Podcasts about bitterness

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The post The Power Of Bitterness – 2 Samuel 16:21-22 – January 13, 2026 first appeared on Enduring Word.

Chapter 4 begins with a call to action. Paul tells we are “to walkworthy of the calling by which we have been called (4:1), and laterin verse 17, that “we should no longer walk as the Gentiles walk”.  In other words, we are to walk likeChristians—to walk as Jesus walked in this world. How did Jesus walk? Jesusforgave those who harmed Him. Even while hanging on the cross, He said, “Father,forgive them, for they know not what they do.” He lived with love and gracetoward those who were critical, bitter, and determined to hurt Him or push Himaside. My friend, that is the way Christ walked, and that is how we are calledto walk. When we walk that way, it makes a profound difference in our witnessfor Christ that Jesus told His disciples to be in Acts 1:8. Thissection of the chapter (vs. 17-32), begins with Paul saying, “Don't walk as theGentiles walk.” Instead, walk in purity, walk in love, walk in grace. And nowas Paul brings this chapter to a close, he identifies the main obstacle thatkeeps us from walking in grace—bitterness. We could spend weeks talking aboutbitterness. It is like a seed that gets planted when someone offends us, hurtsus, or does something that deeply wounds us. Our natural response is often adesire to get even. But Jesus told us, “Do unto others as you would havethem do unto you.” When we hurt someone or offend someone, what do we want?We want forgiveness. We want peace. We want restored relationships. RememberRomans 12:17-21, where God tells us to live at peace with all men, and to returngood for evil. Thisis where the victory lies. When someone speaks harshly to you, respond withkindness. When someone tries to hurt you, entrust that hurt to God and say,“Lord, You know. Give me the grace to handle this in a way that honors You.” Bekind to one another. Be tenderhearted. And here is the key—forgiving oneanother. Ibelieve the last words Paul speaks in this chapter are especially important.Often, we remember the final words someone says more than anything else. Paulends with forgiveness. When we forgive, we refuse to let the devil use ourheart as a playground. We refuse to let the seed of bitterness grow. Instead,we say, “God, You know best. You said, ‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay,' saysthe Lord.” When someone hurts us—whether intentionally or unintentionally—andwe choose not to forgive, bitterness begins to take root. Our heart becomes abattleground with Satan. Bitterness causes us to treat others the way Satantreats people. Forgiveness allows us to treat others the way God treats people.And Scripture reminds us that as God has forgiven us in His loving, graciouskindness, we are to forgive others as well. Forgivenessis not only for their sake—it is for ours. It is the secret to a joyful,peaceful Christian life. Remember the motivations Paul has given us throughoutthis chapter to do the right things: We are members of one another. We do notwant to give Satan a foothold and we give instead of stealing. We speak truthinstead of lying. And we do not want to grieve the Holy Spirit of God or grieveour Father in heaven. Think about it this way: when children—especially adultchildren—are fighting and divided, it grieves the heart of their parents.Family gatherings become tense. Relationships are strained. That pain reachesdeeply into a parent's heart. My friend, that is exactly what happens when werefuse to forgive one another. We grieve the Holy Spirit. We grieve JesusChrist, who forgave us. We grieve our Father in heaven. Let'snot do that today. Let us forgive one another “just as God in Christ forgaveus”.  Let us bekind and tenderhearted. And may God help us to show the world what it trulymeans to be Christlike.

As we examine these verses, we are talking about the attitude of bitterness.I have been to the hospital many times with people who were waiting on testresults. I have stood there when the doctor walked into the room and said, “I'msorry to tell you, but you have cancer.” I have received phone calls frompeople who went to the emergency room thinking they had a surface problem, onlyto discover they had pancreatic cancer or some other very serious and dangerousform of cancer. We call it the “C-word.” Nobody wants to hear the C-word. Noone wants to hear the word cancer. Rightnow, I am dealing with sciatic pain. On the surface, it is very painful. Butbeneath that surface pain is a deeper problem—a root cause. In much the sameway, many of the problems we experience in life are surface symptoms of deeperheart issues. Attitudes like bitterness often show themselves through anger,wrath, vengeance, and hatred. These attitudes destroy our lives.Bitternessdefiles and spreads. It not only destroys the person who has it, but it is alsocontagious, destroying others as they become involved in our stories,complaints, and evil talk. My friend, bitterness is a disease of the soul. Itis a disease of the spirit and of the attitude, and it must be dealt with. Onlyby the grace of God can we deal with it.Weneed to realize that many of the surface problems in our relationships, which includelying, stealing, fighting, and other actions which we can visibly identify,come from invisible surface causes of our attitudes that are anger, worry,fear, insecurity and other emotional attitudes. But underneath these attitudesare the root problems that come down to basically three things, which are bitterness,guilt, or misplaced temporal values. Those are three major root problems. Butbeneath all of them is one ultimate root cause—pride.  Pridekeeps us from listening to the Spirit of God. Pride leads us into disobediencewhen God tells us what we must do and we refuse to do it. Pride keeps us fromasking for forgiveness for our guilt, or from not willing to forgive those whohave hurt or offended us. Pride keeps us from receiving the grace of God todeal with the problem. Both James and Peter reminds us that only by humblingourselves can we receive God's grace (James 4:5-7; 1 Peter 5:6-11).Thatis why Paul continues in verses 31–32: “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger,clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind toone another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christforgave you.” So what is the answer? The answer is forgiveness—forgiving oneanother, even as God, for Christ's sake, has forgiven us. Oneof the main reasons we must deal with bitterness is that it grieves the HolySpirit. When we are bitter, we are not listening to Him. We are not payingattention to His voice. We are not obeying His Word—especially the words ofJesus, who taught us to forgive one another, even if we must do it again andagain, up to seventy times seven. Bitterness is often the result of unresolvedconflict. Sometimes it goes all the way back to childhood—something that hurtus deeply, something we never properly dealt with or resolved. That unresolvedpain can still be destroying our lives today. Myfriend, bitterness is the “B-word.” Let's deal with the B-word in our lives bybeing kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. The Holy Spirit is characterized byjoy, love, peace, longsuffering, patience, and kindness—the fruit of theSpirit. When we obey Him, that is what He produces within us, and that is whatboth the Holy Spirit and the Father delight in.

Fromthe New Testament it is obvious that the members of the church at Ephesus weresincere believers, people who were following Christ and had a powerfultestimony. In fact, according to the book of Acts, through this church all Asiaheard the Word of the Lord (Acts 19:1-10). What an incredible testimony. Yet,at the same time, the believers there still struggled with many of the samesins the lost world struggles with. And it is the same today in our presentchurches. Sometimes the old man shows up more visibly than the new man who ismeant to be ruling our lives. Aswe consider these verses, I want to clarify something I may have impliedyesterday. When Paul says in verse 29, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of yourmouth,” I may have given the impression that Christians should instantly beperfect in their speech because I shared that when I was saved, I stoppedcursing immediately. My friend, I realize that this is not the experience ofevery believer. For all Christians, growth in sanctification is a process. Somefind it easier to put off certain sins and old habits than others. God helpssome people quit smoking the moment they are saved, while others struggle withit for years, yet they are sincere believers who love the Lord Jesus Christ. Wecan't make excuses for any kind of sin, but I remind you also that there aresins far worse than smoking, drinking, or cursing—such as bitterness in theheart. Bitterness can destroy not only ourselves, but also other people andeven entire churches. Justbecause I said some things yesterday does not mean a Christian cannot fall backinto sinful speech. Sadly, they can. Look at Peter, who walked with Jesus forthree and a half years, and yet, on the night while Jesus was being triedbefore the high priest, Peter was outside in the courtyard cursing. We allstruggle with the flesh, (Read what Paul wrote in Romans 7.), and old habitscan resurface, especially when we place ourselves under the wrong influences. Theemphasis of verse 29 is not only what we must put off, but what we must put on:speech that builds up, edifies, and ministers grace—speech that flows from alife filled with the Holy Spirit. And this brings us to the final verses ofthis chapter, Ephesians 4:30–32: “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God,by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath,anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And bekind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God inChrist forgave you.” Theseverses warn us against several sins of the attitude and amplify what Paul wroteabout anger. Bitterness refers to a settled hostility that poisons the wholeinner man. Somebody does something we do not like, so we harbor ill willagainst him. "Husbands, love your wives and be not bitter againstthem" (Col. 3:19). Bitterness leads to wrath, which is the explosion onthe outside of the feelings on the inside. Wrath and anger often lead tobrawling (clamor) or blasphemy (evil speaking). The first is fighting withfists, the second is fighting with words. It is difficult to believe thatChristians would act this way, but they do, and this is why Paul warned us.  Afterthe great faith chapter in Hebrews 11, the writer gives practical instructionin Hebrews 12. In verse 14, we are told to “pursue peace with all people andholiness, without which no one will see the Lord”. Then in verse 15, hewarns us to be diligent “lest any root of bitterness springing up causetrouble, and by this many become defiled.” Bitterness must be dealt with,and it is often rooted in unforgiveness. We will see more about this in ourchat tomorrow. Fortoday, let us be mindful to walk in purity, love, and grace. Let us not grievethe Holy Spirit by allowing bitterness to remain in our hearts toward those whohave hurt us. Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

"Bitterness is a reaction; purity is a decision." - Pastor WayneIn this message, Pastor Wayne unpacks how Joseph's story teaches us to break free from the spirit of offense and walk in God's divine plan. What area of your life needs a 'script flip' when it comes to handling offense?

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Freedom From Bitterness | Pastor Marcus De La Cruz | January 4, 2025 | Sunday 10AM | Porterville, CA

Bitterness has a way of settling deep into our hearts—especially when we’ve experienced injustice, betrayal, suffering, or pain that feels undeserved. And when it takes root, it doesn’t just stay quietly in the background. It can slowly drain our joy, distort our perspective, and keep us from experiencing the goodness God wants for us. Left unchecked, bitterness becomes a life-killer—squeezing the peace and freedom out of our lives from the inside out. This devotional reminds us that bitterness isn’t something we can conquer through willpower alone. Even with all the tools the world offers—self-help programs, personal improvement plans, or counseling strategies—true freedom from bitterness requires something deeper: forgiveness. Forgiveness is the doorway that releases us from the grip bitterness has on our souls. And while forgiving someone who isn’t sorry—or doesn’t believe they’ve done anything wrong—can feel impossible, God never asks us to do it alone. He supplies strength and grace so that we can let go of what we were never meant to carry. As we step into a new year, this is an invitation to leave bitterness behind—before it becomes a root that grows and spreads. The call is clear: obey God’s instruction to release it, and trust Him to heal what you cannot fix. Jesus not only taught forgiveness—He demonstrated it, even while suffering on the cross. That same power and grace are available to you today. God is ready to help you loosen your grip on bitterness and step forward into a freer, lighter, more joy-filled future. Main Takeaways Bitterness can take root quietly but become spiritually and emotionally destructive over time. Freedom from bitterness requires forgiveness—not just time, effort, or self-improvement. Forgiving others can feel impossible, especially when they aren’t sorry, but God gives strength to do what we can’t do alone. A new year is an opportunity to release what is poisoning your heart and walk into greater peace. Jesus modeled forgiveness, proving that grace and freedom are possible even in deep pain. Today’s Bible Verse: Ephesians 4:31 Looking for more daily encouragement and faith-filled content? LifeAudio – Discover daily devotionals, Christian podcasts, and biblical encouragement at LifeAudio.com Crosswalk – Explore faith, prayer, and Christian living resources at Crosswalk.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Appetite in Hebrew is Nephesh or could be translated life itself or soul – no appetite no life, it works that way…. Better and exciting really More Appetite – More Life …. IF and its a big IF your appetite is for life… "Blessed are those who HUNGER and Thirst" – I have come that you may have LIFE and Life Abundantly" Challenging right? In a recent survey by Life way discovered these advantages to being truly hungry for the Word of God at least four times a week resulted in these tangible effects. Feeling lonely drops 30% Anger issues drop 32% Bitterness in relationships drops 40% Alcoholism drops 57% Sex outside of marriage drops 68% Feeling spiritually stagnant drops 60% Viewing pornography drops 61% Sharing your faith jumps 200% Disciplining others jumps 230% An old adage in the Car Business is .. "The first and most important sale is the one you make on yourself!" Once you actually hear from God in the Bible you will be more than sold… You will be in LOVE… I promise and Oh so Hungry…. What Sold You? call us today 866-348-7884

On the first day of each month, we release Grace & Knowledge, a more in-depth article from Paul that allows him to expand on biblical truths beyond his weekly Wednesday's Word.Our prayer is that this resource helps you “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18).In this month's Grace & Knowledge, Paul exposes the false allure of unforgiveness and calls us to remember the grace we've received in Christ so that we can freely cancel others' debts through joyful, gospel-shaped forgiveness. 

Scripture speaks often about the bitterness of the soul, yet modern Christianity rarely knows what to do with it. In Episode 135, I take you into the Word to show why bitterness of soul is not sinful, rebellious, or faithless but deeply biblical, honest, and often the very place where God meets His people. From Hannah, to Job, to David, we see a pattern: God does not reject the bitter soul; He invites it. I unpack what Scripture actually means when it speaks of bitterness, anguish, and deep distress, and why pouring out a bitter soul before the Lord is not complaining — it's consecration. It's the language of those who refuse to pretend, numb, or spiritually bypass their pain. This episode is especially for the believer who has been told to "just be grateful," "stay positive," or "speak life" when what your soul actually needs is permission to be honest before God. Because bitterness of soul, when brought to the Lord, does not harden the heart — it softens it. And if you're a Christian author or writer carrying a message forged in suffering, this episode will help you understand why your story, your voice, and your obedience matter — and how God often births impact and calling from places the world labels as weakness. God is not offended by your bitterness. He draws near to it. If you're a Christian author who feels called to steward a message shaped by pain, healing, or deep truth — and you want to create book sales, income, and impact without striving or dilution — I created a free resource to help you gain clarity.  Take the free quiz: Discover Your Authorpreneur Type This quiz will help you identify how you're uniquely wired to serve your readers, build authority, and create sustainable income from your book and message — in a way that honors God and your calling.  Take the quiz below and let clarity replace confusion. Free Quiz Here

https://TakingTheLandPodcast.comSUBSCRIBE TO PREMIUM FOR MORE:• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3/month on Supercast⁠: https://taking-the-land.supercast.com/⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3.99/month on Spotify⁠: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/taking-the-land/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠Subscribe for only $4.99/month on Apple Podcasts⁠: https://apple.co/3vy1s5b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠In this powerful and timely message, Pastor Torey preaches from Luke 15 to expose a dangerous attitude infecting the modern church: entitlement. Whether you're the younger brother demanding your inheritance or the elder brother bitter over feeling overlooked, this sermon calls both to repentance—and back to gratitude. With humor, insight, and conviction, Pastor Tori delivers a clear warning: entitlement will leave you empty, but gratitude will position you for the Father's blessing. Don't miss this!0:00 – Introduction: Costco, Christmas Trees, and Entitlement2:00 – Luke 15: The Prodigal Son Revisited4:10 – Why Do People Leave Church?6:15 – Defining Entitlement: “I Deserve…”8:35 – What We Actually Deserve (Romans 6:23)10:45 – The Younger Brother: “Give Me…”13:15 – Wastefulness and Inherited Blessing15:30 – Pioneering vs. Inheriting: Guard What Was Passed Down17:30 – Ministry Before Maturity = Disaster19:50 – Hitting Rock Bottom: The Power of “No One Gave Him Anything”21:50 – The Hidden Wisdom of Making People Earn It23:20 – The Elder Brother: “You Never Gave Me…”25:40 – Bitterness, Jealousy, and Self-Righteousness28:55 – Righteous or Self-Righteous?31:00 – Why Jesus Told the Parable: A Message to the Pharisees34:45 – The Cure for Entitlement: Gratitude36:15 – Pastor Payne's Text: “We're All in Over Our Heads”38:15 – First-World Abundance and Thanklessness40:07 – Entitlement Always Leaves You Empty42:00 – Closing Challenge: Don't Miss What the Father Has for YouShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at: • Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b • Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369

Todaywe are moving into a new section of Ephesians 4:25-32. In these verses, theApostle Paul gives us very practical applications for how to live out what hehas already taught in the earlier part of the chapter. That is why verse 25begins with the word “therefore.” This is the fourth “therefore” in thischapter. Paul follows a familiar pattern: he establishes a spiritual principle,reminds us of our position in Christ, and then says, because of this, here ishow you are now to live. Since we are no longer to walk as the Gentiles walk,and since we have been taught to put off the old man and put on the new man inverses 20 through 24, Paul now shows us what that looks like in everyday life. Paulalways applies truth to specific areas where the power of the Word and Truthmust be worked out. And in this passage, he is not afraid to name sins—specificsins. Can you imagine a pastor or preacher naming sins that people in thecongregation might actually be committing? Paul was not afraid to do that, andneither was God. These things are in Scripture for our instruction. InEphesians 4:25–32, Paul identifies five specific sins: Lying, Anger, Stealing, CorruptSpeech, and Bitterness. These are serious sins because they destroy unity,damage fellowship, and ruin a church's witness. Paul names them plainly becausethey must be dealt with honestly. Thefirst sin he addresses is lying and is found in verse 25: “Therefore,putting away lying, "Let each one of you speak truth with hisneighbor," for we are members of one another.” Now, what is a lie? Alie is a statement that is contrary to fact and is spoken with the intent todeceive. Some people lie so regularly that all you have to do is see their lipsmoving to know deception is taking place. In some cases, people believe theirown lies because they themselves have been deceived by the evil one. Letme give you an example. If I tell you it is noon, and later discover that mywatch was wrong, I did not lie—I was mistaken. But if I tell you the wrong timebecause I want to deceive you, perhaps to make you late for a meeting so itbenefits me, then I have told a lie. The difference is intent. My friend, Satanis a liar. In John 8:44, Jesus said to the Pharisees, “You are of yourfather the devil, and the lusts of your father you will do. He was a murdererfrom the beginning, and abode not in the truth… for he is a liar, and thefather of it.” Whatis interesting is that Satan wants us to believe that God is the liar. The veryfirst lie in the Bible appears in Genesis chapter 3, when Satan said to Eve,“Yea, hath God said?” He implied that God did not really mean what He said andwas holding something back. Satan was saying, in effect, “God is the liar, notme.” That was a lie. And Satan continues to deceive people into believing thatGod cannot be trusted. Wheneverwe speak the truth—to others or even to ourselves—the Holy Spirit is at work.But whenever we speak a lie, Satan goes to work, using that deception to leadpeople into sin and destruction. Sometimes people think they are helping othersby lying, but that is never true. The consequences may not show up immediately,but they will come. Deception always leads to trouble. That is why it is soimportant that we know—and live—the truth. Yearsago, I read a helpful book titled “Telling Yourself the Truth” by WilliamBackus. He later wrote another companion book called “Telling Each Other theTruth”. Both emphasize the importance of truth grounded in the Word of God. Itall begins with telling ourselves the truth as God defines it. Oh,my friend, when you know the truth—who is Jesus Christ—and when you live thattruth, it makes all the difference in the world. We will continue our study onlying tomorrow, because there are many powerful Scriptures that go along withthis subject. Until then, God bless you and may you have a wonderful day as youlive in the truth of God's Word. Godbless!

Let's be real: dealing with a passive-aggressive person can feel like navigating a minefield in flip-flops. They say one thing but mean the exact opposite, and by the time you've decoded the first sentence, they've hit you with another “bless your heart” disguised as a compliment. So, as a Christian single who may encounter a few passive-aggressive folks along the journey, how do you handle this with grace, patience, and maybe a sprinkle of humor? Here's a lighthearted guide filled […] The post How to Deal with Passive-Aggressive People: A Christian Single's Guide appeared first on Christian Singles Advice | Christian Dating Advice Tips. Related posts: How to Deal with a Bully as a Christian Single How to Deal with Bitterness as a Christian Single How to Deal with Rejection as a Single Christian How to Deal with the Pain of Being a Christian Single How to Stop Being a People Pleaser as a Christian Single

Ephesians 4:31-32 KJVLet all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: [32] And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

In this message, Pastor Bo reminds us that Christmas is about far more than presents—it’s about pursuing God’s presence. Sharing his salvation story from 1992 in a small, unimpressive church in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn, he shows that it isn’t polish, production, or appearances that change lives, but the undeniable presence of God. In a space marked by crackling sound systems and unremarkable surroundings, the anointing was real—and it transformed hearts, including his own father’s at an Easter altar call. Drawing from Genesis 3:8, Pastor Bo teaches that God’s original desire was to walk with humanity, and that the greatest tragedy of the Fall was the loss of His presence. The greatest gift of salvation, then, is its restoration. The anointing does what no person can do, accelerating lives into God’s purpose. The invitation is simple and powerful: be baptized in the Holy Spirit, intentionally cultivate His presence, and live so close to God that you’re always one drop away from being overwhelmed by Him.(00:00) Satan’s Lie: “You’re Hard to Receive”(08:48) Bitterness, Algorithms, and Keeping a Soft Heart(16:30) Eden, the Fall, and Restored Intimacy with God(20:20) Presence vs. Performance: The Story of CityLight Church(30:08) Baptism in the Holy Spirit and Undignified Hunger for God(46:00) Adoption, Generosity, and God Who Hearshttps://citylightnyc.com/ 

Get Rid of Bitterness

It's easy to find ourselves in the middle of December with a packed calendar and an unprepared spirit, carrying bitterness, comparison, or disappointment into every day. Drawing from Matthew 3:3, Karen talks about what it means to “prepare the way for the Lord” so we don't miss Jesus in the middle of our own expectations. You'll come away with simple, practical ways to prepare your heart for Christmas, no matter what your circumstances are like.Episode Recap:Today we're talking about preparation (2:15)We must prepare our hearts so we don't miss Christ (3:54)We prepare through self-reflection, repentance, readiness (5:06)It's hard to see the condition of your own heart, so pray about it (6:12)This world is full of trouble, but Christ has overcome the world (13:09)We have to take our thoughts captive over and over and over again (14:45)Practically, how do we prepare our hearts? (17:13)Scripture: Matthew 3:3 (NIV) – ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'Discussion Questions: When you look at this Christmas season, where do you see that your heart might be “unprepared”? (Bitterness, comparison, resentment, fear, exhaustion, etc.)What “self-talk” tends to get loud for you during the holidays (i.e.: life isn't fair, I never have enough, no one appreciates me)? Which scriptures could help you renew your mind with truth instead?Karen shared practical ideas for preparing your heart: starting the day with Jesus, lighting a candle, sitting in silence, simplifying your schedule, serving someone in need. Which one could you realistically try this week?Is there one thing you could say no to this December to create more space for peace, presence, and noticing Jesus? What would it look like to trust God with that decision?Resources:Give today to help us reach more moms with Wire Talk in 2026! boaw.mom/givePick up a copy of Karen's Self Talk curriculum today: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/products/six-truths-study-guide?pr_prod_strat=e5_desc&pr_rec_id=ac36e3440&pr_rec_pid=1414191513677&pr_ref_pid=4773089017933&pr_seq=uniformListen to Noel by Tommee Profitt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDyA9W9CaeQ

Be sure to visit cultureproof.net Please consider supporting the Culture Proof Podcast. We aim to bring engaging content that will challenge and equip Christians to live according to the Straight Edge of Scripture. All gifts are tax deductible. Our Address is: S.E. Ministries PO Box 1269 Saltillo MS, 38866   Episode sponsors: BJUPress Homeschool We Heart Nutrition – Use the code CULTUREPROOF for 20% off Accountable2You – Try free for 10 days Culture Proof Listeners  THANKS!   Culture Proof Podcast Theme song "Believers" courtesy of Path of Revelation    

Sunday Service - December 7, 2025 - Jeremiah Gonda 

Kent Livingston teaches on Ephesians 1:3-14.

What Turns Her Off — and What Godly Husbands Do Instead Have you ever wished you could just…get inside your wife's heart for a moment? Not to manipulate, but to genuinely understand her. To love her in a way that makes her feel safe and wanted—not pressured or confused. My husband Darrow and I sat down to talk through something men rarely get honest insight about: Her biggest turn-offs. And not because we want to shame or scold—but because clarity brings freedom. When you finally understand what shuts her down, you also discover what opens her heart. So take a deep breath.You're not in trouble.You're learning—and that already makes you a good man. Let's walk through these turn-offs together, with God's kindness leading us all the way. 1. When Affection Feels Like a Transaction One of the most common complaints I hear from wives is this: "Every time he does something sweet, it feels like he's trying to get sex." A back rub, a coffee, a hand on her waist, a date night—beautiful gestures—become tainted when she senses they come with an expectation. When affection is only a bridge to the bedroom, she feels: Used Not loved for who she is Like her worth is tied to her sexual availability God never intended marital intimacy to be a negotiation.Love her without a scoreboard. Bless her without an agenda. 2. Grabbing, Pinching, or Smacking Her Body When She's Not Comfortable Yes…wives talk about this. And I know many husbands mean it playfully.But if she doesn't feel safe—emotionally, spiritually, or physically—this kind of touch feels like entitlement, not affection. Her body is not something to be "snatched."She needs room to open, not pressure to surrender. When she feels cherished—not grabbed—she wants to share her body freely. 3. Taking "Not Now" Personally If she says she's tired, overwhelmed, stressed, or simply "not right now," it's almost never about you. But when a husband interprets it as: Rejection Lack of desire "She doesn't love me" …it puts enormous emotional weight on her shoulders. Instead, respond with: "No worries, sweetheart. Another time would be wonderful." That confidence and peace will draw her toward you—not away. 4. Moping After She Says No Emotional sulking is not harmless. Moping communicates: "You disappointed me." "Now I have to punish you with sadness." "You're responsible for my emotions."   This shuts her heart down.Fast. Your steadiness and joy—even when she's not available—makes her feel safe. And safety is the soil where desire grows. 5. Punishing Her for Not Wanting Sex This is one of the deepest wounds wives carry. Punishments include: Silent treatment Withholding affection Moving to another room Being cold or distant Only being "nice" when you want intimacy These behaviors feel manipulative and honestly frightening. Your wife is not the enemy. She is the assignment God entrusted to you. Lead with love, not consequences. 6. Lack of Playfulness Playfulness is essential to intimacy. If everything feels heavy, serious, structured, pressured…then her nervous system never relaxes enough to enjoy being sensual. Silliness is holy ground for a woman's heart. Laughter lowers her guard.Playfulness creates connection. If you want her to be playful in the bedroom, she needs to experience playfulness outside the bedroom. 7. Not Feeling Emotionally Safe Women cannot separate emotional connection from physical intimacy. I'll say that one more time. Women cannot separate emotional connection from physical intimacy. When she feels emotionally unsafe, her body shuts down. Emotional Safety looks like: Listening Compassion Being slow to speak and quick to understand Responding gently Supporting her heart, not "fixing" immediately  When she feels heard, she opens. 8. Being a "Negative Nellie" (or Negative Ned!) Constant complaining is exhausting and not attractive. It pulls the atmosphere of the home downward and makes her feel like she has to carry your emotional weight. There is space to process hard things—but constant negativity drains the joy God wants in your marriage. Rejoice. Notice blessings. Bring hope into the home. 9. Bitterness and Resentment Long-term resentment is a marriage-killer. Bitterness communicates: "I haven't forgiven you." "You owe me." "I'm still keeping score." This is the opposite of Christlike love. Your wife cannot relax into intimacy with a man who holds her mistakes over her head. Forgiveness clears the ground for closeness to grow again. And if you need a little extra inspiration, let us turn you to Matthew 6:15 (NIV): "But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." 10. Being Too Serious All the Time Intensity has a place—but not every moment. When a man is always stern, rigid, perfectionistic, spiritual-but-heavy…it makes her feel like she can never fully exhale. If she can't be herself around you, she won't be vulnerable with you. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit—not an optional extra. 11. Using Slang or Sexual Words She Doesn't Like Words matter. Some husbands use slang affectionately or playfully.Some wives love it.Others absolutely don't. If slang or sexual language makes her uncomfortable, embarrassed, or unsafe, it becomes a turn-off—not a turn-on. Honor her preferences. You're not losing freedom—you're gaining connection. Final Thoughts: So What Do You Do with All This? If reading this stirs conviction…good. Conviction is not condemnation.The enemy heaps shame.God invites repentance—and repentance leads to freedom. Your wife is God's daughter. And He entrusted her to you. Every shift you make toward loving her well brings you closer to His heart and closer to hers. We're rooting for you!   Blessing, The Delight Your Marriage Team   PS - If you want help walking this out in real life—not just head knowledge—that's exactly why our coaching and in-person training programs exist. Men who were separated from their wives…Men in sexless marriages…Men whose wives felt unsafe for years……have seen transformation they once thought impossible.For more information on our In-Person Training programs, launching January 2026, check out delightyourmarriage.com/ipt If you're ready to dive into the Coaching programs, please feel free to schedule a free Clarity Call at delightyourmarriage.com/cc PPS - Here is a quote from a recent In-Person Training pilot program graduate: "My wife and I have been separated for 6 months, and the same day as our [IPT] graduation, she chose to and began moving back into our matrimonial home. I also told her about our [IPT] program that same day. Up until then, I had said I was attending a men's bible study. All praise be to God."

The post Free From Bitterness – 2 Samuel 1:11-12 – December 4, 2025 first appeared on Enduring Word.

What if the love you're giving, and the love you're expecting, aren't the same thing? In this week's episode of The Cutting Room Floor, Neil and Scott wrap up an 11-week journey through men, women, and marriage. They explore what didn't make it into Sunday's sermon, from C.S. Lewis insights, to Greek word studies on love, to the work that needs to be done in every relationship. Together they unpack why fixing our eyes on Jesus is the only way marriage makes sense at all. Challenge: This week, choose one action that demonstrates love or respect, and practice it without expecting anything in return. Hosts: Neil Gregory & Scott Nickell ⸻ What We Discuss The divine drama of marriage and why it can't simply end with "try harder" What "love and respect" actually mean, and how they're misused The four Greek words for love and why agape changes everything Why biblical love feels impossible without Jesus Tough and tender: the two postures every husband must hold Emotional homework for men (and why anger is rarely the real emotion) Niceness vs. kindness and why only one is a fruit of the Spirit How to recognize the Shepherd's voice in a world full of noise What couples should starve and what they should feed in their marriage ⸻ About Southland Christian Church Southland is one church meeting in multiple locations across central Kentucky. We believe Jesus came for the lost and the broken, which means there's a place for everyone here. Around here, that means we worship defiantly, speak truth unashamedly, and extend grace generously. To support this ministry and help us continue to reach across Central Kentucky and all around the world, visit: https://southland.church/give

In this final reading of Chapter 11 from From Trauma to Trust: The Making of a Messenger, Nancy invites listeners into a piercing encounter with the justice of God, the truth about real forgiveness, and the power of the cross to resolve every deep conflict. This is more than a reading—it's a confrontation with the Esau Syndrome and the subtle ways bitterness, self-pity, and entitlement lure us into trading our birthright for counterfeit healing and temporary relief. Nancy doesn't soften the message—because real transformation doesn't come from sentimentality, but from letting Jesus Himself expose, forgive, and free us. Whether you're facing fresh wounds or decades of unresolved pain, this episode calls you to return to the one true fountain, take your controversy to the cross, and finally live free. Thanks for Listening! I hope that after listening to The Tent Talk Podcast, you'll want to start discussions with your team or small group. These resources can help guide your discipleship journey to maturity and destiny with the Father: Episode Notes & Conversation Guide DOWNLOAD HERE https://nancymccready.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/EPISODE-1001-Birthright-or-Bitterness-6.0.pdf LINKS The Devotional Podcast with Nancy McCready https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2hHjwQ_3Qrp1rhbR9nu68wnBtQY0IHzc The Producer's Way School theproducersway.com Nancy's book, From Trauma to Trust www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZML6R3/ JOIN THE CONVERSATION Every journey begins with a conversation, join us on social media to get started! Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbmccready Instagram: www.instagram.com/nbmccready/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@nancymccreadyministries SUBSCRIBE Like what you hear? Subscribe to Tent Talk with Nancy McCready so you don't miss an episode! nancymccready.com/podcast/ ABOUT NANCY MCCREADY Nancy McCready is redefining discipleship across nations, cultures, and denominations. Through Nancy McCready Ministries, she partners with leaders to build deep, transformative discipleship cultures that provoke people to walk in freedom and live as mature sons of the Father. Her powerful message comes from her journey of overcoming abuse, addiction, and self-destruction to walk in true freedom. She now dedicates her life to helping others grow in intimacy with the Father and live unto Him. ABOUT TENT TALK PODCAST Tent Talk with Nancy McCready is a listener-funded podcast dedicated to helping Christians along their journey of a deeper walk with Christ. With the support of donors like you, we are able to help our listeners gain a deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the Father. Thank you for your support of the Tent Talk Podcast! nancymccready.com/giving/ Brought to you by Nancy McCready Ministries nancymccready.com/

In this episode, Nancy reads directly from Chapter 11 of her book From Trauma to Trust: The Making of a Messenger—a piercing and timely section titled The Esau Syndrome. As we continue in the Birthright or Bitterness series, this episode goes beyond emotional healing to expose how uncrucified independence, unresolved conflict, and false forms of forgiveness open the door to deception, torment, and spiritual stagnation. Nancy shares not just her personal story, but a prophetic message for the church—one that calls us to stop settling for lesser healing and step into the full justice, satisfaction, and freedom of the finished work of the cross. This is not about performance, it's about participation in Christ's life and love. If you are ready to stop nursing your wounds and start walking in your birthright, this episode is for you. Thanks for Listening! I hope that after listening to The Tent Talk Podcast, you'll want to start discussions with your team or small group. These resources can help guide your discipleship journey to maturity and destiny with the Father: Episode Notes & Conversation Guide DOWNLOAD HERE https://nancymccready.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/EPISODE-1000-Birthright-or-Bitterness-5.0.pdf LINKS The Devotional Podcast with Nancy McCready https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2hHjwQ_3Qrp1rhbR9nu68wnBtQY0IHzc The Producer's Way School theproducersway.com Nancy's book, From Trauma to Trust www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZML6R3/ JOIN THE CONVERSATION Every journey begins with a conversation, join us on social media to get started! Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbmccready Instagram: www.instagram.com/nbmccready/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@nancymccreadyministries SUBSCRIBE Like what you hear? Subscribe to Tent Talk with Nancy McCready so you don't miss an episode! nancymccready.com/podcast/ ABOUT NANCY MCCREADY Nancy McCready is redefining discipleship across nations, cultures, and denominations. Through Nancy McCready Ministries, she partners with leaders to build deep, transformative discipleship cultures that provoke people to walk in freedom and live as mature sons of the Father. Her powerful message comes from her journey of overcoming abuse, addiction, and self-destruction to walk in true freedom. She now dedicates her life to helping others grow in intimacy with the Father and live unto Him. ABOUT TENT TALK PODCAST Tent Talk with Nancy McCready is a listener-funded podcast dedicated to helping Christians along their journey of a deeper walk with Christ. With the support of donors like you, we are able to help our listeners gain a deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the Father. Thank you for your support of the Tent Talk Podcast! nancymccready.com/giving/ Brought to you by Nancy McCready Ministries nancymccready.com/

Kim rejoins us on the podcast to talk about how God has been moving her to speak out about bitterness. These are things we all struggle with and God can help us!

 8/8 Trauma, Memory, and the Silence of "Eating Bitterness" — Tanya Branigan — Branigan characterizes the CRas a collective convulsion or "Maoist hysteria." Mental health infrastructure was historically underdeveloped in China, and psychology was officially condemned as "bourgeois pseudoscience." The pervasive cultural idiom "eating bitterness" reflects fatalistic endurance of suffering without complaint. Severe trauma fractured survivors' memory systems, producing lasting psychiatric consequences including psychotic episodes and dissociative disorders. The national silence surrounding the CR results from both deliberate state suppression and the widespread personal psychological devastation experienced by millions of survivors. 1967

Ephesians 5:21-33 | Join us as Scott unpacks God's intention for marriage in a sermon on love and respect versus bitterness and resentment.

What do you do when you're misrepresented, insulted, or spoken about unfairly? Jesus calls moments like these blessed—not because they feel good, but because they form us. Persecution isn't a sign that something has gone wrong; it's often proof that God is doing something right. In this final week of our Good News for Broken Hearts series, Alan helps us see that every assignment attracts adversaries as we sit under the text. Bitterness shrinks the heart. Love enlarges it. When we pray instead of react, when we stay patient instead of demanding, God uses what hurts to shape what lasts. Our pain can either harden us or become holy ground—an invitation to deeper purpose. Jesus calls us salt and light—people who don't hide, don't withdraw, and don't let darkness define them. Your pain isn't pointless; it's potential. Don't waste it. The harvest on the other side of tears is real. If you've ever wondered how to keep your heart soft when life goes below the belt, this message is for you. God doesn't just heal broken hearts—He enlarges them.

Don't let bitterness take root—trust God daily and let His promises grow true peace in your heart. -------- 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.

In today's episode, Nancy continues the Birthright or Bitterness series with a compelling and prophetic call to maturity. Drawing from Ephesians 4 and Romans 1:5, she exposes how unresolved conflict, bitterness, and prolonged spiritual infancy create open doors for imposters, manipulation, and deception—even within religious settings. This isn't just about trauma recovery or emotional healing; it's about the deep work of transformation through the finished work of the Cross. Nancy urges listeners to live as sons unto the Father, not as orphans shaped by unmet needs and bitterness. If you're tired of cycles of confusion, creature worship, or false promises wrapped in religious language, this episode offers piercing clarity and direction. Let this message awaken your hunger for maturity, responsibility, and true freedom in Christ. Thanks for Listening! I hope that after listening to The Tent Talk Podcast, you'll want to start discussions with your team or small group. These resources can help guide your discipleship journey to maturity and destiny with the Father: Episode Notes & Conversation Guide DOWNLOAD HERE https://nancymccready.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/EPISODE-999-Birthright-or-Bitterness-4.0.pdf LINKS The Devotional Podcast with Nancy McCready https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2hHjwQ_3Qrp1rhbR9nu68wnBtQY0IHzc The Producer's Way School theproducersway.com Nancy's book, From Trauma to Trust www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZML6R3/ JOIN THE CONVERSATION Every journey begins with a conversation, join us on social media to get started! Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbmccready Instagram: www.instagram.com/nbmccready/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@nancymccreadyministries SUBSCRIBE Like what you hear? Subscribe to Tent Talk with Nancy McCready so you don't miss an episode! nancymccready.com/podcast/ ABOUT NANCY MCCREADY Nancy McCready is redefining discipleship across nations, cultures, and denominations. Through Nancy McCready Ministries, she partners with leaders to build deep, transformative discipleship cultures that provoke people to walk in freedom and live as mature sons of the Father. Her powerful message comes from her journey of overcoming abuse, addiction, and self-destruction to walk in true freedom. She now dedicates her life to helping others grow in intimacy with the Father and live unto Him. ABOUT TENT TALK PODCAST Tent Talk with Nancy McCready is a listener-funded podcast dedicated to helping Christians along their journey of a deeper walk with Christ. With the support of donors like you, we are able to help our listeners gain a deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the Father. Thank you for your support of the Tent Talk Podcast! nancymccready.com/giving/ Brought to you by Nancy McCready Ministries nancymccready.com/

On October 15, 1985, Kathy Sheets returned home from her morning walk and noticed a small package on the driveway. As she reached for it, a bomb—placed by master forger Mark Hofmann in a desperate attempt to divert attention from his collapsing fraud scheme—detonated, taking her life. Kathy's daughter, Heidi Jones, struggled following her mom's passing with bitterness and deep grief but on today's episode, she shares how a decision to forgive made all the difference.  2:00- The 50-Year-Old Housewife 5:07-October 15, 1985 8:41- The Unseen Aftermath 11:18- An All-Consuming Grief 13:41- Letting Go of Bitterness  19:18- Reconciliation and Testimony 22:03- Forgiving the Unfairness of Life 27:25- The Unseen Aftermath…Again 32:06- Gaining Perspective 35:16- No Unfinished Business 38:59- What Does It Mean To Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ? "To apply Christ's Atonement in my life I had to be able to take that huge burden, that oppression, and lay it at the Savior's feet and leave it. Lay it and leave it."

There's a way to live that squanders pain while your heart hardens and your trust thins. Things like numbing, retelling the wound, and calling it wisdom. This week on Win Today, Shawn Johnson, lead pastor of Red Rocks Church and author of Attacking Anxiety, joins me to explore how people waste pain and how to steward the middle seasons when nothing seems to be moving, but everything inside you is being formed. We draw the line between rest and peace, why bitterness and distrust grow in the same soil, and how to turn waiting into worship without pretending the ache away. If you're stuck in the middle, angry at the delay, or exhausted from managing outcomes, this conversation will help you regain your presence and cultivate a hard-won hope that lasts. Guest Bio Shawn Johnson is the lead pastor and co-founder of Red Rocks Church (Denver, multi-site), and the author of Attacking Anxiety, where he chronicles his own fight with anxiety and depression and the practices that helped him rebuild. His ministry blends candor about suffering with a relentless call to faith and formation. Today isn't about his résumé; it's about your next faithful step in the middle. Show Partners SafeSleeve designs a phone case that blocks up to 99% of harmful EMF radiation—so I'm not carrying that kind of exposure next to my body all day. It's sleek, durable, and most importantly, lab-tested by third parties. The results aren't hidden—they're published right on their site. And that matters, because a lot of so-called EMF blockers on the market either don't work or can't prove they do. We protect our hearts and minds—why wouldn't we protect our bodies too? Head to safesleevecases.com and use the code WINTODAY10 for 10% off your order. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

On this Thanksgiving Eve, Nancy urges us to take our seat at the Father's table—not out of holiday obligation, but in deep spiritual readiness. Continuing the Birthright or Bitterness series, she reads from Hebrews 12 and exhorts listeners to reject the slow drift into exhaustion, entitlement, and self-indulgence that so often emerges under consistent opposition. Through the Word and her own raw testimony, Nancy reminds us that we are not in a “me season,” but in the season of His training. We are being matured for the days ahead—called to live as sons, not slaves; debtors, not victims. This episode is a piercing call to resist fainting, fix your eyes on Jesus, and yield your right to yourself. Everything is connected. The cross is in the field. And the Father is preparing His sons. Thanks for Listening! I hope that after listening to The Tent Talk Podcast, you'll want to start discussions with your team or small group. These resources can help guide your discipleship journey to maturity and destiny with the Father: Episode Notes & Conversation Guide DOWNLOAD HERE https://nancymccready.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/EPISODE-998-Birthright-or-Bitterness-3.0.pdf LINKS The Devotional Podcast with Nancy McCready https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2hHjwQ_3Qrp1rhbR9nu68wnBtQY0IHzc The Producer's Way School theproducersway.com Nancy's book, From Trauma to Trust www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZML6R3/ JOIN THE CONVERSATION Every journey begins with a conversation, join us on social media to get started! Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbmccready Instagram: www.instagram.com/nbmccready/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@nancymccreadyministries SUBSCRIBE Like what you hear? Subscribe to Tent Talk with Nancy McCready so you don't miss an episode! nancymccready.com/podcast/ ABOUT NANCY MCCREADY Nancy McCready is redefining discipleship across nations, cultures, and denominations. Through Nancy McCready Ministries, she partners with leaders to build deep, transformative discipleship cultures that provoke people to walk in freedom and live as mature sons of the Father. Her powerful message comes from her journey of overcoming abuse, addiction, and self-destruction to walk in true freedom. She now dedicates her life to helping others grow in intimacy with the Father and live unto Him. ABOUT TENT TALK PODCAST Tent Talk with Nancy McCready is a listener-funded podcast dedicated to helping Christians along their journey of a deeper walk with Christ. With the support of donors like you, we are able to help our listeners gain a deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the Father. Thank you for your support of the Tent Talk Podcast! nancymccready.com/giving/ Brought to you by Nancy McCready Ministries nancymccready.com/

Get ready for Thanksgiving 2025's Thursday episode: “Choose Gratitude Over Bitterness.”

In this powerful episode, Nancy turns our attention to Hebrews 12 and the great cloud of witnesses who endured unimaginable hardship yet remained faithful. She challenges us to stop measuring life by what others have done to us—and instead look to what Christ has done for us. Rather than living distracted by wounds, bitterness, and unrealistic expectations, we are called to run our race with endurance, with our eyes locked on Jesus. This message cuts deep into the victim mindset, entitlement, and self-pity that keep us from accessing the strength, justice, and forgiveness already made available through the Cross. This is a call to leave the demanding line behind and take your place in the receiving line—where true birthright is found. Thanks for Listening! I hope that after listening to The Tent Talk Podcast, you'll want to start discussions with your team or small group. These resources can help guide your discipleship journey to maturity and destiny with the Father: Episode Notes & Conversation Guide DOWNLOAD HERE https://nancymccready.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/EPISODE-997-Birthright-or-Bitterness-2.0.pdf LINKS The Devotional Podcast with Nancy McCready https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2hHjwQ_3Qrp1rhbR9nu68wnBtQY0IHzc The Producer's Way School theproducersway.com Nancy's book, From Trauma to Trust www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZML6R3/ JOIN THE CONVERSATION Every journey begins with a conversation, join us on social media to get started! Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbmccready Instagram: www.instagram.com/nbmccready/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@nancymccreadyministries SUBSCRIBE Like what you hear? Subscribe to Tent Talk with Nancy McCready so you don't miss an episode! nancymccready.com/podcast/ ABOUT NANCY MCCREADY Nancy McCready is redefining discipleship across nations, cultures, and denominations. Through Nancy McCready Ministries, she partners with leaders to build deep, transformative discipleship cultures that provoke people to walk in freedom and live as mature sons of the Father. Her powerful message comes from her journey of overcoming abuse, addiction, and self-destruction to walk in true freedom. She now dedicates her life to helping others grow in intimacy with the Father and live unto Him. ABOUT TENT TALK PODCAST Tent Talk with Nancy McCready is a listener-funded podcast dedicated to helping Christians along their journey of a deeper walk with Christ. With the support of donors like you, we are able to help our listeners gain a deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the Father. Thank you for your support of the Tent Talk Podcast! nancymccready.com/giving/ Brought to you by Nancy McCready Ministries nancymccready.com/

This week at Venture, Pastor Brandon continues our Journey Through Ephesians series with a powerful message from Ephesians 4 — a chapter filled with practical instructions for how believers should live as part of God's family. Using the illustration of “family rules,” Pastor Brandon teaches that when we become followers of Jesus, we're adopted into God's household — and with that comes a new identity, a new way of living, and new expectations. We are no longer who we used to be. We represent Jesus. We represent our church. And the Gospel should transform the way we think, speak, work, and respond to others. From Paul's call to “live a life worthy of your calling” to practical warnings against lying, anger, bitterness, unwholesome talk, and idleness, this message challenges us to live differently — because we are different. If you want to grow in spiritual maturity and understand what it means to truly reflect Christ in your daily life, this message will encourage and challenge you. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Online Campus welcome00:12 – Welcome from Pastor Brandon00:44 – Parenting stories and family expectations01:49 – “In our house, we do hard things”02:14 – We don't quit — teaching perseverance03:12 – Following through with commitments03:34 – Working hard and having jobs growing up04:10 – College expectations and values05:48 – “Our family goes to church”06:43 – You represent your family07:20 – Transition to Ephesians 408:08 – Live a life worthy of your calling08:57 – Old Testament vs. New Testament obedience09:24 – Expectations for believers, not seekers10:01 – “Don't live like the Gentiles do”10:31 – Who you were vs. who you are now11:23 – Hardened hearts and transformation12:08 – We represent Jesus in everything we do12:40 – “We are Venture”13:13 – Making Jesus famous14:01 – Grace should change how we live14:43 – Putting off your old self15:14 – The symbolism of baptism15:42 – New mind, new life, new identity16:25 – Faith should change your values and worldview17:12 – Chapters 1–3 vs. chapters 4–617:40 – “Take off your grave clothes”18:50 – Expectations for God's family19:26 – Five things we don't do in God's house20:11 – #1 We don't lie21:12 – Truth-telling vs. the enemy's lies22:14 – Speaking the truth in love23:21 – Accountability and honesty in the church24:11 – #2 We control our anger25:28 – How anger becomes sin26:57 – Don't let anger smolder27:27 – The danger of wrath and malice27:52 – #3 We don't steal — we work28:36 – The expectation that believers work29:53 – Psychological benefits of working31:06 – Pastor Brandon's upbringing and work ethic32:09 – First job stories32:16 – #4 Think before you speak32:54 – No unwholesome or corrupt talk33:21 – How Jesus changed our speech34:08 – Gossip, slander, corrupt communication34:40 – #5 We don't let bitterness control us35:19 – Bitterness grieves the Holy Spirit35:59 – The danger of harboring bitterness36:49 – The journey of transformation37:16 – We represent our Father37:40 – Summing it up: Be kind, compassionate, forgiving38:11 – Closing prayer39:12 – Service close and announcements

In today's episode, Nancy continues confronting the beast of bitterness and how it wreaks havoc on the mind, blinds us to our inheritance in Christ, and enslaves us to self-indulgent appetites. This is not just about hard circumstances or unfair people—it's about what happens when we stand in the demanding line, expecting God or others to pay what we think is owed. Nancy draws a striking contrast between entitlement and inheritance, reminding us that our birthright as sons is received, not earned or demanded. If you feel worn out, bitter, or locked in patterns of emotional chaos, this episode will call you out of victimhood and into ruling and reigning with the Father, not over others—but over yourself. Thanks for Listening! I hope that after listening to The Tent Talk Podcast, you'll want to start discussions with your team or small group. These resources can help guide your discipleship journey to maturity and destiny with the Father: Episode Notes & Conversation Guide DOWNLOAD HERE https://nancymccready.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/EPISODE-996-Birthright-or-Bitterness.pdf LINKS The Devotional Podcast with Nancy McCready https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2hHjwQ_3Qrp1rhbR9nu68wnBtQY0IHzc The Producer's Way School theproducersway.com Nancy's book, From Trauma to Trust www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZML6R3/ JOIN THE CONVERSATION Every journey begins with a conversation, join us on social media to get started! Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbmccready Instagram: www.instagram.com/nbmccready/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@nancymccreadyministries SUBSCRIBE Like what you hear? Subscribe to Tent Talk with Nancy McCready so you don't miss an episode! nancymccready.com/podcast/ ABOUT NANCY MCCREADY Nancy McCready is redefining discipleship across nations, cultures, and denominations. Through Nancy McCready Ministries, she partners with leaders to build deep, transformative discipleship cultures that provoke people to walk in freedom and live as mature sons of the Father. Her powerful message comes from her journey of overcoming abuse, addiction, and self-destruction to walk in true freedom. She now dedicates her life to helping others grow in intimacy with the Father and live unto Him. ABOUT TENT TALK PODCAST Tent Talk with Nancy McCready is a listener-funded podcast dedicated to helping Christians along their journey of a deeper walk with Christ. With the support of donors like you, we are able to help our listeners gain a deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the Father. Thank you for your support of the Tent Talk Podcast! nancymccready.com/giving/ Brought to you by Nancy McCready Ministries nancymccready.com/

Mark plays an interesting soundbite from Paul Skenes. Mike Decourcey joins the show for his weekly hit

Mark plays an interesting soundbite from Paul Skenes. Mike Decourcey joins the show for his weekly hit See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On This Week at Charlestown Road, Jason and Roger revisit Sunday morning's sermon, “Seasons of Faith in the Book of Ruth: Chapter 1” digging deeper into the story of Naomi and Ruth and how we must continue to battle against bitterness when life is tough.

In this powerful episode, men's mental health expert, Shayden Bertagnolli, explores the profound impact of gratitude on men's mental health. Drawing from personal experiences, biblical insights, and the inspiring story of Holocaust survivor Eddie Jocko, he reveals how focusing on what we have—rather than what we lack—can heal bitterness, strengthen faith, and lead to personal wholeness. The episode challenges men to practice gratitude as a spiritual discipline and a pathway to deeper mental and emotional well-being.

An honest assessment. Don’t let anger become bitterness. How to win long-term. Arctic Frost was horrible but how did we get here? How was so much of that ‘legal’? Why doesn’t Jesse take calls? If New York City burns will it sway norm? Follow The Jesse Kelly Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJesseKellyShowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OG Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner's new memoir is here! “Golden Years: What I've Learned from Love, Loss, and Reality TV,” dives into Gerry's early life and career, as well as his marriage to his beloved Toni. But the lion's share of the memoir is focused on “The Golden Bachelor”: his casting, the experience of filming, the women he met along the journey, the cursed Golden Wedding, and, of course, all of the ways in which his relationship with Theresa Nist was seemingly doomed from the jump. We go into the memoir's juiciest claims and explore why Gerry still seems to feel so much bitterness towards his now ex-wife. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks about Marc Maron's interview with Barack Obama on the final episode of the WTF Podcast where he doesn't even try to hide his bitter resentment towards Donald Trump after he accomplished the peace deal between Israel and Hamas that everyone said was impossible; Scott Jennings getting CNN's Kasie Hunt and guests to go speechless after he rips into Barack Obama for refusing to acknowledge that Trump is accomplishing everything that Obama and Biden couldn't; The View's Sunny Hostin and Whoopi Goldberg being able to give Donald Trump any credit for negotiating the Middle East peace deal while only Alyssa Farah Griffin and Sara Haines can acknowledge Trump's role in getting all of the remaining Israeli hostages freed; the Jimmy Kimmel Live! audience not being happy with Jimmy Kimmel giving Donald Trump credit for ending the Israel-Hamas War; Gavin Newsom and Senator Chris Murphy trying to understand why everyone hates Democrats; Meet the Press' Kristen Welker trying hard not to laugh at Mark Kelly for suggesting that Kamala Harris should be the Democrats nominee in the 2028 election; Club Random's Bill Maher getting William H. Macy to admit that it's impossible to deny Donald Trump's success at this point; and much more. WATCH the MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE segment of the show here: https://rubinreport.locals.com/ Check out the NEW RUBIN REPORT MERCH here: https://daverubin.store/ ----------  Today's Sponsors: Tax Network USA - If you owe back taxes or have unfiled returns, don't let the government take advantage of you. Whether you owe a few thousand or a few million, they can help you. Call 1(800)-958-1000 for a private, free consultation or Go to: https://tnusa.com/dave Crypto.com - Trump Media just signed a massive $6.4 billion deal with Yorkville Acquisition Corp. and Crypto.com. This new company will be the largest publicly traded CRO holder out there. For more information, visit Yorkville Corporation's Public filings: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1849635/000114036125032615/ef20054552_ex99-2.htm Go to https://crypto.com Noble Gold Investments - Whether you're looking to roll over an old 401(k) into a Gold IRA… or you want physical coins and bars delivered right to your home Noble Gold makes the process simple, safe, and stress-free. Download the free wealth protection kit and open a new qualified account and get a FREE 10-ounce Silver Flag Bar plus a Silver American Eagle Proof Coin. Go to http://DaveRubinGold.com and