Podcasts about apostle paul

Scripture calls us to fix our eyes on Jesus—not people—because He alone is perfect and unchanging. This devotional reminds us that when our faith is rooted in Christ, it remains steady even when others fall short. Highlights Focus Matters: Faith falters when placed in people instead of Jesus (Hebrews 12:2). Human Leaders Fall: Even trusted spiritual leaders are imperfect and can fail. Follow Christ Alone: We are called to follow Jesus, not build our faith around individuals (Matthew 4:19). Guard Your Heart: Hiding God’s Word in our hearts protects us from stumbling (Psalm 119:11). Discernment is Key: Jesus calls us to recognize truth by the fruit people produce (Matthew 7:16-20). Unshakable Foundation: A faith rooted in God remains steady despite circumstances (Hebrews 12:28). Intersecting Faith & Life When leaders fall, it can feel disorienting and discouraging. But these moments are an opportunity to realign our focus. Jesus is the only perfect example, the only Savior who endured the cross, and the only one worthy of our complete trust. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Keep Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:2 Recent and ongoing scandals involving pastors, churches, and ministries—leaders who fail and fall short in their service and devotion to God—have been devastating for many believers in Jesus Christ. This is especially true for those who closely followed these leaders, hanging on their every word, listening, trusting, and at times valuing what they said as more important than the Word of God itself. The exposure of immorality, misconduct, dishonesty, and deception takes a terrible toll on those who once placed unwavering faith in these men and women who positioned themselves as spokespersons for God. When these leaders’ sinful activities are uncovered, it rattles some followers to their spiritual cores. Faith begins to stumble when it has been placed more in people than in God. In many cases, it reveals that instead of focusing on the Lord, their eyes, ears, and attention were centered on the leaders they admired. Yet none of those leaders suffered and endured the cross or experienced separation from God on our behalf. When tempted, they were not willing to lay down their human desires and sinful impulses, much less their lives, for us. Called to Be Fishermen, Not Establish Our Own Kingdoms God never intended for us to be followers of men. We are called to be fishers of people, but followers of Christ alone. As Matthew 4:19 records: “‘Come, follow Me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’” He calls us to follow Him and to hide His Word in our hearts. When we do, it protects our hearts and minds from stumbling. It guards us against falling into unbelief because of another person’s sin. Psalm 119:11 reminds us of this safeguard: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” The Apostle Paul further explains in 2 Corinthians 3:3 how God writes His Word on our hearts when we yield to Him: “You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” When we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, we do not collapse like a line of dominoes when trusted spiritual leaders fail. Our hearts may grieve over their sin, but our faith remains steady. Hebrews 12:28 reminds us that when our focus is on God, we stand on an unshakable foundation: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” Jesus warned us to remain watchful. In Matthew 7:15, He cautions: “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” He also assures us that we can discern the difference between genuine followers and deceivers. As He explains in Matthew 7:16-20: “By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Have you been devastated by a spiritual leader’s sin? Has your faith been shaken by their failings? If so, ask God to help redirect your focus on Him and fix your eyes on Jesus. Further Reading: Fix Your Eyes on Jesus Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If we say with the Apostle Paul that "law is spiritual" can't that lead to antinomianism? Does a fear of antinomianism lurk behind the thinking of some theonomists? Is it behind the rhetoric of some abortion abolitionists who recently castigated all who did not think that Tennessee's legislators should make an abortive mother indictable either for first or second degree murder? Paul gives all those interested in law and public policy something to chew on.

If we say with the Apostle Paul that "law is spiritual" can't that lead to antinomianism? Does a fear of antinomianism lurk behind the thinking of some theonomists? Is it behind the rhetoric of some abortion abolitionists who recently castigated all who did not think that Tennessee's legislators should make an abortive mother indictable either for first or second degree murder? Paul gives all those interested in law and public policy something to chew on.

For Talarico, it doesn't really matter whether Cornyn or Paxton wins their runoff battle. Either way, the Texas Democratic Senate candidate says he is running against the billionaire mega-donors and their corrupt system. To flip the Senate seat, he says he is speaking to the hearts of voters, avoiding media echo chambers, and campaigning on being both pro-immigrant and pro-border security. Plus, Trump's broken promises, Cornyn may be more corrupt than Paxton, Apostle Paul's thoughts on God's sausage, and a Shermanesque denial of the vegan accusations.James Talarico joins Tim Miller before a live Bulwark audience.

Following Jesus often begins with small, daily choices that require us to set aside our own desires in order to serve others. These moments can appear ordinary—helping someone in need, offering encouragement, or sacrificing our time for those we love. Yet these everyday acts reflect something deeply spiritual: the practice of “dying to self.” In 1 Corinthians 15:31, the Apostle Paul wrote that he “dies daily.” Paul understood that living for Christ requires a continual surrender of our own ambitions, preferences, and comforts. The Christian life isn’t about pursuing self-centered goals; it’s about allowing Christ’s character to shape our actions. Jesus Himself modeled this perfectly. Though He was fully God, He chose to live in humility and dependence on the Father. He spent time in prayer, sought God’s will, and dedicated His life to serving others. As Mark 10:45 reminds us, Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve. Imitating Christ means learning to follow that same pattern. It may involve sacrificing our time, choosing patience when we feel frustrated, or putting someone else’s needs ahead of our own. These choices are not always easy. Our natural instincts often push us toward comfort and self-interest. But the good news is that we are not expected to live this way through our own strength. God has given believers the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us. As we remain connected to Christ, the Spirit produces qualities like love, patience, kindness, and self-control in our lives. When we surrender our desires and follow Christ’s example, we discover something surprising: true joy often grows from a life of selfless service. What may initially feel like sacrifice becomes a pathway to deeper purpose and fulfillment. Every day presents new opportunities to reflect Christ’s love. As we choose humility, service, and obedience, we grow into people who more clearly mirror the heart of Jesus. Main Takeaways The Christian life involves daily surrender and “dying to self.” Jesus modeled humility, obedience, and service during His life on earth. Imitating Christ often happens through small acts of sacrifice and love. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live selflessly. Serving others reflects the character and love of Christ. Today’s Bible Verse “I affirm, brethren, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily” (1 Corinthians 15:31, NASB). Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Lord, help me set aside my own desires and reflect Your love through the way I serve others.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts and devotionals Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, articles, and Bible study resources If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

On Today's Episode –Spiritual Warfare, Answered Prayers and Modern Day Miracles. Ryan has had the unique privilege of interviewing and producing a huge show documenting some of the wildest stories of answer prayer and exorcism. Mark and Matt get a chance to sit down and talk to him about all this. Tune in for all the FunYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ryanbetheashowRyan is producer, writer, and podcast host best known for The Exorcist Files, a global hit with over 40 million downloads and nearly two years as the nation's top Christian podcast. Ryan is a veteran marketer and his firm Assembly72 has created national commercials, managed marketing campaigns and influencer programs for hit films, best-selling authors and clients across a broad swath of industries. Ryan blends humor, nostalgia, and imagination through his work, and is currently producing a new series on the Apostle Paul.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

Today,we're beginning our journey through the book of Philippians. It's amazing thatthe Apostle Paul wrote one of the most joyful books in the Bible from a prisoncell, encouraging believers—through difficult and terrible circumstances in theworld at that time—to be joyful and to have a joyful mind. As a matter of fact,I believe we've already mentioned this, but some 19 times the word joy appearsin one form or another in this book.  I want toencourage you to take time to read through this entire book, thinking about howGod is encouraging us—even today, despite our circumstances—to have a joyfulmind. Noticehow this book begins: “Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, to allthe saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons.” Rightaway, the Apostle Paul says something very interesting. He does not say, “Paul,an apostle.” If you go through his thirteen epistles, you'll find that in mostof them he does refer to himself as an apostle of Christ, or called to be anapostle. But in the book of Philippians, as well as in 1 and 2 Thessaloniansand Philemon, he does not mention his apostleship. However,in all his letters, he emphasizes that he is a bondservant—a servant, aslave—of Jesus Christ. The word bondservant refers to someone who belongscompletely to another. When Paul says this, he is essentially saying, “My lifeis not my own anymore. I belong to Jesus Christ.” You don't have your ownagenda. You don't simply do what you want to do. Instead, your focus is on whatthe Master—your Lord—wants you to do. Myfriend, in this book we see that Jesus Christ is the owner of our lives when wefully yield ourselves to Him. We want to be where He is. That's why Jesus saidin John 12:26: “If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am,there My servant will be also.” Why? Because we are there to do what Hewants us to do. We don't have our own agenda. WhenI began to understand that as a pastor—after about twenty years inministry—everything changed. I didn't have to prove anything. I didn't have tostrive to be a “big-time” pastor or try to win the whole world to Jesus Christon my own. All I had to do was be where my Master, Jesus Christ, is—follow Him,embrace His agenda, and do what He wants me to do. This truth is one of themost powerful realities at the heart of the Christian life. Salvation is notsimply believing something about Jesus—it is surrendering our lives to Him. Itis loving Him with all our heart, soul, and mind. Paulincludes Timothy here—Timothy, his spiritual son in the faith, whom he mentoredand loved deeply. We also notice that this letter was written “to all thesaints in Christ Jesus.” When Paul refers to “all the saints,” he is speakingof those who are in Christ Jesus. A saint is not someone who has lived aperfect life or someone recognized for extraordinary deeds. No, we are saintsbecause we have been set apart. The moment we trust Jesus Christ as our Lordand Savior, we are set apart—set apart to live for God, to live for His glory,and to proclaim His name to the world around us. Paulalso mentions the bishops and deacons, reminding us that the church is tofunction with spiritual order and servant leadership. And that's what we'll betalking about tomorrow—servant leadership—because Paul makes it clear that hehimself is a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. Solet me ask you: Are you seeing yourself that way? As someone who belongs toHim—His servant—doing what He wants you to do, going where He is, andfaithfully following Him? God bless you, andmay you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

I was on a flight from Chicago to Newark, and I was busily working until suddenly the pilot put on the brakes. We weren't really near Newark yet, so I tried to figure out what's going on. It looked as if the plane was beginning to circle, and our wing was dipped down a little bit. So pretty soon I said, "You know, I believe I've seen that house before. Those trees look familiar." I got to see them again, and again, and another time. Yep, we were in that time warp that is dreaded by every frequent flier called the holding pattern. We weren't standing still. No, I'm happy to say we were not standing still. That wouldn't have been good. But we were using up time, we were using up fuel. We were in constant motion; we just weren't making any progress. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "Stuck in a Holding Pattern." That leads us to our word for today from the Word of God from Philippians 3, beginning in verse 12, where Paul says, "Not that I have already obtained all this or have already been made perfect. But I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it, but one thing I do. Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Now, if anyone could have been satisfied with where he was spiritually it would be the Apostle Paul. He was living one of the greatest Christian lives in history. You can tell from this passage that in spite of that he is refusing to stay in spiritual neutral. He's certainly not going to go in reverse and live on his spiritual memories. "Forgetting the things that are behind" he says. No, he's in high gear. He says, "I'm forgetting what's back there. I'm pressing on. I haven't got it all yet. I want the rest of Jesus. I want to know Christ!" Paul never flew, but I don't think he would have liked the holding pattern. You know, maybe you're in a holding pattern right now spiritually. You started on your journey with Jesus. You've made some progress, but somewhere along the way you slowed down and you're circling ground that you've covered before. You're not standing still; you're just circling in this holding pattern. Churches get in holding patterns. Ministry organizations get in holding patterns. Oh they keep their calendar full: time for the banquet, time for this activity, time for the board, time for the committee. But are they taking any new ground for the Lord? Spiritually healthy people are restless people. They're aggressively pursuing more of God's power in their lives than they've ever tasted before. They want a more intimate relationship with Jesus than they've experienced yet. They desire to have a greater effectiveness in praying than they've ever had before. They want to make a greater difference with the rest of their life than they've ever made before. Am I describing you - this restlessness for more in prayer, more of God's power, more intimacy with Jesus; knowing Him better than you've ever known Him; making a greater difference for Him? These kinds of spiritual healthy people want to make more of a difference than they've ever made. Is that you? Is that your church? Let it begin with you, breaking out of your holding pattern, getting moving again. See, it begins when you say, "Lord, I'm tired of this plateau. Activity is not obedience. I know that. Busyness is not power. I want all You have, Lord, I want more of You than I've ever tasted before. I want to make more of a difference with my life than I've ever made before." Find some other people who feel the same way and pursue the Lord together in prayer times. Make it a discipline to find new ground in God's Word, to get to Him daily. Circling the same ground in that airplane, I was restless to get on toward the goal. And it was a good feeling when we finally started moving in the right direction. Aren't you tired of a spiritual holding pattern?

The New Testament presents more than one model of apostolic leadership. While the apostles were united in doctrine and mission, their personalities, approaches, and leadership styles were often very different. In this episode, Joseph Mattera contrasts the leadership expressions of the Apostle Paul and the Apostle John. Paul often led with bold confrontation, theological precision, and strong apostolic correction when the integrity of the gospel was at stake. John, while equally committed to truth, emphasized relational depth, spiritual intimacy, and the centrality of love within the community of believers. Together, these two apostles reveal an important principle: healthy leadership in the Church is not one-dimensional. God uses different personalities, temperaments, and emphases to build His people while preserving both truth and love. This teaching explores what modern leaders can learn from these two apostolic models and how their complementary approaches can help shape mature, balanced leadership in the Church today.

“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do,forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those thingswhich are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling ofGod in Christ Jesus.” Today,we conclude our introduction to the book of Philippians by looking at one ofthe most powerful statements that Paul makes in this letter. In Philippians3:13–14, he writes: “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended; butthis one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reachingforth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prizeof the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” These words reveal the focusand the passion of the Apostle Paul's life. I'dlike for us to take a few moments to remember what Paul was doing as Saulbefore his conversion. We first meet Saul back in Acts 7:58. He was standingthere when Stephen, the first martyr, was stoned to death. He held the clothesof those who cast the stones at Stephen. In Acts 8:1-3, in the opening verses,we find that Saul was making havoc of the church—persecuting Christians,dragging them from their homes, throwing them into prison, and even puttingthem to death. Then, in Acts 9, Saul meets the Lord Jesus Christ on the road toDamascus. When he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Jesus answered from heaven,“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” Saul was persecuting JesusChrist as he was imprisoning and killing believers. Later,when Paul gave his testimony in Acts 26:9-11 before King Agrippa, he said: “ThisI also did in Jerusalem, and many of the saints I shut up in prison, havingreceived authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, Icast my vote against them. And I punished them often in every synagogue andcompelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly enraged against them, Ipersecuted them even to foreign cities.” Can you imagine that? He said hewas “exceedingly enraged” against them. He hated the followers of Jesus Christ.But then he met Jesus—and everything changed. Sowhen Paul says, “forgetting those things which are behind,” can youimagine the burden he carried after becoming a follower of Christ? He had toface families of those who had suffered because of him. He had to seekforgiveness from people whose loved ones he had persecuted. He must have carrieda tremendous weight from his past. But, my friend, Paul did not live in thepast. He did not dwell on past failures—or even past successes. Instead, hepressed forward toward the mark that God had set before him. Inthis same letter, Paul makes another well-known statement in Philippians 1:21: “Forto me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” This verse captures the veryheart of Paul's life. Living meant serving Christ. Dying meant being withChrist. Either way, Jesus Christ was everything to him. That is the centralmessage of the book of Philippians. Joy is found in Christ. Strength is foundin Christ. Purpose is found in Christ. Aswe begin our verse-by-verse study of this letter in the days ahead, we will seeagain and again how Paul points believers back to the Lord Jesus Christ. InPhilippians 3:10–11, he writes: “That I may know Him and the power of Hisresurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to Hisdeath, if by any means I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.” Myfriend, the more we know Christ, the more our hearts are filled with joy. Themore we trust Christ, the more we experience peace. The more we follow Christ,the more our lives begin to reflect His love and His humility. Iam convinced that as we study through this book together, God will use it todeepen our faith, strengthen our walk, and fill our hearts with a joy that onlyJesus Christ can give. Maythe Lord bless you in the days ahead as we explore this wonderful and excitingbook together.

Romans 12:14-16 The Apostle Paul continues to exhort believers to become true followers of Christ. One becomes a disciple through steps of obedience—beginning with baptism and continuing by obeying all that He has taught. As we submit to this process and are led by the Spirit, we will see the power of God at work in our lives.

There is no place to stop, plateau, or think we have arrived in our spiritual lives. We are never to stop growing. There is always more we can learn, more we can experience, more steps of faith to take, and more character to be developed.Main Points:1. Like an adopted child learns the behaviors and expectations of their new family. We are to learn the values, behavior, and lifestyle of the family of God. Let's commit, as did the Apostle Paul, to keep pressing forward in our goal of being like Jesus.2. Even the great Apostle Paul realized that he needed to keep growing in his faith and his relationship with God.3. By placing our faith in Jesus Christ and his death on the cross for us, we have been adopted by the Holy Spirit into the family of God. It is a gift we receive. We did not have to work to earn the right to become a part of God's family. But now that we are sons and daughters, God asks us to live like children of God. The Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit inform our new behavior and our new lifestyle.Today's Scripture Verses:Philippians 3:12 - “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.”Philippians 3:13-14 - “…one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

"He was the brother of the Apostle Barnabas and was born in Cyprus. He was a follower of the Apostle Paul, who mentions him in his Epistle to the Romans (16:10). When the great Apostle Paul created many bishops for different parts of the world, he made this Aristobulus bishop of Britain (i.e. England). In Britain there was a wild people, pagan and wicked, and Aristobulus endured among them unmentionable torments, misfortunes and malice. They smote him without mercy, dragged him through the streets, mocked him and jeered at him. But in the end this holy man came to success by the power of the grace of God. He enlightened the people, baptised them in the name of Christ the Lord, built churches, ordained priests and deacons and finally died there in peace and went to the Kingdom of the Lord whom he had served so faithfully." (Prologue) Note: in the Greek calendar he is commemorated on March 15.

March 15, 2026 | Pastor Ben Mandrell teaches on the humble, yet effective, teaching of the Apostle Paul summarized in 1 Corinthians 2:1–5. As we consider the ministry of Pastor Emeritus Steve Gaines, we look at what it means to be a strong preacher who doesn't let ego get in the way of the Gospel.For more sermons each week, be sure to subscribe so you can stay in the know. If you've liked what you've heard in this message, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and follow us on Spotify. Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, TN | bellevue.org

In this message, Noel explores the final chapters of the Book of Acts, where the Apostle Paul remains in custody despite his proven innocence. Rather than seeking the easiest exit from his legal troubles, Paul strategically leverages his situation to share his message with high-ranking officials and eventually Caesar himself.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike here. Today I focus on the journey of the Apostle Paul, who went from persecuting the church as a Pharisee to being dramatically converted by God on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3–6). Paul later taught that apart from Christ people are spiritually dead and under the influence of the evil one—“following the ruler of the power of the air” and “by nature children of wrath” (Ephesians 2:1–3)—but through Jesus Christ God rescues us and brings us into new life.

Do you ever wish you could hear the voice of God more clearly? Ever find yourself stuck and don't know what to do? This week in Acts 13 and 14, the Apostle Paul shows us that fasting is a great way to seek God's direction and wisdom for your life!⁠⁠Practical advice and FAQs about fasting⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Bonus episode about a person journey with fasting⁠⁠Got a question about this teaching or a teaching from this series? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit it here!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠About Music Track: Track: Inspirational Flight Artist: AShamaluev

Thefirst theme that stands out in this book, of course, is joy. This theme ofjoy is closely connected to our minds—what our minds are set upon. That'swhy, over the years as I've taught through this book, I've often used a verysimple outline based on the focus of the believer's mind in each chapter. Inchapter one, we see what it means to have the single mind. Thisis the mind that is set on Jesus Christ—always looking unto Jesus, the authorand finisher of our faith. It is also a mind that is focused on the gospel. Aswe go through this chapter, you will notice how many times Paul mentions JesusChrist and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul lived to share that gospel, andthat purpose brought great joy to his heart. Thenin chapter two, we see the submissive mind. This introduces us toanother great theme of the book—humility. Chapter two contains one of the mostbeautiful descriptions of the humility of Jesus Christ in all of Scripture.Though He was rich, yet He became poor. Though He sat on the throne with the Father,ruling over creation, He humbled Himself. He became a servant. He became a man.This is the incarnation of Christ. In this chapter we see the example of Jesusin His humility. We also see the example of Timothy in his humility, theexample of Epaphroditus in his humility, and even the example of the ApostlePaul himself. If we want to experience real joy, we must learn to have asubmissive mind. Thenin chapter three, we see the theme of the spiritual mind. HerePaul explains that although he could boast about many things according to theflesh, he has no confidence in the flesh. In fact, he says, “I have noconfidence in the flesh” (v. 3). Instead, he declares in 3:10, “That Imay know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of Hissufferings.” Paul's great desire was simply to know Christ more intimately. Thisbrings us back to something Jesus said about joy in Gospel of John 15:8. Jesussaid, “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you willbe My disciples.” I am convinced that great joy comes when we fulfill thepurpose for which God created us. That purpose is to glorify God. And weglorify God by bearing fruit as disciples of Jesus Christ. And according toJohn 15:1-8, the only way we can bear fruit is by abiding in Christ. Do you seehow all these things tie together? When we abide in Christ, wonderful thingsbegin to happen in our lives. Thenin John 16:22–24, Jesus said, “Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will seeyou again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.”Jesus knew the disciples would soon see Him crucified and experience deepsorrow. But He also knew that joy would follow. He continued, When you are fulfilling the purpose for whichGod created you, your joy will be full. Your joy will be complete. This is thespiritual mind—a mind set on knowing Christ and experiencing the power ofHis resurrection. Thenwe come to chapter four, which reveals the secure mind. Here Paulexplains that he has learned to be content in every circumstance and situationin life (4:11-13). He says that he has learned how to live whether he haslittle or much. Whether he has abundance or nothing at all, he has learned howto trust Christ. That is why he can say, “I can do all things through Christwho strengthens me.” And he also declares, “My God shall supply all yourneed according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (v. 19). This is thesecure mind—a mind resting in the provision and faithfulness of God. Sothese are some of the great themes we will discover throughout the book ofPhilippians: joy, humility, unity in Christ, sacrificial service, and a lifecentered on doing the will of God every day. And when we live that kind oflife, we discover the joy that only God can give.

There are seasons when it feels like nothing you do is good enough. You try your best, put in the effort, and still feel like you fall short—especially when you compare yourself to others who seem to succeed more easily. Over time, these experiences can form a quiet but painful belief: I’m not good enough. But Scripture offers a different perspective. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, the Apostle Paul shares a powerful truth from the Lord: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul had his own struggles and limitations, yet God reminded him that weakness is not a barrier to God’s work—it’s often the place where God’s power becomes most visible. The world often tells us that our worth comes from performance, achievement, or recognition. When we can’t meet those expectations, we begin to question our value. But God does not measure you by how flawlessly you perform or how your abilities compare to someone else’s. God’s grace covers every shortcoming. Every person has areas where they struggle. No one excels at everything. In fact, Scripture tells us that all have fallen short of God’s glory. Our imperfections are part of our humanity—but they are also the places where God’s grace meets us most clearly. Instead of allowing weakness to convince you that you’re failing, you can allow it to remind you that you depend on God. Your limitations don’t disqualify you from His love or His purpose. They simply create space for His strength to work through you. When you feel like you can’t do anything right, remember this: God’s grace is already enough. Main Takeaways Feelings of inadequacy often come from comparison and past experiences. God’s grace is sufficient even when we feel weak or unsuccessful. Weakness creates opportunities for God’s power to work through us. Our worth is not determined by performance or perfection. God’s love and grace remain constant despite our shortcomings. Today’s Bible Verse “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Lord, remind me that Your grace is enough when I feel weak or inadequate.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources Continue growing in faith and encouragement: LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts and devotionals Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, articles, and Bible study resources This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many of us live with a quiet pressure to prove ourselves. Whether through success, reputation, or even spiritual discipline, it's easy to believe our acceptance comes from how well we perform. But what if that entire way of thinking is a trap? In Romans 4:1-12, the Apostle Paul shows that even Abraham—the great example of faith—was not made right with God by his works. Instead, Abraham was counted righteous because he believed God. Paul also points to David, a man who experienced deep failure yet discovered the reality of God's forgiveness and grace. Together they reveal a powerful truth: we cannot earn what God freely gives. Whether you feel like an achiever exhausted by the performance treadmill, or broken and wondering if you're beyond grace, the gospel speaks directly to you. In Christ, righteousness is credited as a gift, sins are forgiven and covered, and anyone who believes can belong. This passage reminds us that the gospel frees us from striving to prove ourselves and invites us to rest in the grace of God.

Every believer experiences a battle within from two opposing forces. Join Pastor Rick as he marches onto the battlefield and shares the Apostle Paul's pathway for victory. NEXT STEPS: Be honest and confess to God where your flesh (sarx) is getting in the way. Invite the Spirit to redeem your flesh and empower you to live a fruit filled life.

Rules of Engagement: A Journey Through 1 CorinthiansWhat does it look like to be the church in a world that doesn't always understand—or welcome—what we're about? That's the question the Apostle Paul tackled head-on in his letter to the church in Corinth, and it's the question we're wrestling with together this series.Paul planted a church in one of the most diverse, culturally complex cities in the ancient world. And almost immediately, things got messy. Division. Pride. Tolerance of things that shouldn't be tolerated. Silence where there should have been honesty. The Corinthian church was full of people who had the Spirit of God and the mind of Christ—and were still acting like the world around them.Sound familiar?Week by week, chapter by chapter, we'll walk through Paul's letter and discover that we are God's temple, keepers of an extraordinary mystery, and called to live like it. Rules of Engagement // Chapter 10A Study in 1 CorinthiansMarch 15, 2026Jeremy Olimb // Lead Pastor

Joshua 11-12 | March 15, 2026 | Pastor Todd SmithThe Bible is filled with stories of battle, from Abraham to the Apostle Paul. Jesus himself declared that the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. This isn't just a historical observation; it's a profound truth about the nature of faith and the Christian life.Discover why God calls His people to engage in spiritual warfare and how understanding His perfect justice can transform your perspective on life's struggles. Learn to fight the good fight and hold onto the hope of ultimate victory and divine rest.Connect with Crossroads Community Church:Website: https://lifeatcrossroads.orgFacebook: https://facebook.com/lifeatcrossroadsGive Online:https://lifeatcrossroads.org/giveonlineLicensing Information:CCLI License #2915685CCS WORSHIPcast License #9466Crossroads Community Church holds a CCS WORSHIPcast License, which grants permission to publicly play, perform, and stream musical compositions controlled by ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC in accordance with CCS License Terms and Conditions.

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

What does God actually expect from the people He places in leadership over His church? In this message from 1 Corinthians 4:1-5, Pastor Paul unpacks two powerful words the Apostle Paul uses to describe how every church leader — and every believer — should see themselves: servants and stewards.

Romans is the Apostle Paul's fullest and clearest treatise on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Throughout history, this letter has opened eyes, awakened hearts, and set movements in motion. It's both profoundly theological and deeply personal, revealing the truth about God, humanity, and salvation. John Stott rightly called Romans a manifesto of freedom in Christ - a freedom that remakes our lives, forms us into God's people, and sends us as witnesses of Jesus in the world.

What does it mean to proclaim the Word of God? How do we receive the Word in a way that is honoring to God? In 1 Thessalonians chapter 2, the Apostle Paul dives into these areas and shows the power of God's Word!

Today's question is one that Pastor says has been the question asked with the most fear.  Other ways this question is asked:     ⁃    What is the unforgivable sin?     ⁃    What is the sin against the Holy Spirit?     ⁃    How can I be sure I haven't done this?     ⁃    If I have done this is there any hope?     ⁃    How do I avoid the unforgivable sin? Matthew 12:31-32 Jesus says, "And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come." What is that sin? Let's start by looking at the context …     ⁃    Jesus was preaching and healing. Religious authorities saw Jesus as a threat. Jesus heals a paralyzed man and the religious leaders say Jesus is blaspheming because He told the man your sins are forgiven, take up your mat and walk. And the religious leadership are angry and they continue to get angrier. Matthew 9:3     ⁃    Matthew, one of Jesus' disciples, hosts a dinner, invites his tax collector friends and Jesus attends too. The religious leaders accuse Jesus of "eating with tax collectors and sinners." Matthew 9:11     ⁃    Jesus heals a demon possessed man and the religious leaders say Jesus was able to heal the man through demonic powers. Matthew 9:34     ⁃    Jesus and disciples are walking in the grain fields on the Sabbath Day, picking and eating grain and the religious leaders say they are working on the day of rest, which is unlawful. Matthew 12:2     ⁃    Jesus heals a demon possessed man and now the religious leaders plot to kill Jesus. Matthew 12:14     ⁃    Jesus heals a man and they say that Jesus healed by the power of Beelzebul (the devil) Matthew 12:24 It is at this point that we continue with the verses just before our text for the day on the unforgivable sin. We read in Matthew 12:25-28 "Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand. If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then can his kingdom stand? (Meaning how can I be healing from demons by using demons?) And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your people drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. But if it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you." What Jesus is saying is look at what you see.  Stop judging on the basis of your own anger and bitterness and look at what the Bible has said along. God's healing is being brought to people. The Holy Spirit is testifying that the Messiah has arrived! Then Jesus speaks the words we started with this morning. Note that the first words are "EVERY KIND OF SIN AND SLANDER CAN BE FORGIVEN." Jesus goes on and what He's saying is if we continually refuse to listen to the Holy Spirit and actually go so far as to call what the Spirit does as demonic then we are setting ourselves up for the unforgivable sin.  (Note: Jesus is not saying they have done this, but He is calling them to search the scriptures, to search their hearts.) The Holy Spirit always testifies to Jesus. Jesus is saying do not sin against the Spirit because if you persist in that you are cutting yourself off from the only One who can save. The Holy Spirit leads us to faith and to Jesus, who opens our eyes to see the goodness and grace of God. What is the sin against the Holy Spirit? IT IS THE CONSCIOUS, DELIBERATE AND PERSISTENT REJECTION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT'S TESTIMONY TO THE IDENTITY AND SAVING POWER OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. Jesus speaks these words of warning to them to lead them to repentance and faith.  God is merciful. His desire is for ALL. Classic example:     ⁃    Saul of Tarsus - the persecutor of believers who becomes a transformed man - Apostle Paul.  Pastor shares Saul's story of transformation. Paul understood the sin of the Holy Spirit because that was the path he had been on in his life. But then Saul has an encounter with God that changes him and he understands the immense patience of God and His amazing grace. Pastor closes with Romans 10:9-10 "If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved." God is good! So let us listen to the Holy Spirit's voice who leads us to Jesus our only Hope. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/whats-the-answer Join us Sundays  https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service

When God declares us justified by faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ it impacts not only where we spend eternity but how we live our lives. With these verses, the Apostle Paul explains more of how the gospel changes how the justified live for Christ. Here we are given a picture of what authentic Christianity looks like.

Pastor Chris continues our teaching series entitled “1st Corinthians: Practical Answers to Real Problems.” In this seventh study of the series, “Judge & Jury,” we study in 1st Corinthians 6:1-8 as the Apostle Paul addresses the lawsuits that exist between those participating in the congregation in Corinth. Paul speaks plainly about how to consider approaching a dispute and maintaining our witness of Jesus in the midst of the justice systems of this world.

If you have turned from sin and placed your faith in Christ, you are a child of God. But it does not stop there. God has also called you into ministry. This calling is not reserved for a select few who are ordained; it is for every believer. The local church is a body of individuals who represent Christ to a world that desperately needs Him.This is not a temporary assignment, but a lifelong calling. Your ministry will continue for your entire life, a journey of serving and glorifying God until He calls you home. You have job security, and your job is to serve the Lord Jesus Christ with everything you have.The Apostle Paul provides a powerful example of what a heart for ministry looks like. His passion and characteristics are a model for us to follow. Let's explore the key qualities that define a true heart for ministry.

What Are You Aiming For MESSAGE SUMMARY: What are we truly aiming for in life? This powerful message challenges us to examine our ultimate goals and purpose. Drawing from Philippians 3:7-15, we're invited to reflect on the Apostle Paul's radical transformation - from chasing earthly accolades to pursuing an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Paul's journey reminds us that success without Christ isn't true success at all. The message encourages us to shift our focus from temporary achievements to lasting transformation, emphasizing that our identity should be rooted in our relationship with Jesus, not in our accomplishments or status. As we contemplate our own lives, we're urged to consider: are we striving for Christ-centered righteousness or merely following religious rules? This introspection can lead us to a deeper, more purposeful faith journey.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Philippians 3:7-15 (main passage); Philippians 3:4-6; Acts 9 (Paul's conversion); Romans 3:20; Ephesians 2:8-9 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Do You Struggle with Your “Prayer Life”? Find a Quiet Place for Your Personal Relationship with God and Pray to the Universe's Creator”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Today we are asking the question: Why did Paul write this letter? First, it isvery obvious that Paul wrote this letter because the Holy Spirit of the livingGod inspired him to write it. God wanted this letter to become part of thecanon of Scripture—the Word of God that we have for us today.  God'splan was that this book—written to encourage believers during a difficult timein history—would also be a book that we would need today. It is part of theeternal Word of God. How about that? That is the number one reason Paul wrotethis book. Likemany of Paul's letters in the New Testament, Philippians was written to addresscertain needs and situations within the church. However, unlike some otherletters such as 1 Corinthians, there were very few serious problems in thiscongregation. Here are several reasons we find inthe letter itself for why Paul wrote it. First,Paul wanted to thank them for the generous gift they had sent to him. Philippians4:18 says: “But I have all and abound. I am full, having received fromEpaphroditus the things which were sent from you.” Epaphroditus had beensent from the church at Philippi to Rome to deliver this gift to the ApostlePaul while he was in prison. That gift helped meet Paul's needs while he wasunder house arrest there in Rome. Second,Paul wanted to update them about his circumstances. In Philippians 1:12 Paulwrites: “But I want you to know, brethren, that the things whichhappened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel”. Eventhough he was a prisoner—often chained between Roman guards—Paul explains thatthose very circumstances were helping the gospel spread. The guards werehearing the message of Jesus Christ, and other believers were becoming morebold as they saw what God was doing through Paul. So Paul writes to describehis situation and update them, because no doubt they loved him deeply andwanted to know how he was doing. Third,Paul was sending Epaphroditus back to them. In Philippians 2:25, Paul writes: “YetI considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellowworker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to myneed.” Paul goes on to explain that Epaphroditus had been very sick—almostto the point of death—and the believers in Philippi had heard about it and wereconcerned. Paul wanted them to know that he had recovered and was doing well.So Epaphroditus would carry this letter back to the church when he returned. Fourth,Paul wanted to encourage unity within the church. In Philippians 4:2, Paulwrites: “I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind inthe Lord.” Even though this church was strong and faithful, there had beensome disagreement between two women in the congregation—Euodia and Syntyche.Paul gently encourages them to be reconciled and to have the same mind in theLord. Of course, earlier in chapter 2 he had already pointed them to theultimate example—the mind of Jesus Christ. Finally,Paul wanted to warn the believers about false teachers and encourage them tocontinue growing in their faith. In Philippians 3:2 he writes: “Beware ofdogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation.” Paul is referringto those who were known as Judaizers—teachers who tried to insist that Gentilebelievers must also be circumcised and follow Jewish law in order to be trulysaved. Paul strongly warned against anyone who tried to add anything to salvationthrough Jesus Christ. He was very aware that after he planted churches, otherssometimes followed behind him spreading false doctrine and confusing newbelievers. Aswe study this book, we will discover that it is a letter filled withgratitude, encouragement, instruction, and love. It reveals the heart of Paul who deeply loved his people and wanted them to continue growing in thegrace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Today, the Lord wants you to also beencouraged and strengthened by these same eternal Words!

During difficult seasons, we often look for something steady—something that won’t shift beneath us when fear and uncertainty begin to rise. Scripture reminds us that God Himself is our firm foundation, the rock that holds us steady through every storm. His presence never wavers, and His peace never runs dry. Yet God, in His kindness, gives us another gift to help sustain us through life’s challenges: His people. The body of Christ is one of God’s most tangible expressions of care. Through fellow believers, God provides encouragement, prayer, wisdom, and comfort. Sometimes that support comes through a conversation, a message, a shared prayer, or simply someone willing to sit quietly beside us during a hard moment. The Apostle Paul understood the power of this gift. In Philippians 1:3-5, he expresses deep gratitude for the believers who partnered with him in the gospel. Their support strengthened him in his mission and reminded him that he was never alone in his calling. Many of us struggle to ask for help. Vulnerability can feel uncomfortable, and we often try to carry our burdens quietly. But God designed the church so that we would support one another. When we open our hearts and allow others to walk beside us, we experience the strength of a community bound together by Christ. And just as we receive encouragement from others, we are also called to extend that same care to those around us. Gratitude for God’s people naturally leads us to become a blessing ourselves—offering prayer, encouragement, and compassion whenever we can. When we pause to thank God for the people He places in our lives, we recognize that His provision often arrives through the hands and hearts of others. Main Takeaways God is our ultimate foundation and source of strength. The body of Christ is a tangible gift of encouragement and support. Asking for help allows others to serve as God’s hands and feet. Gratitude grows when we recognize how God works through His people. Believers are called to both receive and offer encouragement within the church. Today’s Bible Verse I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. - Philippians 1:3-5 Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life to encourage and strengthen me.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources Continue growing in faith and encouragement: LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts and devotionals Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, articles, and Bible study resources If you enjoyed this devotional, you may also appreciate Keri Eichberger’s book, Win Over Worry: Conquer What Shakes You and Soar With the One Who Overcomes, available on Amazon and major online retailers. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful message, we dive into the truth that the events recorded in Scripture are not just history—they are warnings, lessons, and guidance for believers today. In 1 Corinthians 10:11, the Apostle Paul teaches that the things written in the Old Testament happened as examples for us, giving us wisdom to walk in obedience and avoid spiritual pitfalls.Through passages such as Numbers 31:1–8, 14–16, Joshua 13:22, and 2 Peter 2:15–16, we examine the story of Balaam and discover how compromise, greed, and disobedience can lead people away from God's will. At the same time, these scriptures reveal how God faithfully warns His people and calls us back to righteousness.God placed these stories in His Word so that we can grow in wisdom, avoid deception, and remain faithful in our walk with Him.Be encouraged and strengthened as you discover how God uses the lessons of the past to guide His people today.

Today,as we continue to look at the introduction to the letter of Epistle to thePhilippians from the Apostle Paul while he was in prison, we discover somethingvery beautiful about the church at Philippi. Among all the churches that Paulhelped establish, the Philippian believers seemed to have a particularly closerelationship with him. There was a deep bond of love between Paul and thiscongregation. AsI think about what we're talking about today—the love this church had for theirpastor, the Apostle Paul, their founding pastor—it reminds me of something verypersonal in my own life. I've had the wonderful privilege of pastoring fourdifferent churches over the years. I can honestly say that every church made mefeel greatly loved. The congregations extended wonderful love to us on manyoccasions. Even after we had been gone from them for years, they continued toextend that love and grace to us. That's a wonderful, wonderful feeling andvery encouraging for a pastor.  In Philippians 1:3, Paul wrote, “Ithank my God upon every remembrance of you.” Can you imagine that? Everytime Paul thought about these believers, his heart was filled with gratitude toGod. Then he goes on to say in verse 5, “Always in every prayer of minemaking request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from thefirst day until now.” And then in verse 7 he says, “Because I have youin my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmationof the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace.” Inother words, this church had been partners with Paul in the ministry of thegospel from the very beginning. Their love was not just expressed in words.When Paul speaks about them being “partakers with me of grace,” it seems veryclear that they demonstrated their care in practical ways—especially throughtheir financial support of his ministry. Now remember, the Apostle Paul oftenworked to support himself. In Acts 18:3, when he was in Corinth, he worked as atentmaker. It was there that he met Aquila and Priscilla, who were alsotentmakers, and the Bible says they were of the same trade, and they worked together. Butthe church at Philippi was especially faithful in helping support his ministry.In Philippians 4:15, Paul says something remarkable. He reminds them that whenhe first left Macedonia—the northern region of Greece—no other church sharedwith him financially except them. He wrote, “Now you Philippians know alsothat in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no churchshared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only.” Now this wasnot necessarily a wealthy church, but they gave generously to help Paulcontinue preaching the gospel. Evenwhile Paul was in prison, we read that a man named Epaphroditus brought aspecial gift to him from the church. In fact, part of the reason Paul wrotethis letter was to thank them for their generosity and kindness. But their giftrevealed something even deeper. It revealed their love for the apostle who hadfirst brought them the message of Jesus Christ. This reminds us that the gospelhas always been a partnership. Some people preach. Some go. Some send. Somesupport. But we should all pray and encourage one another. When God's peoplework together like that, the message of Christ spreads much farther than anyone person could take it alone. ThePhilippian church understood this principle very well. Their generosity andfaithfulness helped sustain Paul's ministry and encouraged him during one ofthe most difficult seasons of his life. That is why the book of Philippians isfilled with such warmth and affection. This is a grateful pastor writing to agenerous and faithful church—thanking them and encouraging them. Myfriend, I trust today that you will be part of a church like that yourself, andthat you will be generous in your giving and in your love for your pastor andthe leadership of your church.

Visit www.joniradio.org for more inspiration and encouragement! --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

What if the Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the modern day Church? What would it say and who would it offend? Well, I had ChatGPT write "a letter from Paul to the modern church." It's comical, accurate, and thought-provoking. I plan to go through each section of this letter in future episodes—but until then—here's a dramatic reading of the letter and my initial thoughts.

There is someone somewhere waiting for someone to tell them aboutJesus. That is exactly what we see happening in Acts of the Apostleschapters 15 and 16. Herein Acts chapter 16, when the Apostle Paul arrives at Philippi with hiscompanions—Silas, Timothy and Luke—they begin looking for a place where peoplemight be praying. Remember we said earlier that there was probably no synagoguein the city. So they went outside the city to a river, where a group hadgathered to pray. There they met a woman named Lydia. Lydia was probably a successful businesswoman. Butmost importantly, Lydia was seeking God. The Bible tells us about her wonderfulconversion in Acts 16:14. It says, “Whose heart the Lord opened, that sheattended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.” She believed themessage of the gospel. She was baptized.Soonafterward, Paul and his companions encountered a young slave girl who waspossessed by a spirit of divination. She made a great deal of money for hermasters by fortune-telling. For several days she followed Paul and hiscompanions, shouting, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, whoproclaim to us the way of salvation.” (Acts 16:17). After many days, Paulbecame troubled by this and turned to her and said, in the name of JesusChrist, for the demon to come out of her. Immediately she was delivered and setfree from that demonic power. Itappears that she too may have become another convert who came to know JesusChrist. However, this stirred up the local authorities. Her masters were angrybecause they had lost their source of income. So they seized Paul and Silas,had them beaten, and threw them into prison. I have often wondered about what thelocal jail there in Philippi was like—and I have also wondered where Luke andTimothy were when Paul and Silas were thrown into prison! But God was notfinished working. Insteadof complaining or feeling sorry for themselves because of their unjusttreatment, Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises to God at midnight.The other prisoners were listening to them. And apparently the jailer also. Thensuddenly, God sent a great earthquake. The prison shook, the doors opened, andeveryone's chains were loosened. The jailer rushed in and, thinking theprisoners had escaped, was about to take his own life. But Paul cried out andstopped him, saying, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here.” Thejailer then asked one of the most important questions anyone can ever ask: “Whatmust I do to be saved?” He must have been listening carefully as Paul hadbeen sharing the gospel. Paul then gave one of the clearest statements aboutsalvation in the entire New Testament. He said, “Believe on the LordJesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts16:31). Ohmy friend, what a wonderful question—and what a wonderful answer. So we seethat these three people helped form the early church at Philippi: a wealthybusinesswoman, a formerly demon-possessed slave girl, and a hardened Romanjailer. Three very different people—but the same gospel saved them all. Andhere is the point I want to emphasize. In Acts 15, while the church back inJerusalem was debating the question of circumcision with certain PharisaicalJudaizers who were trying to add something to salvation, there was a womansitting beside a river in a foreign country saying, in essence, “Please tell meabout Jesus.” My friend, I believe the same thing is true today. Thereis someone somewhere near you who is waiting for someone to tell them about thegospel of Jesus Christ. Their heart is ready. Their eyes are being opened. Theyare longing to hear the message that can release them from the power of sin andthe devil, set them free, and give them eternal life. That is the beauty of thegospel message. It reaches people from every culture, every background, andevery level of society.  Willyou be the “someone” who will tell “someone somewhere” about Jesus today?

The gospel changes everything. God's good news affects where we will spend eternity and how we live every day. Like the Apostle Paul, we must both know the gospel and make it known to others.  Listen to this overview of the Book of Romans.  Join our study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/ Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

It's Thursday, March 12th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Nepal's new government less likely to feature Hindu nationalists Christians in Nepal are cautiously hopeful after recent elections in the Asian country located north of India and which features the Himalayan Mountains including Mount Everest. Youth-led protests toppled the government last year. The new government is poised to feature less Hindu-nationalist parties. Hindu extremists drive most persecution of Christians in Nepal.  One pastor in the country told International Christian Concern, “The [election] results are unexpected. Though the outcome is confusing, we remain hopeful, especially as there appears to be a decline in the influence of pro-Hindu nationalist parties.”  Franklin Graham preached to 90,000 in Lima, Peru Evangelist Franklin Graham shared the Gospel of Christ with over 90,000 people in Lima, Peru over the weekend.  Listen. GRAHAM: “The Bible says, ‘All we, like sheep, have gone astray. Each has turned to his own way.' But man has a problem. That problem is called sin. “Sin is a barrier. It's a wall between you and God, and sin has to be atoned, and the only way is through the shed blood of Jesus, Christ on the cross. “Without Jesus, you have no hope. You cannot save yourself, only the blood of Jesus. “You have a choice tonight.  Jesus said, ‘I'll never leave you nor forsake you.' Will you come to Him tonight?” Thousands responded to the message during the evangelical event. Peru is a predominantly Catholic country. However, the number of Evangelicals has been growing rapidly in the South American country in recent years.  Chile is first country to eliminate leprosy in the Americas Chile recently became the first country in the Americas to officially eliminate leprosy.  The World Health Organization and the Pan American Health Organization verified the achievement. Chile has not reported any locally acquired cases of the disease for over 30 years.  The World Health Organization noted, “Leprosy, also known as Hansen disease … primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract mucosa, and eyes. If untreated, it can lead to permanent nerve damage, disabilities, and social stigma.” U.S. and Ecuador team up to kick drug cartels out The United States and Ecuador launched joint military operations against drug cartels in the South American country last week.  Over a dozen other Latin American countries also plan to cooperate with the U.S. military against drug smuggling operations. U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed these countries during the Shield of Americas Summit in Florida on Saturday. Listen.  HEGSETH: “We don't have to live with communities flooded with drugs or violence or cartels and gangs. We can seal our border, and we have to for our citizens. “We share a hemisphere and geography. We share cultures, Western Christian civilization. We share these things together. We have to have the courage to defend it. We have a Commander-in-Chief in our country who's set that compass heading.” New poll: Don't need to believe in God to be moral Pew Research reports fewer people around the world believe it's necessary to believe in God to be moral. A majority of adults in the United States, Canada, and Europe say it's not necessary to believe in God to be moral and have good values. People in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America are much more likely to say belief in God is necessary for morality.  In the U.S., 31% of adults say it's necessary to believe in God to be moral. That's down from 42% in 2014. Wyoming passes Heartbeat bill Wyoming became the latest state to enact a fetal heartbeat law. Republican Governor Mark Gordon signed the Human Heartbeat Act into law on Monday. This makes Wyoming the fifth state to ban abortions on babies at about six weeks of pregnancy.  If a heartbeat is detected, the baby must be protected. Liberty Counsel noted, “The ‘Human Heartbeat Act' bans abortions after a heartbeat can be detected. However, it does include exceptions for medical emergencies when the mother's life is in danger, or her health is at risk of serious impairment. The law does not include exceptions for rape or incest.” John Newton, former slave ship captain, wrote “Amazing Grace” And finally, this week is the anniversary of John Newton's conversion.  Newton was a captain of slave ships in his early life. While at sea, a severe storm brought him to his spiritual senses. This led to his conversion on March 10, 1748. Newton went on to marry, become a pastor, and work to end the slave trade. Newton is well known for his hymns. Each week he would write a hymn to a familiar tune. Of his hundreds of hymns, he is especially remembered for “Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken,” “How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds!” and “Amazing Grace.” WINTLEY PHIPPS: “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now I'm found, was blind, but now I see.” That was sung by Wintley Phipps. Newton wrote his own epitaph for his tombstone which says, “Once an infidel … was by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ preserved, restored, pardoned and appointed to preach the faith he had long labored to destroy.” Reminds me of the Apostle Paul. Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”  Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, March 12th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

The Bible never denied other ‘Gods', it dethroned them is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Does the Bible Actually Teach There Are “Many Gods”? In this episode, we tackle a question that surprises many Christians: Why does the Bible talk about “many gods”? When people encounter passages like Psalm 82 or Paul's words in 1 Corinthians, it can raise confusion. Does the Bible teach polytheism? Are these “Gods” just idols, metaphors, or something more? Scripture actually presents a much deeper and more supernatural worldview than most believers realize. Throughout the Bible, we see references to real spiritual beings intelligent, powerful, and active in the unseen realm. Some remain loyal to God, while others have rebelled and now oppose His purposes. Yet the Bible is absolutely clear: there is only one true God—eternal, uncreated, and sovereign—and He has revealed Himself fully in Jesus Christ. In this conversation, we walk carefully through the Bible's own language to understand what it means when Scripture refers to “Gods,” the divine council, and the unseen spiritual powers influencing the world today. In this episode, we discuss: • What Psalm 82 reveals about God's divine council • The meaning of the Hebrew word elohim and why it matters • Why Jesus quoted “you are gods” in John 10 • What the Apostle Paul meant by “many gods and many lords” • How Jesus is placed uniquely inside the identity of the one true God • The rebellion of corrupt spiritual powers in Scripture • Why the Bible connects idol worship to real demonic forces • How unseen spiritual powers influence cultures, governments, and systems • Why the biblical worldview is supernatural—but still firmly monotheistic This episode will help you see the Bible's spiritual worldview more clearly and understand why Jesus Christ stands above every power, authority, and spiritual being. No speculation. No mythology. Just the Bible explaining the Bible. Thanks for listening and don’t forget to: Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Instagram Subscribe to our Youtube Channel Follow us on Rumble The RIOT PODCAST is a listener-supported podcast: Donate Now

Try as You Might. Faith Comes Through Believing MESSAGE SUMMARY: What are we truly aiming for in life? This powerful message challenges us to examine our ultimate goals and purpose. Drawing from Philippians 3:7-15, we're invited to reflect on the Apostle Paul's radical transformation - from chasing earthly accolades to pursuing an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Paul's journey reminds us that success without Christ isn't true success at all. The message encourages us to shift our focus from temporary achievements to lasting transformation, emphasizing that our identity should be rooted in our relationship with Jesus, not in our accomplishments or status. As we contemplate our own lives, we're urged to consider: are we striving for Christ-centered righteousness or merely following religious rules? This introspection can lead us to a deeper, more purposeful faith journey.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Lust. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Perfect Provision. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Philippians 3:7-15 (main passage); Philippians 3:4-6; Acts 9 (Paul's conversion); Romans 3:20; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:21; Philippians 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 5:16; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 Timothy 6:10; Luke 6:38; Hebrews 10:24-25; Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15 WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “A Word from the Cross ” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Welcome to Day 2815 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2815 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 119:1-8 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2815 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day two thousand eight hundred fifteen of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The title for today's Wisdom-Trek is: The Aleph of Obedience – Walking in the Cosmic Order In our previous trek, we concluded the magnificent Egyptian Hallel with Psalm One Hundred Eighteen. We marched in a triumphant, royal procession. We saw the stone that the builders rejected become the glorious cornerstone. We shouted, "Hosanna!" and stepped through the gates of righteousness, moving out of the chaotic, hostile world and into the sacred presence of Yahweh. We bound the festival sacrifice to the horns of the altar, and we celebrated the unfailing, eternal love of God. But now that we are inside those gates, a profound question arises. How are we supposed to live? How do the citizens of God's Kingdom conduct themselves in a world that is still contested by rebel spiritual forces? To answer this, we turn to the Mount Everest of the Psalter: Psalm One Hundred Nineteen. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen is the longest chapter in the Bible. It is a masterpiece of Hebrew poetry, constructed as an intricate acrostic. It contains twenty-two stanzas, matching the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Each stanza has eight verses, and every single verse within a stanza begins with that specific Hebrew letter. Today, we are exploring the very first stanza, the "Aleph" section, covering verses one through eight, in the New Living Translation. This entire, massive psalm is dedicated to one singular theme: the beauty, authority, and life-giving power of God's Word—His Torah. In the Ancient Israelite worldview, the Torah was not merely a list of restrictive rules. It was the architectural blueprint of the cosmos. While the surrounding pagan nations stumbled in the dark, manipulated by the deceptive, rebel gods of the Divine Council, Israel was given the ultimate gift. They were given the very mind of the Creator. To follow God's instructions was to align oneself with the grain of the universe, stepping out of chaos and into cosmic order. Let us begin our ascent up this great mountain of wisdom. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verses one through three. Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. The psalm opens with a double declaration of blessing. "Joyful are people of integrity... Joyful are those who obey his laws." The Hebrew word translated here as "joyful" is Ashrei. It can also be translated as "blessed," "happy," or "flourishing." It describes a life that is deeply rooted, stable, and completely satisfied, regardless of external circumstances. It is the exact same word that opens the entire book of Psalms in Psalm Chapter One. But who gets to experience this profound, flourishing joy? The psalmist tells us it is the "people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord." The word for "instructions" is Torah. For the ancient Israelite, the Torah was the loving, fatherly guidance of Yahweh. It was the boundary line that kept them safe from the destructive, degrading practices of the surrounding nations. To follow these instructions requires a specific posture of the heart. The psalmist says that these joyful people "search for him with all their hearts." Obedience to God is never meant to be mindless, robotic compliance. It is a passionate pursuit. You cannot accidentally stumble into a life of integrity; you must hunt for it. You must desire the presence of the Lawgiver even more than you desire the law itself. This wholehearted pursuit leads to a radical separation from the ways of the world. "They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths." When we consider the Divine Council worldview, this idea of walking "only in his paths" is a statement of fierce, exclusive loyalty. The pagan world was filled with alternative paths. The rebel spiritual principalities constantly offered shortcuts to power, wealth, and pleasure through idolatry and compromise. But the person of integrity refuses to negotiate with chaos. They will not mix the holy with the profane. They recognize that any path other than Yahweh's path inevitably leads to the realm of death. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verse four. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. The psalmist shifts his focus directly toward God, acknowledging the divine mandate. "You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully." God did not offer His Word as a series of helpful suggestions or optional lifestyle upgrades. He "charged" us. He commanded it. Why? Because He is the Sovereign King, and we are His earthly representatives. We are His imagers. If we are going to accurately reflect His character to a dark, rebellious world, we must handle His instructions with extreme care and diligence. The word "carefully" implies diligence, vigilance, and strict attention. Imagine you are carrying a priceless, fragile vessel through a crowded, dangerous marketplace. You would not swing it around carelessly; you would hold it tightly to your chest, watching every step you take. That is how the believer is commanded to handle the Word of God. The instructions of Yahweh are the most valuable possession humanity has ever received, and they must be guarded and obeyed with absolute vigilance. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verses five through six. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. Here, the tone of the psalm suddenly changes. We move from the objective, lofty heights of the divine mandate, down to the gritty, frustrating reality of human weakness. The psalmist lets out a deep, heartfelt sigh: "Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees!" This is the great, agonizing tension of the spiritual life. The psalmist knows what the law says. He knows that the Torah is beautiful, perfect, and life-giving. He wants to obey it with all his heart. But he is painfully aware of his own inconsistency. He knows how prone his feet are to wander off the path, and how easily his heart can be distracted by the compromises of the world. We all feel this tension. We read the Scriptures, and we are inspired by the standard of holiness. We want to be patient, generous, pure, and courageous. But then the pressure of daily life hits, and we find ourselves reacting with anger, selfishness, or fear. Like the Apostle Paul in Romans Chapter Seven, we cry out, "I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate." The psalmist's sigh is the universal groan of the redeemed soul, longing for complete transformation. And why does he want this consistency so desperately? "Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands." In the ancient Near Eastern culture, honor and shame were the primary forces that drove human behavior. Shame was not just a private feeling of guilt; it was a public loss of face, a devastating failure to live up to the standards of your community and your God. When we hold our lives up to the perfect, unyielding mirror of God's Word, the cracks and blemishes become glaringly obvious. The Word of God exposes our mixed motives and our hidden sins. But the psalmist realizes that the antidote to this shame is not to throw away the mirror, or to lower the standard. The antidote is to align his life so closely with the decrees of God, through the empowering grace of the Holy Spirit, that when the comparison is made, there is harmony, rather than hypocrisy. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verses seven through eight. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don't give up on me! The Aleph stanza concludes with a beautiful promise of gratitude, followed by a desperate plea for grace. "As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should!" Notice the order of operations here. First comes the learning. We have to immerse ourselves in the Word of God to understand His character and His expectations. We have to study the rulebook of the cosmos. But the learning is never meant to stay trapped in our intellect. The ultimate expression of gratitude to God is not merely singing a song, or offering a verbal prayer. The highest form of thanksgiving is an obedient life. "I will thank...

We have an adversary, an enemy. He is the devil who wants to attack our faith, bring confusion and discouragement, and cause us to falter in our relationship with God. He doesn't want us to be strong spiritually. He wants to do everything he can to hinder the spiritual growth of our families. He wants us to be ineffective in our work for the Lord.Main Points:1. It's my experience that most Christians go throughout their day without much thought of spiritual warfare. I don't believe we should expect a devil to be living under every rock, but the Bible is clear that you and I, as believers, are in a spiritual battle.2. I'm guessing that everyone listening to this episode prays for God's protection. I do too. Maybe in the mornings and evenings, you pray that God would watch over your family, protect them from harm, and keep them safe. We are praying for the physical protection of those we love. I certainly believe in God's power to shield us from harm. 3. But while you pray for physical protection, do you also pray for spiritual protection? Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 6:12 - “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”Ephesians 6:10-11 - “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.”Ephesians 6:18 - “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.”But while you pray for physical protection, do you also pray for spiritual protection? This is what the Apostle Paul is referring to in these verses. Why pray for spiritual protection? 1 Peter 5:8 - “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Most people think spiritual warfare is about dramatic moments of temptation or obvious attacks. But what if the real battle is happening quietly in your mind during everyday frustrations, disagreements, and storms of life? In this episode they walk through Philippians 4 and uncover how the Apostle Paul reveals the pathway to peace that surpasses understanding. Through real life stories, scripture, and practical discipleship, this conversation explores how the enemy often works through distraction, disagreement, and difficulty rather than obvious sin. Learn how fixing your mind on God changes how you walk through storms, conflict, and uncertainty. If you want to understand how to experience God's peace in the middle of life's chaos, this conversation will challenge the way you think about spiritual warfare and faith.   Did you accept Christ today? Fill out our digital connection card: https://churchontherock.net/connect-card

What does a church with a real testimony actually look like? In Part 5 of our six-part Ephesians series, Pastor Stephen Martin teaches through Ephesians 5, revealing four biblical pillars every Christian must build their life on: guarded purity, resistance to deception, loyalty to the body of Christ, and the courage to expose evil.Listen as Pastor Stephen connects the Apostle Paul's ancient letter to the pressures Christians face right now—from sexual temptation and greed to cultural confusion and division in the church. This episode is as convicting as it is clarifying.You'll Learn:✅ Why purity and deception are directly connected✅ How to identify dividers and unifiers in your church✅ What it means to walk as children of light✅ How remaining planted leads to lasting spiritual fruitPerfect for your commute, workout, or morning routine. Subscribe and never miss an episode.