Podcasts about ask god

When the Bottom Falls Out in Your Life, Ask God to Get Involved Through Prayer AND Thanks – You will Be Amazed! MESSAGE SUMMARY: Sometimes the bottom falls out in your life, and you wonder where God is in all your stuff. Well, the challenge to you is to “Thank God” by turning your eyes away from all your life's “stuff” and turning your eyes to God and thanking Him! We have no better teacher, of the need to address God with our thanks, than when, in Luke11:2, Jesus responded to His Disciples' request to teach them to pray: “And he said to them, ‘When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come.'". By taking your situation to God in prayer AND thanks, you will be amazed at what will happen to your situation which, before you asked God through prayer AND thanks, seemed insurmountable. What do you usually do? You worry and fret – you focus on the negative and give the adverse situation so much power, in your life, rather than focusing on God and giving Him thanks. In Mathew 6:34, Jesus tells you not to be anxious about your life situations: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.". Ask God to get involved in your life through prayer and thanks – you will be amazed.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, may your will, not my will, be done in my life. You know how easy it is to call myself a Christian but then become busy, forgetting about your will and desires. Forgive me for this sin. Help me listen to you, and grant me the courage to faithfully surrender to you. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 25). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, My life is about Christ (Philippians 1:21). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1 Corinthians 11:25; Colossians 2:2-3; John 10:25-30; Psalms 17:1-15. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Our Awesome God -- Part 3: Trinity; Jesus, the Christ”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

The year was 1809. The world had its eyes fixed on Napoleon Bonaparte and the sweeping battles of the War of the Fifth Coalition. But while the nations watched the conflict, heaven was watching something else entirely — the births of Abraham Lincoln, Alfred Tennyson, Louis Braille, and others whose lives would reshape the world in ways no military campaign ever could. In this brilliantly observed episode, Tammy Darling uses this stunning historical contrast to ask us a searching and deeply personal question: when we are desperate for victory, are we even looking in the right place? We see the puzzle piece. God sees the whole picture. And according to Zechariah 4:6, the victories that matter most don't come by might or by power — they come by His Spirit. Tammy reminds us that some victories are obvious, but others are quieter, slower, and easily missed if we are fixated on the wrong measure of success. The scale doesn't move, but the strength increases. The battle rages, but the baby is born. Christ's death looked like defeat to everyone watching — and yet it was the greatest victory in human history. God's ways are higher than ours, His thoughts beyond our comprehension — and that means the victory we're praying for may already be unfolding in ways we simply haven't learned to see yet. Today's Bible Verse "'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty." — Zechariah 4:6, NIV Ponder Today Victory often arrives in ways we're not watching for. The world watched the battles of 1809; heaven watched the births. Ask God to shift your focus from the obvious conflict to the quiet miracles already unfolding around you. We see the puzzle piece — God sees the whole picture. If you feel like victory hasn't come, consider whether your definition of it is too narrow. God's ways are higher and His thoughts deeper than anything we can fully comprehend (Isaiah 55:8-9). True victory comes by God's Spirit, not human strength. Striving harder, pushing longer, and relying on your own power will exhaust you. The victories that last are the ones God brings — in His timing, by His means, for His glory. Some victories require more faith to recognize than others. Mystery is part of God's nature — and therefore part of how He works. Don't despise the small, hidden, or unexpected wins. They may be the very ones heaven is celebrating. The cross looked like defeat — and it was the ultimate victory. When your circumstances look nothing like triumph, remember that God's greatest victories have rarely looked the way anyone expected. Trust Him in what you cannot yet see. A Prayer for You Today Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that every day is an opportunity to dive deeper into the great mystery of who You are. We come before You with open hearts and minds to receive revelation, insight, and greater knowledge of Your will and ways. May we recognize our victories — big and small — even when they arrive in unexpected ways. May we rely on You to bring the victory and not strive in our own power, for truly, it is by Your Spirit that victory is possible. In Your victorious name, Amen. Don't Miss an Episode If today's prayer helped you look for God's hand in unexpected places, we'd love to stay connected. Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and more content to strengthen your faith and sharpen your spiritual vision every day. 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/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Send us Fan MailPastor Harlo White delivers the message "New Things in Omega Part 1", originally delivered on October 5, 1985. Stand with Pastor Harlo White in supporting the Harlo White Healing Stream Podcast. Your donation helps keep this podcast reaching people all across the Earth. Ask God the Father what he would have you do in giving to this ministry. You can visit our website at www.harlowhitehealingstream.com/giving to make a secure donation online. You can also mail your donation to:HARLO WHITE HEALING STREAMP.O. BOX 4695CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, 60680.

Speaker: Rob BerrethScripture: Matthew 6:19-21Episode Overview:In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus invites us to rethink what we value, what we pursue, and where we place our trust. His words are not a warning against enjoying God's gifts, but an invitation to invest in what lasts forever. By contrasting earthly treasures with heavenly treasures, Jesus reveals the wisdom of living with eternity in view. Far from asking us to give something up for His sake, He calls us into a life of greater joy, greater purpose, and greater reward. This message explores why generosity is not ultimately about loss, but about gaining what cannot be taken away.Key Highlights:• Why Jesus' teaching on treasure is about wisdom, not deprivation.• The difference between temporary wealth and eternal riches.• How generosity becomes an investment in God's kingdom and God's people.• What it means to "store up treasures in heaven."• How our spending and giving shape the direction of our hearts.• Why Jesus offers a better return than anything this world can promise.• The connection between discipleship, stewardship, and lasting joy.Call to Action:Take time to examine where your treasure is going and what it reveals about your priorities. Ask God to show you practical ways to invest more deeply in His kingdom, His people, and His purposes. Whether you're just beginning to grow in generosity or seeking to take another step of faith, consider how Christ may be inviting you to exchange temporary investments for eternal ones and to trust Him with more of your heart.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org

Opener 1. Have you ever received directions from someone and then realized later you misunderstood what they meant? What happened? 2. Think of a time when you had an important decision to make. What were some of the things you considered before moving forward? Discussion 1. Read Acts 15:1-29, paying particular attention to verse 28. What stands out to you about the way the early church made decisions? What did they seem to rely on as they discerned God’s direction together? 2. The sermon introduced five “beacons” the Holy Spirit often uses to guide us: Scripture, prayer, a surrendered heart, community, and wisdom/circumstances. Which of these five beacons do you tend to trust most naturally? Which one do you tend to overlook or neglect? 3. Rather than relying on a single feeling, dream, or coincidence, the early church looked for multiple indicators pointing in the same direction. Why do you think God often guides us through a process of discernment rather than simply giving us immediate certainty? What does that require from us? 4. One of the sermon’s key ideas was that hearing God is not just about receiving guidance but becoming the kind of person who listens. Read Colossians 3:15-17. How do gratitude, surrender, and obedience affect our ability to recognize and respond to God’s leading? 5. Looking back on your life, can you think of a time when several of the “beacons” aligned and helped bring clarity to a situation? What did you learn from that experience? Application 1. Which of the five beacons—Scripture, prayer, a surrendered heart, community, or wisdom/circumstances—would you like to pay closer attention to this week? What is one practical step you can take? Close in Prayer Spend time asking the Holy Spirit to make you more attentive to His voice. Pray for wisdom, discernment, and a surrendered heart that is willing to follow wherever Jesus leads. Ask God to use His Word, prayer, community, and everyday circumstances to help each person grow in recognizing His guidance.

AI, Spiritual Deception & Learning to Ask God the Right Questions | KIB 533 Kingdom Intelligence Briefing Description Are we asking God the wrong questions in this generation? In Episode 533 of the Kingdom Intelligence Briefing, Dr. Michael and Mary Lou Lake examine the growing spiritual deception surrounding AI, data centers, propaganda, counterfeit spirituality, and the coming pressures of Mystery Babylon. This powerful briefing challenges believers to move beyond shallow Christianity and learn how to seek the Kingdom of God with discernment, covenant faithfulness, and spiritual maturity. Dr. Lake explores how believers have often been trained to pursue comfort, prosperity, and escape rather than asking God how to walk in Kingdom purpose, holiness, discernment, and spiritual authority in the last days. Mary Lou shares urgent insights regarding spiritual warfare, mind control technologies, AI systems, occult influences, and the need for believers to trust fully in God's protection and covenant promises. This episode is a wake-up call for the Remnant: • Learn to discern truth in an age of deception • Understand the spiritual dangers behind counterfeit systems • Discover the power of asking God the right questions • Learn how the Holy Spirit develops true Kingdom maturity • Be encouraged that God's power has not diminished The days ahead will require discernment, covenant fidelity, spiritual endurance, and unwavering trust in the Most High God. "Teach me what to ask, Lord." ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

Send us Fan MailTHE SACRED RHYTHM OF JESUSDesert, Community, Project | Part 1Senior Pastor Keith StewartMay 31, 2026What if the key to a transformed life isn't trying harder—but living differently? Jesus lived according to a sacred rhythm: time alone with God, life-giving community, and meaningful service to others. Yet many of us live that rhythm backwards, leaving us exhausted, distracted, and spiritually depleted. This Sunday, Pastor Keith Stewart begins a brand-new series, The Sacred Rhythm of Jesus. Discover how God transforms ordinary people into world-changing followers of Christ through a pattern as old as the Gospel itself: Desert. Community. Project. Join us this Sunday at Springcreek Church—online or in person—and learn how arranging your life around the way of Jesus can change everything.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Icebreaker What is one daily habit or rhythm in your life that has had a significant impact on who you are today? Digging Into the Message Pastor Keith defined spiritual transformation as: "God lovingly changing our thoughts, feelings, and actions to resemble Jesus, in community, for the good of the world." Which part of that definition stands out most to you and why?The message emphasized that spiritual transformation affects the whole person—mind, heart, and will. Which of those areas do you think God is most actively working on in your life right now? Have you ever known someone who was strong in biblical knowledge, spiritual experiences, or religious activity, but lacked balance in the other areas? What can we learn from that? Romans 8 describes Jesus as the pattern for our lives. When you think about becoming more like Jesus, what characteristic of His life do you most want to see developed in yourself? Desert (Love God) Jesus regularly withdrew to spend time alone with the Father. What currently helps you connect with God? What tends to distract you? The message challenged us to practice "digital discipline." What role does technology play in helping or hindering your relationship with God? Which spiritual discipline (prayer, solitude, fasting, worship, Scripture reading, etc.) would most strengthen your walk with God if practiced more consistently? Community (Love One Another) Why do you think God designed spiritual growth to happen in community rather than isolation? The message contrasted the Communion Table with the coffee bar. In what ways can we sometimes approach church more like consumers than participants? How has someone in the church helped shape your spiritual growth? What would it look like for our group to become a more diverse, welcoming, and gospel-centered community? Project (Love Your Neighbor) Pastor Keith said, "Love is not love until it is given away." Where do you currently have opportunities to demonstrate Christ's love through service? Who is someone in your life right now who may need to experience God's love through your words, encouragement, or practical help? Tony Campolo's story reminds us that small acts of love matter. What is one simple act of kindness or service you could offer this week? Application Of the three rhythms—Desert, Community, or Project—which is strongest in your life right now? Which needs the most attention? What is one specific step you will take this week to better align your life with the rhythm of Jesus? Closing Prayer Pray that God would make each member of the group more like Christ through time with God, authentic community, and loving service to others. Ask God to help you become "His suit of clothes" in the world this week.

Some of the costliest financial mistakes are made in isolation. When big decisions come our way, pride and pressure can convince us that we need to figure everything out ourselves. But God designed us to walk in community, and His wisdom often comes through trusted voices. Seeking wise counsel is not a sign of weakness—it is a key part of faithful stewardship. Have you ever faced a financial decision that felt heavier than your confidence could carry? Maybe it was whether to buy a home. Perhaps it was changing careers, helping aging parents, navigating a difficult season in marriage, or deciding how to prepare for retirement. In those moments, the questions come quickly: What if I get this wrong? What if I overlook something important? What if I regret this later? And often, beneath all of those questions is the assumption that you should be able to figure it out by yourself. But God never intended for you to walk through life's biggest decisions alone. Wisdom Often Comes Through Community One of the clearest themes in Scripture is that wisdom often comes through community. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” That is not only a proverb about leadership. It is a principle for everyday life—including our finances. Sometimes we think wisdom is found only in personal research, spreadsheets, calculators, or online content. Those tools can certainly be helpful. But biblical wisdom is more than information. It includes discernment, humility, perspective, and the willingness to receive insight from others. That is why Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” Notice the contrast: foolishness is not always recklessness. Sometimes it is simply refusing to listen. Wisdom begins when we acknowledge that we may not see the whole picture. And that takes humility. Humility Opens the Door to Wisdom Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” To fear the Lord means recognizing that God is God and we are not. We submit our plans, our preferences, and even our financial assumptions to Him. We stop asking only, “What do I want to do?” and begin asking, “Lord, what would You have me do?” That kind of humility also opens us to receive the people God may use in our lives. Sometimes that person is a mentor who has walked through a season you are now entering. Sometimes it is a trusted friend who knows you well enough to ask hard questions. Sometimes it is an older believer whose experience can spare you from avoidable mistakes. And sometimes it is a professional advisor who brings technical expertise shaped by biblical values, such as a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®). But ignoring wise voices can have destructive consequences. Rehoboam's Warning Scripture gives us a sobering example in Rehoboam, the son of Solomon. In 1 Kings 12, when Rehoboam became king, the people asked him to lighten the heavy burdens placed on them. At first, he sought counsel from the older men who had advised his father. They urged him to lead with humility and serve the people. But Rehoboam rejected their wisdom. Instead, he turned to younger voices that echoed his pride and ambition. Their advice was simple: be harsher, be stronger, demand more. He followed their counsel, and the result was devastating. The kingdom was split in two. What began as a leadership decision became a national tragedy. Why? Because Rehoboam preferred affirmation over wisdom. He chose voices that told him what he wanted to hear instead of what he needed to hear. That temptation is still with us today. Wise Counsel Does More Than Validate Us When making financial decisions, we can easily look for voices that justify our desires, reinforce our fears, or confirm what we have already decided. But wise counsel does not merely validate us. It helps us see what we cannot see on our own. Sometimes, wise voices serve as guardrails. They keep us from drifting into the ditches of greed, fear, impulsiveness, or self-reliance. They help us slow down, think clearly, and align our choices with God's purposes. That may mean someone helps you recognize that a purchase is moving too quickly. It may mean an advisor helps you see the long-term impact of a financial decision. It may mean a trusted friend reminds you that generosity, contentment, and faithfulness matter just as much as the numbers. Ultimately, wise counsel leads to wiser decisions. Don't Carry the Decision Alone So, what financial decision are you carrying right now? Maybe it is time to stop carrying it alone. Ask God to show you who He has already placed around you. Make a list of trusted people you can reach out to. Invite wise voices into your decision-making process. Do not isolate. Do not assume asking for help is a weakness. Often, it is one of the strongest acts of stewardship you can make. Faithful stewardship is not just about making the right financial choice. It is about making decisions with humility, wisdom, and dependence on God. And one of the ways God often gives us wisdom is through the people He places around us. If you would like to explore this idea further, you can read more in our new devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship. Order your copy today at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My identity was stolen about five years ago, and I'm still receiving notices for debts and accounts I never opened. I've frozen my credit and disputed the fraudulent charges, but banks and lenders continue turning me down. What else can I do to clean this up? I receive Social Security and a pension. How should I think about giving tithes and offerings from that income? My wife owes me a little over $40,000 from a 0% loan I gave her to help save her late mother's house from foreclosure. We put the agreement in writing, but the repayment period has long passed, and she would have to wipe out her retirement to repay me. I can afford to forgive the loan, but she hasn't asked for forgiveness. From a biblical and marital standpoint, should I forgive it anyway? What's the difference between a living trust and a will, and how do I know which one is better for my estate plan? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) IdentityTheft.gov (Federal Trade Commission) Equifax | TransUnion | Experian LastPass | 1Password | iCloud Keychain Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailPastor Harlo White delivers the message "The New Song, Part 4", originally delivered on August 17, 1985. Stand with Pastor Harlo White in supporting the Harlo White Healing Stream Podcast. Your donation helps keep this podcast reaching people all across the Earth. Ask God the Father what he would have you do in giving to this ministry. You can visit our website at www.harlowhitehealingstream.com/giving to make a secure donation online. You can also mail your donation to:HARLO WHITE HEALING STREAMP.O. BOX 4695CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, 60680.

Speaker: Dane BurgessScripture: Acts 2:1-41Episode Overview:At Pentecost, God poured out His Holy Spirit on the church and began gathering what sin had scattered. Walking through Acts 2:1–41, this message explores how the coming of the Holy Spirit reveals Jesus as both Lord and Messiah, fulfills God's redemptive plan, and calls people to repentance and faith. From the reversal of Babel to Peter's proclamation of the gospel, we see how God brings people from every nation, language, and background into His family through Christ. The same Spirit who empowered the early church continues to draw hearts to Jesus, turning people away from self-rule and into joyful submission to the King who gave His life for their salvation.Key Highlights:• The connection between Babel and Pentecost, and how God gathers what sin scatters.• The significance of the Holy Spirit's arrival and what it reveals about God's kingdom.• Peter's explanation of Pentecost through Scripture and the fulfillment of God's promises.• Why Jesus' death, resurrection, and exaltation stand at the center of the gospel message.• What it means to be "cut to the heart" by the truth of Christ.• The biblical call to repentance, baptism, and faith in Jesus.• The promise of the Holy Spirit for all who belong to Christ.• How Acts 2 points believers toward a life centered on Jesus rather than self.Call to Action:Consider what stands at the center of your life. Where have you been carrying burdens, seeking control, or relying on yourself instead of Christ? Ask God to reveal areas that need repentance and surrender. Trust the One who holds all things together, and take a step of obedience toward Him this week—whether through prayer, reconciliation, baptism, sharing the gospel, or simply placing your confidence once again in His grace and lordship.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org

Let this sink in: we are invited to cry out to our God and our King any time we want or need to. Will we be audacious enough to do that?Here's the blog post that goes with today's episode.

Notes: Luke 17 God gives us biblical principles to free us from our three enemies: the world, the flesh, and the devil. The freedom that the world offers is slavery. Read Luke 17:1–2 (NKJV) Your Influence Is Never Neutral. Matthew 12:30 (NKJV)"He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.”You cannot impress people and bless people at the same time. Parents, your greatest mission field is inside your own home. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (NKJV)"And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. "You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” Luke 17:2 (NLT)It would be better to be thrown into the sea with a millstone hung around your neck than to cause one of these little ones to fall into sin. 1 Corinthians 10:31–32 (NLT)So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Don't give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God. 1 Corinthians 10:33 (NLT)I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don't just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NLT)And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. Repent!Turn from the shortcomings and follow God’s will. Ask God to forgive you and to strengthen you so you won't fail. Luke 17:3 (NKJV)Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. Luke 17:4 (NKJV)And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, 'I repent,' you shall forgive him. Forgive As You’ve Been Forgiven. Proverbs 27:5–6 (NKJV)Open rebuke is betterThan love carefully concealed.Faithful are the wounds of a friend,But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Luke 6:37 (NKJV)Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. To forgive means to release someone from a debt. Luke 17:5 (NKJV)And the apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith." Luke 17:6 (NKJV)So the Lord said, "If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,' and it would obey you. The Right Faith We don’t need more faith; we need a deeper understanding of what faith in God can accomplish. Read Luke 17:7–10 (NKJV) It’s Not Always About You. Jesus is the central figure in all human history, in all of creation. Acts 20:22–23 (NLT)And now I am bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. I don't know what awaits me, except that the Holy Spirit tells me in city after city that jail and suffering lie ahead. Acts 20:24 (NLT)But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God. Matthew 6:3–5 (NLT)When you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. When we obey God, it’s liberating, it’s freedom, and it’s revolutionary. The Harvest Crusade is coming to Angel Stadium on July 11! Stay updated on all important event details. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Notes: Luke 17 God gives us biblical principles to free us from our three enemies: the world, the flesh, and the devil. The freedom that the world offers is slavery. Read Luke 17:1–2 (NKJV) Your Influence Is Never Neutral. Matthew 12:30 (NKJV)"He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.”You cannot impress people and bless people at the same time. Parents, your greatest mission field is inside your own home. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (NKJV)"And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. "You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” Luke 17:2 (NLT)It would be better to be thrown into the sea with a millstone hung around your neck than to cause one of these little ones to fall into sin. 1 Corinthians 10:31–32 (NLT)So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Don't give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God. 1 Corinthians 10:33 (NLT)I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don't just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NLT)And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. Repent!Turn from the shortcomings and follow God’s will. Ask God to forgive you and to strengthen you so you won't fail. Luke 17:3 (NKJV)Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. Luke 17:4 (NKJV)And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, 'I repent,' you shall forgive him. Forgive As You’ve Been Forgiven. Proverbs 27:5–6 (NKJV)Open rebuke is betterThan love carefully concealed.Faithful are the wounds of a friend,But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Luke 6:37 (NKJV)Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. To forgive means to release someone from a debt. Luke 17:5 (NKJV)And the apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith." Luke 17:6 (NKJV)So the Lord said, "If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,' and it would obey you. The Right Faith We don’t need more faith; we need a deeper understanding of what faith in God can accomplish. Read Luke 17:7–10 (NKJV) It’s Not Always About You. Jesus is the central figure in all human history, in all of creation. Acts 20:22–23 (NLT)And now I am bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. I don't know what awaits me, except that the Holy Spirit tells me in city after city that jail and suffering lie ahead. Acts 20:24 (NLT)But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God. Matthew 6:3–5 (NLT)When you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. When we obey God, it’s liberating, it’s freedom, and it’s revolutionary. The Harvest Crusade is coming to Angel Stadium on July 11! Stay updated on all important event details. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Jared Cochrum preaches from Matthew 7:7-11.

Introduction: Mark 1:8 - I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Since I'm a Member of the Body of Christ… (1 Corinthians 12:12-31) I shouldn't DOUBT the Part I Play (1 Cor 12:14-20) Because That DENIES My Purpose (1 Cor 12:14-17) Because That DISHONORS God's Design (1 Cor 12:18-20) I shouldn't DOWNPLAY the Roles of Others (1 Cor 12:21-26) By Acting Like I Don't Need ANYONE ELSE (1 Cor 12:21-24) By Exclusively Focusing on My NEEDS (1 Cor 12:25-26) By Shining the Spotlight onto ME (1 Cor 12:27-31) Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Questions and Answers: How is the Church Like a Body? Taylor Brown Download Audio Transcript 00:36Please turn your Bibles to 1 Corinthians 12, verses 12-31. 1 Corinthians 12, verses 12-31. Isn't it frustrating to witness someone not do his or her job correctly? Maybe you have an employee or a direct report who constantly comes late, makes excuses, or has a suspicious number of grandparents that he has funerals he has to attend.01:06How many grandparents do you actually have? You hire a contractor to carry out a project in your house and he makes huge mistakes. And he acts very inconvenient when you come, when you ask him to come back and fix those mistakes. Your waitress has a horrible attitude and never checks on your table because she is constantly texting. You know what's even more frustrating than that? Witnessing or experiencing someone else.01:36not allow others to do their jobs correctly. You watch your favorite team lose yet again because one key player can't get his act together and he messes it up for everybody. You have a boss who is an expert in incompetence. He expects everyone to do their jobs as well as his job. You have a co-worker who makes your job so hard you can't finish this project at work because she has constantly dragging your feet and she is not communicating with you.02:10And instead of accepting that blame, taking it on herself, she points the finger of blame at you and says that it's your fault.02:19You know what's infinitely more frustrating than all the examples I've given already?02:24Witnessing a Christian refuse to do his or her job in the church.02:30or experiencing another Christian attempt to hinder you from carrying out your job in the church. Instead of contributing to the team, this person backs away, tries to go solo and do his or her own thing. Instead of building others up and encouraging them, they tear others down and diminish them. Wasted potential is a sorry sight to behold. Misused talents are squandered resources.03:02Missed opportunities for ministry are to be grieved. As you learned over the past eight months in 1 Corinthians, the church is commanded to be unified and purified. Unfortunately, this unity is undervalued, ignored, and tested by many who should know better. This purity is jeopardized, abused, and cast aside by many who claim to know and love Jesus Christ.03:30Excuses are made and commitments are unkept. Complaints are spoken instead of genuine praise. Zooming in on me and what I want is far more common than focusing on us and what we need. Am I describing you? Am I describing your contribution to the church?04:00Ask yourself, am I contributing to the unity and purity of Harvest Bible Chapel, or am I subtracting from it? Are you neglecting to do your job in the church? Are you standing in the way of others and making it hard for them to carry out their jobs in the church? Take a moment to go before the Lord and consider those questions.04:32Quiet your heart and ask God to convict you today. Ask God to challenge you today. Ask God to change you today. Go to the Lord in prayer. Father, we come before you as your people for the most important appointment of the week. May we not be distracted. Or may we truly dial in to what what you want to teach us this morning. Lord, may you show us who you've called us to be and what you've commanded us to do. I pray we'd all walk out of this room with a different vision of the church and a different idea of what we are called to do individually in the church. I ask all these things in Jesus' name. Amen. We are in the Q&A section of 1 Corinthians. Paul is addressing questions that this congregation asked him in a previous And last week, Pastor Jeff showed us Paul's answer to the Corinthians' question about spiritual gifts. Every single believer is given at least one spiritual gift that is to be used to bless the church and advance the gospel. No one is skipped over. No one is forgotten. No one is left giftless. And these gifts are to unite, not divide.06:00And Paul continues to answer this question in chapter 12, verses 12 through 31, by providing a powerful illustration. He compares the unity of the church body to the unity of a physical human body. Check out what he has to say in verse 12 of chapter 12.06:30So it is with Christ. I'm going to ask you a very easy question, and I'm even going to let you cheat to get the right answer. So everyone, look down and give yourself a quick once-over. Come on, go do it. Are you ready for my question? How many bodies do you have? It's not your question. Just one, you got the answer right. Great job.07:01I'm asking you an easy follow-up question. You can look down again if you have to. How many body parts do you have? Do you have more than one body part? Yes, you have more than one. According to Dr. Google, which is never wrong, you have 78 organs, 206 bones, and 30 to 40 trillion cells. You have individual body parts, legs, feet, toes, toenails, arms, Arms, Hands, Hands, Fingers, Fingernails, Heart, Lungs, Kidney, Stomach, Pancreas, Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, Nose, Nose, Hairs, Mouth, Teeth, Gums, Tongue, Uvula.07:41And on the list goes. Sorry, Pastor Jeff's uvula was swollen this week, and you're talking about it a lot, so I had to add that.07:50He was sick. That was the reason why.07:54But these individual parts do not operate or function independently from one another.08:00Instead, they work together as one body. They serve different roles. They carry out the same mission to keep you alive and kicking. And Paul is saying this truth about your physical body applies to the church body as well. Yes, we all have different roles. We all have different functions. But we do not operate independently from one another. We work together as one body.08:30same mission to lift high the name of Jesus Christ by making disciples.08:37And you may be thinking, hold on a minute.08:39This illustration seems to break down a bit because I've always had my physical body.08:44It's the only one I've got.08:46How did I become a part of the church body?08:48When did that happen?08:50It's a great question.08:52Thankfully, Paul answers it in verse 13.08:55He says, For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Jews or Greeks, slaves or free, and all were made to drink of one Spirit. You realize at one point you didn't exist. There was no you. Then you popped into existence and you grew in your mother's womb. And at one point you were born into this world with your physical But if you are a true follower of Jesus Christ, if you have been saved and given new life in Him, you have experienced more than just one birth. According to God's Word, you've experienced a new birth. And on your spiritual birthday, you were brought into the body of Christ. You became a part of the body of Christ. And this second birth is a work of the Holy Spirit, who Paul That sounds really cool. What in the world does that mean? Baptized in the Holy Spirit. Well, 2,000 years ago, John the Baptist baptized men and women in water as a sign of their repentance. But John was up front. He was very clear that he was not the point. He was not the be-all and end-all. He came to point to someone greater than him. He says, He says, I baptize with water, but He will baptize with the Holy Spirit.10:37Who is this greater person?10:39Who baptizes with the Holy Spirit?10:42Jesus Christ Himself.10:46This has massive implications for my life, your life, and the life of this church body.10:52This means that I, Taylor Samuel Brown, wasn't just baptized in water on July 30, 2000 by Pastor Jesse Boggs at Northgate Church. Yes, that was an important day. That was an important baptism. But I experienced an even more important day, an even more important baptism years prior. Before that, I was baptized in the Holy Spirit by Jesus Christ. I was saved from my sins.11:25I was made into a new person.11:27I was brought into the body of Christ.11:32My water baptism was simply an outward symbol of the salvation I experienced.11:39Of this baptism in the Holy Spirit that I experienced.11:45And Paul even says that I drank of the Holy Spirit.11:50Again, sounds great, but what in the world does that mean? Well, think about it this way. When you drink something, you are filled with that liquid, aren't you? Whether it's water, coffee, wild cherry, Pepsi, or kombucha. When you drink a liquid, you are filled with that liquid. When you drink of the Holy Spirit, you are filled with the Holy Spirit. He lives within you. He takes up residence within you.12:20If you have trusted in Christ, you have been baptized in the Holy Spirit. You have been filled with the Holy Spirit. In verse 13, Paul mentions different factors that would divide people back in his day. He mentions ethnicity and social status. In 2026, we live in a world where we are constantly being tried to be ripped apart because of our many differences. We have different backgrounds. We have different skin colors. We come from different financial situations. We have different careers. We have different personalities. We have different temperaments. We are different in so many ways. And as we'll discover soon, that is good news to celebrate. But we are the exact same in the most important ways. We have the same Heavenly Father. We have been redeemed by the same Savior.13:20been changed by the same Holy Spirit. We belong to the same body. Our differences may be great, but our unity in Christ and His Spirit is even greater. So after this long and theologically heavy introduction, you may be thinking, all right, this is all very interesting, but what's the point? I get it. I'm a member of the body of Christ.13:49Now, you need to be encouraged to do your job in the body of Christ. Now, you need to be encouraged to let other people do their jobs in the body of Christ. So on your outline, since I'm a member of the body of Christ, number one, I shouldn't doubt the part I play. I shouldn't doubt the part I play.14:19Some of you in this room and watching online struggle to truly believe that you have an important part to play in the life of this church. You may think to yourself, I mean, sure, this is my church and I'm involved, but if I left, nothing would change. No one would notice. I don't have an upfront role that matters. I don't play an instrument. I don't really matter here. And as one of your pastors, it deeply saddens me that some of you feel that way about you.14:51It deeply saddens me that you believe a lie about yourself instead of believing what God's word says about who you are. You do matter. You do have a part to play at Harvest. This church does need you and it wouldn't be the same without you. And I'm not just saying that to make you feel good. I'm saying that because that's what God's word says. Listen to what Paul says in verses 14 through 17.15:19For the body does not consist of one member, but of many. If the foot should say, because I'm not a hand, I do not belong to the body, that would not make it any less part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell?15:49I didn't doubt the part I play. Letter A on your outline, because that denies my purpose. Because that denies my purpose. You claiming that you have no part to play in the body of Christ because you don't have the gifting of another person is as ridiculous as your foot saying, I have no part to play in the body because I'm not a hand. I'll never be able to hammer a nail into the wall. I'll never be able to type on a keyboard, so I just give up.16:18I mean, sure, your hands can't do, your feet can't do what your hands can do. But your hands can't do what your feet can do as well, right? Walking is pretty important, right? Most of you don't agree with that. Walking is really important, right? Your hands can't do that. Okay, good. Man, you are sitting right now, but eventually you will have to get up and walk away.16:45You claiming that you have no part to play in the body of Christ is as insane as your ears saying, I have no part to play in the body because I'll never be able to look at the Grand Canyon. I'll never be able to stare up at a starry night. So I'm just going to tune out and call it a day. I mean, yeah, your eye is important, but your eyes can't do what your ears can do. Without your ears, you wouldn't be able to hear anything. Just imagine if your entire body was just just one feature. Eyes are beautiful, aren't they? I love my wife's eyes the most, and I could stare into her eyes for hours. But imagine if Kate was just a big eyeball and nothing else. There's a big eye bouncing around my house and sleeping in the bed next to me at night. That sounds like the premise of a horror movie. I mean, yeah, I'd still love her because I made a vow to her 12 years ago, but That'd be pretty rough. That'd be hard. A big eye has 20-20 vision, but it can't really do anything else. A big ear has great hearing, but it can't really do much else. Now imagine if every single person in this church had the same exact gifting and function. Would that be productive or disastrous? It would be a total and complete I have been in a room with thousands of preachers before.18:20Imagine if those thousands of preachers tried to carry out the same function in the same church.18:27There would be arguments about who does what.18:29The bills would never get paid.18:31The building would fall in disrepair and probably burn down.18:34Preaching is an essential function of the church, but is not the only function.18:41Some of you men in this room do have a preaching gift.18:44We are so thankful for you. You realize it's very different. It's very unique to have this many guys who can preach a message in a church. That doesn't happen everywhere. God has gifted this church. But others of you guys do not have a preaching gift. And that is not something to be upset about. That is not a bad thing. Not everybody has the gift of preaching. Not everyone has an upfront role.19:14If your part is behind the scenes, it matters. Maybe your part is in the AV booth. Without Mike back there, without all the AV team back there, no one would be able to hear the sermons. I'd just scream at the top of my lungs for you to hear me. Without Ben and Lincoln working on the sermons afterwards, people across the country and across the world wouldn't be able to hear it, which does happen.19:43Maybe your part is being on the prayer team. You show the rest of the body what it looks like to faithfully lift up the needs of the saints to the Lord. Maybe your part is security. You function as the antibodies of the church that keeps the rest of the body safe. Maybe your part is working at Harvest Academy or working as an adult leader in Arrow. You are training up the future generation in Jesus Christ.20:14is leading a small group. You are on the front lines of congregational care and discipleship. Maybe your part is on the relocation and building committee with Pastor Rich and the others. You help formulate the budget. You count on Sundays. I can keep going and going and going. Without a doubt, you do have a part to play. Stop believing that you do not matter. Stop being envious of others. Stop denying your purpose at harvest.20:45I shouldn't doubt the part I play because that denies my purpose. Letter B, I shouldn't doubt the part I play because that dishonors God's design. Because that dishonors God's design. Let's look at verses 18 through 20. But as it is, God arranges the members in the body, each one of them as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be?21:18When you badmouth a team's starting lineup and strategies, who are you ultimately dishonoring? The coach who decides who starts and designs the place. If you pick apart every single detail of a restaurant and complain about it to everyone that you know, who are you dishonoring ultimately? The manager, the owner, who decides who to hire, who makes all the big decisions. If you complain about your gifting and part in the body, who are you ultimately dishonoring? God himself. He is the one who created you. He is the one who designed his church. Paul says that God arranges the members in the body, each of them as he chose. When you are discontent with your part in the church, you aren't just hurting yourself, and you are hurting yourself.22:13You aren't just shortchanging your fellow members. You aren't just making ministry hard for the pastors, elders, and other leaders. You are accusing God. You are saying something about Him that is not true. You are shouting this message to your Creator. God, you made a mistake with me. I deserve a do-over. You could have done better. Is that a great message to send to the most important and powerful person the universe. No, it is not. Because God doesn't need a do-over. Because he nails everything on the first try. God did not make a mistake with you. He designs you purposefully and puts you into his church with purpose and design. It's a complete waste of time, energy, and effort to resist the Lord. So cut it out. Get on board with his plans for the body. Lean into your God-given part instead of backing away from it. Do your job in the church because it was personally chosen for you. Since I'm a member of the body of Christ, I shouldn't doubt the part I play. Since I'm a member of the body of Christ, number two on your outline, I shouldn't downplay the roles of others. I shouldn't downplay the roles of others.23:44from sabotaging yourself to sabotaging others. It is foolish to stand in your own way, but it is wicked to stand in the way of other people. As we just talked about, many of you struggle with a low view of yourself and how God has gifted you. Others of you have the exact opposite problem. You have a low view of others and how God has gifted them.24:13In the next several verses, Paul warns you to not downplay the roles of others in the church. Listen to verses 21 through 24.24:43which are more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it. I shouldn't downplay the roles of others, letter A on your outline, by acting like I don't need anyone else. By acting like I don't need anyone else. So Paul turns the tables on the Corinthians as well as you and me in these verses. He flips the scenario.25:13First, he says it's dumb for a foot or an eye to say that they're not a part of the body. Now he says it's dumb for the eye or the head to tell other parts of the body that they don't matter. This kind of attitude is arrogant. This game of comparison misses the point. You know, naturally, we all create lists of importance and systems of ranking.25:43a to-do list that you want to complete, right? Where do you put the items that you think are the most important? Top of the list, right? Where do you put the items that you think are probably the least important? At the bottom of the list. Several months ago, many of you took part in the college basketball brackets, right? You decided which teams you thought were the best and which teams you thought were the worst. If I were to ask you your favorite movies, you could list them very quickly. If I were to ask you to list your least favorite movies, you could do it even quicker. We naturally evaluate everything. We're constantly grading other people's performances. We form our own personal rankings. And this was happening in the Corinthian church back in the first century. There were the spiritual elite at the top of the charts who looked down on those they thought were weaker, less honorable, and even unpresentable.26:45Paul says those brothers or sisters who seem weaker are actually indispensable. Those who seem to have a less than honorable role deserve greater honor. Those who seem unpresentable should be treated with the utmost respect. You may be thinking, oh, Pastor Taylor, I'm not spiritually elite. I don't look down at other people. I don't act like I don't need anyone else.27:16Are you sure about that? Are you sure? Do you make excuses for why you can't be in community with other believers? Do you refuse to join a small group or be involved in other ministries that we offer here like fishermen, live, laugh, lunch, precepts, mugs and moms? You say you don't have time or energy for these things, but inwardly you know that's not true.27:43By not joining a small group or participating in any of these ministries, you are communicating a loud and clear message, I'm doing just fine on my own. I don't need anyone else. I am self-sufficient. Maybe you are a part of a small group of one of the other ministries that I mentioned, but as soon as you walk in, you put up your defense shields. You don't share a detail of your life with anybody. No one knows anything about what you're struggling with or how they can pray for you because you don't.28:13tell them. You don't want to trust anybody else because they might let you down. You were hurt in the past and so you think, well, it's going to happen again, so I'm not even going to try. Are you someone who comes in late and leaves early because you are terrified of knowing others and being known? You're acting like you don't need anyone else. Are there people in this room or the other service that you actively avoid?28:45Is there a guy in your small group that you intentionally leave out of conversations and hangouts? Is there a woman down the aisle from you who you are blatantly rude to face to face and make fun of behind closed doors? All of these behaviors are childish. All of these behaviors are reflective of the Corinthians, not Christ. All of those behaviors hurt the body and do not help the body.29:14I shouldn't downplay the roles of others by acting like I don't need anyone else. Letter B, I shouldn't downplay the roles of others by exclusively focusing on my needs. By exclusively focusing on my needs. Let's read verses 25 through 26. That there may be no division in the body, that the members may have the same care for one another.29:44All suffer together. If one member is honored, all rejoice together.29:53Have you ever been walking around your house minding your own business whenever you stub your pinky toe on the bed or a bench or a chair?30:01Let me ask you, in that moment, is it just your pinky toe that reacts?30:07Does the rest of your body think, man, sucks to be pinky, too bad for him.30:11I'm just gonna kinda do my own thing for a little while he calms down. No, when you stub your pinky toe, the pause button is pressed on life and nothing else matters. Your whole body reacts, your face grimaces, your mouth yells out some things that you hope nobody else hears. Your back arches, your hands reach down and grab your damaged foot and you pogo stick around on the undamaged foot and then your eyes inspect the damage. Your whole body reacts to the pain.30:43You ever had a bad back problem? Or a nagging tooth pain? Are you able to compartmentalize that and not think about it? Now when your back hurts, it's game over for your day. If your tooth is throbbing, you have one all-consuming thought, end the pain right now. Your whole body feels the pain of even its smallest member.31:12The same should be true of the body of Christ. If one person is in pain, all of us should be in pain. If there is a need, we should all rise up to meet that need. If someone in your small group has a big surgery or a major medical issue, start a meal train. Go visit them in the hospital. Take care of tasks around the house.31:41If there's someone on your serving team who loses a family member, show up at the funeral. Show up at the visitation. Your presence will speak far louder than any words you could possibly share. Care about the pain of other people. Meet the needs of others. Care about what other people need, even more than what you need. If one member suffers, all suffer together.32:11If one member is honored, all rejoice together. Here's a question that's been nagging at me all week. Do I love to celebrate the victories of other people? Very often the answer is no. What about you? Do you love to celebrate the victories of other people? Do you rejoice with other Christians?32:41When something good happens to another Christian in your life, do you think, praise the Lord, what a blessing? Or do you think, man, when's it going to be my turn? Nothing good ever happens to me like it does to that guy. When there's a couple in this church that has a solid marriage and really great godly children, do you think to yourself, man, what a great example that I want to follow? Or do you think to yourself, when will my family get it together? I'll never be like Mr. and Mrs. Perfect. I wish they'd stop rubbing it in my face.33:13You have to understand that other people's success is not your failure. According to Paul, their success is your success because you are a part of the same body. Let's share in the pain together. Let's share in the joy together. Let's thank the Lord in the good times together. And let's trust the Lord in the hard times together.33:41I shouldn't downplay the roles of others by acting like I don't need anyone else. I shouldn't downplay the roles of others by exclusively focusing on my needs. Finally, I shouldn't downplay the roles of others by shining the spotlight onto me. By shining the spotlight onto me. Let's wrap up with verses 27 through 31. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, These verses are jam-packed with a ton of stuff that we cannot get into. We don't have the time right now.34:41But it's really important to see that Paul mentions an office that no longer exists today. The office of apostle. Some churches have not got that memo yet. God is not posting apostleship jobs on Indeed. He is not hiring or looking to fill that position in 2026. Paul also talks about the sign gifts like speaking in tongues, miracles, and healing. Thankfully, I don't have to wade into that controversial topic because Pastor Jeff did it last week and he'll do an even deeper dive this summer.35:11Sometimes it pays to be the associate pastor.35:15But for now, catch the principle that Paul is communicating instead of getting bogged down in the details.35:21And the best way to do that is to answer the layup questions that Paul asks.35:25Let's go through the list.35:26And you have to participate.35:27You have to answer the question.35:29There's one obvious answer for all of them.35:31Are all apostles?35:33Good job.35:34Are all prophets?35:36Are all teachers?35:38Do all work miracles?35:39Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? What's Paul's point? God has given every single believer a spiritual gift or several spiritual gifts, but he has not given any believer all the spiritual gifts. That's not possible. You know, we have a lot of talented musicians and vocalists here at Harvest, don't we? Let's give them a round of applause and thank them for all they do for us.36:13You know, Jesse Hogan, he can sing, he can play the guitar, he can play the drums, he can play the piano. He can play three instruments and I can play none. I guess I shouldn't rank our abilities, right? I shouldn't compare. I'm sorry, I'm still learning that lesson myself. I shouldn't compare with Jesse. Jesse can play all those things, but he can't play every single instrument in the world of which there are over 1,500.36:39Also, Jesse can't play all those instruments at the same exact time. If Jesse tried to come up here and do a one-man band and try to run between the guitar, the piano, and run between the drums, he would make a total and complete fool of himself. Because prideful exaltation always leads to forced humility. Jesse needs the rest of the band around him.37:09He needs everybody else. He needs the vocalists who can't reach the notes that he cannot. He needs Chris or Jay on bass. Jesse needs everybody else working with him. You know, the Corinthians were experts in self-exaltation. Many in the church wanted to shine the spotlight onto themselves. Look again at verse 31. Paul says, On a first glance, it may look like Paul is commanding the Corinthians to seek after the biggest and best gifts, but that totally misses the point of what he's actually saying. If you pay attention to the context, he's saying the exact opposite. This word, earnestly, is most often used in the context of envy and jealousy. A better translation of this verse is, But you are jealous for the higher gifts Paul is not commending them He is not celebrating them He is correcting the Corinthians Because they desired the flashy and showy gifts Serving wasn't on their mind because they wanted to show off Paul is telling them You're not the point So stop trying to be You're not in competition with one another You are working together Be in sync with one another do your job and help other people do their job as well. And he concludes by saying, and I will show you a still more excellent way. What is that still more excellent way? It is the way of love, which Pastor Jeff will talk about next week. This whole topic of spiritual gifts and the unity of the body should be viewed the lens of love.39:05The love of Christ for us, our love for Christ, and our love for each other. Otherwise, we'll miss the point of why God even gifted us in the first place. If you have been saved by Christ, never forget that you belong to Christ. Never forget that you belong to Christ's beloved body. Since you're a member of the body of Christ, you shouldn't doubt the part that you Since you're a member of the body of Christ, you shouldn't downplay the roles of others. As this sermon concludes, some of you in this room may feel a bit left out because you're not a Christian. You are not a member of the body of Christ. As of now, you are a detached hand or foot that has no function in the church body. As of right now, you are a detached eye or ear that is not connected to anything greater than yourself. As of now, the life-giving blood of Christ does not flow in you and through you. I have to warn you, if you continue in this state of self-isolation, you will wither away and die in your sins. You will experience a life without purpose, and you will endure an eternity separated from the giver of life.40:35and the other recipients of his life. If that's you, I beg you to turn from your sin and turn to Jesus. Place the full weight of your faith upon him, what he has done through his life, death, and resurrection. And then, and only then, will you be forgiven and given new life. Then, you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit. You will be filled with the Holy Spirit. You will be brought into the body of Christ.41:04you will be placed into the perfect role that you were made for. You will be given the high honor and responsibility of serving Christ and his body. We'd love for you to join us. Let's pray. Father, we come to you and we thank you for your word. We thank you for the encouragement and the conviction that we all experienced. Lord, if there is someone in this room who is currently not a member of the body of Christ, who is not saved. May today be the day where they finally say no to sin and yes to your son.41:43And for the rest of us, Lord, may we do our jobs.41:47May we let other people do their jobs.41:49May we work together and encourage each other.41:51Lord, we thank you for all that you're doing with this new building project.41:57Lord, none of that matters if we can't work together now.42:01May we be faithful now.42:03May we work together now. We ask all these things in Jesus' name. Amen. Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 12:12-31What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Re-read 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - What does it mean that we are baptized in the Spirit and drink of the Spirit? Why is this so important for church unity? Do you ever doubt the part you play in the body of Christ? How can you fight against this discouragement? How do you see professing Christians standing in the way of others and downplaying their roles in the church? How do you see this disturbing trend within yourself? What does it look like to prioritize the needs, hurts, and victories of other members in the church body over your own? BreakoutPray for one another.

Marked by Unity, Love, and Humility – Philippians 2:1-4 -What does Paul want the congregation to be like? How important is this to him? Why? -How does meditating on the Gospel foster a culture of unity, love, and humility? -What do you need to do in order to be of one mind with your church? Are there attitudes you need to change or people you need to talk to? -What does pride and selfishness do to your relationships? How does humility promote loving, healthy relationships? -Ask God to change you where necessary in order to give you a concern for the interests of others over your own. For further study: Prov 18:12; Lk 9:23; Jn 13:1-17; Eph 4:1-6; Phil 1:27-30; 2:5-11; Col 3:12-17; Jam 4:1-6; 1 Pt 5:5-11;

"Thatyou may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in themidst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights inthe world."  Whata description of the world in which we live today—a crooked and perversegeneration. The word crooked means twisted or bent away from God's standard.The word perverse means distorted or corrupted. Does that not describe ourworld today? Truth is being redefined. Morality is being distorted. Darkness iscelebrated while righteousness is mocked. We see it on every hand, all aroundus, throughout our world, and especially in our country, the USA. Yet God hascalled us not to hide from the world. He has called us to shine in it. Rememberin Matthew 5:14, Jesus said, "You are the light of the world."In verse 16, He said, "Let your light so shine before men, that theymay see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." Light doesnot complain about the darkness. It does not fight with the darkness. Myfriend, all it has to do is shine, and the darkness flees. Iam convinced with all my heart that if Christians truly let the light of JesusChrist shine—remember, He said, "I am the light of the world." NowHe lives in us. His light shines through us. It is not our light; it is Hislight, and it shines through us. If we would only let it shine, the darknesswould be pushed back. It would flee. You do not go into a room and curse thedarkness when it is dark. No, you simply turn on the light switch. As soon asthe light comes on, everything becomes plain and clear, and you can see acrossthe room. That is what we do as believers. Our light shines. Paulsays believers are to be blameless and harmless. This does not mean sinlessperfection, but lives marked by integrity and purity. The world should not seehypocrisy in our lives. Our lives should support the message that we preach. Oneof the greatest tragedies is when Christians damage their testimony throughbitterness, compromise, anger, or constant negativity. We just talked aboutthat in verse 14. Yousee, the darker the world becomes, the brighter faithful believers will shine. Thinkabout Daniel in Babylon, along with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Thinkabout Joseph in Egypt and the difference he made. Or even Noah before theflood. They lived in corrupt cultures, yet their lives stood out. The ApostlePaul and the early believers lived in a Roman culture that was dark, corrupt,and cruel. But, my friend, the light was shining. As it shone through theirlives, wonderful things took place that turned the world upside down. Yousee, God never intended for His people to blend into the darkness. Yet thatseems to be what so many churches and believers are trying to do today. Youcannot tell the difference between a believer and the world around them. NoticePaul says we shine in the midst of a crooked generation. We are in the world,but we are not of the world. That is why Jesus prayed in John 17 that theFather would not take believers out of the world, but that He would keep themfrom the evil one. Sohow do we shine in a practical way? We shine through holy living. We shinethrough kindness. We shine through truth. We shine through love. We shinethrough joy in suffering. We shine through forgiveness. We shine throughfaithfulness. A Christian filled with the HolySpirit of God becomes a lighthouse in a dark culture. Peoplearound us desperately need hope. They are confused, fearful, and empty. Manyhave never seen genuine Christianity lived out consistently.  Itrust God will use you and me to make a difference in the world in which welive, because someone is watching how we handle stress, disappointment,conflict, and suffering. Are you shining clearly today? Or are you blendinginto the darkness? Ask God to make your light shine as a bright testimony forJesus Christ. Remember this: the darker the night, the more visible the light. 

What if the biggest struggle in your marriage isn't actually the argument, the stress, or the communication breakdown? Pastor Tim Barone and Pastor John Rasmussen explore the deeper spiritual realities that shape relationships and discuss one of the most revealing questions a person can ask: If you could ask God one question, what would it be? From marriage struggles to suffering, doubt, purpose, and trust, this episode dives into the questions Christians quietly wrestle with every day.

Send us Fan MailPastor Harlo White delivers the message "The New Song, Part 3", originally delivered on August 17, 1985. Stand with Pastor Harlo White in supporting the Harlo White Healing Stream Podcast. Your donation helps keep this podcast reaching people all across the Earth. Ask God the Father what he would have you do in giving to this ministry. You can visit our website at www.harlowhitehealingstream.com/giving to make a secure donation online. You can also mail your donation to:HARLO WHITE HEALING STREAMP.O. BOX 4695CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, 60680.

What did Jesus mean when He told Nicodemus that he must be “born again”? Join us as we explore Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus. Discover why the concept was so difficult for Nicodemus to grasp and why we also sometimes struggle with the truth that is so central to the Christian faith. Receive Jesus often said things that unsettled the very people who thought they understood God best. When He told Nicodemus he must be “born again,” it didn't fit his framework—and he struggled to receive it. Where might the same be true for you? Is there anything—assumptions, expectations, past experiences—that could be shaping how you hear Jesus' words today? Ask God to gently reveal and release anything that's getting in the way. Nicodemus didn't understand everything at first, but he kept moving toward Jesus—stepping out of the shadows, speaking up, and showing up when it mattered most. What might your next step toward Jesus look like? Reflect  Read John 3. As you reflect on the chapter, what stands out to you?   Why do you think Nicodemus struggled to understand the meaning of being “born again” that Jesus mentioned in John 3:1–4? According to John 3:5–15, why must Jesus' followers be “born again”? Based on  John 7:50–51 and John 19:38–42, do you think Nicodemus eventually understood what it meant to be “born again” and became a follower of Jesus? How does John 3:16–17 encourage you as you read about God's immense love for you? Respond (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God) “Dear God, thank You that by Your Holy Spirit I can be born into Your kingdom. Thank You for renewing and cleansing me. Help me overcome any baggage that may be hindering me from completely receiving Your gift of eternal life through Your Son Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection. Help me as I seek to live for You.”      Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources Mentioned in this episode: I Am the Way   The Chosen Season 1, Episode 2  The Chosen Season 1, Episode 7  Listen: The Pharisees Week 1  For God So Loved   Read: Love: What does Jesus see when he looks at me?  The Gospel Here and Now  Jesus and Nicodemus    Watch: God Loves You!  God's Daily Love

Jesus didn't call people to casually admire Him. He called them to follow Him. In this message through Luke 9, Pastor Alan McBrayer walks through three different responses people had to Jesus: the committed, the curious, and those still considering Him. Through the disciples, Herod, and the feeding of the 5,000, we see what it truly means to know Jesus deeply, trust Him fully, and follow Him faithfully. This message challenges us to define our relationship with Jesus honestly. Are we fully committed, simply curious, or still deciding what we believe? Following Jesus requires tested faith, authentic pursuit, and a willingness to minister to others even when it costs us something.• Following Jesus well starts with truly knowing Him, not just knowing about Him• Jesus uses seasons of testing to teach us complete dependence on Him• Real faith moves from curiosity to commitment and responsibilityKey Scriptures:Luke 9:1-17Jeremiah 29:13Matthew 10:1-14John 6Wherever you are in your relationship with Jesus, take the next step toward Him today. Ask God to move you from curiosity to commitment and from comfort to trust. If this message encouraged or challenged you, share it with a friend or family member who needs to hear it.Bayou City Fellowship Tomball Campus | Alan McBrayer | May 24, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

Galatians 6:7-8 reminds believers that every word, action, and habit plants seeds that will eventually produce a harvest. In this devotional, Whitney Hopler uses a personal gardening story to illustrate the spiritual principle of sowing and reaping. Just as planting the wrong cucumber seeds led to an unexpected bitter harvest, the choices Christians make each day shape the direction and outcome of their lives and relationships. This devotional encourages believers to carefully examine the seeds they are planting through their speech, attitudes, priorities, and daily decisions. Seeds of selfishness, bitterness, and careless behavior eventually produce painful consequences, while seeds planted through the guidance of the Holy Spirit lead to peace, kindness, spiritual growth, and life-giving relationships. God calls His people to intentionally plant seeds that reflect His character and trust Him for a fruitful harvest in His perfect timing. Highlights Every word and action plants seeds that will eventually grow. Galatians 6 teaches the principle of sowing and reaping. Careless words can produce bitterness and damaged relationships. Habits and priorities shape the future harvest of our lives. Planting for selfish gain leads to regret and devastation. Planting through the Holy Spirit produces peace, kindness, and self-control. Spiritual growth often happens slowly before visible fruit appears. Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What Kind of Seeds Will You Plant?By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“Make no mistake, God is not mocked. A person will harvest what they plant. Those who plant only for their own benefit will harvest devastation from their selfishness, but those who plant for the benefit of the Spirit will harvest eternal life from the Spirit.” – Galatians 6:7-8, CEB When I first started gardening, the first seed packets I bought were for cucumbers. Our family enjoyed eating cucumbers, and I’d heard that cucumbers were easy to grow. Buying a bunch of cucumber seeds and planting them seemed to be a “no-brainer” decision in the spring. But in the summer, when our cucumbers appeared, I was shocked to see that they didn’t look – or taste – like anything I expected. Instead of the smooth and sweet cucumbers I’d hoped to slice up for our salads, I’d grown what seemed to be cucumber monsters. They were huge, covered in sharp spikes. Biting into their thick, spiky skin was challenging, and when we did, we got a bitter taste that was quite simply gross! It turned out that I’d planted a variety of cucumbers that were usually made into pickles before being eaten – not even close to the variety I usually bought from the grocery store to eat fresh. I wish I had paid more attention to exactly what kind of seeds I planted. Seeds always grow into something. That’s exactly what the Bible points out in Galatians 6:7-8, which compares people’s words and actions to seeds. The choices we all make every day are planting something that will grow to become something that we – and God – either like or don’t like. You plant seeds with your words. The way you speak to your spouse, your children, your coworkers, or even yourself matters. Harsh, careless words plant seeds of pain that can distance you from people. Gentle, encouraging words plant seeds of trust that can lead to closer relationships. You may think a careless comment is small and unimportant, but seeds don’t look impressive at first either. Over time, though, they grow into something much bigger. You also plant seeds with your actions. The priorities you set and the habits you practice day by day will all grow into results you’ll eventually see. If you consistently choose whatever works best for you without considering the other people in your life, you’re planting seeds for your own benefit, just like this Bible passage describes. Those seeds may promise you easy results, but they often grow into situations that leave you feeling bitterness and regret. On the other hand, if you seek God’s guidance for your decisions, you’re planting for the benefit of the Spirit. Those choices may not be easy. In fact, they can be challenging to make. But God promises that the choices you make along with him will lead to good results. There’s often a gap between planting and harvesting. That gap can fool you. During that time, you might start to think that it doesn’t matter what you say or do, because you can’t yet see anything bad happening from your choices. But growth is happening under the surface. Roots are forming, and a direction is being set. So, pay attention now to the words and actions you’re choosing. Just like with the cucumbers, it’s much easier to choose the right seeds at the beginning than to deal with a bitter harvest later. Before you speak, you can pause and think about what might grow from your words. Before you act, you can consider what might grow from what you decide to do. When you “plant for the benefit of the Spirit,” you line yourself up with God’s life-giving work. You can then start to see fruit like peace, patience, kindness, and self-control growing in you and around you. As a result, your life will taste less bitter, and you can taste the goodness God wants you to enjoy. Today – and every day – you have a choice. You’re holding seed packets in your hands that will grow into something, depending on the words and actions you choose. So, choose carefully. Ask God to help you plant what leads to life. Then trust that, in time, the harvest will come and you’ll see that your decisions were worth making. Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider what you want to grow in your life, reflect on these questions: What kinds of seeds have you been planting recently with your words and actions? Are there any habits in your life that might lead to a bitter harvest if they continue? Where do you sense God inviting you to plant for the benefit of the Spirit instead of yourself? What’s a conversation or situation coming up where you can choose to plant better seeds now than you have in the past? How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit to plant the best seeds now for a good future harvest in a relationship with someone you love? Further Reading:Hosea 10:12James 3:18Galatians 5:22-23Matthew 12:34Proverbs 18:21 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Welcome to episode #271!

Before we talk craft or contracts or query letters, we need to talk about something that will shape everything else on this journey.Humility.Not the kind that shrinks back and whispers, I have nothing to offer. And not the kind that charges forward thinking, I already know what I need to know. Both will quietly sabotage the work before it ever reaches a reader.The Two ExtremesSome of us feel a deep sense of calling. God may have put this book on our hearts. But a divine assignment doesn't exempt us from the learning curve. God can call us to write a book and expect us to grow in the craft. Both things are true.Others are drowning in insecurity. That hesitation can feel like humility, but sometimes it's just fear wearing a disguise.Here's the line worth sitting with:Confidence doesn't mean we have nothing to learn. Humility doesn't mean we have nothing to offer.What Teachability Actually Looks LikeWhen someone critiques our writing, something in us flinches. It feels personal. But that resistance, if we let it run things, will keep us small.Proverbs doesn't soften this: “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.” (Proverbs 12:1)And here's a practical reality: if sharing our words with a trusted friend feels terrifying, what will it feel like to publish a book for strangers?A Few Next Steps* Pray and journal. Ask God to show you where pride, in either direction, is shaping how you see yourself as a writer.* Learn the industry. Let yourself be a beginner. That's not weakness; it's wisdom.* Find someone to read your work. Start thinking about who in your life could offer honest, caring feedback.One More ThingIf mindsets are getting in the way of your writing, The Christian Writers' Mindset Makeover is a free resource that walks through six common struggles and the biblical truth that meets each one. Find it at amylynnsimon.com/makeover or grab the link in the show notes.Resources:From Stuck to Steady: The 5 Pillars of a Consistent Writing Rhythm for Christian Writers (free 30-minute recorded workshop)Schedule a free discovery call to see how coaching can help you get unstuck.Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email to encourage you in your writing. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you'll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I'd love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

Send us Fan MailPastor Harlo White delivers the message "The New Song, Part 2", originally delivered on July 21, 1985. Stand with Pastor Harlo White in supporting the Harlo White Healing Stream Podcast. Your donation helps keep this podcast reaching people all across the Earth. Ask God the Father what he would have you do in giving to this ministry. You can visit our website at www.harlowhitehealingstream.com/giving to make a secure donation online. You can also mail your donation to:HARLO WHITE HEALING STREAMP.O. BOX 4695CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, 60680.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. Our shout-out today goes to Joel Allman from Pella, IA. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. What does God do when the people he loves begin drifting away from him? He confronts them. Listen to our text today, Hosea 2:1-3. Say to your brothers, "You are my people," and to your sisters, "You have received mercy." "Plead with your mother, plead— for she is not my wife, and I am not her husband— that she put away her whoring from her face, and her adultery from between her breasts; lest I strip her naked and make her as in the day she was born, and make her like a wilderness, and make her like a parched land, and kill her with thirst. — Hosea 2:1-3 Hosea 2 opens with a powerful image. God speaks to the faithful within Israel—the "children"—and tells them to plead with their mother, a symbol of the nation itself. Israel has broken the covenant with God. The marriage relationship has been violated. God's words are direct: "She is not my wife, and I am not her husband." This language may sound shocking, but it reveals something deeply important about the way God relates to his people. Throughout the Bible, God describes his relationship with his people using the language of marriage. Israel was not simply a nation that God ruled. She was a bride God loved. That's why idolatry is not just disobedience—it is spiritual adultery. When Israel worshiped Baal and other false gods, they were not just breaking a rule. They were abandoning their covenant love. And the consequences were serious. God warns that if Israel continues in her unfaithfulness, the blessings that once covered the nation will be stripped away. The land will become like a wilderness—dry, barren, and lifeless. But notice something important here. Even in confrontation, God's goal is not destruction. It is restoration. The command to "plead" shows that God is still calling his people to repentance. The door is not closed. The covenant is not forgotten. God is confronting the sin because he still desires the relationship. This is how love works. Real love does not ignore betrayal. Real love calls it out so it can be healed. And the same principle applies to us today. When God confronts our idols, exposes our misplaced loves, or disciplines our hearts, it is not because he has rejected us. It is because he refuses to share our hearts with things that will ultimately destroy us. Today, take a moment to examine your own heart. Ask God to reveal any place where your love for him has grown cold—or where something else has taken his place. Then return to him. DO THIS: Take five quiet minutes today and honestly ask God to reveal anything that may be competing with your devotion to him. ASK THIS: Why do you think the Bible uses marriage to describe God's relationship with his people? What are some modern "idols" people turn to instead of trusting God? Is there anything in your life right now competing for the place God should hold in your heart? PRAY THIS: Father, search my heart and reveal anything that has taken your place in my life. Help me return to you with a renewed love and devotion. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Come Thou Fount"

Speaker: Rob BerrethScripture: Matthew 6:7-13Episode Overview:In a world shaped by outrage, revenge, and broken relationships, Jesus calls His people to a radically different way of living. Drawing from Matthew 6:14–15, this message explores why forgiveness matters, what forgiveness truly is, and how believers can extend grace even when the wounds run deep. Through the words of Jesus and the power of the Gospel, we see that forgiveness is not pretending sin never happened, nor is it denying justice. It is choosing to absorb the debt rather than demanding repayment. This sermon confronts the bitterness and isolation unforgiveness creates while pointing listeners to the mercy they themselves have received in Christ. Forgiven people forgive people.Key Highlights:• Why forgiveness is evidence of a transformed heart• How forgiveness shines as a witness in a culture driven by revenge• What forgiveness is — and what it is not• Why forgiving does not eliminate wisdom, boundaries, or accountability• How bitterness and unresolved anger quietly shape our lives• The connection between the forgiveness we receive from Christ and the forgiveness we extend to others• Practical encouragement for walking through the difficult process of forgivenessCall to Action:Take an honest look at any bitterness, resentment, or unpaid debts you may still be carrying toward others. Bring those wounds before Jesus and remember the mercy you have received through the cross. Ask God for the strength to forgive, even when it feels costly, and take one tangible step toward extending grace this week — whether through prayer, reconciliation, releasing resentment, or refusing to rehearse the offense again.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org

Welcome to Be Bold for Jesus MinistriesOur mission is to equip believers to live boldly for Christ with discernment, obedience, and unwavering trust in God—especially in seasons of uncertainty, fear, and decision-making. Led by Lee Arnold and Jaclyn Arnold, Be Bold for Jesus Ministries teaches God's Word with clarity and conviction, challenging believers to stop seeking approval for their plans and start surrendering fully to God's will.Today's Message“Don't Ask God If You've Already Decided”Lee Arnold LiveScripture: Jeremiah 42:1–22Jeremiah 42 reveals a powerful and convicting moment in the life of Israel's remnant. After chaos, fear, and uncertainty, the people come to Jeremiah asking him to seek God on their behalf. Their words sound humble. Their request sounds sincere. They promise obedience—whatever God says, they will do.But beneath their spiritual language lies a hidden truth: they had already decided to go to Egypt.This chapter exposes the danger of selective obedience—when we ask God for guidance but only intend to follow it if it aligns with what we already want. The people weren't asking for direction—they were asking for confirmation. And when God's answer finally comes after ten days, it's clear, direct, and good: stay, trust, and obey.But they reject it.Jeremiah 42 challenges us to examine the condition of our own hearts. Are we truly seeking God's will—or just hoping He agrees with ours?Key Takeaways• God cannot be deceived by outward sincerity when the heart is already decided• Asking for guidance without intention to obey is spiritual deception• Delayed obedience is still disobedience• Selective obedience is rebellion disguised as faith• God's will often requires trust over perceived safety• Fear can drive us toward “Egypt” instead of obedience• God's answers may take time—but they are always clear and trustworthy• True faith seeks God's direction, not His endorsement• The safest place is not where life feels easiest—but where God says to standToday's ReminderThe people in Jeremiah 42 sounded spiritual—but they were not surrendered. They asked God to speak, but they had no intention of following Him if the answer didn't match their plans.How often do we do the same?We pray for direction while already leaning toward our own decision. We ask for clarity when God has already spoken. We seek peace—not through obedience—but through justification.Jeremiah waited ten days to hear from the Lord. The people couldn't wait to ignore Him.God's message was simple: Stay where you are. Trust Me. Do not be afraid.But Egypt looked safer.Jeremiah 42 reminds us that what feels safe isn't always right—and what is right often requires surrender, patience, and trust.The real question is not:“Has God spoken?”The real question is:Will you obey what He already said?Because the most dangerous place a believer can live…is pretending to seek God while resisting His answer.Stay Connected• Sunday Sermons – Live on Zoom & Facebook• Wednesday Bible Study – He's The Solution Interactive Discussion• Daily Dose of Boldness – Daily encouragement from God's WordBe Bold for Jesus Conference 2026October 2–3, 2026Tickets & information at BB4J.comSupport the MissionHelp us continue sharing the Gospel and equipping believers to live boldly, wisely, and obediently for Christ.Give at bebold4jesus.org#BeBoldForJesus #Jeremiah42 #DontAskGodIfYouveAlreadyDecided #TrustAndObey #SpiritLed #Discernment #FaithInAction #ObedienceMatters #BibleTeaching #SundaySermon

Does God want your business to succeed? Does He care about your dream, calling, idea, finances, or the work you've put your hand to? In this video, Travis Peters shares a powerful biblical teaching for Christian entrepreneurs, business owners, creators, and believers who are trying to build something with God at the center. You'll learn why God is not leading you into failure, why He wants to teach you to profit, how to consult Him in your business decisions, and why success often comes when you obey the instructions He has already given you. This teaching is based on biblical principles from scriptures like 2 Corinthians 2:14, 1 Corinthians 15:57, Psalm 32:8, Isaiah 48:17, Deuteronomy 28, Psalm 1:3, Jeremiah 17, James 1:5, 1 Peter 5:7, and John 15. If you're a Christian in business, building a dream, stepping into your calling, launching a ministry, starting a side hustle, or trying to move forward financially, this message will help you stop carrying the pressure and start partnering with God. God has wisdom for your next step. He has strategies for your business. He can lead you into the right channels, the right people, the right ideas, and the right opportunities. But you have to consult Him, obey Him, and move on the instructions He gives you. In this video, you'll learn: • Why God wants you to succeed in what He has called you to do • How to make God the leader of your business • Why Christians should ask God for wisdom in business • How to stop carrying financial pressure • Why obedience matters more than just praying for blessing • How God leads you into ideas, strategies, connections, and provision • What it means to cast your cares on the Lord as a steward • How to take your next step with faith and confidence If this helped you, subscribe for more Bible-based teaching on faith, finances, purpose, business, and living the increased life God has for you. Join Increase Academy here: [insert Increase Academy link] Chapters Use chapters. They help viewers scan the video, and they also put keyword-rich phrases into the description. Chapters: 0:00 God wants to help you succeed 1:05 What Christians need to know about business 2:11 God is interested in your success 3:15 God always leads us into triumph 4:24 Consult God in every business decision 5:32 God can run your business better than you can 6:20 What prosperity really means 7:24 God changes you so you can succeed 8:30 Ask God, "How can I?" 9:41 Partnership with God is indispensable 10:32 Stewards don't carry financial pressure 11:28 Cast your cares and ask for wisdom 12:35 Prayer for your business and next step 13:44 How Increase Academy can help you grow

Do you believe God is annoyed by your neediness? What if he actually delights when you depend on him? And how should that change the way we pray? In today's episode, Patrick shares how Luke 18:35–43 reveals a compassionate Savior who stops for those who cry out to him. Read the Bible with us in 2026! This year, we're exploring the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passage: Luke 18:35–43

SummaryThis sermon explores the story of the Samaritan woman at the well from John 4:1-42, emphasizing how Jesus intentionally sought out someone who was socially isolated and marginalized. The pastor highlights how this woman, despite having 'three strikes' against her (wrong gender, wrong race, wrong way of life), became the first evangelist to share the good news of Jesus. The message demonstrates God's sovereignty in divine appointments and how authentic encounters with Jesus transform lives, leading to powerful testimonies that can impact entire communities. The sermon concludes with a personal testimony about how God orders our steps even when we feel directionless or unwanted.Key Verses- John 4:1-42- 2 Corinthians 5:18- Exodus 1:15-22Life ApplicationThis week, identify one person in your life who might feel isolated, overlooked, or marginalized. Make an intentional effort to reach out to them with genuine care and interest. Look for opportunities to share your own story of how God has worked in your life, focusing on being authentic rather than trying to have all the theological answers. Ask God to show you where you might be lacking and surrender those areas to His lordship.

Topics:  Interacting w/God, The Blessing, More of God, Breaking Animal News, Don't Give Up, Being Right/Not Knowing God BONUS CONTENT: Sherri's Pentecostal Story   Quotes: "If you miss interacting with God everybody else pays for that." "Ask God to increase your appetite for Him." "People can criticize, but I remain in the arena." . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook!

What if today's workout helped you see yourself the way God does? In this movement episode, Alisa Keeton reminds you that this workout is a gift—not an obligation. You don't have to do this. Don't let your flesh bully you around. So begin with grace. Move with openness. And invite God to meet you here. Today's Scripture

Send us Fan MailPastor Harlo White delivers the message "Traveling In The Spirit ", originally delivered on October 23, 1985. Stand with Pastor Harlo White in supporting the Harlo White Healing Stream Podcast. Your donation helps keep this podcast reaching people all across the Earth. Ask God the Father what he would have you do in giving to this ministry. You can visit our website at www.harlowhitehealingstream.com/giving to make a secure donation online. You can also mail your donation to:HARLO WHITE HEALING STREAMP.O. BOX 4695CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, 60680.Pastor Harlo White

Why do some people experience lasting spiritual growth while others slowly drift away? In this message from Luke 8, Pastor Kevin Bear unpacks Jesus' Parable of the Sower and shows how the condition of our hearts shapes the way we respond to God's Word. Whether through distraction, hardship, comfort, or spiritual resistance, Jesus reveals the things that keep faith from taking root and what it looks like to truly follow Him.• Jesus calls healed people to become part of His mission• Spiritual growth happens when we hold tightly to God's Word through every season• Real faith moves from simply hearing truth to actually living it outKey Scriptures:Luke 8:1-21Proverbs 31:30-31Galatians 5:22-23Acts 17:26-27Take time this week to honestly ask yourself what kind of soil your heart has become. Are distractions, worries, or comfort keeping God's Word from taking root? Ask God to help you move from hearing His truth to living it out daily. If this message encouraged you, share it with a friend or family member who needs hope and spiritual direction.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | Kevin Barra | May 10, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

How to pray for a new job | Believe God for a new job | Ask God for a new job If this blessed you, don't just watch and leave. Get plugged in today so you can begin to experience God's Promise for Increase on new and exciting levels:

Topics:  Don't Give Up, Psalm 94, Jesus The Way, Shame, Masterclass, Wisdom, Shock Jock, What Not To Do, Childlike, Treasure In Heaven BONUS CONTENT: Back To School   Quotes: "Some of the most mature people are childlike." "Ask God to show you what reality really is." "God knows. So we wait. We trust." . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook!

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. We are about to begin our next study in 2 days. So get your Scripture Journal now. Our shout-out today goes to David Blount IV from Cary, NC. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. Our text today is 1 Corinthians 16:19-20. The churches of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. All the brothers send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss. — 1 Corinthians 16:19-20 Paul closes with what appear to be simple greetings. But this is not filler. There is some correction in here. Corinth had become spiritually myopic. They centered their religious experience around personalities. They divided the local church into factions. They treated their gathering like the epicenter of all Christianity. So Paul widens the lens by addressing some people. All the churches in Asia that know about the Corinthian church also pray for and support them. Then Aquila and Prisca (a.k.a. Priscilla)—who had been in Corinth before Paul arrived, worked alongside him in tentmaking, and grew so close that when he left for Syria, they traveled with him. And even brothers beyond your city. The point is: you are not the center. You are part of something far bigger. Modern Christians tend to shrink the church to a brand, a building, a livestream, a preferred preaching style. We talk about my church as if Christ belongs to us. But the church is not your bubble. It is Christ's body. Spanning nations. Crossing languages. Outlasting trends. The gospel does not create isolated spiritual consumers. It creates a global, visible people under one Lord. If your vision of the church fits neatly inside your comfort zone, it is too small. The risen Christ is gathering a people far beyond your preferences and far beyond your city. The resurrection is going to be different from what you think. DO THIS: Pray this week for two churches: one very different from yours, and one in another nation. Ask God to strengthen them and purify your love for his whole body. ASK THIS: Has my view of the church become narrow and tribal? Do I value Christ's global body—or just my local expression of it? Am I cultivating affection for believers outside my circle? PRAY THIS: Lord, forgive me for shrinking your church to my preferences. Enlarge my heart for your global body. Teach me to love what you are building across cities and nations. Amen. PLAY THIS: "The Church's One Foundation"

Topics: Kids/Christian Background, Ask God, Insight/Wisdom, Brightest Star, Forgiveness BONUS CONTENT: Forgiveness Follow-up, The Ark, AI Failures   Quotes: "God has a long patience with us." "Doomscrolling is a terrible idea. Catch-up on things and be done with it." "A lot of our righteous anger is just plain hatred." . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook!

What if your relationship with God isn't just about what He can do for you—but how you love Him in return? In this episode, we explore what it looks like to care about God's heart, grow in curiosity about His desires, and shift from a self-centered faith to a deeper, more intentional relationship with Him.Send me a direct message

Ask God about things, and when you're confident in His Will, go ahead. If it's doubtful, don't touch it. Broadcast #7472To help support this podcast, please visit walkwiththeking.org/donate and select "Podcast" from the dropdown menuA transcript of this broadcast is available on our website here. To hear more from Bob Cook, you can find Walk With The King on Facebook or Instagram.

Send us Fan MailPastor Harlo White delivers the message "The New Song, Part 1", originally delivered on July 21, 1985. Stand with Pastor Harlo White in supporting the Harlo White Healing Stream Podcast. Your donation helps keep this podcast reaching people all across the Earth. Ask God the Father what he would have you do in giving to this ministry. You can visit our website at www.harlowhitehealingstream.com/giving to make a secure donation online. You can also mail your donation to:HARLO WHITE HEALING STREAMP.O. BOX 4695CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, 60680.

Living well seems to be a balance of finding our purpose and enjoying our days. One does not preclude the other, nor is one more important than the other. Living with moderation in all things, gives us balance and perspective. Ask God for His view, His perspective on how to live today as you listen to this meditation. Daylight Meditations is a daily podcast from CFO North America. Please visit CFONorthAmerica.org to learn more about our retreats, and online courses. If you are encouraged by this podcast, please consider supporting us. Contributors: Michelle DeChant, Nancy Holland and Adam Maddock

Some people sit close to Jesus and still miss Him. Others come broken and leave transformed. In Luke 7, we see a powerful contrast between a religious man who had it all together and a woman who had nothing to offer but her need. One walked away unchanged. The other experienced forgiveness that changed everything. This message challenges the way we think about sin, grace, and what real faith looks like. Are we becoming more like Jesus, or just more religious?- The subtle danger of becoming like the Pharisees without realizing it- Why understanding your need for forgiveness leads to deeper love- What it means to live as a kingdom-minded follower of JesusKey Scriptures:Luke 7:36–50Matthew 16:6Matthew 23:23–24Romans 1:16If this message challenged you, don't just move on from it. Ask God to show you where you may have drifted into religion over relationship, and where He's inviting you to live with greater love and purpose. Share this with someone who needs to be reminded that no one is too far gone for grace.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | Nick Maricle | May 3, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

There's one question that ultimately defines everything about your life and your eternity: Who is Jesus to you In Luke 7, two people sit in the same room with Jesus. One is religious, informed, and outwardly put together. The other is broken, desperate, and fully aware of her need. One walks away unchanged. The other leaves forgiven and full of love. This message exposes the difference between knowing about Jesus and truly knowing Him, and why that difference changes everything.- Why an intellectual or religious belief in Jesus is not enough- How real love for Jesus is revealed through worship and daily life- What actually produces a deep, personal love for ChristKey Scriptures:Luke 7:36–50Luke 12:51Matthew 10:34Philippians 3:8–10Take a moment to honestly answer the question this message asks. Is your relationship with Jesus personal, or has it become distant and routine? Ask God to deepen your love for Him and open your eyes to who He truly is. Share this message with someone who needs to wrestle with that same question.Bayou City Fellowship Tomball Campus | George Terry | May 3, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

If you're tired of doing life alone, you're not weak, you're human. In this episode, we talk about decision making when you're carrying something heavy and you don't know what to do next. As an introvert, you may be used to figuring things out by yourself. And if you're introspective, you probably spend a lot of time thinking, praying, processing, and trying to find clarity on your own. But sometimes the next right step is not more time in your head. Sometimes it's inviting a few safe people into the process. This episode is for the introvert who's strong, capable, and tired. It's for the introspective person who feels stuck in circles. We're talking about what it looks like to ask for support in a wise way, how to choose the right people, and how to let others listen without letting them run your life. Healthy decision making doesn't mean you do everything alone. The right community can help an introvert breathe again, and it can help the introspective person hear their own thoughts more clearly. If you want stronger decision making, you don't need a crowd, you need the right people.What We're Talking AboutYou can invite people into your life without handing them the steering wheel. The goal is not to pressure anyone for answers. The goal is to be heard, supported, and strengthened.Key Takeaways1) Don't do it as an afterthought, do it on purpose. Emily suggests setting a time and date. It might feel formal, but it helps everyone show up with the right mindset.2) Choose people who know you and feel safe. They don't have to know each other. But they should know you well, and you should feel safe sharing your heart without being judged.3) You have to ask. This part is big. Many of us want support, but we wait for people to guess what we need. Emily shares that she spent years wishing people would support her, only to realize she was waiting for something to come to her when she could have gone out and asked for it.4) Community helps you hear yourself. Even if they don't give you a “solution,” saying things out loud in the presence of trusted people can bring clarity and peace.If you're an introvert, this may feel hard. But no matter how introspective you are, you were not meant to carry everything alone. Ask God to show you the right people—and also show you how you can support someone else.Support the showContact UsAsk a question or leave a comment, visit shepact.com/voicemailFollow me on Instagram at instagram.com/remiroyEmail us: thedrivenintrovert@shepact.comEnjoying the podcast?Share the podcast with a friend: shepact.com/TDIPodcastLeave a review: We'd appreciate it if you could WRITE a review for us. Your support and feedback mean a lot to us. Thank you!For the driven introvert, the introvert leader, the lonely introvert, introvert entrepreneurs, the confident Introvert, dreamers, faith driven entrepreneur, passionate leaders and anyone who wants to close the gap between where they are and where they need to be. We discuss Leadership for Introverts, career development for introverts, introvert success, introvert success strategies, networking for the introvert, and other pertinent issues to help you as an introvert grow personally and professionally.  

Most of us are far more practiced at imagining what could go wrong than at imagining what God could do. We replay worst-case scenarios, brace for bad news, and quietly scale down our prayers to a size that feels safe — requests small enough that disappointment won't sting too badly if the answer doesn't come. But what if that careful, cautious approach to prayer is actually a way of placing a ceiling over a God who has no ceiling? Jeremiah 33:3 was spoken into one of the darkest moments in Israel's history — a city under siege, houses destroyed, neighbors slaughtered, streets fallen silent. And yet into that devastation, God spoke a word not of survival but of abundance: call to me, and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. Things beyond what you can imagine. Not just restoration to normal, but something more. The same God who spoke those words to a city in ruins is speaking them to you today — into whatever place in your life looks like rubble, whatever situation feels beyond recovery, whatever prayer you have been afraid to pray because it seems too big to be answered. God's power is not limited by what we think is possible. His grace and compassion extend far beyond what we have yet dared to believe. It is time to stop praying small and start asking boldly. Interested in creating something new with us!? Take Our Newsletter Survey! Bible Verse "Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known." — Jeremiah 33:3, ESV Ponder Today The way we use our imaginations matters — when we habitually rehearse worst-case scenarios, we train our hearts toward fear rather than toward the limitless possibilities of a God who can do immeasurably more. God spoke His most expansive promises into Israel's darkest moment — which means our hardest circumstances are not obstacles to His power, they are often the very backdrop against which He does His greatest work. Praying small requests because they feel safer is a subtle way of limiting God — Jeremiah 33:3 invites us to stretch our prayers beyond what feels reasonable and trust a God whose power far exceeds our understanding. God does not just promise to restore things to normal — He promises to do more than we can dream, which means our boldest prayers may still fall short of what He has planned. Nothing is too hard for God — not the rubble in our circumstances, not the silence where joy used to be, not the situation that has gone so long without an answer that we have nearly stopped asking. Today's Prayer Lord God, You are able to do immeasurably more than I can ask or imagine. Yet I confess that I so often let my mind drift toward fear, doubt, and worst-case scenarios. Forgive me for limiting You to what seems possible in my own understanding. Renew my mind to think on the good and beautiful things You can do, even in the hardest circumstances. Where I see rubble and ruins, help me believe You can rebuild something amazing. Where I see sadness and loss, remind me that You can restore my joy. Stretch my prayers beyond what feels safe and small, and help me trust that nothing is too hard for You. I place my hopes, my needs, and my future in Your hands. In Jesus' name, Amen. Enjoy Today's Prayer? If this episode encouraged you, we'd love to stay connected! Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and faith-filled content delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss an episode — subscribe and share with someone who needs encouragement today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Send Us Your Prayer Requests --------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.

Out of His abundance, God will supply what we are lacking, if we ask. It's important to see that God doesn't just bestow wisdom upon us automatically. Not every walking around today is living in the wisdom of God.Main Points:1. It is this deep awe, reverence, and respect for God and His Word that leads us to pay attention to His Word. We begin to listen and to obey the Word. We value God's Word over our own thoughts and intuition. 2. The Lord says we should seek for God's wisdom, like a person seeking for a hidden treasure. If we do, we'll find it. God will bless us with His wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. 3. It's likely you are facing something today in which you need God's wisdom. Is there a decision to be made? Are you facing a family crisis, a challenge at work, or a choice about your future? Ask God to help you, as in the fear of the Lord. It's here that we become open to the wisdom of God.Today's Scripture Verses:“My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding—indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”Proverbs 1:7 - “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.”James 1:5 - “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”Quick Links:Subscribe to The 5 Minute Discipleship NewsletterDonate 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

The Biblical Way to Practice Speaking in Tongues Chapters0:00 - Intro1:12 - 1. Start with Scripture so your faith has a foundation2:03 - 2. Create a private place and a predictable time2:50 - 3. Begin with worship, then shift into tongues3:35 - 4. Yield your mouth (don't wait to be ‘taken over')4:22 - 5. Pray in tongues through pressure, not just peace5:47 - 6. Mix tongues with understanding (Paul's model)6:54 - 7. Ask God for interpretation and write what comes10:22 - OutroFor more information visit Pastorvlad.org