Podcasts about bitterness

Thisis what we are talking about today as we look at Ephesians 1:7-10: "Inwhom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins according tothe riches of His grace." In the first six verses, we found the blessingswe have from God the Father. In God the Father, we have been chosen. We havebeen adopted into His family. We have been accepted in Christ. Now in theseverses we see the blessings that we have from the Person and the work andministry of Jesus Christ because of His blood. We have been redeemed and wehave been forgiven. We talked about that yesterday.  Onething I want to go back to: I mentioned that evidence of our forgiveness is wehave the ability and power to forgive others. And I made the statement that ifwe cannot forgive others, maybe we haven't been forgiven. Now, that doesn'tmean that we are not a believer. It doesn't mean that we're not saved, but itmight mean we have not accepted the forgiveness that we have already in ChristJesus. Some people are forgiven but don't know they're forgiven. They've beenset free, but they don't know they've been set free. How sad.  ReadRomans chapters 6, 7, and 8. There we read about the law of sin and deaththat's always pulling us down. But then there's the law of life in Christ Jesusthat we must also understand and accept, and that we believe in and that wewalk in. And when we do that, we're free. And we walk in that law of life inChrist Jesus through a life of humility. That's why so much is made abouthumility in Christ. The humility of Christ. He humbled Himself. We humbleourselves under the mighty hand of God. It is then that we receive the grace ofGod (James 4:6), “God resists the proud, but He gives grace to the humble”. Whenwe receive God's grace, we don't get bitter when people hurt us and they causeus pain. When they offend us. No, we're able to forgive because of humility. Weswallow our pride. We admit our sins, our guilt. Forgiveness is a daily thingfor us. And that is because every day we get our feet dirty in this world.We're human. We don't always respond correctly to the situations and problemsand hurts and challenges that we face and we misstep, and we must come to theLord every day.  1John 1 reminds us that if we say we've not sinned, we are a liar. The truth isnot in us. 1 John 1 is about the assurance in knowing that I'm a child of God andnow that “I can walk in the light as He is in the light, and the blood ofChrist is daily cleansing me from all sin”. And that means I'm forgivingothers also at the same time because of God's wonderful grace.  InChrist, we are redeemed and because of that we have been forgiven. And then Paulgoes on in verse 7, to say, "Which He has made to abound toward us inall wisdom and prudence." We have everything we need to live that lifeof abundant life. Jesus said, "The thief came to steal, to kill, and todestroy” (John 10:10). That thief is the devil, and he wants to steal yourjoy. He wants to steal your peace. He wants to steal your walk with God. He's athief. He wants you to be miserable. He wants you to walk in darkness, myfriend. But Jesus came to set you free. And if the “Son sets you free, youwill be free indeed” (John 8:32-26).  Youare free to love the Lord, free to love others, free to forgive others becauseyou've been forgiven. This again is a great blessing that we have. And Godgives us this grace. How does He give it? “In all wisdom and prudence”. Thismeans that we know how to respond to the problems in life. And we do itprudently. We do it the right way by the grace of God.Today,be encouraged!!! Deal with bitterness, deal with guilt, ask forgiveness, giveforgiveness, and walk with the Lord today. And what a wonderful life of freedomyou will have and enjoy in Christ today.  Godbless!

Dealing With Bitterness Pastor James Burke Practical Christianity Part 10

Welcome to the 45th episode in the “Prison Pulpit” series on the China Compass podcast on the Fight Laugh Feast network! I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben, recording today from Malaysia. Follow and/or message me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I post (among other things) daily reminders to pray for China.You can also email me @ bfwesten at gmail dot com. Last but not least, to learn more about our ministry endeavors or get one of my missionary biographies, visit PrayGiveGo.us! Why did I begin this weekly Prison Pulpit series? The goal is to remind us all to pray for persecuted pastors and believers as Hebrews 13:3 teaches us to do (“as bound with them”). I do this (in part) by sharing Pastor Wang Yi’s published writings in China, as well as anecdotes from other persecuted ministers who have gone before, such as Richard Wurmbrand. Pray for Brother Daniel in Nepal! (Heb 13:3) Blessed Bitterness https://chinacall.substack.com/p/blessed-bitterness Grandma Mabel: More Than Tongue Can Tell https://chinacall.substack.com/p/more-than-tongue-can-tell Follow China Compass Follow or subscribe to China Compass on whichever platform you use. You can also send any questions or comments on X: @chinaadventures or via email (bfwesten at gmail dot com). Hebrews 13:3!

Welcome to the 45th episode in the “Prison Pulpit” series on the China Compass podcast on the Fight Laugh Feast network! I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben, recording today from Malaysia. Follow and/or message me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I post (among other things) daily reminders to pray for China.You can also email me @ bfwesten at gmail dot com. Last but not least, to learn more about our ministry endeavors or get one of my missionary biographies, visit PrayGiveGo.us! Why did I begin this weekly Prison Pulpit series? The goal is to remind us all to pray for persecuted pastors and believers as Hebrews 13:3 teaches us to do (“as bound with them”). I do this (in part) by sharing Pastor Wang Yi’s published writings in China, as well as anecdotes from other persecuted ministers who have gone before, such as Richard Wurmbrand. Pray for Brother Daniel in Nepal! (Heb 13:3) Blessed Bitterness https://chinacall.substack.com/p/blessed-bitterness Grandma Mabel: More Than Tongue Can Tell https://chinacall.substack.com/p/more-than-tongue-can-tell Follow China Compass Follow or subscribe to China Compass on whichever platform you use. You can also send any questions or comments on X: @chinaadventures or via email (bfwesten at gmail dot com). Hebrews 13:3!

The regulars cover the topic of an Australian man who forgave, and even befriended, the killer of his children, through the power of his own faith. Is forgiveness much more powerful than we even think it is? How exactly does God forgive us of our sins? Don't miss this episode. ----------------------Ben has completely revised and updated his powerful book, Jesus in the Secular World: Reaching a Culture in Crisis—a must-read guide for anyone longing to reach those who may never step foot in a church. Packed with real-world insights and practical strategies, this book could be the breakthrough you've been searching for.Don't wait—get your copy today!Click HERE to check it out on Amazon.For more information, go to: jesusinthesecularworld.com------------------------Questions, comments, or feedback? We'd love to hear what you think! Send them to provokeandinspire@steiger.org, or send us a message on Instagram.Click HERE to receive news, thought-provoking articles, and stories directly in your inbox from Ben, David, Luke, and Chad!Click below to follow the regulars on Instagram!Ben PierceDavid PierceChad JohnsonLuke GreenwoodSend us a text

The longer you share life with your spouse, the more you can struggle with frustrations and disappointments that chip away at your love. Through the years, we've heard from many couples who sincerely love one another but struggle to like each other or feel satisfied in their marriage anymore.Every couple goes through seasons of feeling hurt or let down. They begin to pull apart. Joy fades. They lose hope that they'll ever get what they want from their spouse. Bitterness creeps in, hardening hearts and crushing hope for tomorrow.Does it feel like arguments are frequent, but moments of closeness are few and far between? Is it difficult to cherish your spouse for who they are? Do you feel lonely, misunderstood, or ready to give up on your marriage? Our guest is here to help us discover how to get rid of bitterness and love one another with the love of Jesus.You may recognize him from The 5 Love Languages® series. Gary Chapman is an author, speaker, and counselor. He's the director of Marriage and Family Life Consultants. Gary has a passion for people and helping them form lasting relationships.Gary shares with us:The three questions to start asking your spouseWhy you should negotiate your differencesThe power of loving your spouse with a godly loveAnd more!We hope you enjoy this conversation!Show Notes: growinghometogether.com/gary-chapman-113

Marriage Mindset Reset :: [Ep. 283]This week, we explore how negative self-talk about our husbands can sabotage our marriages and how renewing our minds according to Romans 12:2 can bring transformation and healing to our relationships.We will talk about the following:• Fearful thoughts and scorekeeping thoughts often create a transactional view of marriage• When we experience emotional pain, we can easily begin holding offenses against our spouses• Bitterness and unforgiveness transform us from being our spouse's advocate into being their adversary• Replace negative thinking by focusing on whatever is true, honorable, right and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8)• Learning more about El Rachum (God of compassion) which teaches us to show compassion even when our spouse doesn't "deserve" it• The negative consequences of drawing lines in the sand • The effects of fear which leads to isolation which is dangerous to marriage, potentially leading to separate lives• What ends up on our tongues first starts in our minds, so we must learn to think lifeEmail resource@vowstokeep.com to receive our free resource connecting God's character traits with replacement thoughts for negative thinking patterns. We hope you are blessed and encouraged as you listen!!Support the showFor episode transcripts, click HERE.For more marriage encouragement, visit: www.VowsToKeep.com | V2K Blog | Marriage Counseling | Insta | FBApple Podcast listener? Would you consider leaving us a review, as this helps more couple's to find our resources?! Leave your review HERE.

In this powerful message excerpt from the Joy Stealers series, Pastor Nana Boadum dives into one of the greatest threats to our joy—offenses, anger, and bitterness.Offenses will come. People will misunderstand you, hurt you, or even walk away. But when those offenses grow into anger and bitterness, they become thieves of joy, robbing us of peace and keeping us from fully experiencing God's presence.Through Scripture and practical exhortation, you'll be challenged to:Recognize offenses as “joy stealers” before they take root.Release forgiveness as Christ has forgiven you.Stop carrying bitterness that may outlive relationships—or even outlive the person who caused the hurt.Walk in love as the only debt you owe.God's grace empowers us to let go completely and walk in true freedom and joy. Don't allow bitterness to control your story—listen in and be strengthened to forgive, release, and rejoice again.

I get it. You're holding so much—your family, your work, your faith, your home—and while you pour out for everyone else, there are moments when someone's words or actions sting deeper than you'd like to admit. It starts small, doesn't it? A disappointment here, an offense there. But slowly, quietly, it grows into something bigger, heavier: bitterness. And the truth is, bitterness never stays hidden—it eventually ♥︎ steals our joy, ♥︎ weighs down our spirit, and ♥︎ makes love harder to give freely. This week, I want to walk alongside you and talk honestly about when bitterness creeps in. Together, we'll uncover how it sneaks into our lives, why it holds us back, and most importantly, how God offers freedom from its grip. ❚█══█❚ You don't have to carry this weight, nor are you created to carry this weight. 

When a ww2 concentration camp guard came to Corrie Ten Boom and asked forgiveness for hurting and punishing her sister, Betsie. We must always forgive from our heart.

Speaker: Adam GodshallSeries: ForgivenessText: Romans 12:14-21Theme: In all the offenses we suffer, bitterness is avoidable How to keep from being bitter toward...the repentant: One: Keep your promise. Forgiveness = I graciously promise to release from moral liablility the repentant offender for reconciliation. The 3-fold promise. I will not recall this offense to you. I will not recall this offense to others. I will not recall this offense to myself. How to keep from being bitter toward...the UN-repentant: Two: Don't seek revenge. Do not repay eveil for evil. Do not avenge yourself. Do not be overcome by evil. Three: Love your enemies. Maintain honor. Seek peace. Be kind. Four: Trust your God... ...to care for you. ...to judge your enemies.

Bitterness feels natural - like a reflex when we're hurt - but it slowly poisons the soul. In this week's PRAY series, Pastor Dan Belshaw shows how Jesus teaches a better way: forgiveness. Rooted in the Lord's Prayer, Dan explores the upward call to confess our own sin and the outward call to release others. Forgiveness isn't about excusing the wrong or pretending it never happened - it's about honouring God and stepping into the freedom Christ has already won for us. Imagine living unchained from bitterness!? That's the invitation.

While Human & Holy is currently on a season break, we're revisiting some of our most meaningful conversations from seasons past.This week's episode rerun is a conversation with Ester Zirkind, exploring the concept of Moach Shalit al Halev, the mind ruling over the heart. In a personal accounting of this idea, Ester speaks about the importance of our emotions in the equation. Using the mind to guide the heart is not about suppressing emotions. It's a spiritual reframe: how to honor your heart while allowing your mind to gently lead the way. Stay tuned for Season 6 landing on Sunday, Sep. 7 ✨* * * * * * *To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at info@humanandholy.comTo support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.* * * * * * *TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction: Season Break & Re-airing Beloved Episodes01:00 – Meet Ester Zirkind: Educator, Author, and Shlucha02:15 – What Is Moach Shalit al Halev? The Mind Governing the Heart04:00 – Growing Up Emotional in a Culture of Emotional Restraint05:40 – Shame Around Sensitivity: A Personal Struggle07:00 – Discovering the Enneagram & Sefirot Connection09:00 – Finding Her Place: Embracing Tiferes and Deep Feeling10:30 – The Path to True Self-Understanding and Emotional Leadership12:00 – Why Naming Feelings Is the Key to Mastering Them13:45 – Teaching Girls to “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway”15:00 – The Power of Regulated Emotion in Conscious Living16:45 – Accepting Differences: Understanding Others Through Soul Roots18:00 – Esther's Book: A Memoir Born of Midlife and Honesty19:30 – Four Years of Illness, Grief, and Redemption21:15 – The Life and Loss of Baruch Menachem Mendel23:00 – Choosing Risk, Choosing Life: A Mother's Courage24:45 – Battling Illness While Rebuilding Faith26:15 – The Power of a Supportive Marriage27:30 – Choosing Gratitude Over Bitterness29:00 – On Missing Eretz Yisrael and Spiritual Longing30:30 – Disappointment, Bitterness, and Faith in Divine Timing32:00 – The Balance Between Emotion and Intuition33:30 – How Do You Know If You're Getting It Right?35:00 – Give Yourself Time: Practical Emotional Guidance36:30 – Respecting Your Process, History, and Emotions38:00 – Grieving Honestly as a Path to Healing39:15 – The Pain Is a Pathway: Choosing to Feel and Grow40:20 – Final Reflections

Mind Field | Week 3: Defusing the Landmine of Bitterness | Brian Bloye 

Pastor Josh Griffith preaching live from Still Water Baptist Church on 8.17.25 pm

In this deeply inspiring episode of Talk Healing To Me, Karen Dwyer sits down with Claudine Heritier – a fierce, funny, and unstoppable woman who went from being stuck in survival mode with MS to living a vibrant, purpose-led life. Claudine's transformation didn't come from a magic pill but from choosing herself, one small decision at a time. Karen walks us through the 10 powerful shifts Claudine made – from letting go of bitterness to embracing mobility aids without shame – each one a blueprint for reclaiming your health, confidence, and joy. Whether you have MS or you're simply feeling stuck, these lessons will remind you that you are not broken, you are not late, and you are enough. This episode is a call to stop spiralling, start living intentionally, and finally believe that it's never too late to rewrite your story.Key Takeaways:Structure sets you free - why having a rhythm to your day changes everything. You don't have to earn your worth - rest and joy are your birthright.Doing more doesn't heal you - doing better does. Bitterness is a sign you need to be seen and how safe community changes everything. Your body knows - listening without shame is the ultimate act of self-love. You can't rise until you release - the power of letting go of what no longer serves you. Confidence comes from action - small, consistent steps create big change. It's never too late to rewrite your story - redefining life on your own terms. You can't rush transformation - why lasting change takes time. Your voice is your superpower - using it to heal and connect.Resources & Links Mentioned:

How do you establish a belief in your true identity amid other people's expectations? Host Tina Yeager sits down with Christie Award-winning novelist and former therapist Amanda Cox for a heartfelt conversation on navigating the complex space between others' expectations and our true identities. Together, they explore how the search for belonging, the weight of family dynamics, and the pressure to seek approval can both hinder and reshape our sense of self. Amanda shares her personal journey, professional insights, and the powerful ways her novels—like The Bitter End Birding Society and He Should Have Told the Bees—reflect the challenges and triumphs of embracing who we are truly meant to be. If you've ever struggled to filter out the noise of other voices so you can step boldly into your God-given identity, this episode is just for you. Tune in and discover practical wisdom, encouragement, and hope for your own path toward authenticity and healing. Highlights from the Conversation: Why so many women struggle with identity: Amanda shares how our sense of self is shaped by family, friends, and society—and how we can untangle those outside influences from the truth of who God made us to be. Approval vs. Belonging: Learn the difference between healthy belonging and people-pleasing, and the freedom that comes from living for divine approval rather than human applause. Recognizing your strengths: Are you quiet, observant, or sensitive? Amanda reminds us that what's seen as a “weakness” by others may actually be your God-given superpower. Family dynamics and healing: Ever found yourself slipping back into old patterns the moment you go home? The episode explores how deep-rooted family roles shape us, and practical ways to heal and grow—even when our loved ones don't “get” the new us. Overcoming shame and bitterness: The team discusses the pitfalls of living in the “shoulds” and how forgiving others releases us to become the person God intends us to be. The healing power of fiction: Amanda's novels, including The Bitter End Birding Society and He Should Have Told the Bees, invite readers to process universal emotions like isolation, shame, and hope—showing that fiction can be a gentle guide through real-life challenges.

Bitterness doesn't announce itself. It creeps in quietly—like a shadow in the heart. A memory, a wound, an unresolved offense. You thought you were over it… but every time their name comes up, your chest tightens. That's not healing. That's a prison. And today, we're unlocking the door.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” — Ephesians 4:31 (ESV)Bitterness is slow poison. It doesn't explode—it corrodes. It leaks into our joy, our relationships, even our ability to hear God clearly. And yet, so many believers try to live holy while nursing hurt.Bitterness doesn't mean you're weak—it means you're still wounded. But holding on to it won't protect you. It will infect you. And the enemy loves to use it to keep you stuck.God doesn't just tell us to forgive—He tells us to uproot bitterness completely. Why? Because it grows. Hebrews 12:15 calls it a root—and if left unchecked, it defiles many. That means it spreads, it multiplies, and it damages more than just you.Letting go of bitterness isn't pretending it didn't happen. It's trusting that justice belongs to God—and choosing to walk in mercy, not misery. It's an act of strength, not surrender.You weren't built to carry resentment. You were designed to reflect grace. And grace doesn't coexist with bitterness—it drives it out.So today, get honest. Who are you still angry with? What name still causes a sting? That's your signal—not for revenge, but for release.Question of the Day:What bitter root is God inviting you to pull up today so healing can grow?Mini Call to Action:Write their name on a piece of paper, pray over it, then tear it up. Declare out loud, “Bitterness ends here. I choose peace.”Let's Pray:Lord, I don't want to live bound by bitterness. I release every offense, every hurt, every name I've been holding onto. Heal my heart, uproot the poison, and plant Your peace instead. In Jesus' name, amen.Let's Get To Work!Bitterness is a burden you don't have to carry anymore. Drop it. Burn the list. Let grace go to war on your behalf. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Segment 1 • On Transformed, a marriage suffers from husband's hidden porn use. • Dr. Lou Priolo exposes why we justify anger against those who've wronged us. • A powerful example of how biblical counseling cuts to the heart. Segment 2 • Forgiveness must be given when someone repents, but trust is rebuilt over time. • Handing trust to the unfaithful too soon is foolish—and dangerous. • Bitterness is a poisonous root that churches often fail to confront. Segment 3 • With John MacArthur's memorial coming soon, how will GCC honor him biblically? • The delicate balance between honoring a life and glorifying Christ. • What your funeral focus should say about your life's purpose. Segment 4 • Lighter moments from John MacArthur show his warmth and wit. • Memorable clips capture his unique style. • A final look at a pastor who shaped countless lives for Christ. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

Exodus 15:22-27

God had healed Mike's lung cancer and delivered him from an addiction to drugs and alcohol, but he was still full of bitterness, anger and addicted to sexual sin. At Pure Life Ministries, Mike was broken over his selfishness and began to give to others the same love that he received from the Lord.

We would like to share a prophetic dream we just received about the wicked versus the pure in heart.  It appears our enemy is prospering more in this season, but in this dream, we go behind the scenes to see how the Lord is working.  

Life can be rough. Bad things happen. It's easy to take those bad things and walk down the road of bitterness where our relationships with friends and family suffer. In this message, Jill tells us how Naomi's experiences made her an empty, bitter woman, but she got back on track with the help of her daughter-in-law Ruth and became a full, better woman. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/508/29

In today's episode, I'm excited to bring you a truly delicious conversation with TJ Robinson, also known as "The Olive Oil Hunter" and founder of the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club. If you've ever wondered what makes extra virgin olive oil such a key component of longevity and Mediterranean health, you're going to love this one. (Go to http://GetFreshLongevity.com and get a $39 bottle for just $1.) What we discuss: Food as medicine and olive oil's role in health ... 00:00:53 Interest and confusion around olive oil quality ... 00:02:30 Fraud and counterfeit olive oils ... 00:02:52 Why harvest timing and fruit ripeness matter ... 00:13:27 Cost and yield: why artisanal is pricier ... 00:16:15 Science and polyphenols: health benefits explained ... 00:16:56 What degrades olive oil: time, light, heat, oxygen ... 00:17:44 How long olive oil stays “fresh” and best practices ... 00:19:42 Daily use: how to best integrate olive oil ... 00:20:08 Choosing the best olive oil at the store ... 00:22:15 Cooking with olive oil and protecting its quality ... 00:29:03 Biohacking with olive oil for satiety & blood sugar ... 00:30:12 Tasting olive oil: identifying quality ... 00:33:22 Bitterness and spiciness as quality markers ... 00:37:06 Simple ways to add olive oil to meals ... 00:39:01 What to avoid: unfiltered/cloudy oils in clear bottles ... 00:50:11   Our Amazing Sponsors: Berberine Breakthrough - Take 15 min. before a meal and your body will push carbs and glucose into your muscles to be used as fuel instead of turning them into fat. Enjoy more stable energy without the post-meal crash. Visit bioptimizers.com/bionat and enter the code BIONAT to get 10% off your order.   More from Nat:  YouTube Channel Join My Membership Community Sign up for My Newsletter  Instagram  Facebook Group

Life can be rough. Bad things happen. It's easy to take those bad things and walk down the road of bitterness where our relationships with friends and family suffer. In this message, Jill tells us how Naomi's experiences made her an empty, bitter woman, but she got back on track with the help of her daughter-in-law Ruth and became a full, better woman. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/508/29

It doesn't happen overnight. But one shift, one betrayal, one broken promise at a time—and suddenly you're angry all the time (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack the slow, corrosive build-up of bitterness in first responders—and how frustration with the system, leadership, or public perception can quietly eat away at your sense of purpose.

Speaker: Ryan Leak, Teaching Pastor

The Book of Ruth shows that God is at work in the seemingly mundane, everyday events of the lives of His people. He works through tragedy, faithfulness, obedience, and generosity. Every person in the Book of Ruth faces life's normal challenges and finds that God is using every detail to weave a story of redemption. The story encourages us to view our day-to-day lives as part […]

The Book of PsalmsPsalm 73Psalm 73 takes us on a journey from envy to awe, as Asaph wrestles with the prosperity of the wicked and the apparent unfairness of life, only to have his perspective transformed in the presence of God. His story powerfully illustrates the truth that envy looks outward and leaves us empty, but worship looks upward and makes us whole—reminding us that the nearness of God is our true and lasting good.Sermon Preached by Chris Gannon on August 3, 2025Foothill Church exists to glorify God by living as disciples of Jesus who make disciples of Jesus. https://foothill.church Learn about our For the Sake of His Name 2-Year Discipleship Journey: https://foothill.church/FTSOHN

Don't Stop Believing, Part 3 A sermon by Pastor Richard Sfameni, Lead Pastor at Victory Church in Providence, RI I. Introduction Welcome and purpose of the podcast: sharing powerful messages from services. Victory Church's mission: reaching the lost, restoring the broken, reviving believers. Call to engagement: readiness to receive the Word of God. Message title: "Don't Stop Believing" (better phrased as "Keep Believing"). Central theme: The necessity and critical importance of living by faith. II. The Nature and Gift of Faith Biblical definition: Faith as the “substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is confidence in God's promises and His character. Every believer has a “seed/measure” of faith—faith given by God (Romans 12). Faith as a muscle: grows stronger through use, challenges, and spiritual exercise. Warning against comparing levels of faith among believers. Personal testimony: growth through spiritual trials and resistance, analogy to physical training. III. The Importance of Faith (Scriptural Emphasis) Essential for pleasing God: “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). Two elements: belief that God exists and that He rewards those who seek Him. Faith is required in every circumstance; God knows individual limits and provides grace for endurance. IV. Faith as the Primary Metric in the Church Examination of Paul's concern for faith in the church (1 Thessalonians 3). Paul's repeated focus on the faith of the congregation rather than external measures. What Paul didn't emphasize: not the size, budget, or facilities of the church. Critique of cultural (non-biblical) values in assessing church success. Dangers of equating “bigness” or material signs with spiritual greatness. Examples: 85% of American churches have fewer than 200 people, illustrating that size is not the key measure. Example from church history: Charles Spurgeon's conversion in a small chapel, demonstrating greatness is about spiritual impact, not size. V. Keeping Faith Central The importance of keeping “the main thing the main thing”—focus on the growth and exercise of faith. Individuals and churches must prioritize spiritual metrics over worldly metrics. VI. Lessons from the Heroes of Faith Review of “the cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 11-12. Faith exemplars: those who faced challenges and saw God's faithfulness. The value of biographies/autobiographies of Christians for practical insights into a life of faith. Example: George Mueller's dependence on faith for provision. Recognition of current church members as examples of faith and faithfulness. VII. Hindrances to Faith Identifying and “laying aside every weight”: Bitterness, unforgiveness, distractions, and past failures. Analogy of running a race: shed anything that slows spiritual progress. Biblical example: Paul “forgets what is behind and presses on.” The need for “divine forgetfulness” and remembrance of what matters (the cross, God's promises). VIII. Perseverance of Faith Faith requires perseverance, endurance—keep moving forward despite obstacles and struggles. Examples of perseverance from secular figures (Walt Disney, Einstein, Churchill, Lincoln) to illustrate endurance. Claim: with the Spirit of God, believers have even greater potential for perseverance. Encouragement for listeners to resolve to succeed and trust in God's enabling power. IX. The Focus of Faith: Fixing Eyes on Jesus The source and goal (“author and finisher”) of faith is Jesus. Spiritual direction comes from focusing on Christ—not on people or circumstances. Analogy: Just as a runner focuses on the finish line, Christians must fix their gaze on Jesus. Biblical example: Peter walking on water by looking at Jesus, sinking when distracted by the storm (Matthew 14). Isaiah 26:3—Perfect peace comes from “mind stayed on Thee.” Hymn: “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” used to reinforce the point. The danger of spiritual distraction; importance of continual refocusing on Christ. X. The Cross as Spiritual North Point Story: Beach analogy—currents can pull us off course unnoticed, requiring realignment. The cross of Christ as a central, guiding reference for believers. Regular course corrections are necessary due to “the currents” of worldly distractions and sin. Importance of always coming back to Christ and the cross. XI. Application and Call to Action Self-examination: Is your faith growing? Are you focused on Jesus? Urge to lay aside distractions/weights and make the necessary spiritual adjustments. Invitaton for reflection, response, prayer, and renewed commitment as the service closes.

In this solo episode, Bobby Bosler reflects on a summer of surprising stability while ministering from his new home base in Fairmont, West Virginia. Drawing from Psalm 15, he explores the traits of someone who is unshakable—not because of circumstances, but because of nearness to God. With biblical insight and practical challenges, this episode calls young listeners to examine their own lives and find spiritual stability in drawing close to the Lord.Topics DiscussedSummer gospel victories in West VirginiaHow Psalm 15 defines spiritual stabilityThe question: “Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?”What it means to walk blamelessly and obedientlyInternal honesty vs. self-deceptionThe dangers of slander and taking up offensesLearning to hate sin and love righteousnessKeeping your word, even when it hurtsManipulation, corruption, and integrity in relationshipsA call to walk near to God for unshakable stabilityKey TakeawaysSpiritual stability isn't about external calm—it's about internal nearness to God.Psalm 15 gives practical, convicting marks of the unshakable believer.God desires not just outward obedience but inward honesty and consistent integrity.The things that make us unstable—manipulation, slander, compromise—can be replaced by holy living if we draw near to God.Living close to God will expose sin and bring the strength to live unmovable. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

A native Georgian, Ed lives on a South Georgia farm with his wife, six children, nine cats, a dog, too many goats, and one rabbit named Banjo. Ed blends just the right mix of traditional stand-up, crowd work, and impressions to bring a clean, relevant show with something for everyone. His act reaches across generations and backgrounds to connect with people of all ages. Whether it's his awkward attempts to keep marital romance alive, his spot-on impressions of public figures, or riffing on the behavior of his kids, Ed's act is a blend of smart and zany that brings everyone on board for a hilarious ride. His Facebook videos have been seen by millions around the globe. You can catch Ed on Sirius XM radio, the Grand Ole Opry's Circle Network, and live at events large and small across the US.

Assistant Pastor Jarrod Bevan preaches on the subject of Bitterness from Hebrews 12:14-15.

Walk As He Walked (audio) David Eells – 7/30/25 Use It or Lose It Saints, don't miss any opportunity to eat your Bread of Life from heaven every day. Partaking of the Word of God and fellowship with those who share it is of utmost importance. We're told in Exo.16:4 Then said Jehovah unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a day's portion every day, that I may prove them, whether they will walk in my law, or not. The Israelites didn't obey God in this, and they murmured and fell in the wilderness. When, because of worldly pursuits we pass up the chance to eat our manna today with the excuse that we will do it tomorrow, we miss the only chance we had that day to eat that manna and prepare our soul for the wilderness. 19 And Moses said unto them, Let no man leave of it till the morning. 20 Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and became foul: and Moses was wroth with them. All excuses aside, people do what is important to them. Our spiritual man must be fed or he dies. If the kingdom is not first in a person's life, God will find someone else who values what He has to offer. Let's read Mat.22:4 Again he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them that are bidden, Behold, I have made ready my dinner; my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come to the marriage feast. 5 But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his merchandise. 8 Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they that were bidden were not worthy. 9 Go ye therefore unto the partings of the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage feast. And it will happen just like this. And in Luk.14:15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God. 16 But he said unto him, A certain man made a great supper; and he bade many: 17 and he sent forth his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for [all] things are now ready. 18 And they all with one [consent] began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a field, and I must needs go out and see it; I pray thee have me excused. 19 And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them; I pray thee have me excused. 20 And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come. 21 And the servant came, and told his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor and maimed and blind and lame. 22 And the servant said, Lord, what thou didst command is done, and yet there is room. 23 And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and constrain [them] to come in, that my house may be filled. 24 For I say unto you, that none of those men that were bidden shall taste of my supper. 25 Now there went with him great multitudes: and he turned, and said unto them, 26 If any man cometh unto me, and hateth not his own father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, (We are to hate the Psuche or soulish life that separates us from the God life of Zoe, which is provided in the manna.) he cannot be my disciple. 27 Whosoever doth not bear his own cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. I pray for you that God will be first in your life. You have the opportunity now to prepare for the wilderness. Without taking advantage of this, you will fall away and someone will take your place. Hence the warning: “Let no man take thy crown”.   Time in the Word Sanctifies https://youtu.be/wNWvxexMri0?si=WclLLtgQFUfXLynY December 27, 2019 (Davids notes in red) The following is a transcript of this short video: There was a recent study by the Center for Bible Engagement where they pulled 40,000 of the general population in the U.S. from [ages] 8- 80, and they just wanted to see how we are engaging with Scripture. They discovered something that actually became the profound discovery of the entire study. They were not even looking for this, but it became the highlight of the study. They found that when we are in the Scriptures one time a week, and that could be in church on a Sunday, where the pastor says to open your Bible, and we hear the message. One time a week had a negligible effect on some key areas of the peoples lives, which I'm going to spell out more here in a moment. Two times a week also had a negligible effect. At three times a week, there was a “blip” on the map, like there was a heartbeat; something happened. Then there was a profound discovery. When we're in the Scriptures four times a week, it literally spikes off the chart. You would expect that it would be like 1, 2, 3…. I mean that there would be a gradual incline on the effect and impact that would have in your life, but it was literally, 1, 2, 3, 4 – then something radical happens. (How much more powerful it is to obey the Word and get your portion of the Manna every day like the bride.) What kind of behavior is being affected to this extent? At four times a week in the Scriptures, feeling lonely dropped 30%. Anger issues dropped 32%. Bitterness in relationships, such as the marriage relationship, and that with your kids, and so on, drops 40%. Alcoholism drops 57%. Feeling spiritually stagnant—you know, if there was one area when I'm talking with people, that they'll be honest about, is they just feel spiritually stagnant when I ask them the question: “How much time do you spend in the Scriptures?” If they're in the Scriptures four times a week or more, that dropped 60%. Viewing pornography drops 61%. Now, look at this: sharing your faith jumps 200% because you have confidence in God's Word. And discipling others jumps 230%. Wow! That's Amazing! (So, what happens when you get your manna every day since the Word is our manna? Christ in you! And if we seek first the Kingdom everything else will be taken care of.)   Let No One Take Thy Crown David Eells Rev.3:10 Because thou didst keep the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of trial, that [hour] which is to come upon the whole world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 I come quickly: hold fast that which thou hast, that no one take thy crown. Once, for the purpose of crucifixion, I was being judged by some people who had not gone through the suffering, nor had they made the sacrifices that I had made to serve the Lord. I asked the Lord why He was not chastening these people as He had clearly done in the past with others who had done the same thing. He told me that He had chastened them. Then He showed me several ways He had done this. Not wanting to think or say something that was also false judgment, I asked the Lord to give me a sign that what I heard was truly from Him. He gave me the sign as confirmation. One thing that He showed me was that He gives the opportunity for many to walk in the light that they are given. Then, after a trial period, if they refuse to walk in this light, God takes it away, and they walk in a lesser glory, a lower position in the Kingdom. The deeper discernment they once had is taken from them, and they go back, deeper into Babylon and walk less in His temple and more in the world. Verse 12 He that overcometh, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go out thence no more: and I will write upon him the name (Greek word meaning nature, character and authority) of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem (the Bride), which cometh down out of heaven from my God, and mine own new name. God pointed out to me several people whom I had taught deeper things. They rejoiced to see these things. Yet, after continuing to walk in willful disobedience in areas that were shown to them, the deeper understanding was taken out of their minds. They fell back into foolish Babylonish churches and doctrines that they would not have considered before. The same happened to Jesus' disciples in John 6:66, although the 12 stayed saying “thou hast the Words of life”. Over the years, I have watched as some people in this situation have left my care, and others have come to take their place in order to be tried by the Word in the same way. Again, verse 11 I come quickly: hold fast that which thou hast, that no one take thy crown. We are always being tried to prove whether we are worthy to walk in greater glory, which of course, is walking in more light and purity. Those who walk by faith will find power to obey and will grow from glory to glory. We have this by faith in 2Co.3:18 But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. All of the people of God are at this time manifesting one of these glories. Joseph shared a dream that clearly showed this. Starting as a star glory, he went to his cross in Egypt and was promoted in glory above his brethren, the children of Israel. We grow from star glory to moon glory and then to sun glory as we continue to walk in the light that God continues to give us. Joseph shared a dream in Gen.37:9 ... behold, the sun and the moon and eleven stars made obeisance to me. 10 And he told it to his father, and to his brethren; and his father rebuked him, and said unto him, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth? The answer was, Yes. As we walk in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, we manifest more and more glory. This is true of physical death, burial, and resurrection. It is also true of spiritual death, burial, and resurrection as we walk in this world and come into the Zoe life of Christ. Paul gives this revelation in 1Co.15:41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43 it is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: (And so it was with Jesus and the saints raised at the out resurrection.) 44 it is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual [body]. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall (Greek; “Let us”) also bear the image of the heavenly. So by faith we reckon ourselves to be dead unto sin and alive unto God. But the glory of our resurrection bodies will be different as he says. Friends, to whom much is given much is expected, as Jesus said in Luk.12:48 ... And to whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required: and to whom they commit much, of him will they ask the more. The moral of this story is that if you want to keep the light you have, or if you want to receive more light, you must walk in the light you have. The time always comes when those who have eyes to perceive and ears to understand have abundance and restoration. Those who do not value this perception and understanding enough to walk in it will lose even what they have. Jesus teaches this in Mat.13:10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? 11 And he answered and said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. 12 For whosoever hath (understanding), to him shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that which he hath. 13 Therefore speak I to them in parables; because seeing they see not, and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. 14 And unto them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall in no wise understand; And seeing ye shall see, and shall in no wise perceive. Because Israel did not walk in the light given to them, God took it away and gave it to the Gentiles. In the coming days, the reverse of this will happen. We read this in Rom.11:15 For if the casting away of them [is] the reconciling of the world, what [shall] the receiving [of them be], but life from the dead? 16 And if the firstfruit is holy, so is the lump: and if the root is holy, so are the branches. 17 But if some of the branches were broken off, and thou, being a wild olive, wast grafted in among them, and didst become partaker with them of the root of the fatness of the olive tree; 18 glory not over the branches: but if thou gloriest, it is not thou that bearest the root, but the root thee. 19 Thou wilt say then, Branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. 20 Well; by their unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by thy faith. Be not highminded, but fear: 21 for if God spared not the natural branches, neither will he spare thee. Uh, oh! No unconditional security. 22 Behold then the goodness and severity of God: toward them that fell, severity; but toward thee, God's goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. 23 And they also, if they continue not in their unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. 24 For if thou wast cut out of that which is by nature a wild olive tree, and wast grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree; how much more shall these, which are the natural [branches], be grafted into their own olive tree? 25 For I would not, brethren, have you ignorant of this mystery, lest ye be wise in your own conceits, that a hardening in part hath befallen Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in; 26 and so all Israel shall be saved (Meaning the physical Jews and the spiritual Jews who are circumcised in heart.): even as it is written, There shall come out of Zion the Deliverer (Jesus in the Man-child Reformers); He shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob. On an individual basis this happens too. So, as we have seen, let “no one take thy crown.”   Overcome Evil with Good “Warriors of Truth” Victoria Boyson - 10/26/2008 (David's notes in red) (Keep in mind that Victoria's revelation is true of the elect only.) While in prayer, I was shown a vision. I saw misguided people who were the enemies of Truth, rallying together to deceive the saints; they were being guided by demonic forces that used them like toys. Great effort was being made by the realms of darkness to bring confusion and to stir up strife among the brethren to break up friendships that gave strength and encouragement to the saints. (From God's perspective, this is to test the strength of the body and remove the spots and blemishes.) I saw the enemies of Truth entering the lives of those who have been wounded by rejection and held in bondage by fear. (These spirits must be removed, many times through faction, for this makes one unstable and a danger to the body.) They spoke demonically induced lies with great power to deceive them in their weakened condition. (slander) Ironically, the lies of darkness actually seemed like “real truth” to them, and the enemies of Truth seemed like great saints. They appeared as though they were God's answer for the loneliness and pain they were feeling, so they opened their hearts to them. Because they came into agreement with their lies and their love grew painfully cold, they began to attack their brothers and sisters in Christ with accusation and judgment. (The spirit of faction moves in them.) Consequently, their attacks against them unleashed powers of destruction on the Church. Just when it seemed that the saints would falter under the heavy assault, I saw the great warriors of heaven rally their armies in preparation to invade Earth and dispel the enemies of Truth. (Including the wicked among men) They only awaited the command to do so by the saints -- for their cry for help. Under the weight of accusation, the saints began to weep. Their tears unleashed the army of heaven to attack the realms of darkness. (The warriors born of heaven are the Man-child reformers who bring both judgment and grace. And also the mighty angels.) It was then that I saw a heavenly warrior filled with great power, radiating a glorious light, entering the home of my enemy. This man had been used by the realms of darkness to rain down curses on my head; he was very jealous and filled with hatred toward me. However, even though I knew his dislike for me was great, I feared for him because the power of the heavenly warrior was great. I saw the warrior standing before him and drawing his sword, which was enormous and gave off a great light. I wondered at the sight of what was about to occur and thought, “Can it be God's will to destroy my enemy?” I heard the warrior speak in answer to the question of my heart and say, “I have been given authority to execute the judgments of the Lord”. Then the warrior, standing over my enemy, raised the sword and thrust it into his heart. It was difficult for me to watch because I truly loved my enemy and had prayed for him for a long time. I did not want to see him destroyed. Indeed, I had wept and prayed that he would completely surrender his life to the Lord and not allow the enemy to use him any longer. The warrior knew the thoughts of my heart and spoke again to me saying, “This sword is the Sword of Truth, and will dispel the lies of darkness that have taken over his heart”. (Ultimately, this will only work for the elect as we have seen for God himself sends delusion to some. 2Th 2:10-12 and with all deceit of unrighteousness for them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this cause God sendeth them a working of error, that they should believe a lie: 12 that they all might be judged who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.) Then I looked at the sword and saw that, in its radiance, it seemed to be alive and pulsating. As its large blade rested in my enemy's heart, the Light it held began to fill his body; like melting gold, the Light seeped into his chest. At first, he lay motionless as if the sword had no effect on him, but then I saw his face cringe as if in pain, and I sensed brokenness enter his heart. Sorrow was invading his soul as the truth of his actions was shown to him. The spirit of repentance was dispelling the demonic lies, and darkness was fleeing from him as tears ran down his face. I looked again to watch the heavenly warrior who had come to execute the judgments of the Lord on my enemy. He watched with determined anticipation as the sword did its work on the man. (This will work for the elect, but no one had this sword more than Jesus and Judas had rejection, yet Jesus said, “One of you is a devil.” I have heard the Lord say to me that certain persons were not elect also. In this case the body was cleansed of Judas' who was not saved.) Turning to me, the warrior told me, “Your love for this man made this possible for him. I came to him only because you chose to love him despite his attacks against you and your family. You chose to love him, and because your Father loves you, He was compelled to touch the man for your sake”. (If a person has faction and witchcraft, which always comes with slander that is supernatural to deceive, you must obey scripture or you will be taken out. Tit 3:10-11 A factious man after a first and second admonition refuse; 11 knowing that such a one is perverted, and sinneth, being self-condemned. Rom 16:17-18 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them that are causing the divisions and occasions of stumbling, contrary to the doctrine which ye learned: and turn away from them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent.) I was shocked! I wept at the words the warrior spoke because I knew that it was only because of my love for Christ that I loved my enemy. In myself, I wanted to hate him. Indeed, I wanted him to suffer as he had made me suffer. My first thoughts at the onslaught of his attacks against me were to call upon God to execute vengeance against the man. But I saw that the longer I clung to thoughts of judgment toward him, the more distant Christ became to me. It was only because of my desperate need and love for Christ that I forced myself to pray for him. I asked God to give me love for him because I simply had none of my own. I had no desire to forgive, but I asked God to give me that as well. And when He had changed my heart, I could honestly say, “I love him” and mean it. (Jesus said that We must forgive from the heart or be tormented.) It scared me to remember how easy it would have been for me to condemn the man and how close I came to doing it. It was truly only because Christ loved me that I felt the need to love this man. Could that one small decision to love and forgive him have brought about his redemption and activated the armies of heaven to fight for him? (Yes!) I was astonished to think that his deliverance at this moment came only because of that one small choice I made to stand with Christ. Now, I stand in awe as I see the transformation of someone I thought was unredeemable. (Even though Judas was not elect he was treated with Love by Jesus who was innocent. We are commanded to love our enemies whether they become friends or not. Psa 109:3-5 They have compassed me about also with words of hatred, and fought against me without a cause. 4 For my love they are my adversaries: But I give myself unto prayer. 5 And they have rewarded me evil for good, And hatred for my love. As Jesus said, “Many are called but few are chosen” [Greek - elect]. Pro 29:1 He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck Shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.) I had, in the past, desperately pleaded with God to remove him from my life, so he would no longer have the power to hurt me. I couldn't understand why He wouldn't do it. It was, however, because He wanted to use me to change this man's life, and in the process of helping him, my own heart was transformed as well. (Yes, true) Yes, his redemption has truly changed us both. My earthly enemy was not my enemy after all; he was the treasure that the Lord had longed to uncover, if only I were willing to help Him. Now I see the warriors of Truth have invaded other lives across the earth as the hearts of the saints have cried out for the souls of men. They are liberating the lost from the darkness that bound them as these saints of Christ cling to the cross of love and hold it high above them in a defiant reply to the attacks of the accuser of the brethren. The treasured friendships among the saints that seemed hopelessly broken are being miraculously restored, and they have received a greater level of appreciation for one another. The cold love that had tried to force them to fear one another has been flung aside and radical, selfless love has become their war cry! Darkness had them bound, but THE TRUTH Himself has set them free, and whom the SON sets free is free indeed! (When a person has rejection and fear of rejection, they can be saved by love, but when faction grows to a level that they cannot resist it even deliverance usually does not last as it was with Jesus dealing with Judas and the Pharisees.)   Spiritual Warfare for Souls David Eells - 08/21/2016 Salt is known as a preservative, which we should be to mankind. What Jesus is to us, we should be to others, but He said, Mat.5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men. (Because Christians have not been salt, they are now being trampled under the feet of the Beast army. This is what happens to those who don't seek to bring salvation in all its forms to mankind. For such a time as this have we come to the Kingdom. Let us intercede to the King and do His warfare against His enemies.) We can see a time of war in these verses, which represents the David ministry. Then we see a time of peace under the Soloman ministry. Jer.48:10 Cursed be he that doeth the work of Jehovah negligently; and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood. Heb.4:12 For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and quick to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Unless we swing the sword of the Word, our enemy will win against us. We must do this on the personal front against the enemies of our souls and the souls of others. We must do this on the political front against the DS satanists who would take us and the nation we live in into captivity physically. We must do this on a personal front against those principalities who would poison our bodies with their chemtrails, plagues, or diseases, or send other curses upon us.) Here is a Sword. Isa.54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of Jehovah, and their righteousness which is of me, saith Jehovah. Luk.9:1 And he called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. And 10:19 Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall in any wise hurt you. 2Co.2:14 But thanks be unto God, who always leadeth us in triumph (meaning celebration of the victory) in Christ, and maketh manifest through us the savor of his knowledge in every place. Mar.11:22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. (Greek: Have the faith of God.) 23 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou taken up and cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he saith cometh to pass; he shall have it. 24 Therefore I say unto you, All things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received them, and ye shall have them. 25 And whensoever ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any one; that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. Psa.103:20 Bless Jehovah, ye his angels, That are mighty in strength, that fulfil his word, Hearkening unto the voice of his word. 21 Bless Jehovah, all ye his hosts, Ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure. Psa 2:1 Why do the nations rage, And the peoples meditate a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, And the rulers take counsel together, Against the Lord, and against his anointed, … (Who is the Lord's anointed? 2Co.1:21 Now he that establisheth us with you in Christ, and anointed us, is God; 22 who also sealed us, and gave us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.) Back to our text: saying Psa.2:3 Let us break their bonds asunder, And cast away their cords from us. 4 He that sitteth in the heavens will laugh: The Lord will have them in derision. 5 Then will he speak unto them in his wrath, And vex them in his sore displeasure: 6 Yet I have set my king Upon my holy hill of Zion. 7 I will tell of the decree: the Lord said unto me, Thou art my son; This day have I begotten thee. 8 Ask of me, and I will give thee the nations for thine inheritance, And the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. 9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; Thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. 10 Now therefore be wise, O ye kings: Be instructed, ye judges of the earth. 11 Serve the Lord with fear, And rejoice with trembling. 12 Kiss the son, lest he be angry, and ye perish in the way, For his wrath will soon be kindled. Blessed are all they that take refuge in him. Eph.6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Wherefore take up the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. Psa.144:1 A Psalm of David. Blessed be Jehovah my rock, Who teacheth my hands to war, And my fingers to fight: 2 My lovingkindness, and my fortress, My high tower, and my deliverer; My shield, and he in whom I take refuge; Who subdueth my people under me.  

I. THE GRATITUDE OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE (vv. 3-8)     1) Paul thanks God and prays ... for a church, most of whose members he has never met Colossians 1:3, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you," Colossians 2:1-2, "For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face..." Carson, "We must ask ourselves how extensive our own praying is. Do all our petitions revolve around our own families and churches, our own cherished but rather small circle of friends? Of course, we are primarily responsible for praying for our own circle... But if that is the furthest reach of our prayers, we become parochial [narrow in outlook or scope]... Our prayers may be an index of how small and self-centered our world is."     2) Paul's gratitude results from paying attention. Paul says to Philemon: "[4] I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, [5] because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus" (Philemon 4-5) Paul says to the Colossian church (that Philemon hosted in his house): "[3] We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, [4] since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints," (Colossians 1:3-4) Paul is listening! He is paying attention to others. Acts 15:36, "Paul said to Barnabas, 'Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.'" Paul cares greatly about their spiritual state! Carson, "[I]t will do us good to fasten on reports of Christians in several parts of the world we have never visited, find out what we can about them, and learn to intercede with God on their behalf. Not only is this an important expression of the fellowship of the church, but it is also a critical discipline that will enlarge our horizons, increase our ministry, and help us to become world Christians." When a fellow believer comes to your mind, what is your first thought? Irritation? Annoyance? Jealousy? Bitterness? What is Paul's first thought? Gratitude! Philemon 4 "I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers," Colossians 1:3-4, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, [4] since we heard of your faith..." Gratitude for what? Their faith, love, and heavenly hope. Paul credits God with their own faith and love. Philippians 1:29, "For it has been granted [Dictionary: to give graciously] to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake…” Colossians 3:12, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,"     3) Paul thanks God for the gospel's fruit as it comes through human means (vv. 5b-8) Epaphras, after being converted under Paul, brings the good news to Colossea! (Last week's sermon)   II. THE FOCUS OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE (vv. 9-12) Spiritual growth is always the dominant concern, over the physical! Carson, "Suppose, for example, that 80 or 90 percent of our petitions ask God for good health, recovery from illness, safety on the road, a good job, success in exams, the emotional needs of our children, success in our mortgage application, and much more of the same. How much of Paul's praying revolves around equivalent items? If the center of our praying is far removed from the center of Paul's praying, then even our very praying may serve as a wretched testimony to the remarkable success of the processes of paganization in our life and thought. That is why we need to study the prayers of Paul." See Matthew 6:31-33, "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' [32] For the Gentiles [the pagans] seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. [33] But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." So what does Paul focus on in his prayer?     1) Paul asks God to fill believers with the knowledge of his will (v. 9) "[9] And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding," This may seem simple, yet it takes "all spiritual wisdom and understanding" in the complicated nature of life to know what is best. Doug Moo, "[This] suggests the ability to discern the truth and to make good decisions based on that truth." "spiritual wisdom" means wisdom from the Holy Spirit. (Not how many use the word "spiritual" today) EXAMPLE: Colossians 4:5-6, "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of [= redeeming] the time. [6] Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." How do I best love a fellow Christian who is in sin? How do I best evangelize a co-worker or family member? I only have limited money, how much do I spend, save, and give away? to whom? how often? How do I honor my parents if they are unbelievers and disagree with my faith? What does it look like to "speak the truth in love" when dealing with a rebellious student? or hostile unebeliver? or a timid Christian friend? When does hard work become sinful preoccupation with your career? When does rest become laziness?  You are posting something *true* on social media, but unsure if it will be edifying or needlessly distracting or contentious     2) Paul's purpose in prayer is that believers might be truly pleasing to the Lord (v. 10a)   v. 10 "so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him:" Knowledge must lead to action! "Knowing" God's will (with all spiritual wisdom and understanding) must lead to "walking/living out" God's will. We must walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. (Not earning, not perfection; but rather living "in accord with" the Lord, fully pleasing to Him)     3) Paul prays for four characteristics of a life that is pleasing to the Lord (v. 10b-12)   This will produce, among others, these four characteristics... "BEARING FRUIT in every good work" (v. 10b): Fruit is about character transformation and faithfulness, not mere "results." "INCREASING in the knowledge of God;" (v. 10c): it will lead to a fully experiential knowledge of God, as we walk with Him "BEING STRENGTHENED with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;" (v. 11) "[Endurance] is what faith, hope, and love bring to an apparently impossible situation, [patience] what they show to an apparently impossible person." To endure ... takes power; to endure patiently with joy takes tremendous power "according to his glorious might." "GIVING THANKS to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light." (v. 12) Paul further reminds them why they should be thankful: (vv. 13-14) vv. 13-14 "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, [14] in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." All of this should be seasoned by thankfulness to the Father for our share in the "inheritance of the saints of light."   III. THE DEVOTION OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE     1) WHY does Paul pray so often for so many? Colossians 1:3, 9, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, .... [9] And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you," Carson, "In short, Paul is telling the Colossians that since hearing about them he has made it a point to intercede with God on their behalf in his disciplined, regular prayer times; he has 'not stopped praying' for them."  Carson, "Paul again and again prays for ... the Colossian believers, as if the supply must be constantly renewed." Think of it like watering the grass or flowers. It must be done continually! Colossians 4:12-13, "Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God."     2) HOW does Paul pray so often for so many? Philemon 4-5, "I thank my God always when I remember you [singular] in my prayers," G.K. Beale, "Paul is praying specifically for Philemon [the 'you' is singular], which implies that his daily prayer list must have been extensive." Richard Phillips, "When we consider the large number of people for whom Paul says that he is praying, he must have had not only a devoted prayer life, but also a highly organized one." APPLICATION: Don't turn these points from Carson into legalisms, but take them as practical suggestions to help you pray in a more regular, organized, and focused way. I. PLAN TO PRAY Don Carson, "Much praying is not done because we do not plan to pray. We do not drift into spiritual life; we do not drift into disciplined prayer. We will not grow in prayer unless we plan to pray. That means we must self-consciously set aside time to do nothing but pray. What we actually do reflects out highest priorities. That means we can proclaim our commitment to prayer until the cows come home, but unless we actually pray, our actions disown our words. This is the fundamental reason why set times for prayer are important: they ensure that vague desires for prayer are concretized in regular practice. Paul's many references to his 'prayers' suggest that he set aside specific times for prayer -- as apparently Jesus himself did (Luke 5:16)... Unless we plan to pray we will not pray." ('Praying with Paul,' p. 1-2). II. ADOPT PRACTICAL WAYS TO FIGHT MENTAL DRIFT Don Carson, "Adopt practical ways to impede mental drift.... [Perhaps] articulate your prayers, moving your lips...to...help deter meandering.... A great way to begin to overcome this problem is to pray through various biblical passages. In other words, it is entirely appropriate to tie your praying to your Bible reading... [The] truths and entailments [in your daily Scripture reading] can be the basis of a great deal of reflective praying. [Another option is] journaling [your prayers.] III. DEVELOP A SYSTEM FOR YOUR PRAYER LISTS Carson, "Develop a system for your prayer lists. It is difficult to pray faithfully for a large spread of people and concerns without developing prayer lists that help you remember them." Carson's personal "system": "I kept a manila folder in my study, where I pray... The first sheet ... was a list of people for whom I ought to pray regularly: ... My wife..., my children and a number of relatives, followed by a number of close friends... [Then] institutional names on that sheed [which] included [my] local church ... and the seminary where I now teach. The second sheet ... listed short-range ... concerns that would not remain indefinitely... In other words, the first sheet focused on people for whom I prayed constantly; the second included people and situations for whom I might pray for a short[er] ... time, but probably not indefinitely. The next item ... was the list of the students ... for whom I was particularly responsible....and of course this list changed from year to year." IV. KEEP YOUR PRAYERS TIED TO SCRIPTURE V. PRAY UNTIL YOU PRAY VI. FIND MODELS WORTHY OF IMITATION Don Casron's book, which Mark used to help with the message and numerous subpoints, can be purchased here. You can watch this message here.

For today's essential Heretics 101 feature, Kelli and Nolan talk to Ethena CPO Melanie Naranjo, challenging empathy-driven management, exposes toxic executive dynamics, and advocates for logic over emotion in workplace leadership.*Email us your questions or topics for Kelli & Nolan: hrheretics@turpentine.coFor coaching and advising inquire at https://kellidragovich.com/HR Heretics is a podcast from Turpentine.Support HR Heretics Sponsors:Planful empowers teams just like yours to unlock the secrets of successful workforce planning. Use data-driven insights to develop accurate forecasts, close hiring gaps, and adjust talent acquisition plans collaboratively based on costs today and into the future. ✍️ Go to https://planful.com/heretics to see how you can transform your HR strategy.Metaview is the AI platform built for recruiting. Our suite of AI agents work across your hiring process to save time, boost decision quality, and elevate the candidate experience.Learn why team builders at 3,000+ cutting-edge companies like Brex, Deel, and Quora can't live without Metaview.It only takes minutes to get up and running. Check it out!KEEP UP WITH MELANIE, NOLAN + KELLI ON LINKEDINMelanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-naranjoNolan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nolan-church/Kelli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellidragovich/—Ethena: https://www.goethena.com/—TIMESTAMPS:(00:00) Intro(00:44) CEO-CHRO Partnership Transformation(02:23) The State of HR Leadership(04:08) The HR Crisis Revealed(05:20) The Root Cause Analysis(06:58) Sponsors: Planful | Metaview(10:00) The Anti-Empathy Argument(12:45) HR Community Dysfunction(14:21) The Gender Dynamics Truth(15:28) Executive Team Toxicity Exposed(17:13) The Politics Behind Dysfunction(19:39) Beyond Meritocracy(21:00) The Three Questions Framework(21:54) The Anti-PIP Philosophy(24:00) Direct Feedback That Works(24:42) Wrap This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hrheretics.substack.com

Acts 8:20-24

Acts 8:20-24

In this sermon on Ephesians 4:25-32, we explored what it means to live out the radical transformation that comes from following Jesus. Using the metaphor of changing our wardrobe, we considered how putting off the "old self" and putting on the "new self" is not just about stopping bad behaviors, but about becoming something new—people who reflect the character of God. Paul's instructions are practical: don't lie, don't steal, don't gossip, don't let anger fester. But the heart of the message is that the gospel is not about mere behavior modification; it's about a deep, inner change that leads us to truthfulness, generosity, grace-filled speech, and forgiveness. We also looked at the danger of unresolved anger and how it can open the door to spiritual harm, and we ended with an invitation to seek freedom and healing in community.

Bitterness doesn't show up overnight — it brews slowly in the wounded places of our soul.In this episode, we explore how bitterness forms, how it disguises itself, and why it poisons everything it touches.Whether it's past church hurt, personal betrayal, or unhealed disappointment, we'll walk through how to identify bitterness, bring it into the light, and let Jesus heal the wounded spirit underneath.This is an episode for anyone who's tired of feeling stuck and ready to live free.

We recommend listening to the teaching, Repentance (It's more than just saying sorry) | Part 8, before listening to this episode.Afterburn: also known in the fitness world as the “afterburn effect.” Simply put, the more intense the exercise, the more oxygen your body consumes afterward. This effect could occur spiritually after Rabbi Berkson's intense teachings each week. This Afterburn Q&A session allows your mind and soul to consume more understanding (oxygen).Some of the topics covered are:• Intro• What did the magician see that made him want to buy in?• I popped my cork! • My wife and I have never been closer• My parents never apologized for anything!• Unchecked bitterness will expand• Possessed by an emotion?• Looking for clarity? • Addressing my struggles to connect with the community • They laid hands on them…? • Bitterness connection to idolatry? (Deut 29:16-20)• I made it about me • Am I not surrendering everything?• Is being filled with the Holy Spirit practicing Torah observance?• What's your motive? • I told you so - not a good reaction?• Receiving the Holy SpiritSubscribe to take advantage of new content every week.To learn more about MTOI, visit our website, https://mtoi.org.https://www.facebook.com/mtoiworldwide https://www.instagram.com/mtoi_worldwidehttps://www.tiktok.com/@mtoi_worldwide You can contact MTOI by emailing us at admin@mtoi.org or calling 423-250-3020. Join us for Shabbat Services and Torah Study LIVE, streamed on our website, mtoi.org, YouTube, and Rumble every Saturday at 1:15 p.m. and every Friday for Torah Study Live Stream at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time.

Episode 284 - Bitterness and Family Brokenness, hosted by Mark Vance.How can a necessary reflection on generational sins of our family avoid the trap of getting stuck in bitterness?This podcast is designed to help you live a faithful and fruitful life where Jesus has called you. Connect with Cornerstone Church Online at cornerstonelife.com. Subscribe to our "Sermon" and "Equip" podcasts on iTunes and Spotify and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Topics:  Colossians 3, Bitterness, Vera C. Rubin, Christmas, Song Lyrics, Lie To Ourselves, Shock Jock, Wisdom BONUS CONTENT: Excellence & The Fruit Of The Spirit     Quotes: “It's closer to this Christmas than last Christmas.” “God's goodness is pursuing you.” “Only the sick are going to seek Jesus' help.” “Wisdom is knowing the relative value of things. Why not ask for it?” . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook! For Christian banking you can trust, click here!

Topics:  Question In The Book Of Job, Mission Impossible, Bitterness, Desires, Breaking Animal News BONUS CONTENT: Breaking Animal News Follow-up, Helen Mirren Follow-up, Mission Impossible Follow-up   Quotes: “We praise freely because of who He is.” “You can find justification for yourself pretty much anywhere on the internet.” “Will power is overrated.” “Red pandas are just foxes.” . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook! For Christian banking you can trust, click here!

No one has ever lived who was more worthy of honor than Jesus; and no one has been dishonored more. But he triumphed by entrusting himself to God.