don’t be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is. It’s not good enough to watch church on Facebook or Youtube once a week.  That’s not good enough.  God has called us to a life fully surrendered to Him. The good news is: It’s never too late to change. His awesome grace is sufficient for you. Make a quality choice! To surrender. Your want, to God’s will. Colossians 1:9-10(NIV) – 9For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will, through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God. Develop a positive growth plan. It’s not as important as to how many times you’ve been through the Bible.  It’s how many times has the bible been through you? Are you reading the word this July? (Challenge) Develop faithful habits of… Bible study and prayer; sharing your faith. Titus 3:8 (NIV) - This is a trustworthy saying.  And I want you to stress these things so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote* themselves to doing what is good. *Devote: Give up (oneself) one’s efforts and possessions exclusively to a person. May it be said of you: That you lived a life worthy of your calling like a bride making herself ready.

2 Corinthians 5:17 AMP Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]. For He says, according to the book of 2 Corinthians 6:2 AMP. At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you , And I helped you on the day of salvation .” Behold, now is “ the acceptable time ,” behold, now is “ the day of salvation ” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastor-lester-hayes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/pastor-lester-hayes/support

The book of Romans 2:1 AMP Therefore you have no excuse or justification, everyone of you who [hypocritically] judges and condemns others; for in passing judgment on another person, you condemn yourself, because you who judge [from a position of arrogance or self-righteousness] are habitually practicing the very same things [which you denounce]. Matthew 7:1‭-‬5 AMP. " Do not judge and criticize and condemn [others unfairly with an attitude of self-righteous superiority as though assuming the office of a judge], so that you will not be judged [unfairly]. For just as you [hypocritically] judge others [when you are sinful and unrepentant], so will you be judged; and in accordance with your standard of measure [used to pass out judgment], judgment will be measured to you. Why do you look at the [insignificant] speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice and acknowledge the [egregious] log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me get the speck out of your eye,’ when there is a log in your own eye? You hypocrite (play-actor, pretender), first get the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pastor-lester-hayes/message

TODAY’S EPISODE   CURT THOMPSON ON SHAME  "Shame is the emotional weapon that evil uses to..." "Corrupt our relationship with God and each other (includes our kids)" "Disintegrate (separate, decay, destroy) any and all gifts of vocational vision and creativity"   THE STORY SHAME IS TRYING TO TELL… SOME VERSION OF… "I am not enough"   "I am powerless to change my circumstances"   "I’m a prisoner to this story" "I don’t have what it takes to tolerate this moment or circumstance" "There is something wrong with me"   STORY OF REDEMPTION HEBREWS 12:1-3 AMP Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who by faith have testified to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness], stripping off every unnecessary weight and the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us, let us run with endurance and active persistence the race that is set before us, 2 [looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, DISREGARDING THE SHAME, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work]. 3 Just consider and meditate on Him… PASSION TRANSLATION 2 …Because his heart was focused on the joy of knowing that you would be his, he endured the agony of the cross and conquered its humiliation, and now sits exalted at the right hand of the throne of God!   LETTING GO OF THE OLD STORY EMBRACING THE NEW STORY DISREGARDING THE SHAME

What Is The Link To The Supernatural? – PART 2 Ewoc sermon – 12.16.2018 4. Faith Perceives the Invisible, While Hope Reaches Out Confidently to Receive Hebrews 11:1 (AMP)  Now faith is the assurance (title deed, confirmation) of things hoped for (divinely guaranteed), and the evidence of things not seen [the conviction of their reality—faith comprehends as fact what cannot be experienced by the physical senses]. Hebrews 11:39-40 (AMP) 39 And all of these, though they gained [divine] approval through their faith, did not receive [the fulfillment of] what was promised, 40 because God had us in mind and had something better for us, so that they [these men and women of authentic faith] would not be made perfect [that is, completed in Him] apart from us. 5. We Have the Supernatural Faith of God that Comes Through Jesus Christ Living in Us. Galatians 3:23-25 (AMP) 23 Now before faith came, we were kept in custody under the Law, [perpetually] imprisoned [in preparation] for the faith that was destined to be revealed, 24 with the result that the Law has become our tutor and our disciplinarian to guide us to Christ, so that we may be justified [that is, declared free of the guilt of sin and its penalty, and placed in right standing with God] by faith. 25 But now that faith has come, we are no longer under [the control and authority of] a tutor and disciplinarian. Jesus said in Mark 9:23 (NKJV) 23 “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” This supernatural faith enables you to… – Walk by faith, not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7) – Quench al the fiery darts of the enemy. (Ephesians 6:16) – Overcome the world. (1 John 5:4) Hebrews 12:1-2 (AMP) Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who by faith have testified to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness], stripping off every unnecessary weight and the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us, let us run with endurance and active... Read More The post What Is The Link To The Supernatural? – PART 2 – 12/16/2018 appeared first on EVANGEL WORLD OUTREACH CENTER Morris County Church.

The character, Polonius, in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” uttered one of the most famous and parroted quotes, “This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.” This has become a rallying cry for both self-honesty and self-recognition. The merits of this quote have been debated for centuries but, suffice it to say, there is some truth to this. I’m going to tell you upfront, this is a Good News Message. This is a feel-good message. This is unicorns and rainbows, sugarplums and gingerbread houses. With the help of the Holy Spirit, I pray you leave feeling better about yourself than you ever did! 2 Corinthians 5:17 - (AMP) Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come! The first, and perhaps, the best news first: In Christ you are something that never existed before. You are unique and special. There is none like you. You are created in the image and likeness of God and there is none like him. You are more unique than a snowflake and more precious than rare metals and jewels. Psalms 139:14-16 (AMPC) 14 I will confess and praise You for You are fearful and wonderful and for the awful wonder of my birth! Wonderful are Your works, and that my inner self knows right well. 15 My frame was not hidden from You when I was being formed in secret [and] intricately and curiously wrought [as if embroidered with various colors] in the depths of the earth [a region of darkness and mystery]. 16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance, and in Your book all the days [of my life] were written before ever they took shape, when as yet there was none of them. You are fearfully (reverently) and wonderfully (extravagantly) made. You are created from the foundation of time to be great and to do great works! You are uniquely authentic. You are created with the very DNA of God and signed with the fingerprint of God. You are unique in all creation and authentic in your being! Here’s the challenging part — being authentic. You can only truly do what you know yourself to be. One of the reasons why people struggle in life the way they do is because they are doing things inconsistent with their being. It’s like trying to be a banker when you were purposed to be a baker — you’re dealing in the wrong kind of dough! In order to fully walk in your uniqueness, you must be authentically you. Jesus had a strong word for people who behaved inconsistently with their speech — hypocrites! The hypocrites were Pharisees and teachers of the law who preached one thing but their actions didn’t line up with their words. This is what law and religion produces: it is impossible to uphold the law in its entirety, so it’s adherents frequently have to fake it to keep up their religious appearances. In other words, law and religion cannot produce disciples — they can only produce hypocrites. But Love and Grace free you to be authentic. Grace acknowledges that you’re flawed in flesh but perfected in spirit. And Love reveals it’s unending capacity for empathy and compassion toward you. You are not a robot created for empty hollow worship, you are a child conceived in love to reflect the love of God in your being and to manifest this love to others. When you embrace this, authenticity flows from you and any vestige of hypocrisy is displaced from you! Now here’s the second part of the Good News, here — when you gain understanding of your true being, your doing will reflect the transformation. Legalism says Grace is a license to sin but it’s really a revelation of your holy and righteous nature or being. Once you realize this, you will recognize the goodness within you and you will reflect this goodness outwardly. In other words, once you realize sin has been defeated in you, it will manifest itself outside you with far less frequen...