Podcasts about bible reading mark

Bible Reading: Mark 4:35-41BOOM! Seven-year-old Carter sat up in bed. Rain spattered against the window, and lightning streaks made his room as bright as day. He could see his favorite teddy bear propped in a corner. BOOM! Another loud crash of thunder. Carter burrowed under his covers, a pillow pressed over his ears.From under the blankets, Carter peeked toward the wall where the rosy glow of a nightlight usually shone, but between flashes of lightning, only blackness filled the room. Cautiously, he poked the button of a little table lamp near his bed, but instead of warm, friendly light, there was nothing. Trembling, he buried himself even deeper in his bed.Rain poured down harder outside, sounding as if someone were hurling tennis balls against the house. Wide awake now, Carter wondered if he dared make a run for his parents' room. Just then he felt a soft touch through his blanket. "Mom?" he asked in a muffled voice."I'm here, honey." Carter looked out from his blanket tent and, as another flash of lightning illuminated the room, saw his mother in her fuzzy green robe standing next to him. Another BOOM shook the house. "Noisy, isn't it?" said Mom. As she sat down on the edge of Carter's bed, the power came back on. With Mom there, and with the familiar light filling the room, Carter no longer felt afraid. "Did you remember that Jesus is right here with you, Carter?" asked Mom. "He was watching over you even before I came in. He controls the wind and rain, you know. We don't have to be afraid because He's with us."Carter began to feel sleepy as he listened to his mother's comforting voice. Her hands closed around his, and he heard her saying, "Thank You, Jesus, for loving Carter and especially for being here with him during the storm." Outside, the storm rumbled farther away while rain dripped quietly from the roof. Through almost-closed eyes, Carter saw his mom turn the light off and tiptoe from his room."Thank You, Jesus," whispered Carter. "I'm so glad You're always here." He yawned, snuggled under his covers, and soon fell asleep. –Phyllis I. KlomparensHow About You?Are you afraid of thunderstorms? Or maybe there's something else that scares you, like meeting new people or being alone in the dark. When you're in a situation that makes you feel scared, remember that Jesus is with you and trust Him to comfort you and help you not be afraid. He loves you so much that He gave His life to save you, and He is always watching over you. Trust Him to take care of you.Today's Key Verse:[Jesus] said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" (NIV) (Mark 4:40)Today's Key Thought:Jesus is always with you

The description of the trial, and the execution, and the burial of Jesus.

Bible Reading: Mark 14:3-9"Our youth group is helping out at a preschool program at church next week," Charlotte told her mother as she helped weed the flower beds. "Bria has a great voice, so she's going to teach the kids songs, and Eduardo's a lot of fun, so he's in charge of games." Charlotte sighed. "I'm just helping with check-in." "Well, that's an important part of the program too," Mom said. "They need to make sure all the kids are accounted for and direct them where to go."Charlotte shrugged. "I really want to help out and serve the Lord--I just wish I had more to offer.""Charlotte, that's not--" Mom was interrupted by a squeal from little Billy, who was hurrying across the lawn toward them."I make present for Mommy!" he called. Clutched in his soil-stained little hands was a small pot half-filled with dirt. Billy had stuck a dandelion into the dirt. Charlotte grinned as Billy ran toward them with a huge smile on his face.Mom turned to Charlotte. "It's a dumb present, isn't it?" she asked quietly. "That old pot he used is cracked and dirty. And that's just a weed! He should have brought me roses from the florist."Charlotte looked horrified. "Mom! How would he get them? He's only three! You're not going to tell him that, are you?"When Billy reached them, Mom bent down and took the flower pot he offered. "Thank you, Billy Boy! I'll put this right in the middle of our dining room table." She gave him a hug and then turned back to Charlotte as Billy ran off. "Actually, I love Billy's gift, even if it's not perfect. I know he brought it to me because he loves me. And when we offer gifts to God, with real love in our hearts, don't you think He's pleased and accepts them too--no matter how big or small they seem?""You're talking about me helping with check-in next week, aren't you?" asked Charlotte.Mom nodded. "I'm glad Billy brought me the gift he was able to give me. That's what God wants us to do too. He wants us to do what we can to serve Him out of love and gratitude for all He's done for us." –Tanya FerdinanduszHow About You?Do you give gifts of your time, money, or talents to God? Don't compare what you can do with what others do or spend time wishing you had talents God gave to someone else. He wants you to serve Him with the abilities He gave you. If your heart is filled with love for God and gratitude for everything Jesus has done for you, He accepts your gifts with great joy.Today's Key Verse:We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. (NIV) (Romans 12:6 )Today's Key Thought:God loves your gifts to Him

Bible Reading: Mark 10:45; 1 Peter 4:8-10"Daniel, Daniel!" Daniel's little brother and sister came zooming into the room. "Will you play store with us? Please?" Daniel smiled. "Okay, sure." Eli and Alessia often begged Daniel to play store with them, but Daniel didn't mind. Their grandfather owned a hardware store, and the kids loved to visit and see people buy all sorts of interesting things. Customers asked a lot of questions, and Grandpa was always happy to help them.Daniel followed his brother and sister to where they had a make-believe store set up. "Eli and I will be the customers," Alessia said. She put a toy phone to her ear. "Ring, ring!" Daniel picked up the other end. "Hello, how may I help you?" That was how Grandpa answered the phone. As Daniel was helping Eli and Alessia choose things to buy, Dad came in. "Okay, kids, time to go to the nursing home. Families from church are taking turns visiting, and tonight's our night."Daniel frowned. "Couldn't just you and Mom go?"Dad shook his head. "The people look forward to our visits, and they especially like seeing kids. It brightens their whole day.""Well, it doesn't brighten my day," said Daniel. He expected Dad to scold him, but instead, Dad changed the subject. "Daniel, how does Grandpa answer the phone at the store?" "He says, 'How may I help you?'" Daniel replied. Dad nodded. "Yes, and I've heard you answer the same way when you're playing store with Eli and Alessia. It's a good way to show that you're willing and eager to help someone. Now, is there a way you could ask God that same question that's used to answer the phone?""What do you mean?" asked Daniel."In the Bible we learn that God wants His followers to serve Him and others willingly," Dad explained. "Jesus eagerly served everyone He encountered--He even sacrificed His own life to save us. And He's given us the Holy Spirit to help us love others the way He does, which means we can serve others with a willing heart too."Daniel thought for a minute. "I guess you're right," he said. "If I asked God how I could help Him today, He'd want me to go to the nursing home." –Carolyn E. YostHow About You?What's your attitude when you serve the Lord? When you're asked to help out at home or visit someone who's sick, do you do it willingly? Jesus loves us so much that He became the greatest servant of all by sacrificing Himself for us. When we serve God by helping others, we show other people His love. Take a moment and ask God in prayer, "How may I help you?" Today's Key Verse:Serve [God] with a loyal heart and with a willing mind. (NKJV) (1 Chronicles 28:9)Today's Key Thought:Serve God willingly

Bible Reading: Mark 4:9-12; Romans 10:17"We had a new girl in our class at church today," Josephine said as she set the table for lunch. "Her name is Lauren, and she's deaf. She reads lips."Mom nodded. "I met her mother. Their family moved here recently." She set a plate of vegetables on the table. "Just last week I read an article that said several million people in our country are either totally deaf or can't hear as well as they should.""Nolan doesn't hear as well as he should." Josephine smirked at her brother. "He only hears when he wants to. He hears just fine when somebody mentions dessert, but he doesn't seem to hear when someone mentions chores that need to be done."Nolan smirked back. "You're one to talk!""I guess we're all guilty of that once in a while," Dad said. "It's called selective hearing--only hearing what you want to hear." He started pouring water into the glasses on the table. "Sadly, some of us who have perfectly good hearing are deaf in another way--we're spiritually deaf.""Spiritually deaf?" asked Josephine. "What does that mean?""It means failing to hear and understand what God has to say," said Dad. "He invites everyone to trust in Jesus and be saved, but many people don't seem to hear Him. In the Bible, God speaks of His love for us, the dangers of sin, and how we can have the gift of forgiveness and eternal life through His Son, Jesus. Many of us might hear these words with our ears but not understand them with our hearts. It's as though we're deaf to what He's saying.""Even Christians have trouble listening to God's words and obeying them," said Mom. "Though we trust in Jesus, we sometimes don't want to listen to what He has to say to us through prayer, reading the Bible, and meeting with other Christians. We seem to quit listening--especially if we're afraid we'll hear something from God that we don't like.""I guess that would be like what Dad said we're guilty of," said Nolan. "Selective hearing.""That's right," said Dad. "Thankfully, God is patient with us when we don't listen and gives each Christian the Holy Spirit to open our ears to His voice." –Phyllis I. Klomparens How About You?Are you spiritually deaf or hard of hearing? Are you ignoring what God says in the Bible about how you can be saved from sin by trusting in Jesus? If you do trust in Jesus, are you neglecting spiritual habits like prayer and going to church that help you listen to what He wants to say to you about your life? Trust God to help you hear Him better so you can listen, understand, and obey.Today's Key Verse:I will hear what God the Lord will speak. (NKJV) (Psalm 85:8)Today's Key Thought:Always listen to God

Bible Reading: Mark 12:41-44Malia jingled the coins in her pocket. She liked the sound they made. She called it her Sunday song because she often jingled coins before Sunday school started each week. Malia earned her own money for offerings, but lately she hadn't been able to find many jobs, so the amount she could give had become smaller and smaller.Antonio, the boy sitting next to her, saw her put the coins into the offering plate and snickered. "Is that all you have?" he asked loudly. "Why even bother?" Malia felt her face grow hot. She put her head down and didn't answer.When Malia got home, she told her mother what Antonio had said. "I guess he was right," she said with a sigh. "I think my offering was the smallest one anybody had today."Mom raised her eyebrows. "I think your first mistake was to compare your offering to what the other kids gave. We should never give just to impress others. Tell me--what does Jesus think about what you gave?" Malia shrugged.Mom was quiet for a moment. "Malia, at your birthday party last month, your friends gave you presents. Were the gifts all the same, or were some smaller than others?" "The gifts? They were all different, of course," said Malia. "Why?""Well, are the kids who gave you the nicest presents the ones you like best now?" asked Mom.Malia shook her head. "It doesn't matter what they brought. Izzy's dad had been sick a long time, so she couldn't spend much on a present, but who cares? It wouldn't have mattered if she hadn't brought anything at all. She's my best friend!""I know," said Mom. "And you're Jesus's friend--He loves you so much that He died for your sins and rose from the dead to save you! And He's pleased with any gift you give Him from your heart out of gratitude for what He's done for you.""Just like I'm happy with Izzy's present," Malia said, smiling. "Before the party, Izzy said she didn't know if she should even come. She was afraid of what the other kids would think of her gift. But I told her I would love any gift she brought me because she's my friend."–Brenda K. GoodHow About You?Are you afraid that your gifts to the Lord aren't good enough? Do they seem small compared to what other people can give? Remember that Jesus sees your heart. Your desire to give to Him out of love and gratitude for what He's done for you is what matters--whether it's through giving money or serving in other ways. God knows your circumstances, and He loves any gift you're able to give Him because you are His friend.Today's Key Verse:According to their ability, they gave. (NKJV) (Ezra 2:69)Today's Key Thought:God accepts your gifts

Bible Reading: Mark 2:1-12Jackson stood in the backyard, looking up at the roof of his house. It was a busy place. A remodeling crew climbed up and down ladders, working on the rectangular-shaped hole in the roof. "Having a skylight will really brighten up our dark kitchen," said Dad as he joined him. "This reminds me of a Bible story we learned about in church last week," Jackson said as he watched the workers carefully lifting the window. "It was about four men who brought their sick friend to Jesus. They cut a hole in the roof and let him down through it to where Jesus was."Dad nodded. "I know the story. There was such a crowd around the house that they couldn't get the paralyzed man in through the door.""Even with power tools, it's a big job to cut a hole in the roof," said Jackson, standing back to watch the men work. "My teacher said that in Bible times, roofs would have been flatter with stairs going to the top." After a moment, Jackson sighed. "Anyway, the story made me kind of sad. Cole and I talked about how we wish we could be like those men and take Evan to Jesus to be healed."Dad gave him a sad smile. "You can do that in prayer," he replied."We have, but Evan still has cancer," said Jackson. "Doesn't Jesus heal anymore?""Yes, Jesus still heals," Dad assured him. "Sometimes He uses doctors to do that; other times He heals with a miracle. But sometimes--like with your grandmother--He brings the person to be in His presence in heaven, fully and forever, where there is no sickness."Jackson wasn't satisfied. "But is there anything Cole and I can do to help Evan besides pray?" "Visit him whenever you can," replied Dad. "And tell him about things like the skylight and what's going on at school and church. If I were sick, it would make me feel better just to know I had friends who would gladly put me on a stretcher, carry me up to the roof, and cut a hole to get me to Jesus. Let Evan know that since you can't do that, you'll keep on taking him to Jesus in your prayers." –Ruth McQuilkinHow About You?Do you have a friend or relative who is very ill? Do you feel like there's nothing you can do to help? You can pray for that person, trusting God to work in the best possible way. Jesus is with us when we're hurting, and He listens to our prayers. You can also encourage that person by sending cards or messages and visiting them. Do what you can to let them know you care--and that Jesus does too.Today's Key Verse:Comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. (NKJV) (1 Thessalonians 5:14)Today's Key Thought:Comfort those who are sick

Bible Reading: Mark 4:1-9; Romans 10:17; Philippians 4:8-9"Sea lion caves," read Graham. He pointed to a sign next to the road along the Oregon coast. "We're there!"Dad nodded and drove into the parking lot. Soon the family stood in the underground viewing area, close enough to see, smell, and hear the roaring creatures. When a torpedo-shaped body with a whiskered, cat-like face slid through the water and clambered up onto the cave floor, Dad took out his phone. "That type of seal is called the Stellar sea lion," he said. "This website says the spots that look like dimples on the side of the seal's head are tiny ears. Most seals just have openings, but the Stellar sea lion is an eared seal. When it dives, those little ear flaps cover the openings, and when it surfaces, the ears open up again.""Wow! That's cool," said Graham.After watching the sea lions for a while, Graham and his family returned to their car and went on their way. As they drove, they talked about the seals. "Why didn't God give me ears that would close?" Graham asked, laughing at the thought of his ears opening and closing. "I'd like to be able to shut some things out that I didn't want to hear.""I thought you could do that already," said Mom, pretending to be surprised. "You never seem to hear me when I tell you to clean your room!" Graham smiled sheepishly. He knew she was teasing, but he suspected she wasn't totally joking either."That's a good point," said Dad. "God didn't give you ear flaps, Graham, but He did give you the ability to open and close your ears in another way. You can open your ears by listening to what's being said and close them by not paying attention. It's important to open your ears to what your parents, teachers, and especially God have to say.""That's right," said Mom. "God often uses parents and teachers to help us understand what He tells us in the Bible--the truth about what Jesus did to save us and how we should live as God's children. We need to open our ears so we can hear and obey." –Bernice S. KarnopHow About You?Have you ever tried to open and close your ears? Though you don't have ear flaps like a sea lion, you can choose to listen to or ignore what others say. When parents and teachers are talking to you, pay attention to their words. Most important of all, open your ears to what God says in the Bible. It tells us how much He loves us and how we can have a relationship with Him--and Christian parents and teachers can help us learn more about Him too.Today's Key Verse:Jesus said, "Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear." (NIV) (Mark 4:9)Today's Key Thought:Open your ears to God's truth

Bible Reading: Mark 10:17-31 Key Passage: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Mark 10:17-31

Bible Reading: Mark 10:17-31

Bible Reading: Mark 11:1-23 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tarara/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tarara/support

Bible Reading: Mark 4:13-20"Mom! Dad!" called Jayden as he raced into the house. "Come quick! I think a watermelon is growing in the backyard!""Really?" asked Dad. "That ground out back is so poor and rocky. I wouldn't think a watermelon could grow there.""But there is one!" insisted Jayden. "Come and see.""We'll look later," said Dad. "Right now we have to get to the homeless shelter or we'll be late for chapel." Jayden's family had agreed to lead the shelter's evening chapel service once a month."Oh, all right," said Jayden. He went to his room and got his trumpet and sheet music for the songs he would be playing at the shelter.On the way home a couple of hours later, they discussed the service. "I don't think anyone was paying attention today," said Jayden. "I think it was a waste of time for us to go there.""Sharing the gospel is never a waste of time," said Mom. "Someone who doesn't seem interested may actually be ready to trust Jesus as their Savior."As soon as they got home, Jayden persuaded his parents to go look at the watermelon plant. Sure enough, there was a vine with one very small watermelon on it. "This must have grown from some seeds we threw out here last year," said Jayden."I think you're right," said Mom. "I've thought about planting a garden back here, but I didn't think this soil was good for growing anything. I guess I was wrong. It looks like one of those seeds fell on ground that was just right for watermelons. If it keeps growing, we'll get some fruit we didn't expect.""We scattered another kind of seed today--the seed of God's Word," said Dad. "Like you said, Jayden, no one at the homeless shelter seemed to pay much attention, but we don't know the condition of the hearts of those people. It's possible that the seed we planted there will bring unexpected fruit too.""You mean some of those people might still trust in Jesus because of what they heard today?" asked Jayden.Dad nodded. "Jesus loves those people and died for them, just like He loves and died for us. Let's pray that God will make the seeds we scattered today grow in their hearts and produce fruit." –Nance E. KeyesHow About You?Do you feel like it's useless to share the gospel--especially with people who don't seem interested? The parable of the sower in Mark 4 tells us that the seed of God's Word falls on many different kinds of soil in people's hearts. You can't see what kind of heart-soil anyone has, but keep sharing the good news about Jesus--you never know whose heart is ready to trust in Him.Today's Key Verse:Other seed fell on good ground and it grew up, producing fruit. (CSB) (Mark 4:8)Today's Key Thought:Keep spreading God's Word

Bible Reading Mark 8: 11-21 (NKJV) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hope-whangarei/message

Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-31Macy glanced at her brother and made a face as Mrs. Jackson from next door stepped into their yard. Here we go again, she thought. Their neighbor was always mad about something.Mom got up from the porch swing. "Hello," she said in a cheerful voice.Mrs. Jackson harrumphed. "I thought I heard your kids screaming."Mom glanced at Macy and Jace. "Not today.""Well, keep them quiet when it starts to get late like this. I haven't been feeling well and need my sleep," Mrs. Jackson said.Mom's brows knit together. "I'm sorry to hear you haven't been feeling well. Is there anything we can do for you?"Mrs. Jackson shook her head. "Just keep your kids quiet." She turned and marched back to her yard."I hope you feel better," Mom called after her."Why are you so nice to her, Mom?" Macy asked."Yeah," Jace said. "She's only ever grumpy and mean to us."Mom turned toward them. "Sometimes it's when people are acting grumpy and mean that they need love and grace the most.""Love?" Jace wrinkled his nose."She doesn't seem like she's deserving of it all the time, I know. But then again, neither are we." Mom sat on the porch swing between them. "God chose to love us even though we're not perfect. We all make mistakes, right?"Macy thought about how often she fought with her brother, especially when they were playing board games. "Yeah."Mom nodded. "God loves us in spite of our mistakes, and we should show love to others despite how they might treat us too. When we show them love and grace, we're showing them Jesus.""I want to be like Jesus," Macy said.Jace glanced at her. "Even if it means being nice to Mrs. Jackson?""Yeah." Macy sighed. "That's going to be hard."Mom squeezed her hand. "But not impossible. You can trust Jesus to help you love others the way He loves you.""I will," Macy said. She wanted to be loving like Jesus, even if it meant putting up with her cranky neighbor. –Bethany AckerHow About You?Do you know someone who only ever seems to be in a bad mood? Sometimes people who are grumpy or mean act that way because they're hurting. That doesn't excuse their actions, but it can help you remember that they need love too. God shows us love and grace when we don't deserve it, and He will help us do the same for others. Trust Him to help you love your neighbors the way Jesus loves you.Today's Key Verse:Love your neighbor as yourself. (NIV) (Mark 12:31)Today's Key Thought:Everyone needs love

Bible Reading: Mark 2:3-12Kelvin sighed as he picked up a big box. "This room is full of stuff."Mom wiped sweat from her forehead. "And we need to get it all moved to the garage. Theresa and her kids will be here soon."Kelvin and his mom had been struggling since his dad passed away, and he had been surprised when Mom told him that her friend was going to move in with them for a while.Kelvin made a couple of trips to the garage, then he dropped to the floor in the still-messy guest room. "I'm tired.""Me too." Mom leaned against the wall. "We can break for a minute.""Why are we doing this?" Kelvin asked."Because Theresa had a fire at her house," Mom said. "She and her kids can't live there anymore.""I know that, but why do they have to come here? Aren't there other places they can go?""She's my friend, Kelvin," Mom said. "We help our friends when they're in trouble." Mom knelt on the floor. "I'll tell you one quick story, then we need to get back to work. When Jesus was doing miracles, some men came to bring their friend to see Him. Their friend couldn't walk, so they had to carry him to the house."Kelvin looked at his mom. "They carried a grownup?"Mom nodded. "When they got to the house, it was too full to get inside. Instead of leaving, they climbed onto the roof with their friend and made a hole in the roof."Kelvin's eyes widened. "They took him on the roof?""They lowered him down through the hole," Mom said. "And Jesus healed him. The men did everything they could for their friend, showing him the kind of love that God shows us. Jesus laid down His life for us, and when we make sacrifices for our friends like He did, we show them His love." Mom stood up. "And now we need to get this room cleaned and set up for Theresa's family so I can be a good friend and show her God's love.""We should get back to work, huh?" Kelvin got to his feet. "At least we don't have to carry people or climb onto any roofs."Mom smiled. "Right?" –Emily AckerHow About You?Have you ever done something big for one of your friends? Maybe you helped them with homework when you wanted to be playing instead, or you helped them with chores even though you didn't have to. That's the kind of love Jesus showed His friends. He died for our sins so we could be His friends forever, and He'll help you make sacrifices for your friends too.Today's Key Verse:There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13)Today's Key Thought:Friends help each other

WANT TO WORK TOGETHER?  HERE'S HOW! In this episode, Kelley brings on faith based holistic health coach Robin Rhine McDonald to discuss God's way of living a clean eating, healthy lifestyle.  Robin is the host of her podcast, Vision Driven Health and she has a passion for supporting and empowering Jesus loving women to gain true health while losing weight. She helps them ditch the chronic dieting and over obsessing about weight, and teaches them how to put God first and center instead.   Key Highlights: Managing stress, discouragement, and finding motivation through scripture Finding the energy, vitality, and capability to do what God wants us to, as we become healthier versions of ourselves Food is our mood and impacts our daily decisions Lack of nutrition is killing us and too much great work we are doing is being hindered by low energy, difficulty sleeping, and weight gain Finding the strength and stamina through the Bible to live healthy and motivated Bible Reading: Mark 7 CONNECT WITH ROBIN: www.visiondrivenhealth.com Grab a copy of Kelley's latest book, The ONE Prayer, to help you get centered and focused on your health! Join the BOOK CLUB virtual community while you are at it and learn from different speakers about how prayer can enhance your life! RESOURCES, FREE GIFTS, and Ways to Work With Kelley! www.kelleytyan.com Follow Kelley on Social: Linkedin Instagram      

Devotion - His cross of peace --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mercysds/message

Bible Reading: Mark 7:24-30 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hope-whangarei/message

Bible Reading: Mark 11:24; Ephesians 6:18; Hebrews 4:16Kyle stared out the window, his homework forgotten on the table in front of him. He had been daydreaming, not very interested in solving his math problems, when he noticed a praying mantis perched on the bush outside. Kyle was mesmerized by the interesting creature. The mantis didn't move; he stood still with his front legs held together, looking like he was praying.As Kyle continued to watch, he saw an insect land on a branch right in front of the creature. All at once, the praying mantis lunged forward and grabbed the insect. Wow, he's hunting! Kyle thought to himself. He was still watching the praying mantis when his mom walked in."Homework done?" Mom asked."Not yet, but look at this praying mantis. Is he cool or what? He just caught his dinner a few minutes ago." Kyle proceeded to tell his mom about how the praying mantis had remained still in a praying stance until an insect had appeared on the branch in front of him and then snatched it up."That's pretty neat. God sure created some interesting creatures. You know, Kyle, the praying mantis always reminds me of how the Bible tells us to pray. There's a verse that tells us to stay alert and be persistent in our prayers.""That sounds like a praying mantis waiting to catch a bug," said Kyle.Mom nodded. "The praying mantis is in his ready stance, waiting with confidence, knowing he will catch his dinner. As Christians, we need to be in that ready stance of prayer too. The Bible reminds us that we are dependent on God to provide for us and help us in everything we do, and He wants us to bring our needs and requests to Him in prayer. Just like the praying mantis is confident he will catch his dinner; we can be confident that God will hear us when we pray and that He will answer us. We are His beloved children, so even when He doesn't answer the way we want, we can trust Him to do good things through our prayers, knowing that He gave His own Son so we could have the joy and peace of Jesus in our lives." "Wow, that's really cool!" Kyle grinned and folded his hands. "Now I'm in my ready stance too." –Lisa FullerHow About You?Are you in a ready stance of prayer, trusting God to listen to your requests? You can be confident that He hears you and will answer your prayers. That doesn't mean He'll always answer the way you want, but He promises to use your prayers to do good things in your life and in the lives of others. So keep praying, and be ready to take hold of the answers God provides. Today's Key Verse:Never stop praying. (NLT) (1 Thessalonians 5:17)Today's Key Thought:Keep praying

Bible Reading: Mark 9:1-23 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tarara/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tarara/support

Bible Reading: Mark 3:7-12; Luke 5:17-26Jenna hurried to get ready for the concert. Her dad had bought them good tickets, and she wanted to get to their seats as soon as possible.As soon as she was finished putting her hair in a ponytail, she hurried down the stairs. "Let's go!"Her dad chuckled from the couch. "It's early yet, honey.""But I want to make sure we get there as soon as we can," Jenna said."Your mom and sisters are still getting ready." Dad patted the cushion beside him. "Sit for a minute.""I don't want to sit. I want to go!" Jenna sighed as she slumped onto the couch.Dad smiled. "You make me think of something."Jenna's brows knit. "What?""When Jesus was living on earth, do you think people got excited like you are tonight? I know He drew large crowds and the people had to pack in to see Him," Dad said."They probably wanted to get a good seat," Jenna agreed."But they didn't have tickets," Dad said. "Think of those who brought the paralyzed man to Jesus. When they got there, the house was already full. But instead of turning around, they went on the roof and made a hole in it to let their friend in!""We'd probably get in trouble if we did that to see the band," Jenna said.Dad laughed. "We would. But think about how special it was to see Jesus. He healed the paralyzed man and made him walk again. He saved him from his sins…""If I could see Jesus like that tonight, I would," Jenna said. "It would be so cool. I would even do it instead of the concert, and I'm really looking forward to that.""Me too," Dad agreed. "Seeing Him would be awesome, and one day we will see Him because He's saved us from our sins too, but at least we don't have to see Him to know He is with us.""He'll even be at the concert with us," Jenna said. She would love to see Jesus, but she was glad He was always there, whether she could see Him or not. "I hope He likes the music."Dad grinned. "I think He will." – Bethany AckerHow About You?What do you think it would be like to see Jesus in person? What would you say to Him if you saw Him? Even though you can't see Him now, you can still talk to Him like He's right there with you, because He is! If you know Him as your Savior, He promises to always be with you, and one day you'll see Him face-to-face. He is with you no matter where you are.Today's Key Verse:Yet the news about [Jesus] spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. (NIV) (Luke 5:15 )Today's Key Thought:Jesus is special

The beginning of the Gospel account of Jesus written by Mark.

Jesus on the way to the cross.

Jesus heals and raises the dead and ultimately rises from the dead Himself.

BIBLE STUDY| MIRACLES OF JESUS SERIES.|THE SECOND MIRACLE OF JESUS pt.17| HOW & WHEN MANIFESTATION OF MIRACLES| CHIMDI OHAHUNA. Bible Reading: Mark 11:24; Matt 7: 7-8; Isa 40:31, 65:24; 1 John 5:14-15; Heb 1:1 -2; 4:12 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. Mark 11:24 KJV Having understood that God doesn't live and operate in time. Now, yesterday, and future live in Him. We must NEVER use time to relate with God. And, the understanding that miracles manifests at the instance at which the word of God was spoken. In this episode, you will gain understanding into the mind of Christ when He spoke in the Book of Mark chapter 11 verse 24. Listen to yet another simple yet profound teaching in this series to discover the flow link of having what we desire (miracle) Jesus is Lord. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gracelife-comi/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gracelife-comi/support

Bible Reading: Mark 6:30-32; Luke 10:38-42"I hear you're having a pizza party at youth group tomorrow evening," Dad told Eliana as they waited for their food at a restaurant. "That sounds fun.""Yeah, but I can't go to youth group tomorrow. I have play rehearsal at school.""Last week you missed youth group because you had a band concert," said Dad. "Are you going to the retreat next weekend?""I can't. I have to work on the student council posters on Saturday." Dad frowned. "Maybe you should cut down on--" "What's wrong with that man over there?" asked Eliana.Dad looked to where she was pointing, then jumped up and dashed across the room. "Are you choking, sir?" he asked. The man nodded frantically. Dad wrapped his arms around the man and, with a clenched fist, gave a couple of sharp, upward thrusts. The man coughed and gasped, and a moment later was breathing normally again. Everyone applauded."Thank you," said the man when he was able to talk. "I guess I tried to eat too much at once!"On the way home, Eliana said, "It's a good thing you knew how to do the Heimlich maneuver, Dad! That man could have choked to death."Dad nodded. "I'm glad I learned the Heimlich maneuver a long time ago so I'd know what to do if someone was choking." He sighed. "You know, Eliana, you may be in need of the Heimlich maneuver too, and I just didn't notice until now.""Me?" said Eliana. "What do you mean? I'm not choking!""No?" asked Dad. "It seems like your spiritual life is getting choked by all the extracurricular activities you're involved in. You need room to breathe. You haven't been able to participate in church activities because of your busy schedule, and you also need down time so you can rest and renew your energy.""I have been feeling overloaded lately," Eliana admitted. "And I haven't had much time to pray or read my Bible.""Having that time with Jesus is important," said Dad. "We can rest in Him because He did everything needed to save us, and when we spend time with Him, He reminds us of that. He provides rest for our souls." Eliana nodded. "Maybe when we get home we can go over my activities to see which ones I can quit." - Barbara J. WestbergHow About You?Does your life feel crowded with too many activities? Even when you devote your time to good things, doing too much can wear you out and make you miss out on the really important stuff. If your schedule is so packed that you don't have time for church activities or spending time alone with God, it's time to cut back. Make time for Jesus so He can refresh your soul. Today's Key Verse:Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." (NLT) (Matthew 11:28)Today's Key Thought:Don't get too busy

Bible Reading: Mark 1:16-20; 1 Corinthians 15:58"Oh no! A fish got my bait again!" Ryder exclaimed as he pulled his fishing line out of the water. "That's it. I give up!" Ryder laid his pole on the ground. "Okay if I go check the frog pond?" he asked. Dad nodded, so Ryder wandered off through the well-known woods on Grandpa's farm, leaving his father to fish alone.When Ryder returned a half hour later, Dad grinned at him. "Look, Ryder! I believe I've hooked something!" Dad tugged on his line and brought a flapping, struggling fish to shore. Ryder was surprised to see that there were also several other fish in his pail."How'd you do it, Dad?" asked Ryder."Just by keeping at it," Dad said. "You'll never catch a fish with your fishing pole on the ground."Ryder picked up his pole and baited his hook again. As they continued fishing, he said, "Maybe Callum and Max are like these fish you caught." Dad raised his brows. "I don't think your friends would be very flattered to hear you compare them to fish," he said. "What do you mean?""Well, more than once I've tried to tell them about Jesus--I guess I was fishing for people, like Jesus said we're supposed to do. But they never want to talk about God or come to church or anything." Ryder paused. "They don't seem interested at all, so last week I decided I'd just quit. It didn't seem like it was worth it to keep trying to help them know more about Jesus.""And now you're wondering about that decision?" asked Dad.Ryder nodded. "Maybe it's like our fishing today. Maybe I just need to keep at it a little longer.""That's good thinking," said Dad. "Jesus promises to help us share the good news that He died and rose again to save us with others, but it isn't something that can always be done quickly or easily. But don't give up--keep praying for your friends and letting them see what Jesus has done in your life, and trust Him to give you more opportunities to talk to them about Him.""Okay, I will." Suddenly, Ryder felt a tug on his line. "Dad!" he exclaimed. "I think I got one!" - Mary Rose PearsonHow About You?Have you tried to get somebody interested in spiritual things and gotten discouraged? Have you stopped trying to talk to someone about Jesus or inviting them to church, thinking it's just no use? Don't give up. It's God's job to open people's hearts to the message of the gospel, but He can use you to point them in the right direction. Keep doing what you can to point them toward Jesus and trust Him with the rest.Today's Key Verse:Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 15:58)Today's Key Thought:Keep on sharing Jesus

Bible Reading: Mark 1:40-45; Hebrews 6:10"Hey, Laura, wait up!" Laura turned at the door of her classroom at church and saw Anissa hurrying down the hall toward her. "You have nursery duty with me today, don't you?" asked Anissa. "Let's go."Laura dropped her gaze. "Um, actually, Jessie is going to take my place."Anissa's forehead creased in a frown. "Why? You and I always work in the nursery together. Why aren't you helping today?""Well, I, uh…" Laura squirmed uncomfortably. "I just don't feel like helping in the nursery anymore."Anissa eyed her suspiciously. "Laura, I've never met anyone in my whole life who likes babies more than you do. Something's going on. What is it?"Laura sighed. She knew it was no use trying to hide the real reason she had decided to quit working in the nursery. "Well, it's just…kids have so many contagious illnesses, and I don't want to come down with them myself. There's always somebody with a cold or something. The day after I was in the nursery last month, the Jamisons' baby came down with chicken pox! And now…well, there's the Wilsons' adopted baby who is HIV positive.""So that's it!" Anissa was silent for a moment before she spoke again. "Laura, the nursery staff uses special safety precautions with little Peter. Mrs. Snyder can talk to you about it some more if you have any questions, but you don't have to be afraid to hold Peter or play with him. He needs our love and care just as much as any of the other babies. Maybe more." She paused, then added gently, "Remember the sermon we heard last week? What would have happened to the leper if Jesus hadn't been willing to help him?"In her mind's eye, Laura could see the sick, hopeless man kneeling before Jesus, pleading for His help. And then she could see the Savior with His outstretched hand. There was love in His face and in His touch. Thinking about it, Laura made a decision.She looked up and met Anissa's gaze with a smile. "I'll tell Jessie she can go to the worship service after all," she told her friend. "Meet you in the nursery in a few minutes!" -Carolyn A. PennerHow About You?Have you been avoiding someone God wants you to help? Maybe you've been too busy to get involved. Maybe you've been too proud. Or perhaps, like Laura, you're just plain scared. Jesus didn't hesitate to reach out to us when we were sick with sin and in need of His help, and He wants us to show His love to others. Let His love flow through you into the lives of those who need His touch today.Today's Key Verse:There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear. (NKJV) (1 John 4:18)Today's Key Thought:Show God's love to everyone

Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-33; John 13:34-35"There's a new girl in my class," Nuri remarked as she helped clear the table. "Her name is Elizabeth--and that's what she wants to be called. Elizabeth." Mom looked up from loading the dishwasher. "I hope you were friendly. Remember how it feels to start at a new school?" "Yeah, but she's so stuck-up, Mom," Nuri said. "We asked if she has a nickname, and she said if anybody calls her anything but Elizabeth, she won't answer. And she kept talking about the big, wonderful house her family moved into." The back door burst open. "Look what I found! Isn't he cute?" Nuri's brother Tae set a wet, muddy kitten down on the kitchen floor. "Tae, get that cat out of the kitchen," Mom said. "He's filthy! Where did you find him?" Tae picked up the frightened, shivering animal. "He's been hanging around Blake's house. I'm sure he doesn't belong to anybody. Can I keep him, Mom? He won't be any trouble." "No trouble?" Mom laughed and rolled her eyes. "Right, no trouble at all!"Tae jumped up and down. "We can keep him?" "I didn't say that. A kitten needs attention every day. You'd have to take care of him whether you want to or not--he'd be your responsibility. Are you willing to do that?" Both kids nodded eagerly. "All right," Mom said. "You can keep him. I'll make an appointment with the vet." After they took the kitten to the vet for a checkup, Tae and Nuri gave their new pet a bath. "He certainly looks better now," said Mom, "but he'll need care every day." "We know," said Nuri as the kitten snuggled into her lap. "All he needed was some tender, loving care. My teacher calls that TLC." "Hmm," Mom murmured. "Maybe that's what the new girl in your class needs too. She seems to be trying hard to make an impression. Maybe she needs a friend." Mom leaned over and stroked the kitten's head. "You've been a good friend to this kitten. Your tender, loving care reminds me of the way Jesus loves and cares for us. Maybe you could show His love to Elizabeth by being her friend too."Nuri was quiet for a moment. Then she nodded. "Okay. I'll try to be a friend to her."-Barbara J. WestbergHow About You?Do you know someone who needs TLC--tender, loving care? Sometimes people who seem stuck-up or mean are really just lonely and in need of a friend. Jesus always treats us with tender, loving care--even when we're not nice. You can show His love to others by giving them some TLC when they need it and being a friend to them.Today's Key Verse:I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. (NLT) (John 13:34)Today's Key Thought:Treat others with love

Bible Reading: Mark 10:46-52Destiny and her sister Mazie bounced excitedly at the ticket booth. Mom had been teaching them all month about different sea animals. Now they were taking a field trip to the aquarium to see the animals they had been learning about.When they entered the aquarium, Destiny pointed to a sign with a dolphin image and an arrow to the right. "Can we please go see the dolphins first?" Destiny begged.Mom laughed. "Sure!"When they reached the exhibit, Destiny hurried over and pressed her nose to the glass, watching as the dolphins swirled, twisted, and played. Their powerful tails pumped up and down as the dolphins glided smoothly through the blue water.An aquarium worker noticed them and walked over. "Are you girls dolphin lovers?"Destiny nodded. "They're my favorite!""Yeah, we've been learning about them at school!" Mazie said."Oh really?" the worker asked. "What have you learned?""Dolphins are smart!" Mazie said. "They like to play and eat fish.""Yeah, and they use echolocation to hunt!" Destiny chimed in. "They make clicks that travel through the water as sound waves. When the sound waves hit an object, they bounce back to the dolphin and hit the melon, a part of their forehead that's made up of fluid and fatty tissue. The melon shows the dolphin clear pictures of what's up ahead, like sonar in a submarine.""It sounds like you know a lot!" the worker said.On the drive back home, Mom said, "Destiny, why do dolphins need to use echolocation?""Sometimes they can't see what's up ahead because it's too dark or murky," Destiny replied."Exactly!" said Mom. "That got me thinking about how faith is like echolocation.""How?" Mazie asked."Sometimes things ahead are dark or uncertain. But our faith in Jesus means we can still have confidence God will guide us even when it's hard to see," Mom said. "We know Jesus is with us no matter what because He saved us and promises to be our light in the darkness. We can trust Him to help us.""And dolphins don't doubt their echolocation," Destiny said. She grinned. "I'm going to be like my favorite animal and trust my echolocation. I'm going to trust Jesus to guide me." -Olivia SummersHow About You?Do you ever worry about what the future holds? Just like dolphins, we can be confident even if we can't see what's ahead. The Bible says our faith should guide us, not our sight. We can trust Jesus to lead us the way we should go. When you face an uncertain situation, seek His help by reading your Bible, praying, or talking with a trusted adult. Then trust that God will make His way clear!Today's Key Verse:For we walk by faith, not by sight. (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 5:7)Today's Key Thought:Live by faith

Bible Reading: Mark 14:3-9; 1 John 3:18Grandma will like this, Kade thought as he worked on a picture. She'll probably take it home and put it up somewhere. He finished drawing a house, then worked on trees and clouds. Kade enjoyed art, and his teacher had told him he had a talent for it. "There!" he said, looking over the finished picture.Nearby, Kade's five-year-old sister Chloe worked on a picture of her own. "Mine's done too," she said, holding it up.Kade scoffed at it. "What's Grandma going to do with that? Just looks like scribbling to me!" Chloe scowled at him and left the room.When Grandma arrived, Kade gave her his drawing. "My, this is good work, Kade!" Grandma exclaimed. Then she turned to Chloe, who was shyly holding out her picture. Grandma took it and exclaimed over it too. "These are both going on my refrigerator," she said. Kade scowled.When Kade and Grandma were alone a little later, she asked him about it. "Don't you want me to put your picture up?" she asked."Sure, but you made it sound like Chloe's was as good as mine," Kade replied. "It's not half as good! Hers is just scribbling. Why would you like it?""I could see the love that went into it," Grandma explained. "I saw that Chloe had worked just as hard to please me as you had. Maybe it wasn't done with a practiced hand as yours was, but the love was there. She did what she could."Kade nodded slowly. "I guess that means you'd love me just as much if I weren't good at drawing.""You're absolutely right about that!" said Grandma. "I love you because you're my grandson, not because of what you can do. And you know what? That's the way God loves us too. We don't need to do anything for Him to love us. He already loves us so much He sent Jesus to save us so we could be His children! And He's always delighted by our gifts. We may see some actions or deeds as being small or unimportant, but they're important to God because He notices the love that's put into them. Giving a helping hand, a friendly smile, or an encouraging word is just as important to God as anything else we could do to serve Him." -Carolyn E. YostHow About You?Does what you do for God seem less important than what others do for Him? It's not. On the other hand, perhaps you think what you do for Him is more important than what others do. That's not true either. God sees the love that goes into each deed, no matter how big or small it seems to you. Everything we do in response to the love He has shown us is precious in His sight. Today's Key Verse:She has done what she could. (NKJV) (Mark 14:8)Today's Key Thought:Serve God with love

Bible Reading: Mark 5:1-20"Hey, buddy," Dad said to Jamal as he cleared away the lunch dishes, "after I help your mom clean up, let's head over to the park.""Nah, that's okay," Jamal said quietly. "I don't really want to go.""That doesn't sound like you," said Dad. "You usually love going to the park. What's up?"Jamal hesitated, then said, "I heard a couple of ladies talking at church this morning about how difficult it must be for you and Mom to take care of me with my disability. I feel like it's not fair you have to do all these extra things for me that other kids don't need. You have so much to do; it's not worth your time."Dad put his hand on Jamal's shoulder. "What was our lesson about in Sunday school this morning? And you better remember, because I'm your Sunday school teacher!"Jamal chuckled. "It was about the demon-possessed man Jesus healed.""Yes," Dad said, reaching for his Bible. "But there's something significant about that story I didn't have time to talk about this morning. In the chapter before, Jesus spends all day preaching on one side of the lake and then asks His disciples to take Him across the lake in a boat. They endure a terrible storm during the night that Jesus silences with just His words, then arrive safely on the shore where the man is living among the tombs. Then look here--after healing the man, where does Jesus go next?" Jamal looked at the verse. "Back across the lake.""That's right. So Jesus took the time, and the disciples' time, and risked all their lives in that storm just to go find one man everyone else had given up on." Dad looked Jamal in the eyes. "Jesus believed that one individual was worth all His time and energy that day. Do you think Jesus feels any differently about you?"Tears filled Jamal's eyes as he shook his head. "In fact, Jesus is so sure of your worth that He died on the cross for you," Dad said."So what you're saying is, if I'm that important to Jesus, I'm pretty important to you and Mom too, right?"Dad smiled and called toward the kitchen, "Hey, honey, is Jamal pretty important to us?"Mom looked up from the dishes and grinned. "You better believe it! Now you two better head to the park before all that good sunshine is wasted!" -Karen McMillanHow About You?Do you sometimes have a hard time believing you are worth it? Maybe you feel the stress of others and think you are just too much for them to handle. Jesus never feels that way about you. He created you for a purpose, and He sacrificed His life for you. You are worth loving!Today's Key Verse:Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God…Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. (NIV) (Luke 12:6-7)Today's Key Thought:You're worth it to Jesus

Bible Reading: Mark 4:35-4Lightning flashed and thunder boomed, rattling the house and flooding the living room with flashes of light. Moments later, there was a thud of feet hitting the floor, followed by quick footsteps. Mom looked up from the sofa to see six-year-old Matthew standing outside his bedroom door, his face filled with fear. Mom opened her arms, and Matthew raced into her embrace, burying his head in her arm. "Is the thunder and lightning scaring you?" Mom asked in a quiet voice. Matthew nodded his still-buried head, and his whole body trembled. "You know, Matthew, when I was a little girl, I was afraid of thunderstorms too."Matthew peeked his eyes out from his hiding place. "Really?" he asked in a tiny whisper. "Really," Mom replied. "Do you remember the story from Sunday school about the disciples who were in the boat with Jesus when a horrible storm came upon them?"Matthew looked up at his mother with wide eyes. "Yes, Mommy! The storm was so big, and the disciples were very scared--just like me!" "Do you remember what Jesus was doing in the storm?" Mom asked. Matthew nodded. "He was sleeping because He wasn't afraid. But the disciples were super scared, and so they woke Jesus up! Then Jesus told the storm to stop, and it did!""Do you remember what Jesus said when the disciples woke Him up?" Mom asked. Matthew shook his head, so Mom continued. "He said, 'Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?' Matthew, even the wind and waves obey Jesus, because He created them! He is powerful, and He's always with those who trust in Him, just like He was with the disciples. When we feel afraid, we need to have faith that He will take care of us.""I think I'm ready to go back to bed now, Mommy," Matthew said. He reached for his mother's hand and led her down the hallway to his bedroom."Are you sure? The storm isn't finished yet," Mom replied."It's okay. If the disciples didn't need to be afraid in the storm, then I don't need be afraid either." Mother smiled as she tucked Matthew snuggly into his bed. "Good night, Matty-bear.""Good night, Mommy. Good night, Jesus," Matthew whispered and closed his eyes. -Jillian UrsuHow About You?Do you feel afraid when lightning flashes and thunder rumbles? Or maybe it's another kind of storm that's filling you with fear--a life-storm like a parent losing their job or someone you love being sick. Jesus has power over the wind and waves, and He's in control of your situation too. Even when bad things happen, He is with you. When you feel afraid, trust Him to take care of you. Today's Key Verse:[Jesus] got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. (NIV) (Mark 4:39)Today's Key Thought:Trust Jesus when you're afraid

Bible Reading: Mark 6:30-32"Are we almost there?" Noelle asked. "I can't wait to go swimming!""There it is!" Cameron shouted as the car rounded a bend and the little cottage came into view. Dad parked by the front door, and Noelle and Cameron helped their parents unpack the car. "I'm starving!" declared Cameron when they finished their work."Me too," said Noelle. "When are we going to eat, Mom?""Soon," Mom replied, getting out some sloppy joe meat, chips, and buns. She put the meat in a pan and turned on the burner. Then she plugged in the coffeepot. "How about macaroni and cheese with your sloppy joes?" she asked as she turned on another burner. Immediately, all the lights went off. "Oh no!" exclaimed Mom. "I must have blown a fuse."Dad got up and went to find the fuse box. "Looks like there are too many things on one of the circuits," he said when he came back. "We'll have to turn off a few lights whenever we want to use the stove."Soon their lunch was ready, and they sat down to enjoy it together. "This is fun," said Noelle. "It's our first real vacation in ages." "I know," said Mom. "That overloaded fuse reminds me of our family lately. We've been so busy getting our business started and remodeling the house. Then with piano lessons, soccer practice, and homework, I think we've been overloaded too. We've been so busy that we haven't had much time to spend together."Dad nodded. "Let's evaluate our activities during this vacation and ask God to show us if there are ones we should cut out of our schedules so we have more time to rest and enjoy each other." He reached into his backpack and pulled out a Bible. "We also need time to enjoy being with Jesus too. One way to do that is to spend time praying and reading His Word so He can remind us of His love for us and refresh our souls. Let's do that as a family right now.""That's one thing we should always make time for," said Cameron. "That and soccer practice. But we could skip piano lessons," he added with a grin. "And homework."Dad chuckled. "Sorry," he said. "I don't think that's gonna happen!" -Sherry L. KuytHow About You?Have you been too busy lately? Are there too many activities packed into your schedule? Talk to Jesus about it, and ask Him to show you if some of them can be omitted. Don't allow your schedule to get overloaded. Jesus recognized the need for quiet time, and we need that too. Leave room in your schedule to spend time with Him so He can refresh your soul. Today's Key Verse:[Jesus] said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." (NIV) (Mark 6:31)Today's Key Thought:Don't get too busy

Bible Reading: Mark 10:6-9; Ephesians 5:31-32mom, are you going to divorce Dad?" Charlotte asked, tears rolling down her cheeks."What do you mean, honey?" asked Mom with surprise."I heard you and Dad arguing last night. I thought you were going to divorce him.""Oh, Charlotte," said Mom. "It's true that we argued. We had a disagreement over holiday spending. But that doesn't mean we're getting a divorce." Mom gave Charlotte a hug. "Every couple has differences they need to work out sometimes, like Dad and I did last night. We managed to compromise and work out a solution. It gave us the opportunity to understand each other better and to be patient with each other.""Phew!" Charlotte let out a sigh. "I'm glad you guys are still together." "We took our marriage vows before God," said Mom. "We're trusting Him to help us honor those vows because marriage is a picture of Jesus's love for us as His church. For better, for worse--"Charlotte jumped in. "For richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health." She stopped. "I can't remember the rest."Mom smiled and continued. "To love and to cherish, till death do us part.""That's beautiful, Mom," said Charlotte."Yes," said Mom. "In fact, this coming Saturday, we'll be celebrating our tenth wedding anniversary." "Wow! That's great!" exclaimed Charlotte."And that's not all," said Mom. "Your grandparents will be celebrating their golden anniversary next month. That's fifty years of marriage!""That's half a century!" said Charlotte."That's right!" said Mom. "Grandpa and Grandma were high school sweethearts. They love each other and built a lovely family together.""Do they argue too?" asked Charlotte."Sometimes, of course," replied Mom. "But they always make up and work it out. They've been together through good times and bad. When I was ten, Grandpa had a terrible car accident and Grandma took care of him. And five years ago, Grandma had cancer and Grandpa took care of her.""They must really love each other," said Charlotte. Mom nodded. "It's a blessing from God to be married, and the lifelong commitment of marriage is a picture of God's faithfulness toward us. Jesus will always love us and take care of us, now and forever." Kelly ChoyHow About You?Do you know anyone who has been married for many years? In marriage, God wants us to love and cherish our spouses, just like Jesus loves the church, which is made up of all those who trust in Him. Whether God calls us to be married or single, it's important to know that all our relationships are an opportunity to share God's love with each other. We can love because Jesus loved us first (1 John 4:19).Today's Key Verse:[Marriage] is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one. (NLT) (Ephesians 5:32)Today's Key Thought:Marriage is a picture of God's love

Bible Reading: Mark 8:34-38; Hebrews 12:1-3"Hey, Jude!" Rowan called as he rode by on his bike. "Where were you this morning? I came by your house to see if you wanted to shoot hoops at the park, but you weren't home.""Oh, um…I was out," Jude mumbled. He didn't want to tell Rowan he'd been attending vacation Bible school at his church. Jude enjoyed it, but he wasn't sure Rowan would understand and thought he might laugh at him. "Are you free tomorrow?" Rowan asked. "My mom said she'd take us to the beach.""Well, um…I'm gonna be busy again tomorrow," Jude stammered. Vacation Bible school lasted all week, and Jude would be going each day."Okay. Wednesday then?" asked Rowan."Well…uhhh…" Jude coughed. "I'm…I'm busy all week."Rowan frowned. "Every day? No one goes out that much! How can you be so busy?"Again Jude hesitated. He could imagine Rowan's response to the news that he'd be going to church every day. Then Jude thought of something. Here I am going to a summer program at church that's meant to help us reach out to kids who don't know Jesus, but I don't even have enough nerve to admit to one of my best friends that I'm going to church! Jude knew something was wrong with that picture. Jesus was willing to suffer and die on the cross for me, he thought, but I won't even risk being laughed at for Him? Jude took a deep breath. He knew what he had to do. "Rowan," he began, "we're, uh…we're having vacation Bible school at my church this week. That's why I'm busy." Rowan stared at him. "You're going to school…at church…during summer vacation?" He frowned. "And you don't mind?" "No--I like it!" Jude replied. "It's not like normal school. We play games and sing songs and hear stories about Jesus from the Bible. I think you might like it too. How about it? Want to come with me tomorrow?""Well…" Rowan shrugged. "Sure, why not. I'll check with my mom to see if she's okay with it." "Great!" Jude grinned. "I really hope you can come." -Linda WeddleHow About You?Do your friends know you go to church? Do you tell them about Jesus? Or are you afraid to let them know what you believe? Jesus willingly went to the cross to take the punishment for our sins so we could have eternal life with Him. People need to know the good news of Jesus so they can be saved. Don't be ashamed to talk about Him. Look for opportunities to tell your friends about your relationship with Jesus.Today's Key Verse:I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes. (NLT) ( Romans 1:16)Today's Key Thought:Tell others about Jesus

Bible Reading: Mark 10:35-45"I get the bathroom first!" yelled Ezra. He rushed past Rachel and scurried into the bathroom. "The early bird gets the worm!" he said with a laugh. Rachel made a face at him, but he had already slammed the door shut.At breakfast, Ezra grabbed the cornflakes. "Me first!" he said, shaking the crispy, crunchy cereal into his bowl. After they had eaten, Dad brought out a box. "I found this in the attic and thought you two might like it--it's a magic trick set I had as a kid.""Cool!" exclaimed Ezra as they eagerly dumped the contents on the kitchen table. He opened a book that explained how to do the tricks. "I get to try one first!" "You always do things first," said Rachel. "I want to be first for once.""Nope! I called it first," said Ezra. "The early bird gets the worm, you know.""You said that at least twice already this morning," grumbled Rachel. "Where does that expression come from anyway?""That's easy," said Ezra. "The first bird who comes to the yard in the morning gets the worm for his breakfast, right? By the time the rest come, the worms might be all gone. That's why being first is best." Dad scratched his chin. "How do you know you're the bird and not the worm?" Ezra stopped turning pages in the magic trick book. "Huh?" "Think about the early worm--the first one out of the ground," said Dad. "Being first didn't work out so well for him, did it?"Rachel laughed. "The early bird ate him up. How about that, Ezra? If you're always first, you might be like the early worm instead of the early bird!"Dad grinned. "Thinking about it that way turns that expression on its head, doesn't it? It reminds me of another way that kind of thinking got turned upside down." "What's that?" asked Ezra. "When Jesus became human and died for our sins, He sacrificed Himself for us even though He is God. And He tells us to treat others the same way by putting them before ourselves." Ezra was quiet a moment, then he slowly slid the book over to his sister. "Here, Rachel," he said. "You can be first to try a magic trick." -Tanya FerdinanduszHow About You?Do you always want to be first in anything you do? Do you shove your way in front of kids so you'll be first in line, first outside at recess, or first to grab a ball? Since Jesus is God, He could have been first in every way, yet He chose to be a servant so we could be saved. Next time you want to be first, remember that His way is best and trust Him to help you serve others and put them first. Today's Key Verse:Whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. (NKJV) (Mark 10:44)Today's Key Thought:Put others before yourself

Bible Reading: Mark 15-16 Verse of the day: Mark 15:15, "Wishing to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas for them, and after having Jesus scourged, he handed Him over to be crucified." Word of the day: Crucified. It is the Greek word:  σταυρόω (stow-ro'-o).

Sometimes we don't recognize our need to be saved. We forget that we were enslaved to sin.  Bible Reading: Mark 13-14 Verse of the day: Mark 13:13, "Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved." Word of the day: Saved. It is the Greek word:  σῴζω (sode'-zo).

Our faith in God is seen in our lives by the fruit we bear. Faith is not an end to itself. It is God who our faith is in, not faith or religion.  Bible Reading: Mark 11-12 Verse of the day: Mark 11:22, "Have faith in God,” Jesus answered."" Word of the day: Faith. It is the Greek word:  πίστις (pis'-tis). 

Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-34"Mom!" Landon screamed, running toward her car. A truck had hit it as she was turning into their driveway. Please, God! Landon prayed as he approached the driver's side. Please let Mom be okay.As Landon opened the car door, his mom gave him a shaky smile. "I'm all right," she assured him, stepping out of the car. "Everything is okay, Landon."The truck driver got out, and he was okay too. Landon gave a huge sigh of relief and quietly breathed a prayer of thanks as his mom and the driver took care of reporting the accident to the police and other necessary details.Every once in a while for the rest of that day, Landon gave his mom a hug and said, "I love you, Mom." "I love you too, Landon," she replied with a smile.That night, as Mom was tucking him into bed, Landon hugged her again. "Mom, when I saw that truck hit you, I was so scared! I guess I thought you'd always be here, but today I was scared you were hurt--and could even die.""We tend to take each other for granted, don't we?" replied Mom. "Every now and then, we're reminded we shouldn't do that."Landon nodded. "From now on, I'm going to tell you I love you more often."Mom smiled. "I've always known you love me, Landon, but it's wonderful to hear it." She looked thoughtful as she tucked Landon's blankets around him. "I wonder if we often take God for granted too," she said. "Sometimes, in the busyness of life, we can lose sight of how much Jesus means to us--how He loves us and died for us and promises to always be with us." "Are you saying we should tell Him we love Him every day too?" asked Landon.Mom nodded. "We can do that by spending time praying and offering thanks to Him every day. We also show our love for Him when we help and care for others." "I guess those are all things I could do more often," said Landon. "Me too," said Mom. "I didn't enjoy being in an accident today, but I think we both learned an important lesson from it." She grinned. "I guess you could call it a crash course on love!" -Lisa MeisterHow About You?When was the last time you told your loved ones that you love them? It's easy to take them for granted and assume they know how you feel, so don't hesitate to let them know that you love and appreciate them. Let Jesus know you love Him too. He already knows your heart, but you can still tell Him you love Him and that you appreciate all He's done for you. Why not pause and tell Him right now?Today's Key Verse:Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. (Deuteronomy 6:5 (NKJV))Today's Key Thought:Love God

Bible Reading: Mark 9:35; 10:45; Ephesians 2:10; 1 John 3:18"Why do I have so many chores?" Madison complained as she pushed the vacuum cleaner down the hall. "I feel like a servant in this house!"Madison's mom looked up from the dishes she was washing. "A servant? You talk as if that's a bad thing."Madison stopped and stared at her mom as if she had lost her mind. "Of course it's a bad thing! Who would want to be a servant?""Jesus would," answered Mom. "He came to earth to serve, as well as to save." "How was Jesus a servant?" Madison wanted to know."Well, He washed His disciples' dusty feet, and that was considered a very undesirable job--a job only a lowly servant would do.""I guess so!" Madison wrinkled her nose at the thought of touching someone's dirty feet."Jesus also fed people when they were hungry. He comforted and healed the sick many, many times." Mom smiled at Madison. "And I imagine, if it was needed, Jesus would have vacuumed the house."Madison laughed. "I'm pretty sure they didn't have vacuums in Jesus's time!"Mom laughed too. "True. But think about it, Madison. Jesus, who is God, King of Kings, and Creator of everything that exists, lowered Himself to come to earth as a human and serve us! Our hearts were dirty with sin--dirtier than the disciples' stinky, dusty feet--so Jesus became a servant and died on the cross for the wrong things we've done so He could wash our sins away. If He hadn't done that, we would have no hope of eternal life." Madison looked down at the vacuum and then back up at her mom. "I guess you're saying I should quit complaining and start vacuuming!""That's exactly what I am saying, because that's what Jesus would do," Mom replied. "And because we trust in Him, we're His servants. We serve Him by serving others and faithfully carrying out the responsibilities we've been given."Madison put her ear buds in her ears, turned on her music, and started the vacuum. With a grin for her mom, she headed down the hall to finish her chores. -Bonnie CarrHow About You?Do you ever feel like there's too much you're expected to do? Do you ever wish your parents, your teachers, or your coach wouldn't ask so much from you? We all feel that way at times, and it's important to have time to rest, but remember that Jesus calls those who trust in Him to be servants like He was. He served us by becoming human and sacrificing His life to save us. When we help others and do the tasks we've been given, we're really serving Him.Today's Key Verse:For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45 (NIV))Today's Key Thought:Be a servant for Jesus

Who are you against in this life? We all have enemies in this life. It might be in our own family. It might be in our own church. And it might be in our own mind. We need to be careful about being against anyone who bears the name of Christ. For we are ultimately against Christ when we are against His people.   Bible Reading: Mark 9-10 Verse of the day: Mark 9:40, "Anyone who is not against us is for us." Word of the day: Against. It is the Greek word:  κατά (kat-ah').           This word means: according to the Greek English lexicon, “down upon”, against, in a hostile sense, an accusation.

Bible Reading: Mark 4:36-41Andrés glanced nervously out the school window. It's been looking stormy all day, he thought. I hope there isn't going to be another tornado alert. Sighing, he tried to concentrate on his math lesson.As Andrés began the first problem, a bell rang. "Take a large book and file quietly into the hall," Miss Grey told the class.The kids quickly obeyed, taking their places in the school's inner hall and putting the books over their heads as they had done during tornado drills before. But something seemed different today. Andrés could hear a siren blowing from a nearby fire station. It was the signal to the town that a tornado funnel had been seen nearby.Andrés had never been so scared before, but as he sat trembling, he recalled something Dad had said the weekend before. They had gone swimming, and as Dad walked out into the deep water, Andrés's little brother Liam clung to his father's shoulders. "Are you scared in the deep water, Liam?" Andrés had asked.Liam shook his head. "Nope. Dad's got me."Dad had laughed. "Good boy! I'm in control here, and I'm glad you trust your father." Then he'd added, "I hope both you boys will remember that you can always trust your Father in heaven too. He's in control of everything, even when bad things happen that we don't understand. We just need to trust Him and remember that, no matter what happens, we have eternal life through Jesus." As Andrés remembered that, he felt better.A few minutes later, Andrés heard a roaring sound. It began softly, but got louder and louder. Is that a train? Andrés wondered. We're not even close to the tracks. Then he remembered hearing that a tornado sounded a lot like a train rushing by. I'm still scared, Andrés thought, but God is my heavenly Father, and He's in control. I can trust Him--even if a tornado hits.Finally the all-clear siren sounded, and the kids returned to their classroom. "A tornado passed by not too far from our school," the principal announced over the intercom a few minutes later. "It caused a lot of damage, but thankfully no one was hurt." Andrés smiled and silently thanked his heavenly Father for watching over them. -Hazel W. MarettHow About You?Are you afraid of storms? They can be frightening, can't they? That's because they are powerful and can cause a lot of damage. But God is even more powerful. When the lightning flashes, the thunder rolls, and the wind whistles through the trees, remember that God is in control of all those things--and that He saved you and is always with you, even when He lets you go through difficult experiences. Trust Him.Today's Key Verse:Even the wind and the sea obey Him! (Mark 4:41 (NKJV))Today's Key Thought:God is in control

A cross is more than just an emblem of suffering. It is a daily reminder that the hard places in this life should cause us to look up and to bear our crosses just the way Jesus did.   Bible Reading: Mark 7–8 Verse of the day: Mark 8:34, "Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me." Word of the day: Cross. It is the Greek word:  σταυρός (stow-ros').

Offenses are one of the biggest problems we have in our relationships today. But we who are in Christ have no right to hold onto offenses anymore.   Bible Reading: Mark 5–6 Verse of the day: Mark 6:3 "Then they scoffed, “He's just a carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And his sisters live right here among us.” They were deeply offended and refused to believe in him." Word of the day: Offense. It is the Greek word: σκανδαλίζω (skan-dal-id'-zo).

It is easy to recognize sin in others, perhaps not so easy to see it in ourselves. But when we see sin in others, how do we handle it? Loving the sinner and hating the sin helps people to receive the grace of God.   Bible Reading: Mark 1–2 Verse of the day: Mark 2:17, "On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Word of the day: Sinners. It is the Greek word: ἁμαρτωλός (ham-ar-to-los')

On today's show: The folly of Christians seeking the approval of the secular world Daily Bible reading from the LSB - Today, we are in the Gospel of Mark, chapters 15-16 Squirrel Chatter YouTube Page - https://www.youtube.com/c/GeneGClyatt  The Christian Podcast Community website - https://podcasts.strivingforeternity.org/  Theme music: Enfield's recording of “Crown Him With Many Crowns” © 2010 by Resolved Music. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations taken from the (LSB®) Legacy Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2021 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org and 316publishing.com

On today's show: Discussion of the many errors of William Lane Craig "The Historical Adam" by William Lane Craig - https://www.firstthings.com/article/2021/10/the-historical-adam "William Lane Craig Has Always Been A Threat to the Faith" by Fred Butler - https://hipandthigh.wordpress.com/2021/09/27/william-lane-craig-is-a-false-teacher/ "A Response to William Lane Craig on the Historical Adam" by Owen Strachan - https://owenstrachan.substack.com/p/a-response-to-william-lane-craig  "A History of Heresy" by Phil Johnson - https://www.thegracelifepulpit.com/articles.aspx?code=PJ-A04  Daily Bible reading from the LSB - Today, we are in the Gospel of Mark, chapters 13-14 Squirrel Chatter YouTube Page - https://www.youtube.com/c/GeneGClyatt  The Christian Podcast Community website - https://podcasts.strivingforeternity.org/  Theme music: Enfield's recording of “Crown Him With Many Crowns” © 2010 by Resolved Music. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations taken from the (LSB®) Legacy Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2021 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org and 316publishing.com