Podcasts about Blessing

Today's Bible Verse: Numbers 6:24-26 –“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” ✨ Daily Meditation: This moving prayer by Amanda Idleman is a sacred reminder that every child is a gift from God, no matter the circumstances of their arrival. When Amanda and her family were called to foster a fragile newborn in the NICU, the decision was steeped in uncertainty, yet grounded in fierce faith. God answered their prayers for life and protection, showing that parenting is a holy calling and children are never a burden—they are a blessing of eternal value. Whether you're welcoming your first child, navigating the complexities of fostering or adoption, or simply praying over the next generation, this episode reminds us that God hears, responds, and walks with us in the journey of parenting.

What does it mean to be blessed by God? What's the difference between the way he blesses us, and the way he blesses the things we do? This week on The Bible Study Hour, Dr. James Boice continues his studies in Romans to find out what Paul means by the full measure of the blessing of Christ. Join us this week for The Bible Study Hour. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/81/29

Silver Quintette - "Sinner's Crossroads" [0:00:00] The Magnificent Clara Ward - "Tired" - Just Over The Hill: Rare Recordings 1949-1972 [0:03:32] Emma Tucker - "Something to Tell Jesus" [Thank you Brother HeyJoe.] [0:08:10] The Magnificent Clara Ward - "Just Over The Hill" - Just Over The Hill: Rare Recordings 1949-1972 [0:13:31] The Keynoters - "Satisfied" [0:16:23] Southern Wonders - "Come Over Here" [0:18:16] Friendly Brothers Quartet - "The Woman at the Well" [0:21:26] Royal Harmonaires - "Buckle My Shoe" [0:24:44] Brotherhood Singers of Columbia, S.C. - "There's Been a Change in Me" [Kitchen recording.] [0:27:21] St. Louis All-Stars - "This Old World" [0:33:23] Faithful Gospel Singers - "Won't Have to Cross Joran" [0:37:20] Edgar Williams and the Four Stars - "All Rise Together" - In Times Like These [0:40:08] Expressions of Faith - "There's a Blessing" [0:43:35] Deacon James Smith and the Sons of Grace - "Jesus is Alright" - Nothing Will Separate Me (From The Son of God) [1:07:14] Dynamic Ernest Franklin - "Kickin' Life" - Dynamic Ernest Franklin [0:53:44] Curtis Sider and the Gospel Travel-aires - "I've Got Jesus....And That's Enough" - Wait Until Jesus Comes [0:53:46] https://www.wfmu.org/playlists/shows/153529

We are called to love others as Jesus loves us—even when they are unkind.

Preached at the Healing Jesus Campaign, Muanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Day 1, 19th June 2025.

Preached at the Healing Jesus Campaign, Muanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Day 1, 19th June 2025.

Bombing Iran: the firestorm at home! Blessing the Zionist State of Israel? Syllabus of Errors: why? Humility vs self-pity? Growing love for God? Using mental reservation? Best penance for laity? Essential reading? Battling selfishness? Why consecrate at every Mass? Lay theologians? June draws us to the Sacred Heart! This episode was recorded on 6/24/2025 Our Links: http://linkwcb.com/ Please consider making a monetary donation to What Catholics Believe. Father Jenkins remembers all of our benefactors in general during his daily Mass, and he also offers one Mass on the first Sunday of every month specially for all supporters of What Catholics Believe. May God bless you for your generosity! https://www.wcbohio.com/donate Subscribe to our other YouTube channels: ‪@WCBHighlights‬ ‪@WCBHolyMassLivestream‬ May God bless you all!

In this episode, Haley and Dustin are joined by Kari Trent Stageberg, CEO of Strong Families and co-author of The Blessing, alongside her father, Dr. John Trent. Kari shares her powerful hope story of finding healing and restoration after leaving an abusive relationship – and how the love of God and His Word brought her through a journey of renewal and recovery. Together, they explore the importance of healthy attachment, especially our attachment to Christ, and why it's foundational for emotional and spiritual healing. Kari offers practical steps for overcoming lies, reclaiming your God-given value, and replacing negative thoughts with truth. They also discuss key principles from The Blessing and provide practical ways to bless and encourage others each day. This is an encouraging and insightful conversation for anyone looking to heal from past pain. Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.   So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.   Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.   Listen in to learn more : (00:00) - Finding Hope in Challenging Times (04:04) - Building Attachment (08:07) - Healing and Rebuilding Healthy Attachments (15:20) - Finding Closure and Healing Relationships (21:00) - Shifting the Narrative of Self-Worth (26:05) - Finding Value and Healing Past Mistakes (35:22) - Embracing God's Delight and Attachment (44:27) - Practicing Blessing in Daily Life -------------- Resources from Kari Trent Stageberg   Learn more about Kari Trent Stageberg: https://www.karitrentstageberg.com/ Get a copy of the book, The Blessing: https://tinyurl.com/58v5ukac Get a copy of Kari's book, The Merge for Marriage: https://tinyurl.com/2x4bvjtx Learn more about Kari's life coaching: https://camelbacklifecoaching.com/ See Kari's Christian Life Coaching courses with ICCI: https://iccicoaching.com/mentoring/kari-trent/ -------------- Hope for the Heart resources.   Learn about our summer event on Mental Health and the Church: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/mental-health-and-the-church   Connect with Hope for the Heart on social!    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart    Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/    Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/    Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night   God's plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/   Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON    Sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/  ---------------------------- Bible verses mentioned in this episode   Psalm 103:12 – “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Isaiah 43:1 – “But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”   Luke 15:10 – “Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” John 18:18 & 21:9 -- Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter was also with them, standing and warming himself. …. When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. Hebrews 13:5 – “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” ----------------------------

With what are you struggling today?...

Self-made righteousness is… 1. Logically foolish 2. Historically incoherent 3. Theologically a curse 4. So that we would receive the promise

Welcome to Day 2660 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2660 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 72:15-20 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2660 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2660 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today's Wisdom Nugget is titled: An Eternal Legacy of Blessing and Glory - Concluding Our Trek Through Psalm 72:15-20 Guthrie Chamberlain: Welcome to Wisdom-Trek, your compass for navigating the profound landscapes of faith and life. I'm your guide, Guthrie Chamberlain, and today, we reach the glorious, overflowing conclusion of our trek through Psalm 72 in the New Living Translation, encompassing verses 15 through 20. This royal psalm has painted an extraordinary portrait of an ideal king – one whose reign is characterized by divine justice, righteousness, and profound compassion for the poor and oppressed. We've envisioned a rule as refreshing as rain, extending to the ends of the earth, where enemies submit, and distant nations bring tribute. Now, in these final verses, the psalmist adds to this grand vision, depicting the king's enduring life, the boundless prosperity of his realm, the lasting renown of his name, and culminates in a magnificent doxology of praise to the God who makes all these wonders possible. This conclusion reinforces the prophetic nature of the psalm, pointing far beyond any earthly monarch to the eternal reign of the Messiah. It would have filled the ancient Israelites with an even deeper longing for that perfect kingdom, where God's glory truly fills the whole earth. So, let's allow our hearts to swell with hope as we immerse ourselves in these final words of aspiration and praise. (Reads Psalm 72:15-17 NLT) Long live the king! May he be given gold from Sheba. May prayers be offered for him continually, and may he be blessed all day long. May there be abundant grain throughout the land, even on the tops of the mountains. May the crops flourish like cedars of Lebanon and fill the cities like grass in a field. May the king's name endure forever; may it continue as long as the sun. May all nations be blessed through him and proclaim him blessed. Guthrie Chamberlain: The psalm continues with a fervent wish for the king's enduring life and prosperity: “Long live the king! May he be given gold from Sheba.” The exclamation “Long live the king!” (Hebrew: Yechi ha'melekh!) was a common acclamation, a fervent wish for a long and prosperous reign. The desire for “gold from Sheba” directly links back to the tribute from Sheba mentioned in previous verses (v. 10). Gold symbolized immense wealth and honor. This isn't just about personal enrichment for the king; it's an affirmation that his just and prosperous reign attracts such tribute, further validating his universal acceptance and the richness of his kingdom. But beyond material wealth, the psalmist desires spiritual blessing:...

June 22, 2025 http://theanchor.church https://www.instagram.com/theanchorchurch/ https://www.facebook.com/TheAnchorChurch

“Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man's envy of his neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.” — Ecclesiastes 4:4Ecclesiastes shows us how even good work can go wrong when driven by envy. What starts as diligence can quickly become a pursuit of status. Today, we'll look at how chasing approval leaves us empty—and how God invites us into something much greater.The Idol of StatusThe Bible Project says Ecclesiastes “targets all the ways we try to build meaning and purpose in life apart from God.” It gives voice to the Preacher, who carefully exposes the emptiness of paths like pleasure, wealth, and status. In recent weeks, we've looked at the idols of pleasure and accumulation. Today, we turn to the idol of status.This one can be harder to spot. The line between excellence and envy is thin. Ecclesiastes 4:4 says, “Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man's envy of his neighbor.” That's a striking thought. Our motivation may not be love of the work or calling—it's often the quiet urge to compete. To keep up. To be seen.That's what status does. It whispers, You're not enough—unless others notice you. And without realizing it, our careers, spending, and even our generosity, can become ways of proving our worth.“Keeping up with the Joneses” isn't just a saying—it's a way of life for many. We compare houses, vacations, schools, and the pressure to match others can lead to debt, burnout, and dissatisfaction with what God has already provided.And in our digital age, the pressure's amplified. Social media showcases only the highlight reel, not the debt, exhaustion, or stress that often accompany it. But we still scroll and wonder, “Why not me?”A Better Way ForwardEcclesiastes answers that longing with honesty. In verse 8, the Preacher describes someone who works tirelessly, builds wealth, but has no one to share it with: “There is no end to all his toil, and his eyes are never satisfied with riches…” It's a picture of success without joy. Activity without peace. A full schedule, but an empty soul.However, he then offers a better alternative. In verse 6, we read: “Better is a handful of quietness than two hands full of toil and a striving after wind.” In other words, it's better to have less with peace than more with anxiety. That's not laziness—it's wisdom. A life lived with margin, grounded in God's provision.Work as Worship, Not PerformanceThis is the invitation Ecclesiastes extends: not to give up on excellence, but to anchor it in the right place. When our work flows from a love for God and a desire to serve others, it becomes a blessing, not a burden. It becomes worship.We don't need applause—we need peace. And in Christ, we already have it. His approval is not based on performance. It's based on grace. That frees us from striving to be seen and lets us rest in being known.Maybe that's where you are—tired, overextended, wondering what you're chasing. Ecclesiastes invites you to step off the treadmill of comparison. You don't have to strive for identity. You already have it in Jesus.We often see examples of this. A professional sacrifices evenings and weekends to climb the corporate ladder, only to feel lonely at the top. A family maxes out their budget to project an image, while tension quietly builds at home. These aren't just stories—they're warnings. And they echo Ecclesiastes' caution about what we're trading in our pursuit of more.Sometimes this isn't just about envy. It's about fear—fear of being unseen, of being left behind. So we push harder, hoping success will quiet that fear. But only God can give the peace we're looking for.Redefining SuccessContentment doesn't mean quitting. It means redefining success. It means anchoring your worth in something that lasts. When you stop striving in vain, your ambition gets reoriented. Your work becomes more joyful. Your giving becomes more meaningful.So ask yourself today: Who am I trying to impress? What am I really chasing?If your hands are full but your heart is empty, Ecclesiastes invites you to trade performance for peace. True success isn't about being noticed or admired—it's about being faithful with what God has given you. And your worth? It's not something you have to earn or achieve. In Christ, you have nothing to prove because in Him, you are deeply loved, fully known, and eternally valued.Want to Go Deeper?If you want to dig deeper into these themes, we've created a new study just for you. It's called Wisdom Over Wealth, and it explores what Scripture—especially the book of Ecclesiastes—has to say about money, work, and living for what really matters.This month, when you give $35 or more to support the ministry, we'll send it to you as our thanks. Just visit FaithFi.com/wisdom to request your copy.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:A few commercial solar companies have approached us about leasing part of our land for a solar farm. We've got around 40 acres of farmland. I'm trying to understand what pitfalls or risks we should be aware of before moving forward.I recently left my job as a teacher because I felt the Lord calling me to go to seminary. I have about $35,000 in a retirement fund from my teaching years. Should I leave it where it is, or should I use it to pay off my car and some credit card debt?I have a Medicaid-related question. A family member of mine has a terminal illness and needs more care than we can provide. She doesn't have any assets, and we're hoping to get her on Medicaid. If she's approved, who would be responsible for the medical bills?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Today's episode of The Morning Cruise was a special edition as we sat down with longtime friend Brandon Heath, at his kitchen table. Tasha Layton and Blessing Offor also came by to chat as well.    00:32 5th visit with Brandon at his kitchen table  04:18 Summer Cruise Press Release  06:04 Highly Favored  09:54 Changes for Brandon since Summer Cruise  14:36 Tasha...

In this episode, Pastor Sergio De La Mora talks about how people or circumstances around us can keep us from living out the blessings God has predestined for us. Discover the main voices that can hold us back and that the enemy will use to keep us from taking part in God's plans for our lives.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Tyler Boss, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. Taste and see that the Lord is good! Meditate on Psalm 34:8. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, we continue on with Luke 6:12-26. In these verses we read of Jesus' calling of the 12, healing the multitudes, and the Beatitudes. Together we discuss what can happen when we allow our focus to be Christ alone. Rather than allowing our differences to divide us, when our focus is Jesus alone, even the most diverse and different people can find unity in Him and for the sake of His upside down Kingdom. And further, as we focus on Jesus, establishing our dependence on Him alone, we find true blessing despite the circumstances of life that we may be facing because we have found what/Who is better.

Luke Moon of Generation Zion and The Philos Project updates us on the shaky ceasefire between Iran and Israel, plus talks about what it means to bless the people of Israel...and what it doesn't mean.  Mission Network News' Ruth Kramer talks about the weekend attack and bombing of a Syrian church and the situation in Syria with terror groups leading up to it.  She also talks about what Iranian Christians are thinking in light of the conflict between Iran's islamic leaders and Israel.  Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here

I like going to parties. Recently, we had a whole string of them...

The meaning of blessings is transforming one's own mind into the whole path to enlightenment of method and wisdom with the goal of transforming these into the Dharmakaya and the Rupakaya. So the meaning of blessing contains all this. -Lama Zopa Rinpoche Lama Zopa Rinpoche explains what it means to receive the blessings of the … Continue reading The Meaning of Blessing →

Send us a text We say God can have it all… but what about the parts we keep hidden? In this episode, Pastor Jason explores the story of King Azariah (also known as Uzziah) and the “surrender gap” that blocked the blessing of God—not just in his life, but in his community.With honesty, humor, and hope, this message challenges us to examine the “keep out” signs in our hearts. Whether it's pride, fear, or comfort, anything we withhold from God can hinder His work in us and through us.But surrender isn't about shame—it's about healing. And when we let go, God begins to bless others through the very places we once held back.

We're celebrating God's faithfulness in letting us release 100 episodes of Compelled! Show notes (including all the mentioned episodes) @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/celebrating-100-episodes Zach Fowler's favorite episodes:  #05 A Spiritual Suicide - Phillip Telfer: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/phillip-telfer #17 Doubts. Depression. Disease. - Ryan Dobson: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/ryan-dobson Becky Hetrick's favorite episode: #27 9/11 Survivor at the Pentagon - Brian Birdwell: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/brian-birdwell Atley Nugent's favorite episodes: #90 Healing After Rape - Teri Hrabovsky: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/teri-hrabovsky #86 Skipping Retirement. Living on Mission. - Brian Lynn: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/brian-lynn Will Jackson's favorite episodes: #65 Among the Cannibals & Headhunters - Steve Richardson: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/steve-richardson #87 KKK Terrorist Finds Christ - Tom Tarrants: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/tom-tarrants Tim Hull's favorite episodes: Tom Tarrants (see link above) #30 Forgiving My Kidnappers - Gracia Burnham: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/gracia-burnham Micah Foster's favorite episodes: #60 A Broken Man's Miraculous Fight for the Unborn - John Barros: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/john-barros #16 Falsely Accused & Sentenced to Life in Prison - Hannah Overton: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/hannah-overton Mark Weeber's favorite episode: #28 The Blessing of Disability - Jonathan Pacheco, Part 1: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/jonathan-pacheco-pt-1 Episodes that Paul mentioned #​42 Grief in Afghanistan: Testimony from a U.S. Navy Special Ops Teammate - Jim Payne: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/jim-payne #92 The Witness - Steven Matamoros: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/steven-matamoros Want to help us make the next 100 episodes of Compelled? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Believers Voice of Victory Audio Broadcast for 06/24/2025.Curse or BLESSING—the choice is yours! Watch Kenneth Copeland on Believer's Voice of Victory as he shares how God has given you the authority to prosper and live in THE BLESSING. Discover that the power to prosper in every area of your life lies in the authority given to you by God!

Believers Voice of Victory Video Broadcast for 06/24/2025. Curse or BLESSING—the choice is yours! Watch Kenneth Copeland on Believer's Voice of Victory as he shares how God has given you the authority to prosper and live in THE BLESSING. Discover that the power to prosper in every area of your life lies in the authority given to you by God!

In this episode, Michael McIntyre dives into the life of Jacob from the Bible—a man marked by striving, wrestling, and ultimately, transformation. Michael unpacks how Jacob's relentless pursuit of blessing led to a divine encounter that changed everything, including his name. Through powerful reflection, he draws a parallel between Jacob's journey and our own, revealing that breakthrough often comes after surrender. If you've ever felt worn out from trying to control your destiny, this conversation will challenge you to let go, trust God, and embrace the identity He's always had for you.

A Regnum Christi Daily Meditation. Sign up to receive the text in your email daily at RegnumChristi.com

What kinds of things did you learn from your parents?...

Pastor Marcus De La Cruz | June 22, 2025 | Sunday 10AM | Porterville, CA

Main Thing Radio Podcast

Genesis 12:1-4

Rabbi Vann

WORD: PREACH This week we are studying, No Weapon That is Formed Against You Shall Prosper, Doctrine and Covenants 71-75 in Come, Follow Me. Here's what to look forward to in this episode: THAT'S NOT THE GOD I KNOW FOR THIS SEASON GIVE YOUR NAME VILLAGE TO VILLAGE SUMMER OF PRAYER Principle of Prayer: Doctrine & Covenants 75:11, 16 Pray always. Try it this week. Pray more than you ever have. We love studying with you! Grace and David You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Sign up here: www.dontmissthisstudy.com Videos can be found on YouTube: Don't Miss This Grace Freeman Instagram: @thisweeksgrace David Butler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Instagram: @mrdavebutler Come, Follow Me is a resource offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is designed to be used in the home to support personal and family scripture study to build faith in Heavenly Father and His plan of salvation and in the Savior Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Come, Follow Me is self-contained and adequate, when used properly. Products and materials designed to supplement this resource, though they may be helpful in some instances, are not necessary for a successful home study program. Don't Miss This Team hello@dontmissthisstudy.com

Believers Voice of Victory Audio Broadcast for 06/23/2025.The LORD will open up His good treasure to you! Join Kenneth Copeland on Believer's Voice of Victory as he reminds you that you have the authority to command THE BLESSING. Find out how to always stay on THE BLESSING side of life!

Believers Voice of Victory Video Broadcast for 06/23/2025. The LORD will open up His good treasure to you! Join Kenneth Copeland on Believer's Voice of Victory as he reminds you that you have the authority to command THE BLESSING. Find out how to always stay on THE BLESSING side of life!

Today's devotion is written by Olivia Spears.

Send us a textMany of us will admit we want to be blessed by God in our lives and will try to do things where God will bless us.  And in the Scriptures there are many verses throughout the entire Bible that give us instruction on how to be blessed by God.  I did a search for the words "blessed is"  going off Ps 1:1 blessed is the man.... searching for more verses that indicate a path to blessing and these some of these verses I want to share.  These do not include Jesus' famous sermon on the mount in Matthew's Gospel chapter 5 so there are more to read and apply as well.  

Pastor Garry Clark continues his series on BALANCE! In this message he'll be teaching us to focus our vision forward, so we and our families can achieve the balance we need for God to reward us, today and in the future! When we “keep pressing on” and "moving forward," we can achieve: THE BLESSING OF BALANCE!

Father's Day Service - Receiving The Father's Blessing

The lecture explores the profound idea of blessing as a central theme in the Biblical narrative, focusing primarily on John 17:13-21, where Jesus offers a prayer for his followers during a pivotal moment before his crucifixion. The speaker provides insight into Jesus' expectations that his disciples would experience joy even while facing the trials of a world that stands in opposition to God. This joy, rooted in a relationship with Christ, counteracts the despair often found in a reality separated from divine grace. The emphasis is that, despite being immersed in a challenging world, true discipleship is marked by an enduring joy that transcends circumstances.The lecture then transitions to a broader discussion on what it means for followers of Jesus to be blessings within the world, which includes examining historical figures who embodied this principle. The speaker encourages listeners to look beyond just acquiring knowledge of these figures, urging instead for a transformative engagement that expands the capacity for imagination regarding their own roles as conduits of God's blessing. This discussion serves to highlight the call for contemporary believers to actively participate in bringing about a new reality infused with God's goodness.Three poignant historical portraits serve as case studies to illustrate this theme, beginning with Richard Allen, a profound figure in American religious history who emerged from enslavement to establish the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Allen's conviction led him to advocate against the injustices of his time, particularly in the face of racial discrimination and societal neglect. His profound commitment to serving others during a yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia showcases how acts of sacrificial love can arise from deep personal pain and suffering, ultimately resulting in significant impact and community transformation.The second portrait features Josephine Butler, a prominent advocate for women's rights whose activism was catalyzed by personal tragedy. Following the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Butler dedicated her life to alleviating the suffering of others, particularly women caught in oppressive systems. Her efforts led to significant reforms, lifting the voices of marginalized individuals and challenging unjust societal norms. Butler's life serves as an inspiration for turning personal grief into a driving force for communal blessings through compassion and advocacy.The final figure discussed is C.S. Lewis, a renowned author whose early life was marked by loss and hardship. Despite the trials he faced, Lewis ultimately found joy in his faith, which propelled him to use his literary talents for greater good. His life exemplifies how personal hardships can inform a commitment to generosity and service, as he utilized his resources to support others while remaining grounded in humility. Lewis's insights encourage contemporary followers of Christ to recognize that true generosity often requires sacrifice and may elevate the needs of others above one's personal comforts.The speaker wraps up the lecture by calling the audience to embrace their identity as blessings in the world. This approach entails a commitment to live joyfully and sacrificially in a way that points others back to God. The final exhortation encourages participants to deepen their roots in faith and actively engage in transforming their communities through acts of love and service, fostering a spirit of conspiratorial collaboration with the divine in the pursuit of a new world filled with God's blessings. This call underscores the overarching commitment to embody joy and blessing that exudes from a personal relationship with Christ, serving as a beacon of hope and transformation in a world often marked by despair.

There will certainly be things that are out of our control...

Main Theme: Honor opens doors to God's blessings. Dishonor restrains God's power. Key Scripture: Mark 6:1–6 Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him. 2 And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, “Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands! 3 Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him. 4 But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.” 5 Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. 6 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching. Main Points: Honor Releases God's Power: Jesus could not (not just would not) perform mighty works because He was dishonored. Honor positions us to receive from God. Dishonor blocks blessings. Understanding Honor: Honor = Valuing someone or something. It involves public and private appreciation, respect, and esteem. Dishonor is treating someone as common or ordinary. The Danger of Familiarity: People in Jesus' hometown thought they knew Him based on His past, but failed to recognize the version of Him operating in purpose. Sometimes people limit others by clinging to an old version of them. The Role of Faith and Honor: Faith and honor are linked. “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Dishonor is often rooted in unbelief. Peter dishonored Jesus by rebuking Him, failing to understand His purpose to suffer before reigning (Matthew 16:21–23). Misunderstanding Leads to Dishonor: Like Peter and the Pharisees, we can dishonor God by misunderstanding His ways and the people He uses. God may send help in unexpected packages (e.g., a story about rejecting help from a Muslim or atheist and then blaming God). Honor Is Seen in Action: Luke 5:17–20 – Friends of a paralyzed man honored Jesus through faith and action (breaking through the roof). Meanwhile, Pharisees sat in judgment and missed the move of God, despite God's power being present. Western vs. Eastern Mindsets: Western: “I think, therefore I am” (individualistic). Eastern: “We are, therefore I am” (community-oriented, honor flows more naturally). Practical Example: In education, honoring teachers leads to more help and deeper learning. Likewise, honoring spiritual leaders unlocks their ability to bless you. Final Takeaways: Honor opens doors of blessing. Dishonor, especially rooted in familiarity or misunderstanding, closes those doors. Faith acts, and honor releases what God has placed in others for your benefit. Always honor God, His people, and His process — not for their sake only, but for your own growth and blessing. Closing Declaration: “Doors of blessing are open to me because I honor.”

A quick shout out, this being the modern equivalent of a tip of the hat to Richard, who has made a significant donation to help me host this series. I was flabbergasted when receiving the Paypal payment. We have communicated over the years so this is just to say, thank you from the bottom of my heart Richard. When I'm next in Ireland, I promise to buy you a couple of rounds of St James' Blessing. What's this? A cacophony of digging? Must be significant. The date is somewhere in March 1867. A month after young Erasmus Jacobs had found an interesting stone near Hopetown near the Free State Border, but also near the newly formed Transvaal and Griqualand. The world of diamonds swirls with myth and legend, fiction, fact. Diamonds glitter with dangerous promise — alluring but transient in their fortunes, hard as truth, and just as capable of cutting those who reach for them unprepared. The rock that was found at Hopetown was placed on the table of the Cape Assembly shortly thereafter by Sir Richard Southey, the Colonial Secretary with the words “Gentlemen, this is the rock on which the future success of South Africa will be built…” Before Southey's dramatic flourish, the initial response from officialdom was disbelief. For as long as anyone could remember, and this went all the way back to the VOC in 1660s, there had been rumours of great mineral treasure in the north. A kind of disinformation campaign was launched by Jan van Riebeeck because from the time of his arrival he expressed belief in the possibility of a successful search for the traditional golden realm of Monomotapa. It was imperative to drum up more cash for the new tavern of the seas, and he was trying to convince the VOC of the exaggerated value of their new outpost. And women in South Africa were taking notice, which probably from a 21st Century point of view appears somewhat unlikely. Mary Elizabeth Barber had an important role to play in South Africa's geological science. The year 1867 was characterised by drought, and a severe depression made worse by reports that the completion of the Suez Canal would ruin all trade with the Cape. So it wasn't a moment too soon, so to speak, that Diamonds were discovered. Nearly two hundred years had passed since van Der Stel's memorable expedition across what he called de Groote Rivier, the Gariep, the Orange. IT was on the Orange River, sixty kilometres above its junction with the Vaal River, that a village sprang up. Hopetown. By all reports a thriving little settlement, with a number of farms dotted along the river banks nearby. The Koranna and the Griqua lived nearby, at the towns of Pniel and Hebron. Switch to 1867. Picture the scene, sheep and goats, Erasmus Jacobs were doing what Boer boys did, he was roaming the veld, playing on the edge of the river. Here were garnets with their rich carmine flush, the fainter rose of the carnelian, the bronze of jasper, the thick cream of chalcedony, agates of motley hues, rock crystals shining in the light like beckoning stars. Lesser stones, not diamonds, nor valuable gems. From one of these multi-coloured beds Erasmus and his siblings filled their pockets with stones thinking they could play a game of ducks and drakes. For the uninitiated town based gaslight grazer, ducks and drakes is the game of skimming stones. Whomever skims the stone the furthest or with the most hops, wins. Simple game, but when you have no toys, stones are your friends. Luckily for the future of South Africa, Erasmus decided against skimming the diamond, and took it home. There it joined a pile of other shining stones he'd collected like a magpie. It was odd, this stone, and his widowed mother Mrs Jacobs mentioned it to a neighbour, the farmer Meneer Schalk van Niekerk.

Discomfort isn't a sign to quit—it's data pointing to where your next breakthrough lives. In this episode, we talk about how to stop running from discomfort and start using it.

The New Family of Jesus is beautifully diverse, spanning every age and stage of life. Yet many of us have never truly experienced the richness of blessing across generational lines. This message explores how God invites us to both give and receive blessing between generations—restoring connection, honoring one another, and living as a reconciled family in Christ. Scripture Referenced: 2 Timothy 1:1-9