Podcasts about Bountiful

Where do you turn for answers when life is hard? What type of wisdom is shaping your life or affecting your decisions? In his sermon, “Wisdom from Above” centered on James 3:13–18, Pastor Josiah unpacks the sharp contrast between false wisdom that is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic—and true wisdom that comes from God. Earthly wisdom seeks pride, ambition, and self-exaltation, but it inevitably leads to disorder and destruction. Godly wisdom, however, is marked by purity, gentleness, mercy, and peace. Most importantly, James shows us that true wisdom makes us peacemakers—sowing peace that produces a harvest of righteousness.This sermon reminds us that wisdom is not measured by intelligence or worldly success, but by a transformed heart that reflects Christ. Only by embracing the wisdom from above do we become the kind of people who strengthen the church, bring peace into broken relationships, and share the hope of the gospel with the world.

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In Luke 12:22–34, Jesus speaks directly to one of the most pressing struggles of our time: anxiety. His words are not distant, theoretical, or dismissive. They are intimate, practical, and filled with the promise of God's care. Pastor Brent Van Sickle, from King's Cross Church, reminds us that our Savior does not ignore the burdens we carry. He understands the weight of our worry and calls us to lift our eyes beyond ourselves and place our trust in the Father who delights to give us His kingdom. Jesus points to ravens and lilies—ordinary parts of creation—to show how much more valuable His people are in the Father's sight. If God feeds the birds and clothes the grass of the field, how much more will He provide for His children? Anxiety, He explains, is unproductive, wasted energy, and misplaced effort because it flows from the world's mindset of scarcity and self-dependence. Instead, He calls us to seek His kingdom first, knowing that all these things will be added to us. This passage is not a command to “stop worrying” and then be left alone to wrestle in silence. Instead, it is an invitation to see the character of a God who is not distant but near, who names His people “little flock” and promises His good pleasure is to give us the kingdom. It is a reminder that trust is formed not in striving for control, but in surrendering to the shepherd who leads His sheep to green pastures. Pastor Brent shares how anxiety is not only a mental or emotional struggle but also one that impacts our entire being—our health, our relationships, our ability to live on mission. Yet Jesus offers a way forward: turning our eyes from fear to faith, from possessions to generosity, and from scarcity to abundance in Him. True freedom from worry comes not by clinging tighter to control but by releasing it to the One who holds our lives in His hands. This message also reminds us that generosity is a pathway away from anxiety. Jesus teaches that where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also. When we cling to our possessions, worry only multiplies. But when we hold our resources with open hands and invest in the kingdom of God, we experience the peace that comes from aligning our hearts with His purposes. At its core, Luke 12:22–34 reveals a God who is a Father, a Shepherd, and a King—who cares deeply, provides faithfully, and delights to give His children what they truly need. Whether you are weighed down by financial pressures, fearful about the future, or burdened by personal struggles, Jesus' words offer hope: fear not, for your Father knows you, sees you, and will never leave you without His care. So, the invitation is clear: lay down your anxieties, seek first His kingdom, and trust the God who delights to give. The question remains: where is your treasure, and where is your heart? Will you trust Jesus with your life today?

If your words were placed on trial, what would they reveal about your faith? In this week's sermon, Alex Trotter unpacks James 3:1–12, confronting the sobering truth that our words reveal the condition of our hearts. The tongue, though small, wields extraordinary power—to bless or to destroy, to build up or to tear down. For those in Christ, speech becomes a mark of transformation: increasingly God-honoring, gracious, and edifying, not because of self-discipline alone but because Christ is reshaping the heart. Even when we fail, every careless and sinful word has been covered by the blood of Jesus. For those outside of Christ, however, the tongue exposes the futility of self-reform; apart from the cross, our words testify against us before a holy God. True hope for taming the tongue lies only in the transforming grace of Jesus Christ.Ultimately, this passage presses us to examine the fruit of our faith through the words we speak. Our speech is never neutral—it either confirms the reality of Christ at work in us or exposes our desperate need for Him. The cross of Christ is sufficient to forgive our failures and powerful enough to transform our tongues into instruments of praise. What difference would it make if every word you spoke was filtered through the cross of Christ?

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In Luke 12:13–21, Jesus delivers a powerful warning that speaks directly to the heart of our modern struggles. A man in the crowd asks Jesus to intervene in an inheritance dispute, but Jesus uses the moment to reveal a deeper truth: “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” From there, He tells the parable of the rich fool—a man whose barns overflowed with grain, who felt secure enough to say to his soul, “Relax, eat, drink, be merry.” Yet God called him a fool, because his soul was required that very night. The man lived full of himself, full of his possessions, but had no room for God or for others. This sermon, preached by Pastor Dave Nelson, dives into the human tendency to equate life with what we can gain, hold, or achieve. Whether it's money, success, pleasure, or recognition, we all have areas where we think, “If I only had this, then I'd finally be fulfilled.” But Jesus confronts that mindset head-on. True life—“zoe” in the Greek—does not come from possessions, prestige, or pleasure. It comes from God Himself, who is life and who offers His life freely to us in Christ. Through vivid stories, including modern examples of crowds trampling others for sales or surging dangerously at concerts, Pastor Dave reveals the universal human drive for more. He explains how our very biology, with dopamine spikes driving desire, feeds into this restless pursuit. Yet no matter how much we acquire, it never satisfies for long. The longing simply resets, demanding more. Jesus warns that this cycle is dangerous and destructive, because it robs us of the life God intended—a life rooted not in accumulation but in love, generosity, and relationship with Him. This message challenges us to examine what truly fills our hearts. Are we full of ourselves, thinking only of “I will” and “my possessions”? Or are we inviting God into our daily decisions, seeking His will instead of our own? The call of Jesus is not to avoid pleasure, rest, or enjoyment altogether, but to stop making them the foundation of our lives. Instead, He invites us into the abundant life only He provides—a life that overflows with love for God and others, a life that is truly full, rich, and eternal. At its core, this sermon is not simply a warning against greed. It is an invitation into freedom. Freedom from the rat race of needing more, freedom from the endless cycle of desire and disappointment, freedom to live in the richness of God's love. Jesus offers Himself as the way, the truth, and the life. To have Him is to have life to the full—life that is deeply satisfying, meaningful, and eternal. As you listen, let this message move you to reflection. Where are you placing your hope for satisfaction? What do your time, energy, and resources say about what you believe will give you life? Jesus calls us to lay down idols of possessions and success, and instead to receive the life that comes only from Him. Will you keep pursuing fullness in things that cannot satisfy, or will you turn to the One who alone is life?

This sermon confronts one of the most sobering questions in Scripture: What kind of faith saves? In his sermon centered on James 2:14–26, Alex shows us that genuine faith is never alone—it produces the visible fruit of obedience. Works do not contribute to our justification before God, but they are the God-given evidence of a heart transformed by the Spirit. For the believer, this is both a call to self-examination and a comfort: God Himself works in us to will and to do for His good pleasure (Phil. 2:12–13). For the unbeliever, it is a gracious warning that mere profession without transformation is empty, and that Christ alone gives living faith that bears fruit in keeping with repentance.

Sources:https://www.returntotradition.orgorhttps://substack.com/@returntotradition1Contact Me:Email: return2catholictradition@gmail.comSupport My Work:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/AnthonyStineSubscribeStarhttps://www.subscribestar.net/return-to-traditionBuy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/AnthonyStinePhysical Mail:Anthony StinePO Box 3048Shawnee, OK74802Follow me on the following social media:https://www.facebook.com/ReturnToCatholicTradition/https://twitter.com/pontificatormax+JMJ+#popeleoXIV #catholicism #catholicchurch #catholicprophecy#infiltration

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this message from Luke 12:1–12, Pastor Benjer leads us through one of Jesus' most sobering teachings about what it means to follow Him in a world that does not want us to. Drawing from the lives of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Betty Stam, and Richard Wurmbrand—men and women who paid a great cost for their allegiance to Christ—this sermon reminds us that discipleship is neither neutral nor comfortable. Jesus warns His disciples to beware of the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, a caution against living for the approval of others while neglecting the heart. He then gives a clear warning: do not fear those who can harm the body, but fear the One who holds our eternal destiny. Yet even in this, there is comfort—God knows us intimately, values us deeply, and never forgets us. Our worth is not determined by human opinion but by the price God paid for us in Christ. Finally, Jesus issues a call: to publicly acknowledge Him in both word and deed, to live with integrity before a watching world, and to trust the Holy Spirit to give us the words when our faith is challenged. Pastor Benjer emphasizes that following Jesus will inevitably cause friction with the values of the world, but Christians are not called to seek out conflict for its own sake. Instead, we are to live faithfully, sacrificially, and graciously, showing Christ's love in tangible ways. He challenges us to examine whether we have been living to please others rather than God, to reject the temptation to remain neutral, and to resist making enemies of those who simply need to hear the good news. The message closes with a vision for the church: that if our building and programs disappeared, the community would notice because of the way we have loved, served, and represented Jesus. This is a call to live as people whose only hope in life and death is Christ, steadfast in faith whether the world applauds or opposes. It is a reminder that discipleship will cost us something, but that it is worth everything because of who Jesus is and what He has done. Whether you are a longtime believer, a new Christian, or still exploring the faith, this sermon invites you to wrestle honestly with what it means to follow Jesus faithfully today, trusting that His Spirit will equip and sustain you in every circumstance. Will you follow Him with boldness and faithfulness, even when the world pushes back?

Welcome back to another episode of ANR Geekly! Join Elvin and Dee as they catch up on toy talk and open some figures from there collection. Grab anything this week? anything catch your eye? Join us for another week of ANR Geekly with Elvin and Dee! Check out the live version of this podcast on our youtube channel!

Join us today for a unique Mormon Stories episode that is the first of its kind. Myndee Tollefson was born in Bountiful, Utah to an orthodox Mormon family. At just 19, she became pregnant and, feeling immense pressure from the Church and her family, gave her baby up for adoption through LDS Family Services—only to later discover that her child's life in the adoptive family was not what the Church promised.Topics include:-Toxicity of purity culture-Unplanned pregnancy in Mormonism-Harsh backlash from her family and LDS community-Adoption within the LDS Family services program-The church's role in facilitating and encouraging adoption-Being a "birth mom"-Troubled teen culture within MormonismHer story sheds light on the emotional and spiritual costs of institutional coercion, and the healing that comes with breaking free from this control. ___________________YouTubeMormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:⁠⁠One-time or recurring donation through Donorbox⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠Venmo⁠⁠Our Platforms:⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠Social Media:⁠⁠Insta: @mormstories⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @mormonstoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Discord⁠⁠Contact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this powerful message from Luke 11:14–26, Pastor Josh Brown delivers a bold and Spirit-led challenge to our assumptions about neutrality in the Christian life. Preaching from a moment in Scripture where Jesus casts out a demon and is immediately accused of doing so by the power of Satan, Josh calls us to confront a deeper reality: there is no such thing as spiritual neutrality. You are either with Jesus or against Him—there is no safe middle. As Josh walks us through this intense and often-misunderstood passage, he reveals the beauty of Jesus' authority, the seriousness of rejecting His power, and the invitation extended to each of us to fully surrender our lives. Drawing on the imagery Jesus uses—the strong man versus the stronger man—Josh helps us see that the Christian life is not one of trying harder or simply cleaning ourselves up. Jesus didn't come to offer behavior modification; He came to take over. When we stay "neutral," we may think we're safe, but in reality, we're vulnerable, empty, and exposed to spiritual regression. A clean house without Jesus still ends up in ruin. With humor, passion, and deep scriptural insight, this sermon digs into the Pharisees' hypocrisy, our culture's tendency to redefine what is good and true, and the human desire to remain in control rather than surrender to the authority of Christ. Josh shows us how easy it is to intellectually acknowledge the power of Jesus while refusing to bow the knee to Him. But Jesus won't be an accessory to our lives—He is the King who calls for our complete allegiance. This sermon is also a call to evaluate whether we have truly allowed Christ to take occupancy in our lives or whether we're just managing appearances. Are you filled with the Spirit, or are you simply swept and empty? Are you tethered to the One who conquered sin and death, or are you still trying to manage your life in your own strength? If you've ever felt like you're drifting spiritually, wondering why your faith feels stale, or trying to straddle the line between devotion and comfort, this message is for you. It will challenge you to stop coasting and start surrendering. It will remind you that you don't fight for victory—you fight from it, because the stronger man has already come and claimed the victory on your behalf. In a world that constantly tries to blur the lines between good and evil, Jesus draws a clear one. And He invites you to cross it—to step out of apathy, out of fear, and out of false neutrality—into the freedom, fullness, and flourishing of life with Him. Whether you're new to church, wrestling with faith, or walking with Jesus for years, this sermon will compel you to ask a simple but life-defining question: Am I truly surrendered? Or am I just neutral? Watch now and experience the call to take Jesus at His word, to let go of pride and control, and to live fully anchored, protected, filled, and empowered by the one true King. The stronger man is not just strong enough to break your chains—He is strong enough to carry you every day after that. Will you let Him?

In a world obsessed with appearances, James confronts the church with a bold command: Don't play favorites! In his sermon on James 2:1-13, Pastor Josiah explores how favoritism contradicts the very mercy that saved us. When we elevate the wealthy and ignore the poor—or vice versa—we forget that at the foot of the cross, all distinctions vanish. Jesus didn't rescue us because of status or success, but solely by his mercy. Therefore, Christians must reflect that mercy in how we see and treat others. This message is for everyone—rich or poor, polished or broken—because Jesus welcomes all who will come.

Mendocino County farmer reports harvesting a bountiful blueberry crop this summer, and the U.S. and the European Union agreed to a trade deal following negotiations between President Trump and European Commission President von der Leyen.

WE'RE OFF FOR A COUPLE WEEKS, SO TO TREAT YOUR CRAVINGS.. HERE'S A COLLECTION OF STUFF WE YAPPED ABOUT, VOLUME: 3

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this powerful message from Luke 11:1-13, Pastor Benjamin explores the revolutionary truth that God actually loves to be bothered by His children. When Jesus' disciples asked Him to teach them how to pray, His response reveals three foundational truths about our relationship with the Father that will transform how we approach prayer forever. Many believers struggle with prayer because they fundamentally misunderstand God's heart toward them. We often view Him as distant, annoyed by our constant needs, or too busy with global crises to care about our personal struggles. This sermon dismantles those misconceptions by examining Jesus' parable of the persistent friend and His teaching on the Lord's Prayer. Through relatable illustrations about parenting and childhood boldness, Pastor Benjamin demonstrates that God desires us to approach Him with the same audacious confidence that children show toward loving parents. The message unpacks three life-changing truths about God's character. First, God genuinely loves to be bothered by our prayers and requests. Unlike earthly relationships where we must earn access or worry about overstepping boundaries, our heavenly Father has purchased our access through Christ and invites bold, persistent prayer. Second, God wants to give us Himself through the Holy Spirit, not just fix our circumstances. While we often focus on getting God to solve our problems, He offers something far greater in His very presence and companionship through difficulty. Third, through Christ we are adopted sons and daughters, not slaves or employees trying to earn God's favor. Using the acronym PAUSE, this practical teaching walks through Jesus' model prayer in Luke 11, showing how to Praise His name, Acknowledge His reign, Understand your need and ask, Seek forgiveness and extend it, and Embrace your dependence on God. This isn't about formula prayers but about understanding our relationship as beloved children who can confidently approach their Father's throne of grace. Whether you're new to prayer or have struggled with feeling distant from God, this message will encourage you to approach Him with childlike boldness, knowing He delights in your requests and longs to give you the greatest gift of all - Himself. The sermon includes practical application and concludes with a powerful time of corporate prayer, demonstrating that prayer is both personal and communal in the life of believers.

Have you experienced the kind of spiritual rebirth that leads to real change? James 1:19–27 teaches that saving faith isn't passive—it's transformational. In this sermon, Pastor Josiah explores how the Word of God not only saves us but reshapes us. Through vivid illustrations and pastoral exhortation, you'll discover that “real religion” means more than just hearing Scripture—it means receiving it with humility, obeying it with integrity, and displaying it through a life of mercy, holiness, and self-control. The gospel doesn't just inform your life; it transforms it. Why does the life of a true Christian look so different from the world? Listen to this week's message and find out!

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this week's message at Flourishing Grace, Brett Turner, our Minister of Music and Prayer, shares a powerful and deeply personal sermon from Luke 10:38–42—the story of Mary and Martha. Rather than interpreting the text as a mere contrast between two personalities, Brett invites us to consider a more foundational question: are we choosing the good portion? In a culture that celebrates productivity and constant motion, this passage disrupts our assumptions by revealing a greater truth—there is only one thing that is necessary, and it cannot be taken away. Preaching between the parable of the Good Samaritan and the Lord's Prayer, Brett highlights the intentional placement of this short but rich story in Luke's Gospel. Mary's decision to sit at the feet of Jesus is not laziness or passivity, but a bold act of reception—a choice to receive her spiritual inheritance. Meanwhile, Martha, though serving Jesus directly, is burdened by anxiety and distracted by many good but lesser things. Through this contrast, the sermon points us to a life not defined by striving, but by sitting with Christ and receiving what He alone can give. Brett challenges the listener to consider how often we, like Martha, invite Jesus into our lives yet fail to welcome Him into our hearts. Even in ministry, service, parenting, and relationships, we can find ourselves empty and anxious when we work from our own limited resources rather than from the immeasurable riches of God's grace. Drawing on Ephesians 1–2, Brett reminds us that every believer in Christ has already been seated with Him in the heavenly places and granted a spiritual inheritance that changes everything. This inheritance—our “portion”—cannot be earned, bought, or lost. It must simply be received. As the sermon unfolds, Brett reflects on the deeper implications of inheritance language in Scripture and shares a vision for a life that flows from identity in Christ rather than striving for it. Whether we are in a season of burnout, bitterness, distraction, or doubt, the invitation is the same: come sit with Jesus. When we start there, our serving becomes joyful, our burdens become lighter, and our relationships become rooted in grace rather than resentment. This is not about doing more for God, but being with God—receiving, resting, and then walking in the good works He has prepared for us. Brett also explores Mary and Martha's later appearances in John 11 and 12, showing how both sisters grow in their relationship with Jesus. Martha boldly declares Jesus as the Christ even in grief, and Mary pours out costly perfume on His feet, embodying extravagant devotion. These moments illustrate what it looks like to live from our portion in Christ: drawing near in loss, pouring out in worship, and trusting Jesus with our reputation, our resources, and our very lives. The sermon closes with a heartfelt invitation to three kinds of people: those who are serving Jesus yet feel anxious and unseen; those who have drifted from intimacy with God and feel distant from their inheritance; and those for whom the idea of a spiritual inheritance is brand new. For all, the message is clear—Jesus is not asking us to prove our worth, fix our problems, or perform our way into His favor. He is offering Himself, the good portion, and inviting us to receive. This message is a call to stop striving and start sitting—to pause long enough to be with Jesus, to listen, to be filled, and to walk from a place of fullness rather than emptiness. If you've ever wondered if God sees you, if He cares, or if you'll ever feel whole again, this message is for you. It is not just a teaching; it's an invitation to transformation. The good portion is yours. Will you receive it?

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan... In this sermon from Luke 10:1–20, guest preacher Josh Gardner invites us into a deeper understanding of the mission Jesus gives his disciples—and to us. As Jesus sends out the seventy-two, He declares that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. This passage challenges us to consider where our hearts are focused and what kind of harvest we're truly living for. Are we chasing temporal, worldly goals, or are we attuned to the eternal harvest—the work God is doing to bring people from death to life through the good news of the kingdom? Josh begins by reflecting on how this passage has shaped his own calling and rhythms, including a personal practice of praying Luke 10:2 daily. That verse—“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest”—is more than a directive; it's a call to realign our hearts and cry out to God with desperation and dependence. Josh challenges us to think about what we're truly praying for in our lives. Are we asking God to raise up disciple-makers? Are we praying for boldness and readiness to go ourselves? Or are we preoccupied with lesser harvests—financial gain, social status, comfort, and control? Throughout the message, Josh explains that Jesus sends His disciples not with comfort or power, but as lambs among wolves. This isn't just poetic language—it's a sobering reminder that following Jesus means stepping into spiritual battle with nothing but trust in Him. We are not promised ease or success, but we are promised His presence and power. Josh encourages us to go humbly, depending not on our own strength or eloquence, but on the God who equips and goes with us. He points out that throughout Scripture, God uses unlikely, unqualified people to accomplish His purposes so that His power might be made known. This passage also teaches that we are not only to go, but to bring peace. As Jesus instructs the disciples to offer peace in the homes they enter, Josh reminds us that Christians should be marked by a peace that surpasses understanding—a peace that invites curiosity and opens doors for conversations about Jesus. He shares a personal story from high school where his boss, noticing his peace during a family health crisis, became more open to conversations about faith. These “people of peace” moments aren't accidents—they're evidence that God is already at work in hearts, inviting us to participate in what He is doing. In calling us to do what Jesus did—eat with others, meet needs, and proclaim the gospel—Josh reminds us that we don't go alone. We go with the Spirit and in the power of Jesus' name. But with this calling comes the reality of rejection. Jesus tells the disciples that those who reject their message are ultimately rejecting Him. Josh challenges us to consider how often fear of rejection prevents us from speaking the truth. He quotes magician and outspoken atheist Penn Jillette, who once said, “How much do you have to hate someone not to proselytize?” The stakes are eternal, and love compels us to speak even when it's uncomfortable. Finally, Josh points us to the joy of gospel-centered living. When the disciples return, rejoicing over the authority they exercised in Jesus' name, Jesus redirects their joy—not toward the miracles, but toward the reality that their names are written in heaven. Our greatest joy must be rooted in the gospel itself: we have been saved, redeemed, adopted, and given a place in the family of God. That truth sustains us when the results are slow, when conversations go nowhere, and when we feel unseen in our efforts.

Are you walking through a trial that feels too heavy to carry? How can we find joy when life falls apart? In “Fire Tested & Joy Filled,” Pastor Josiah walks through James 1:1–18 to show that the trials we face are not meaningless—they are God's tool to grow our faith and prepare us for eternity. With honesty, personal testimony, and biblical clarity, this sermon calls believers to endure trials with joy, seek God's wisdom without doubting, resist the tempting lies of the enemy, and trust in the unchanging goodness of God. Even in the hardest seasons, we are not alone—Christ endured the ultimate trial on our behalf and now walks with us through the fire.

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this powerful message from our ongoing series in the Gospel of Luke, Pastor Benjer McVeigh leads us through one of the most familiar — and dangerously misunderstood — teachings of Jesus: the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). But before we tune out with a “been there, heard that” mindset, Benjer challenges us to slow down, lean in, and let the Word do surgery on our souls. What if we've misunderstood this parable all along? What if the point isn't about identifying who our neighbor is — but realizing we are the neighbor God has sent? This message begins by confronting the deceptively small definition of “neighbor” held by the expert in the law, a man who — like many of us — sought to justify himself by asking Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” But Jesus doesn't answer with a list of who qualifies. Instead, He flips the lawyer's question on its head and tells a story where the most unlikely character — a Samaritan, despised by Jews in that time — becomes the model of true neighborly love. As Benjer unpacks the cultural and religious background of the text, he reveals that the priest and Levite in the story weren't merely callous — they were likely busy with temple duties, constrained by religious expectations. Yet their roles, deeply tied to the law, couldn't produce the compassion needed in the moment. It is the Samaritan — the outsider, the one least expected — who sees, stops, and sacrifices. He is moved by compassion, not convenience. He loves with open hands, at great risk and great cost to himself. And this, Jesus says, is what it means to be a neighbor. The message digs deeper, applying this radical vision of love to our daily lives. Who have we disqualified from being our neighbor? Who have we labeled in such a way that excuses us from loving them? Whether it's someone we disagree with politically, someone whose lifestyle we don't understand, or someone we believe “deserves” the consequences they're facing — we are reminded that the teaching of Jesus leaves no room for exclusion. We don't get to decide who deserves love. We simply get to extend it, because Jesus first loved us. And the message gets personal. Benjer shares how a group of teenagers at church camp, willing to sit under the Word of God with seriousness and humility, stirred his own heart. Their willingness to listen, respond, and be transformed by Scripture became the catalyst for this week's call: to slow down, stop crossing to the other side of the road, and live as the kind of neighbor Jesus modeled. By the end, the parable turns into a mirror. It's not just a story about someone else. It's a story about us. And if we take it seriously — if we dare to pray the dangerous prayer, “God, who are you calling me to be a neighbor to today?” — we might discover that Jesus has already answered. He calls us not to love from a distance or with conditions, but to love incarnationally. To see, to stop, to bind up wounds, to take risks, to pay costs, to walk with the hurting until they heal. This is the call to become a people — and a church — marked by the extravagant compassion of Jesus. A church where no label can override the title “neighbor.” A church that reflects the Good Samaritan who saw us lying in the road, broken and far from hope — and didn't pass by. Instead, He stopped. He loved. And He gave everything.

What do you do when your life is falling apart, and you've run out of options—can God still meet you there? Is there any hope for those who have failed God repeatedly?In this final message from our “The Search For A King” series, Pastor Josiah explores the theme of “IF”—those pivotal moments in life that center on trust, obedience, and the faithfulness of God. As Israel stands at a national crossroads, having demanded a king and rebelled against the Lord, Samuel confronts them with their sin, warns them of its consequences, and yet offers them hope rooted in God's steadfast mercy. IF we reject God, we face ruin; but IF we return to Him, He is faithful to forgive us and redeem us from the pit. Through a gospel-centered lens, this sermon shows how our repeated failures can never outmatch God's covenantal grace. Jesus, the true and better King, succeeds where Saul—and all of us—fail. And in Him, we hear the everlasting assurance for every believer: “God's got you!”

Where is your hope? What types of things are you placing your trust in today? In his sermon, “Is This The King?” centered on 1 Samuel 10:17-11:11, Alex Trotter shared how even though Saul looked like the King who would save Israel from their enemies, ultimately it was Christ who would redeem his people from death and crush the serpent's head once and for all. Unlike the Israelites, we mustn't turn to rulers of this world for our ultimate salvation, even despite their apparent victories. Instead, we must turn our eyes to the true Prophet, Priest, and King, Jesus Christ and look to him to save us from the brokenness that surrounds us.

In today's episode we're talking to mama, Monica Smith. Monica and her husband Matt welcomed their son Rocky into the world 7 months ago (at the original time of recording), and they're such a beautiful family. Both chiropractors, Monica and Matt are used to environments that support home birth and back it up with the philosophy of trusting the body and its amazing ability to heal. Monica is a well of knowledge. She's also incredibly insightful. Her perspectives on the body, women and birth are enough to get you pumped up and inspired to take on the world! We cover all kinds of topics like tiny house (she and Matt lived in a 275 sq. ft. home for a period of time!) and simplified living, which has transferred over into their parenting styles. We explore what happens when your birth vision does not match up with the actual experience (and how that can be a great thing). Monica also went 42 weeks and 6 days into her pregnancy! Holy mama, right?! Not to mention, she ties in the value of chiropractic care for pregnancy and preparing for home birth (we utilized chiropractic care in our pregnancy and highly recommend it). Monica embodies pregnant intuition - listening to your body, and then using that to influence other areas of your life. And can birth actually be a mirror for who you are in your life? Find out in our interview! Links From The Episode: ⁠Monica's Chiropractic Practice: Rev Optimal Living⁠ ⁠Birth Wellness Center⁠ ⁠Birthing From Within⁠ ⁠ The book "Bountiful, Beautiful, Blissful: Experience The Natural Power Of Pregnancy and Birth with Kundalini Yoga and Meditation"⁠ Offers From Our Awesome Partners: Needed: https://needed.sjv.io/XY3903 - use code DIAH to get 20% off your order More From Doing It At Home: Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3vJcPmU DIAH YouTube: https://bit.ly/3pzuzQC DIAH Merch: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/doingitathome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are you currently desiring or pursuing that might be more shaped by the world's values than God's will? Can you identify a time when God used a disappointment or failure to draw you closer to Him? In what ways is Jesus reshaping your desires to want more of Him, rather than just His gifts?In his sermon “The King You Desire” based on 1 Samuel 9:1-10:16, Pastor Josiah shared how Israel received what they asked for—a king like the nations. Saul looked the part: tall, strong, impressive. But beneath the surface, he was spiritually unfit and directionless. Sometimes, God gives us what we want to reveal that what we long for isn't truly what we need. Yet even in our rebellion, God's sovereign grace is at work. He uses our misguided desires, our detours, and even our failures to draw us back to Himself. Ultimately, the story of Saul points us to Jesus—the King we didn't ask for but the one we desperately need. In Him, our desires are transformed to want what He wants—and we discover that the deepest satisfaction of our hearts is not in what we get, but in whom we belong to.

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan... In this message titled Right Side Up, Pastor Benjer McVeigh walks through Luke 9:43–62 to confront the ways we often follow Jesus with an upside-down understanding of what He has truly called us to. Set in the final stretch before Jesus heads to Jerusalem and the cross, this passage reveals a series of misunderstandings among Jesus' disciples—misunderstandings that reflect the same tendencies many of us struggle with today. Despite witnessing miracles, the disciples were confused when Jesus spoke clearly about His suffering and death. They debated who among them was the greatest, attempted to exclude others doing ministry in Jesus' name, called down judgment on outsiders, and offered conditional discipleship: “I will follow you, but first…” Through these interactions, Jesus gently but firmly corrects each distorted perspective, inviting His followers to see the way of the cross not just as a theological event, but as a pattern for their lives. Pastor Benjer illustrates this point with a humorous yet sobering story about misreading a MapQuest printout in college. The story becomes a metaphor for our spiritual lives: no matter how diligently we try to “follow the directions,” if we begin with the wrong understanding of Jesus' path—if our spiritual map is upside down—we will miss what He's truly calling us to. Jesus is not looking for admirers who fit Him into their existing lives; He is calling disciples who will lay their lives down daily, just as He did. Throughout the message, Pastor Benjer identifies four common lies that keep believers from living the way of the cross: “I am the greatest,” “We are the rightest,” “It's us versus them,” and “Sure, Jesus—but first.” Each of these reflects a heart that, like the disciples in Luke 9, is still struggling to understand the radical call of the kingdom. Rather than pursuing power, tribal superiority, division, or delayed obedience, Jesus calls us to humility, unity, compassion, and full surrender. This sermon is not about trying harder or being better. It's a call to reorient ourselves to the true map of discipleship—one where Jesus leads the way in suffering, sacrifice, and resurrection life. The invitation is not simply to believe in the cross as doctrine but to embody it in daily life. Pastor Benjer urges listeners to examine whether they have truly said “yes” to Jesus without conditions, or if there are lingering “but first”s that are keeping them from full obedience. For those who are exploring faith or are not yet followers of Jesus, this message offers a clear presentation of who Jesus is: not merely a teacher or moral example, but the suffering Savior who gave His life on the cross to bring us forgiveness, purpose, and eternal life. Today is an invitation to say “yes” to Jesus—not to religion or performance, but to a relationship with the one who laid everything down for us. Recorded live at Flourishing Grace Church in Bountiful, Utah, this sermon is part of our ongoing series through the Gospel of Luke. Whether you're a long-time believer or just beginning your spiritual journey, we invite you to reflect on the direction your life is heading and whether your map is right side up. To learn more about Flourishing Grace Church or connect with our ministry, visit flourishinggrace.org. We'd love to walk with you as you follow Jesus—fully, humbly, and faithfully.

Pastor John Randolph preached from Luke chapter 11. How should we approach prayer according to scripture? Listen and believe.

KSL Newsradio's Amanda Dickson asked her guests about a couple of issues on this segment of A Woman's View. First, the number of abortions went up in the United States in 2024. And a different poll shows 1/3 of men say they are struggling. Her guests this week include Susan Spiers, CEO of the Utah Association of CPAs and Holly  Willard, owner of Grand View Family Counseling in Bountiful. 

When we heard that the United States bombed nuclear sites in Iran a week ago, we all collectively held our breath. How did that news make you feel? Are you hopeful that action will protect us in the future? KSL Newsradio's Amanda Dickson asked her guests on A Woman's View. Her guests this week include Susan Spiers, CEO of the Utah Association of CPAs and Holly  Willard, owner of Grand View Family Counseling in Bountiful. 

We are getting ready to celebrate the most patriotic holiday in the United States - July 4th. How do you understand what it means to be patriotic in 2025? KSL Newsradio's Amanda Dickson asked her guests on A Woman's View. Her guests this week include Susan Spiers, CEO of the Utah Association of CPAs and Holly  Willard, owner of Grand View Family Counseling in Bountiful. 

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this powerful message from Luke 9:27–36, Josh Brown, our minister to students, families, and young adults, takes us to the mountain of transfiguration and challenges us to see Jesus for who He truly is—not merely a teacher, a helper, or a comforter, but the radiant, glorious Son of God. Preaching with urgency, passion, and deep conviction, Josh reminds us that this moment in Scripture isn't just a dramatic scene from Jesus's life—it's a theological earthquake meant to realign our understanding of Christ's identity and our response to Him. The transfiguration reveals that Jesus doesn't borrow glory like Moses, He is the glory. His face shines like lightning, His clothes become dazzling white, and He stands in conversation with Moses and Elijah, the very embodiment of the Law and the Prophets, not as an equal, but as the fulfillment of everything they pointed toward. In this moment, the Father speaks clearly: “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to Him.” That command still echoes today. Josh challenges us to reflect: when is the last time we were silenced by the glory of God? Have we gotten so used to the noise, distractions, and debates of our world that we've lost our sense of awe? The disciples themselves, even after witnessing miracles, struggled to fully grasp who Jesus was. But on the mountain, in a moment of intimacy through prayer, Jesus's eternal identity is revealed. Josh reminds us that this glimpse of glory wasn't meant to impress—it was meant to prepare. The disciples would soon watch their Messiah suffer and die. And when they did, they would need to hold fast to what they saw that day: the King of glory, unveiled. Josh presses us to consider whether the Jesus we follow is too small, too safe, too familiar. A Jesus who only affirms us but never confronts us can never truly save us. If your faith feels dim, perhaps the problem isn't that Jesus is distant, but that your focus is. This message also presses into the uncomfortable but vital truth that Jesus does not come to coexist among your priorities—He comes to reign. Like Peter on the mountain, we too can fumble the moment by placing Jesus alongside the other “voices” in our life. But the Father's rebuke is unmistakable: don't just admire Him—listen to Him. Obedience is the only right response to revealed glory. The transfiguration also anchors Jesus in the full story of Scripture. Moses and Elijah don't appear to share wisdom; they appear to confirm the identity of the Son. All Scripture points to Him. And Jesus, even in glory, speaks of His departure—His coming death on the cross. The cross remains central. Glory doesn't bypass suffering; it leads into it. For us, that means we don't just stay on the mountaintop admiring the moment—we follow Jesus down into the valley, onto the mission, into the world. Josh's call to action is clear and convicting. Don't walk out of church the same way you came in. If you've truly seen the King, your life should be transformed. Share the gospel. Live differently. Stop admiring Jesus from a distance and start submitting to Him in the details of your everyday life. You're not called to simply consume encouragement—you're called to carry a cross. This sermon isn't just a reminder of who Jesus is—it's an invitation to respond. If you've ever reduced Jesus to a mascot, a motivator, or a metaphor, this message will challenge you to see Him again with fresh eyes. To behold the Son in His glory is to be undone—and to be undone is the beginning of true worship, bold obedience, and gospel transformation. Watch the full message now to encounter the Jesus of the Scriptures—radiant, ruling, risen—and be moved to worship and mission.

Why do our demands for greater freedom often lead to deeper bondage? What happens when we ask God for what we want instead of trusting Him for what we need? In his sermon, “So, You Want A King?” based on 1 Samuel 8:1-22, Pastor Bryan Catherman explores Israel's demand for a king and the deeper spiritual rebellion it represents. As the people reject God's rule in favor of a monarchy like the surrounding nations, we are confronted with a timeless truth: when we choose self-rule over God's sovereign reign, we inherit the consequences of our own folly. Yet, even in judgment, God's mercy shines through as He ultimately provides not just any king, but the one King we truly need—Jesus Christ. The message challenges us to consider where we, too, may be exchanging divine kingship for worldly security, and reminds us that only under God's rule do we find true freedom and life.

Today:NBC10 commentator Sue O'Connell and former public safety secretary Andrea Cabral discuss the Karen Read trial, and her acquittal.And, a Juneteenth panel with Boston's first black mayor, Kim Janey, educator and lawyer Ted Landsmark, and Michael Curry of the NAACP and Mass League of Community Health Centers. 

Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit Sermon Title: Die to Self, Live for Christ: Following Jesus in Luke 9 YouTube & SoundCloud Search Description (4,500 characters): In this powerful and deeply challenging sermon, Pastor Benjer leads us through Luke 9:1–27—a rich and intense section of Scripture that confronts every follower of Jesus with a fundamental question: What kind of life am I living—and what kind of death am I choosing? At the heart of this message is the call to discipleship—not just belief, not just admiration, but wholehearted following of Jesus. Through the example of the twelve disciples, the miraculous feeding of the 5,000, and Jesus' own foreshadowing of the cross, we're shown what it truly means to be a disciple: to learn from Jesus, walk in His footsteps, and embrace a life that is often uncomfortable, messy, and costly—but ultimately full of abundance and eternal purpose. Jesus begins by sending His disciples out with power and authority to proclaim the Kingdom, heal the sick, and cast out demons. And they do it. Ordinary men, empowered by Christ, stepping into extraordinary mission. But when they return and face the challenge of feeding the multitudes, they falter. They forget what they've just seen and done. They forget that Jesus is enough. And so do we. Discipleship, Pastor Benjer reminds us, is not a perfect upward trajectory. It's not about spiritual heroism or flawless devotion. It's a bumpy journey. It's full of grace and learning. And above all, it's a daily dying—dying to comfort, dying to small dreams, dying to our preferences and our endless yeses to self. Jesus makes it plain in Luke 9:23: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” That's the call. That's the cost. And that's the invitation into the abundant life Jesus promises—not abundant in stuff, ease, or worldly success, but rich in meaning, rooted in purpose, and shaped by selfless love. Benjer doesn't hold back from applying this to everyday life: our marriages, our parenting, our ambitions, our finances, even our weekend plans. He shares honestly from his own experience as a father of children with disabilities, reflecting on what it means to dream big in God's kingdom—not in worldly achievement, but in faithfully following Christ and helping others do the same. This sermon is a wake-up call. In a world that tells us to chase comfort and say yes to every craving, Jesus speaks a better word: Say yes to me. Pastor Benjer challenges the cultural lie that Christianity is just about self-improvement or believing the right things. Jesus doesn't call us to be better versions of ourselves—He calls us to be new. And that newness comes through surrender. If you're someone who has followed Jesus but finds yourself weary, discouraged, or feeling like you've failed too many times, this sermon is for you. If you're exploring faith and wondering what Jesus really expects, this sermon is for you. And if you're a committed disciple who needs a fresh reminder that the way of Christ is both cross and resurrection, this message will stir your heart. At Flourishing Grace Church, we're not trying to create a culture of superficial faith. We're learning to die well—to die to our own way so that we might live in the fullness of Jesus' way. This message will help you take your next step, whatever that may be. Stick around until the end as Pastor Benjer invites us into prayer and response. Maybe you've held back a part of your heart, your time, your dreams. Maybe God is gently poking at something you know you need to surrender. Don't ignore it. Lean in. Say yes. And remember: when you say no to yourself, you're not saying no to joy—you're saying yes to Jesus, the only source of true life. Listen, reflect, and let this teaching sink deep into your soul.

Why does life sometimes get harder after we repent—and what is God doing in those moments? What does true repentance look like—and what does it lead to? In his sermon, “True Repentance & Divine Deliverance,” centered on 1 Samuel 7:2–17, Pastor Josiah shared how Israel turned from idolatry and returned to the Lord with a repentant heart. Yet, just as they turned back to God, new trouble arose. But God, faithful to His covenant and powerful to save, delivered His people—not because of their strength, but through the intercession of His appointed mediator, Samuel. This passage reminds us that while repentance may invite hardship, it always places us under the care of a God who is faithful to forgive, fights for us, and never fails to be there for us.

Here is a professionally written SoundCloud description of the sermon, trimmed to under 4,500 characters (total: 4,482), while maintaining the SEO-rich keywords and clear, compelling tone for discoverability: ⸻ In this sermon from Flourishing Grace Church, Lead Pastor Benjer McVeigh explores one of the most intense and revealing moments in the New Testament: Jesus' healing of a demon-possessed man in Luke 8:26–39. This unforgettable story—often known for its strange detail involving a herd of pigs—is far more than a shocking narrative. It is a profound demonstration of Jesus' authority over darkness and his power to bring people from spiritual death to life and purpose. Benjer teaches that surrendering your life to Jesus is not a one-time decision for moral improvement—it is a radical transformation. Drawing from both Luke 8 and Ephesians 2:1–10, the message calls listeners to recognize that apart from Christ, we are spiritually dead—trapped in sin, following the world's ways, and disconnected from our Creator. But God, rich in mercy and full of love, makes us alive in Christ and gives us a new identity and mission. This gospel message isn't based on merit or behavior; it's a gift of grace received through faith in Jesus. Through this sermon, we are challenged to see ourselves in the man from Luke 8—isolated, broken, and lost until Jesus steps into our story. The man is not only healed, but he's restored and given purpose. Jesus tells him to return home and declare all that God has done for him. This is the call for every follower of Jesus: to not just receive salvation, but to live with purpose, proclaiming God's mercy in our words and actions. Benjer shares testimonies from historical Christian figures like Augustine of Hippo, Fanny Crosby, C.S. Lewis, and Corrie ten Boom, showing how real people from all walks of life have experienced the same transformation—moving from death to life and then into mission. Whether through dramatic encounters or quiet surrender, the pattern is the same: grace saves, and grace sends. The sermon also confronts the misconception that only the spiritually elite or morally qualified can be used by God. Pastor Benjer explains that it's often those who feel the least worthy who are the most powerfully used by God—because it's not about our strength, but about Christ's finished work. Just like the healed man who had only been with Jesus for a few hours, anyone who has encountered God's grace is already equipped to tell others what God has done. As the message concludes, listeners are invited to reflect honestly on their spiritual condition. For those feeling stuck, broken, or far from God, the invitation is simple: say yes to Jesus. He stands ready to bring you from death to life. And for those who have already surrendered to Jesus, this is a call to rediscover your purpose—to declare boldly and joyfully how much God has done for you. If you've been searching for sermons about spiritual warfare, gospel transformation, freedom from sin, and finding your purpose in Christ, this teaching is for you. It speaks to seekers, skeptics, and believers alike. Whether you are new to faith, returning after years away, or simply need a reminder of the depth of God's grace, this message will meet you where you are. Let this teaching renew your heart, challenge your assumptions, and ignite a deeper passion for living in the freedom and calling that Christ has secured for you. Jesus brings us from death to life—and into purpose.

Part 1. Almighty, Bountiful, Creator An opinion poll in Britain found that around two-thirds of the population claimed to ‘believe in God'.  To understand the significance of this fact, further questions should have been asked: ‘which god?'; and, ‘what sort of god?' The first was necessary because of the influx of immigrants with other religions. The second was necessary because even among Christians opinions vary about the kind of God they worship. While David was preparing this series of sermons on God's multifaceted character, he hit on the idea of linking divine attributes to the letters of the alphabet, hoping thereby to make it easier for his listeners to remember them. All went well until the letter ‘X'. Whether this was dealt with satisfactorily you can to decide.

Are you tempted to approach God on your own terms rather than according to His will? How does the holiness of God shape your worship, your obedience, and your view of Christ? In today's message we find out what happens when God's people treat His presence with irreverence! In 1 Samuel 6:1–7:1, both the Philistines and the Israelites dishonor the holy presence of Yahweh—not by defiance alone, but by casual disobedience. In his message, “Who Can Stand?” Pastor Josiah explores how God's holiness is not something to manage, manipulate, or presume upon. Through the tragic actions of Beth-shemesh and the fearful question, “Who is able to stand before this holy God?”, we are brought face-to-face with our own unworthiness and the absolute necessity of a Mediator.In a world that often reduces God to sentimentality or ritual, this message calls us back to the fear of the Lord—a fear that leads not to fleeing from God, but to obedience under His Word and submission to His final Prophet, Jesus Christ. True life is found in fearing God and obeying His Word through Christ alone.

Colette chats with her client Wendy who is a fitness coordinator in Bountiful, Utah. Wendy is a passionate community builder and wellness advocate dedicated to helping individuals and families live healthier, more connected lives. With a background in recreation leadership and a heart for mental health, she leads programs that inspire movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection. Whether organizing events, collaborating with local organizations, teaching yoga or other fitness classes, she brings energy, empathy, and creativity to everything she does. When she's not working, she's wrangling her six kids, coaching softball, or finding new ways to make health and wellness fun for all ages. Wendy shares her journey with Ayurveda and her experience on the Digestive Reset Cleanse. They discuss the following: How Wendy first discovered Ayurveda and what drew her to it. Embracing Ayurveda's “no one-size-fits-all” approach to healing. Wendy's personal experience with the Digestive Reset Cleanse. The unexpected benefits of the cleanse. How Wendy is incorporating Ayurveda into home life and career. * Visit Colette's website www.elementshealingandwellbeing.com  Online consultations & Gift Vouchers Next discounted Group Cleanse starts October 3rd, 2025 Private at-home Digestive Reset Cleanse tailored to you Educational programs - Daily Habits for Holistic Health Have questions before you book? Book a FREE 15 min online Services Enquiry Call * Join the Elements of Ayurveda Community! * Stay connected on the Elements Instagram and Facebook pages. * Enjoy discounts on your favourite Ayurvedic products: Banyan Botanicals - enter discount code ELEMENTSOFAYURVEDA at checkout for 15% off your first purchase.** Divya's  - enter discount code ELEMENTSOFAYURVEDA15 at checkout for 15% off your first purchase.** Kerala Ayurveda - enter discount code ELEMENTS15 to receive 15% off your first purchase.** LifeSpa - Save $10 on a $50 or more one-time purchase with the code elements10.  **Shipping available within the U.S. only. * Thanks for listening!

In this sermon from Flourishing Grace Church, Pastor Benjer McVeigh preaches from Luke 8:22–25, the account of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee. It's a familiar story, but one that holds deep theological truth and practical comfort for those walking through life's storms. As the disciples cross the lake with Jesus, a sudden and violent windstorm overwhelms their boat. Despite their experience as fishermen, they panic and cry out, “Master, we are perishing.” Jesus, asleep in the boat, wakes up and rebukes the wind and the waves. Instantly, there is calm. But instead of relief, the disciples are struck with awe and fear, asking, “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?” Pastor Benjer uses this moment to address a misunderstanding many people have about faith. Faith, he explains, is not just an emotion or a feeling that we try to muster up. It is not a spiritual bucket we need to keep filled with positivity or certainty. Instead, true biblical faith requires two things: an object and trust. You must have something or someone worthy of trust, and you must actually trust them. It's not enough to say you have faith in something—you must act on it. Using a personal story about teaching his daughters to drive, he illustrates the difference between saying you trust someone and actually getting in the car with them. This message challenges listeners to reflect on whether their view of Jesus is too small. The disciples had seen Jesus heal and teach, but they had never seen him command nature itself. Their panic came not just from the storm but from not fully understanding who Jesus is. Once they saw his power on display, they were filled with a new kind of fear—not fear of the storm, but reverent awe at the one who controls it. In the same way, Pastor Benjer argues, many of us walk through life trusting in ourselves, our relationships, or our resources to get us through the storm. But when life falls apart, we find out those things are not strong enough to save us. Only Jesus is. To expand our understanding of Jesus, the sermon moves into Colossians 1:15–20, a foundational passage that paints a grand picture of Christ. Paul writes that Jesus is the image of the invisible God, the creator of all things, the one in whom all things hold together, and the one through whom all things are reconciled. Pastor Benjer emphasizes that Jesus is not just good—he is God. Not just comforting—he is cosmic. He's not one item on a list of priorities—he is in a category all his own. When we truly see who Jesus is, we understand that no storm is beyond his control and no moment of chaos surprises him. This message also makes space for those who are struggling. For followers of Jesus who feel like they're drowning, it offers the reminder that the object of their faith—Jesus—is still in the boat with them. For those who have never trusted Jesus, it offers a clear explanation of the gospel and an invitation to place their trust in him. The sermon ends with a call to action—not to muster more feelings of belief, but to fix our eyes on the one who calms storms and conquered death. Throughout the message, Pastor Benjer reminds listeners that the size of our faith isn't what ultimately sustains us—it's the strength of the one we trust. And Jesus is strong enough. He's not small. He's not manageable. But he is good, and he is present. Whether the storm calms or continues, we are never alone. This sermon encourages believers to expand their view of Jesus and rest in the security of knowing who is with them in the boat.

Are we trying to manipulate God or worship Him? Is God's presence in your life a source of joy or judgment? In 1 Samuel 5, the Philistines believed they had conquered the God of Israel by capturing the ark, but what unfolds next is a powerful revelation: God cannot be controlled, co-opted, or contained. His hand brings victory over idols, judgment upon His enemies, and—ultimately—redemption through Christ for those who turn to Him in faith. In his sermon, “The Hand of the Lord,” Pastor Josiah unpacks the triumph of God's holiness over Dagon, the terror that falls on the Philistines, and the redemptive hope that shines bright in our lives when we reach out to the One who bore the hand of judgment in our place—Jesus Christ!

“I believe; help my unbelief.” In this week's message from Flourishing Grace Church, Lead Pastor Benjer McVeigh closes out our teaching series “Jesus, What Do I Do With That?” by addressing one of the most personal and pressing questions of the Christian life: What do I do with my doubt? Preaching from Mark 9:14–29, Pastor Benjer walks us through the powerful encounter between Jesus, a desperate father, and a demon-possessed child. The disciples have failed to help. The crowd is confused. The father is exhausted. And in the midst of this chaos, he utters one of the most honest prayers in Scripture: “I believe; help my unbelief.” For many of us, this is more than a quote—it's our reality. Doubt is not just intellectual; it's circumstantial. It comes from pain, from silence, from watching life fall apart when we expected Jesus to show up. This message reminds us that doubt is not something to hide—it's something to bring to Jesus. If you've ever wondered whether your doubts disqualify you from following Jesus, this sermon offers a compassionate yet challenging word. Pastor Benjer explains that doubt is often seen as a detour from faith, but in reality, it's a necessary part of a flourishing relationship with Christ. We don't need to have everything figured out before we move toward Jesus. In fact, trying to suppress our questions only leaves us vulnerable when life's hardest moments arrive. You'll hear why it's not faith versus doubt, but faith in the midst of doubt that matters. Drawing from real-life stories, biblical insight, and pastoral experience, Benjer offers a message full of grace for the struggling and hope for the skeptic. Here are some of the key themes explored in the message: • Doubt is not a sign of weak faith—it's often a step toward deeper faith. • Jesus welcomes our honesty more than our performance. • Real faith doesn't mean having all the answers. It means knowing where to take your questions. • Dependence on Jesus is the key to breakthrough, not religious technique or striving. This message also highlights the danger of viewing faith as a formula—something we must master or perfect. Instead, we're invited to embrace a posture of dependence, a life where prayer is not just a practice but a way of staying connected to the source of life itself. Even the disciples—those closest to Jesus—struggled when their expectations didn't line up with their experience. They had previously cast out demons and performed miracles. Yet in this moment, they failed. Jesus gently reminds them, and us, that power without prayer leads to spiritual dryness. We are called to stay connected to Him—not just to “do the work” but to know the One who empowers it. If you're in a season where God feels distant, where questions outweigh answers, or where your faith feels more fragile than firm, this sermon is for you. Pastor Benjer doesn't offer quick fixes. Instead, he gives us a true invitation: Bring your doubt. Bring your heart. And trust that Jesus is trustworthy. You're not alone. Your questions are not too much for God. And today might just be the moment you take one honest step toward Jesus, not because everything is clear, but because He has proven faithful. Scripture: Mark 9:14–29 Message Title: What Do I Do With Doubt? Speaker: Pastor Benjer McVeigh Series: Jesus, What Do I Do With That? Date: May 25, 2025 Location: Flourishing Grace Church – Bountiful, Utah Learn more or join us in person at flourishinggrace.org You can also find more messages, events, and teaching content from our church on Instagram, YouTube, and across your favorite podcast platforms. #FaithAndDoubt #HelpMyUnbelief #ChristianPodcast #FlourishingGraceChurch #BenjerMcVeigh #Mark9 #JesusIsTrustworthy #SoundCloudSermon #FollowingJesus

Are there areas in your life where you are trusting in religious activity—rather than in God's Word? What would it look like for your church to lose the presence of God but keep the appearance of faith? In 1 Samuel 4, Israel suffers a devastating defeat—not merely militarily, but spiritually—as the ark of God is captured and His glory departs. Despite having access to the Word of God through the prophet Samuel, the people ignore it and instead place their trust in a sacred object, assuming God's power could be wielded apart from faithful submission. This presumption leads to judgment: the priesthood collapses, the ark is lost, and “Ichabod” is declared—the glory has departed. But the story of Scripture doesn't end in Ichabod. Through judgment, God prepares the way for restoration. In Christ, the glory returns—not in a box, but in a savior. Emmanuel—God with us—is the name now written over those who receive Him by faith.

Send us a textTyler Finlayson, owner of Rest Recovery Wellness in Bountiful, UT speaks about the benefits of recovery tools such as sauna, cold plunge, red light, hyperbaric chamber, compression, float spa, and PEMF therapy. We uncover his "why" - his urge to offer such health options to the general public, and how he and his wife Melissa prioritize health in their own family.To learn more or to schedule your free visit go to:https://www.restrecoverybountiful.com/https://www.instagram.com/restrecoverybountiful/This episode is sponsored by BluApplehttps://thebluapple.com?sca_ref=8837292.HZGjjNgCnc&sca_source=PodcastUse Code: Brandi10 at checkout for 10% off your order of BluApple products

On this episode of the South Carolina Lede for May 24, 2025: we have a budget agreement for the $14.7 billion spending plan; there was also agreement in Washington over the tax and spending Republican megabill this week; Senate Budget Committee Chairman Sen. Lindsey Graham gives his take on the megabill and his new bipartisan bill to sanction Russia further; and more!

This week, Audrey interviews Cecilee Price-Huish, a member of the Bountiful City Council. The two discuss Cecilee's lifetime of community engagement and her run for the Bountiful City Council. Cecilee shares the way she found success by giving herself permission to make a difference.  Learn more about Project Elect here. 

In this message from our sermon series “Jesus, What Do I Do With…”, Pastor Brett guides us through Psalm 107:4–32 to explore one of the most universal human experiences: suffering. Whether it comes from our own decisions, the brokenness of the world, or divine redirection, suffering is something no one escapes—and everyone has to make sense of. Psalm 107 presents four case studies that illustrate the different ways people experience and respond to suffering: • The Wanderer – Spiritually disoriented, this person is seeking fulfillment but hasn't found a place to belong. Brett shares a personal story of getting lost in Tokyo to illustrate how spiritual wandering wears down the soul. But the text reminds us: those who cry out to the Lord are delivered and led home. • The Rebel – This is the person who resists God outright. Maybe out of hurt, cynicism, or pride, the rebel pushes back on God's wisdom and builds their own version of truth. Brett connects this to our modern culture's emphasis on self-definition and control, warning that these paths lead to despair. Yet even here, when the rebel cries out, God answers, breaks the chains, and sets them free. • The Fool – Not in overt rebellion, but through small, quiet compromises, the fool slowly loses their appetite for the things of God. They may still go through the motions of faith, but sin has dulled their spiritual senses. Brett calls us to examine our habits, cravings, and compromises, reminding us that Jesus didn't just come to forgive—He came to heal and restore what sin has emptied. • The CEO – Driven and successful, this person trusts more in their strength, hustle, and planning than in God. But storms come—sometimes divinely allowed—to expose our illusions of control. Brett describes this kind of suffering as “divine disruption,” a mercy that brings us back to dependence on God. When the storms rage, God hears our cries, calms the waters, and brings us to a place of peace. The heart of this sermon is a powerful reminder: suffering is not always something to escape—it might be an invitation into the steadfast love of God. Psalm 107 repeats the same chorus throughout: “Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man.” No matter the cause of the pain—wandering, rebellion, sin, or striving—God responds to cries for help with mercy, not condemnation. The message concludes with the story of Horatio Spafford, who wrote the hymn It Is Well With My Soul after losing his four daughters at sea. His suffering, though unimaginable, led to one of the most powerful declarations of faith the Church has known for over 150 years. His story reminds us that sometimes, songs of faith are born not in triumph, but in tragedy. This message invites all of us to examine our lives honestly. Are we numbing our ache, blaming others, or pretending we're fine? Or are we willing to cry out and let Jesus meet us in our distress? Through Psalm 107 and personal testimony, Brett reminds us that Jesus is not far off—He's close to the brokenhearted and ready to transform pain into praise. ⸻ Text: Psalm 107:4–32 Speaker: Brett Series: Jesus, What Do I Do With… Location: Flourishing Grace Church ⸻ Key Themes: Suffering, God's Steadfast Love, Wandering, Rebellion, Sin, Control, Deliverance, Healing, Redemption, Hope in Hardship, Worship in Suffering, Biblical Wisdom ⸻ If this message encouraged you, follow us on SoundCloud and share with someone who needs to be reminded that they are not alone in their pain. God hears. God heals. God delivers. #Psalm107 #Suffering #ChristianSermon #FaithInHardship #JesusHeals #GospelHope #FlourishingGraceChurch #ItIsWellWithMySoul #SpiritualFormation #BiblicalTeaching #ChristianPodcast #ChristianEncouragement #TheologyOfSuffering

When was the last time you slowed down enough to hear God's voice? What do you do when God's Word is hard to receive? In a time when God's voice was rarely heard and spiritual darkness covered the land, the Lord broke His silence—not through a priest or a king, but through a young boy named Samuel. This moment would mark a turning point in Israel's history and reveal something essential about how God speaks—and how we must respond. In his message, “When God Speaks,” centered on 1 Samuel 3:1-21, Pastor Josiah explores the critical difference between those who reject God's word and those who receive it in faith. God is still speaking. The question is—are we listening?

Location: Bountiful, Utah Join Us for Worship: Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM https://www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit In this moving Mother's Day sermon, guest speaker John Meyne, church planter at Good Soil Church in Ogden, Utah, explores the profound theme of grief through the story of Mary and Martha in John 11:28-37. As Mary falls at Jesus' feet, expressing her heartbreak over the death of her brother Lazarus, Jesus responds with compassion and empathy, not with quick fixes or immediate answers. John highlights how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, meets us in our grief, walking alongside us and even weeping with us, as seen in the shortest yet one of the most powerful verses in Scripture: "Jesus wept." John shares a deeply personal story about his own journey through loss involving his mother, illustrating how grief can feel heavy and overwhelming, yet how God invites us to bring our raw, unfiltered emotions to Him. Drawing from Psalms of lament, John emphasizes that Jesus doesn't ask us to mask our pain or pretend that everything is fine—instead, He invites us to bring our sorrow, anger, and questions to Him, trusting that He can handle even our deepest wounds. Throughout the message, John reminds listeners that while not every story ends with a miraculous resurrection like Lazarus', Jesus remains present in our suffering, offering comfort and hope even when the outcome is uncertain. He encourages those who have walked through grief to use their experiences to comfort others, becoming conduits of Christ's love and compassion in a broken world. As he concludes, John invites the congregation to a time of prayer, urging those who feel the weight of loss to come forward and receive support. Whether you're mourning the loss of a loved one, grappling with broken dreams, or feeling the sting of unmet expectations, this sermon offers a powerful reminder that Jesus is near, weeping with us, and walking us through our pain toward a place of healing and renewed hope.

Does your worship reflect a heart that fears and honors God—or is it centered on yourself? Are you faithfully serving the Lord even when no one notices? In a world where spiritual leadership is often compromised and worship reduced to performance, 1 Samuel 2:12–36 reveals a sobering truth: God is not indifferent to how He is worshiped. As the sons of Eli defile the priesthood with selfishness and sin, God is already at work raising up a faithful servant—Samuel—who will honor Him. In his sermon, “The Heart of Worship,” Pastor Josiah explores the contrast between corrupt and faithful worship, reminding us that God sees every heart, judges unfaithfulness righteously, and exalts those who walk humbly before Him.

It's that time of year when Denverites all seem to be asking the same question: When are we going to see the spring's final frost? But for gardeners, it's not just small talk. They need to know! So while we refresh our weather forecasts, host Bree Davies is sitting down with City Cast Denver's resident gardening expert, Ann Marie Awad, to talk about when it'll be safe to put your plants in the ground and answer all your other burning questions about Denver's dense soil, favorite perennials, the ever-present menace of squirrels, and more! Get more from City Cast Denver when you become a City Cast Denver Neighbor! You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm  For more gardening fun with Ann Marie Awad, check out her past appearances answering listener gardening questions in 2024 and 2023. She will also be hosting an event with ColoRadio this Friday at the Denver Press Club with a couple of vendors from the Denver VOICE. For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm. Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm What's your favorite garden store? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418 If you enjoyed this interview with Jennifer Gremmert, the CEO of Energy Outreach Colorado, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 23rd episode: PineMelon - Use code CITYCAST for 75% off! Denver Art Museum Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices