Podcasts about challenge be

Is God speaking to you—but you're too distracted to hear Him?In this powerful sermon, Lane Brown challenges us to take out the spiritual earbuds and tune in to the voice of God. Journey through the story of Samuel and discover how biblical heroes like Abraham, Moses, and Isaiah responded when God called. Featuring real-life stories, humor, and heartfelt challenges, this message invites you to move from hearing to obeying—and experience the transformation that comes when you say, “Here I am, Lord.”

The world will constantly rush you, pressure you, and pull you from God and calm in your life and day. You have to choose to step away from the crazy and create some space in your day. This will help bring you closer to God, bring calm in your heart, and add peace to your day. We will always have challenges and hard days, but when we have God, we can still be calm in our heart and know that we will be ok. Takeaway: Regardless of what is going on in your life, you can have calm in your heart. Challenge: Be intentional this week about creating space in your day so that you can have more peace in your heart. Quote: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. - Isaiah 40:31 Resources:Daily Intentions JournalDaily Surrender JournalDaily Motivation Plan

We are nerds in many different ways. One of the big things we do is get into long discussions about anime and movies. We discuss the character arcs and how they develop as people and what they do to show that in the shows. After the movies, we talk through our favorite parts and what made it memorable for us. This makes shows and moves more interesting to us.The Bible is designed to be something you can dig through your whole life and keep finding amazing things. God gave us the Word so we would dig into it and mine out the truths and wisdom it has for us. When we approach the Bible with the attitude of digging into it, we discover greater truths and develop the way God intended us to.We should approach the Bible with a sense of wonder, like digging for Gold. Proverbs says to seek wisdom as for silver and gold We are digging for treasure as we dig into the Bible.Read for the Face ValueFind the obvious truths and lessons the Bible contains.See how all the books of the bible work together.The Bible is meant to be read and reread over our entire lives.The more knowledge of the Bible, the more we can grow in God.We can't grow in God without knowing His Word.Prayer and the Bible go together.Dig for the Deeper WisdomWe must understand that there is more for us in the Bible rather than the surface.The Bible isn't just for professionals, it's for all of us.As men who lead, we need wisdom for life and the Bible offers it to us.Misinterpretations of the Bible often come from people only reading for face value without digging, praying, and understanding the context.Challenge:Be patient with yourself as you start the processPay attention and look for the deeper truth.Get study materials to help you along the wayBe willing to reflect and take the time to think about it.“Knowledge comes quickly, but wisdom grows slowly.”RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

Are you just preaching and lecturing your kid, but not actually living your life that way? Get honest with yourself. We need to become aware, and grow as a person as well. Our kids need to see us learn from mistakes, make better choices, and own it when we are wrong. If you really want to influence your kids, pay attention to what you are giving them an example of. Challenge: Be the example you want your kids to be. Resource: Grow up: Becoming the parent your kids deserve.

We are currenly in the Friendship Series. Last week I asked you to draw a friendship timeline. That laid the foundation for looking at past and current friendships as well as noticing healthy and unhealthy themes in this area. Speaking of unhealthy, let's address one toxic trait that will bring every friendship crashing down- GOSSIP. Scripture: Proverbs 26:22 (MSG), "Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you want junk like that in your belly?" Process: Who do I need to stop gossiping about? Is my main form of communication with friends gossip? Challenge: Be mindful of leading with gossip. When you are tempted to gossip, ask, "What do I really need in this moment?"  Resource: In my book, Image Restored, the last counselor cornerstone activity is called the "Community Wheel." If you don't have the book, go to ImageRestoredBook.com to learn more and purchase a copy. If you aren't yet subscribed to my email newsletter, do that today as we are emailing a pdf download of the community wheel to the community. Go to rachaelgilbert.com click the freebies tab and subscribe to the community there.

Sam Black has spent decades helping people find freedom from pornography. From early exposure to repetition through adolescence and finally using pornography as escapism, Sam believes that healing from any stage of pornography is possible. He offers the church tools to lead their people to freedom. To learn more about the podcast or access the show notes, visit www.redletterpodcast.com. We talk about the power of freedom in today's episode with Sam Black. And we'd now love for you to go on the journey to not only forgive others, but to receive God's forgiveness for your life. Before we can truly bring reconciliation to others in the world, we need to be reconciled to God. Thankfully, He doesn't withhold His grace of forgiveness from any of us. It's time to receive the freedom that comes with the forgiveness of God because a forgiven person becomes a forgiving person!We'd love to introduce you to the 40-Day Forgiving Challenge.Forgiving Challenge takes you on a life-changing journey to experience the gift of God's grace so that you can share it with others. It also helps you identify and walk through the five phases leading to freedom. You can learn more about the challenge here!Resources mentioned in the episode: The Healing Church: What Churches Get Wrong About Pornography And How To Fix It by Sam Black Covenant Eyes Victory App by Covenant EyesGood Pictures Bad Pictures Jr.: A Simple Plan to Protect Young Minds by Kristen A Jenson M.A. Good Pictures Bad Pictures Porn-proofing Today's Young Kids by Kristen A Jenson M.A.Pure Desire Be BrokenKey insights from the episode: Early exposure to pornography, repetition through adolescence, and the use of escapism as an adult create a pattern of addiction. – Sam BlackThe church falsely claims that men will struggle with pornography their whole lives. – Sam BlackWe need mind, body, and spirit healing to escape the grips of pornography. – Sam BlackParents are afraid to say anything about pornography because they are afraid that it will make them curious. – Sam BlackIf you want to teach a kid to hide, shame them about pornography. – Sam BlackYou should begin having conversations about pornography when your child is 5,6 years old. – Sam BlackWe need to equip our kids, not if they get exposed, but when they get exposed to pornography. – Sam BlackKnowledge proceeds to understand, and understanding proceeds to change. – Sam BlackAnger is a common trigger for pornography. – Sam Black93% of churches do nothing to address pornography. – Sam BlackFood addiction and porn addiction are shockingly similar. – Sam Black Sam Black's Challenge: Be the friend you would like to have.Before we can truly bring reconciliation to others in the world, we need to be reconciled to God. Thankfully, He doesn't withhold His grace of forgiveness from anyone of us. It's time to receive the freedom that comes with the forgiveness of God because a forgiven person becomes a forgiving person!We'd love to introduce you to the 40-Day Forgiving Challenge.The Forgiving Challenge takes you on a life-changing journey to experience the gift of God's grace so that you can share it with others. It also helps you identify and walk through the five phases leading to freedom. You can learn more about the challenge here!A Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a digital media and commercial video production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network and learn more about our other services today on HurrdatMedia.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Yes, we could have a big purpose in life, but I also believe each day, and season, we could have a different purpose, or even multiple purposes. Let us slow down enough to hear God's whispers and where we are needed today, and let us be open to hearing where we can make a difference in today. Challenge: Be open to what your purpose just this week might be.e. Be prepared with ways to stay calm.

In this episode:Love Rebellion by Shen; Jai on vocals, Monte on keyboard and percussionConversation wrapping up 2022 - the year of collaboration and community. Challenge - Be a Stoic For a Day! How can a person be wise to the subconscious rule in their mind, how can we find the line between processing a traumatic event or experience and ruminating about it. Nature Boy cover by Shen; Jai on vocals and synth, Monte on bass.Conversation covering the forgiveness protocol.Jai and Monte share their insights and growth of 2022 and hopes for 2023. Enjoy! Support the show

Called and SentAs members of God's family, we have the incredible opportunity to participate in God's plan for saving people. With such privilege comes great responsibility. As servants of God, believers should commit to prayerfully seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance and responding quickly to His calling. When we do, we are fulfilling God's purpose for the Church to take the Good News of Jesus to the world.---God can do amazing things through ordinary people who are empowered by the Holy Spirit. In the book of Acts, the Holy Spirit was given to all believers and the church was born. The church is God's chosen instrument in the world for sharing the good news about Jesus Christ. The book of Acts is all about the unhindered movement of God throughout the world as the gospel of Jesus Christ is proclaimed through the church. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the early church was an unstoppable movement that proclaimed the Kingdom of God and Jesus Christ as the only way to eternal life. Today, the church empowered by the Holy Spirit is called to continue God's redeeming work in the world by fulfilling God's mission of making Jesus known to the ends of the earth. Acts of the Apostles 13:1-12 NLTAmong the prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch of Syria were Barnabas, Simeon (called “the black man”), Lucius (from Cyrene), Manaen (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul. One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. So Barnabas and Saul were sent out by the Holy Spirit. They went down to the seaport of Seleucia and then sailed for the island of Cyprus. There, in the town of Salamis, they went to the Jewish synagogues and preached the word of God. John Mark went with them as their assistant. Afterward they traveled from town to town across the entire island until finally they reached Paphos, where they met a Jewish sorcerer, a false prophet named Bar-Jesus. He had attached himself to the governor, Sergius Paulus, who was an intelligent man. The governor invited Barnabas and Saul to visit him, for he wanted to hear the word of God. But Elymas, the sorcerer (as his name means in Greek), interfered and urged the governor to pay no attention to what Barnabas and Saul said. He was trying to keep the governor from believing. Saul, also known as Paul, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he looked the sorcerer in the eye. Then he said, “You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good! Will you never stop perverting the true ways of the Lord? Watch now, for the Lord has laid his hand of punishment upon you, and you will be struck blind. You will not see the sunlight for some time.” Instantly mist and darkness came over the man's eyes, and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him. When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord. • • •1. Some people will be open to hearing God's Word. (v. 1-7) 2. Some people will be opposed to God's Word. (v. 8-11) 3. Some people will believe God's Word and be saved. (v. 12) • • •Supporting Texts:Matthew 28:16-20Acts 1:8Romans 1:16-17Romans 8:29-30Ephesians 1:4 • • •Challenge: Be available for whatever God wants you to do and for wherever God wants you to go! Our best preparation for discovering how God wants to fulfill His mission through us is to start with prayer. Here is a simple prayer that may be helpful in getting you started today. God, grant me the willingness to serve you wherever you send me, in total dependance upon your power and grace to enable me to speak the gospel well and to trust God with the results. Amen!

There is no better time for Tony Morgan's The Unstuck Group ministry than now. He believes that healthy churches are often stuck in a hard season. His advice for balancing discipleship and evangelism is relevant to every church and every disciple; just walk across the street. To learn more about the podcast or access the show notes, visit www.redletterpodcast.com. As an author, podcaster, blogger, communicator, or content creator, do you ever feel like you put in the same amount of effort as others, but don't see the same results? Carey Nieuwhof and The Art of Leadership Academy have a free mastermind that will help you amplify your reach and impact online by: Identifying your dream audienceLearning how to get them to notice you and connect with you; and Figuring out which platforms are worth your time and effort and which aren't To register for free, visit influencekickstarter.com. Building online influence doesn't have to be intimidating or complicated. And it also doesn't have to be gimmicky or ruin your integrity. Resources mentioned in the episode: The Unstuck Group The Unstuck Group AssessmentKey insights from the episode: In most cases, it's not that churches are unhealthy; they are healthy churches that are just stuck. - Tony MorganIn-person attendance still seems to be a good barometer for engagement in many other areas of a church's ministry. - Tony MorganFor those that only engage online, are we actually going to be their church in a moment of crisis? - Tony MorganIs your online service going to be your front door or just another door? - Zach ZehnderTraditional church pastors are starting to act like church planters. - Tony MorganHealthy churches need both a reach strategy and a healthy spiritual formation strategy. - Tony MorganA reach strategy should be a part of the life of every person who calls themselves a Christ follower. - Tony MorganBecause of social media, we have more relationship connections than ever, but we don't know how to do relationships. - Tony MorganWhen there's an interruption, we lean in. -Tony MorganRather than going across the globe, the biggest challenge I have is going across the street. - Tony MorganTony Morgan's Challenge: Be intentional about engaging with someone who you know but don't really know. For so many Christians, the discipleship process isn't very clear.They know they need to go to church, pray, not sin, and maybe attend a small group. While these are great things, they don't outline a clear path leading people to live more like Jesus. We'd love to introduce you to the 40-Day Red Letter Challenge.When you and your church take the challenge, you'll have a clear 40-day discipleship path that will help you master five key areas of discipleship.You can learn more about the challenge here!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you've been thinking of launching a podcast, listen to this episode. If you love listening to my podcast, listen to this behind the scenes episode. It took me 7 years to launch my first podcast episode. And I intentionally set the date of launching it on 21.09.21 for the spring equinox [a year ago], under a full moon in Pisces [to trust my intuitive wisdom]. Before this I was holding myself back by thinking it is too late to start now (so many podcasts already), no one would listen with my French accent in English, that I didn't know how to record, edit or which platform to choose to host my podcast… etc! There came a time where I acknowledged the excuses and went through the step by step of setting up a podcast. I just made it happen. As I publish THIS episode, I realised that in less than 12 months, I ranked #23 for the Entrepreneurs category in Australia on Apple podcasts. You will never be ready, so JUST START TAKING IMPERFECT ACTIONS NOW! YES I see you procrastinating, I hear you, I feel you! With deep compassion and love, I summon you to start NOW! P.s We have a GIVEAWAY for the 1st birthday of the podcast - Subscribe, Rate, Review THEN send me DM on IG with your review and share on IG story tagging me your favourite episode to win a spot in my next round of Ayurveda in Business [worth USD 1,111]. If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share this on your Instagram stories and tag me @essential.shift. KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Why starting a podcast is a powerful branding exercise The excuses that are holding you back from starting a podcast How to focus on being intentional when starting a podcast Why is it important to structure your podcast content around your Ideal Customer Avatar SHOW RESOURCES JOIN my FREE 3-day Challenge “Be more, Do less” - HERE FREE Business with Flow Webinar - HERE JOIN Ayurveda in Business - HERE FOLLOW me on INSTAGRAM to share your favourite episode - HERE CHECK out DIY Content Marketing Club to start a podcast - HERE FREE tools and guides to support your journey - HERE Join the FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY - HERE Find out more about how to WORK WITH ME - HERE If you like this episode, don't forget to share it to your Instagram stories and tag me @essential.shift. Bless it be. With love, Laetitia!

It is time to get serious! Right now, I am seeing too many business owners, just like you, burn out because they aren't treating their business like a business. Maybe you are treating your business like a hobby or a side-hustle! I got the question recently from one of my private clients: “how have you grown your business journey in such a short period of time?” The answer: I treated it from day one as a company. An empire. Which is what I'll go into now. It is time for you to do the same! Try instead to focus on investing your time in the 3 things I'm going to share from my decade of experience mentoring startups and impact driven entrepreneurs. If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share this on your Instagram stories and tag me @essential.shift. KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS The difference between a business and a hobby What are the 4 practical tips you need to treat your business like a business owner What are the 3 mindset shift you will experience by treating your business like a business Why is it important to have hobbies as a business owner as well SHOW RESOURCES JOIN my FREE 3-day Challenge “Be more, Do less” - HERE FREE Business with Flow Webinar - HERE CHECK out episode 41 - HERE CHECK out episode 34 - HERE FOLLOW me on INSTAGRAM - HERE FREE tools and guides to support your journey - HERE Join the FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY - HERE Find out more about how to WORK WITH ME - HERE If you like this episode, don't forget to share it to your Instagram stories and tag me @essential.shift. Bless it be. With love, Laetitia!

JUDGES: A Faithful God in a Broken World "Idolatry: Everything Old is New Again" (Judges 17:1-18:31)For bulletin in PDF form click here. Message SlidesRight in Their Own Eyes - MacArthurManipulating God - YoungerContemporary Significance of Judges 17-18 - YoungerIsrael Hits Rock Bottom - HaysIdols, A Renegade levite, and a Rival Cult - ChisholmReflections of Judges 17-18 - WebbIntroduction: Canaanization Then and NowMicah Makes a New Religious ShrineRejection of God's instruction and authorityleads to chaotic lives that are too baffling to understand.(17:1-6)Micah Buys a New PriestYou can be religious without being spiritual.(17:7-13)The Tribe of Dan Seeks a New HomeWhen you are not fully committed to God's planyou can be deluded into thinking your plan is best(often convincing yourself it is God's plan).(18:1-7)The Tribe of Dan Buys a New PriestWhen you are pursuing your own interestsyou will often presume the favor of Godand twist your religion to affirm your pursuits.(18:8-21)The Tribe of Dan Sets Up a New Religious ShrineSelf-serving interests and pursuitscannot be covered up with religious rituals.(18:22-31) When God's people are ignorant of His instruction and rebel against His authority(putting themselves at the center of their lives)they are often indistinguishable from the world around them.Next Steps • Truth: Rejecting God's plan and authority creates chaos. • Warning: It is very easy to deceive yourself into thinking God is on your side when He is not. • Challenge: Be willing to live a life that is distinct from the world around you. Grace and truth.This Week's Growth GuideGod's Word is both central and critical to your spiritual growth. We invite you to utilize the Growth Guide during the week to further your application of the Truth from the message.•. Monday - Judges 17•. Tuesday - Judges 18• Wednesday - Judges 19•. Thursday - Judges 20•. Friday - Judges 21FinancesWeekly Budget 28,846Giving For 05/29 17,850Giving For 06/05 30,557YTD Budget 1,413,462YTD Giving 1,572,945 OVER/UNDER 159,482Generations CampaignTotal Pledge 1,535,065Received-to-date 1,643,968Kids Vacation bible school | July 11-15Kids completing K-4th grades are invited to join us for a journey through Jerusalem, July 11-15, 9 AM-Noon. Registration is $5/child. Each child can invite one friend who they would like to hear the Good News. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you joined the Fellowship Family to worship this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Fellowship King of smoke | TONIGHT | BeaverforKMen, join us tonight. All men and their sons are invited to come enjoy some time with the guys at Beaverfork at 4 PM. Bring discs, fishing gear, corn hole, anything to enjoy with other people. Come hungry because we have good food to eat. Father's Day Slide ShowThe Fellowship Father's Day Slide Show is next week and we need your photo. Photo must be received by Tuesday, June 14. Submit your photo (1 photo only per family) to rmorrow@fellowshipconway.org. Come experience Downline this fall! Are you making disciples? Do you want to be better equipped in God's Word? For nine months, people from different Conway churches will gather at Fellowship to walk through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and be further equipped as disciple-makers in our churches, homes, and communities. Would you consider investing the time and energy in your spiritual life this next year by joining us in August of 2022? If you are interested in learning more about being a part of the Downline Institute that will kick off in August, please email Chris Kear at chris@downlineconway.com. Apply now at downlineconway.com/apply before it is too late. Arlington, TX Mission Trip has returnedPraise God for all He has done in and through the 63 students and adults that went to Arlington, Texas this past week. The Lord used our students to invite kids in neighborhoods to attend a backyard Bible study at 5 locations. Kids heard the Gospel, sang songs to the Lord, and built relationships with our students. What an incredible time seeing Fellowship students living out our mission of inviting them to consider a relationship with Jesus and equipping them with Truth. Thank you for being part through your prayers and your gifts!

JUDGES: A Faithful God in a Broken World "Idolatry: Everything Old is New Again" (Judges 17:1-18:31)For bulletin in PDF form click here.Message SlidesRight in Their Own Eyes - MacArthurManipulating God - YoungerContemporary Significance of Judges 17-18 - YoungerIsrael Hits Rock Bottom - HaysIdols, A Renegade levite, and a Rival Cult - ChisholmIntroduction: Canaanization Then and NowMicah Makes a New Religious ShrineRejection of God's instruction and authorityleads to chaotic lives that are too baffling to understand.(17:1-6)Micah Buys a New PriestYou can be religious without being spiritual. (17:7-13)The Tribe of Dan Seeks a New HomeWhen you are not fully committed to God's planyou can be deluded into thinking your plan is best(often convincing yourself it is God's plan).(18:1-7)The Tribe of Dan Buys a New PriestWhen you are pursuing your own interestsyou will often presume the favor of Godand twist your religion to affirm your pursuits.(18:8-21)The Tribe of Dan Sets Up a New Religious ShrineSelf-serving interests and pursuitscannot be covered up with religious rituals.(18:22-31) When God's people are ignorant of His instruction and rebel against His authority(putting themselves at the center of their lives)they are often indistinguishable from the world around them.Next Steps • Truth: Rejecting God's plan and authority creates chaos. • Warning: It is very easy to deceive yourself into thinking God is on your side when He is not. • Challenge: Be willing to live a life that is distinct from the world around you. This Week's Growth GuideGod's Word is both central and critical to your spiritual growth. We invite you to utilize the Growth Guide during the week to further your application of the Truth from the message.•. Monday - Judges 17•. Tuesday - Judges 18•. Wednesday - Judges 19•. Thursday - Judges 20•. Friday - Judges 21Fellowship 101 | June 12 | 9:00 a.m.We invite you to join us Sunday morning, June 12, at 9:00 a.m. to learn more about Fellowship. This is a great opportunity to learn about our mission, values, and ministries. If you're new to Fellowship, join us in the conference room (first floor) to hear what God's doing and where He is taking us. During this time you will get to meet some of our ministry leaders and ask questions. We're excited to meet you! Register at www.fellowshipconway.org/register. New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you joined the Fellowship Family to worship this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Fellowship Kids VBS | July 11-15 Kids completing K-4th grades are invited to join us for a journey through Jerusalem, July 11-15, 9 AM-Noon. Registration is $5/child. Each child can invite one friend who they would like to hear the Good News. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. Father's Day Slide ShowStart collecting your favorite photo of dad! The Fellowship Father's Day Slide Show is just around the corner. Submit your photos (1 photo only per family) to rmorrow@fellowshipconway.org. All photos must be received by Tues. June 14. Fellowship King of Smoke | June 12 | BeaverforkMen, join us as individuals and teams show off their grilling skills, all while hanging out and having fun. All men and their sons are invited to join while we partake of the meat that has been prepared by those competing. We are looking for 4-6 guys (or teams) to bring their best grillin' skills and be crowned the “King of the Smoke”. We'll make it easy, we will pay for the meat, you bring the smoke! Sign up at fellowshipconway.org/register Men's Book Club | June 2 | 6-8:00 p.m. “The Jesus I Never Knew” by Phillip Yancey. Get your book and join us Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. here at Fellowship (Room 2110). Come experience Downline this fall! Are you making disciples? Do you want to be better equipped in God's Word? For nine months, people from different Conway churches will gather at Fellowship to walk through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and be further equipped as disciple-makers in our churches, homes, and communities. Would you consider investing the time and energy in your spiritual life this next year by joining us in August of 2022? If you are interested in learning more about being a part of the Downline Institute that will kick off in August, please email Chris Kear at chris@downlineconway.com. Apply now at downlineconway.com/apply before it is too late. FinancesWeekly Budget 28,846Giving For 05/22 24,262Giving For 05/29 17,850YTD Budget 1,384,615YTD Giving 1,542,389 OVER/UNDER 157,773Generations CampaignTotal Pledge 1,535,065Received-to-date 1,643,118

JUDGES: A Faithful God in a Broken World"The Honored Women of Judges" (Various Passages)For bulletin in PDF form click here.Message SlidesThe Literary Shape of Judges - BodaThe Rhetorical Purpose of Judges - BodaWomen in Judges - WebbIntroductions: • Women in the World: Then and Now • How to Listen to a Mother's Day MessageAksah: A Noble Woman and Worthy BrideA godly woman has a clear vision for the futureand an urgent awareness of the need for provision.(Judges 1:11-15)Deborah: A Prophetess and Leader of God's PeopleIn chaotic times godly Women can often see the will of God more clearlyand lead the praise of the LORD more passionately.(Judges 4:1-5:31)Jael and the Woman of Thebez: Quietly Hammering Home a Hard LessonIn chaotic times godly women often step into difficult positionsto accomplish great victories for the Lord.(Judges 4:17-21; 9:50-55)Jael: Blessed for Participation in the LORD's StoryIn chaotic times godly women are blessed when theyunhesitatingly participate in the victories of the Lord.(Judges 5:24-27) The LORD blesses, honors, and highlights godly womenwho are passionate participants in His stories of deliverance.Next Steps • Truth: God blesses and honors women and we should as well. • Warning: When men do not lead as God calls them to do, women will step in and lead well. • Challenge: Be a willing and passionate participant in the story of God. This Week's Growth GuideGod's Word is both central and critical to your spiritual growth. We invite you to utilize the Growth Guide during the week to further your application of the Truth from the message.•. Monday - Judges 1:1-15•. Tuesday - Judges 4:1-12•. Wednesday - Judges 4:13-24•. Thursday - Judges 5:1-18•. Friday - Romans 5:19-31FinancesWeekly Budget 28,846Giving For 04/24 32,419Giving For 05/01 13,861YTD Buget 1,269,231YTD Giving 1,447,618 OVER/UNDER 178,386 Generations CampaignTotal Pledge 1,535,065Received-to-date 1,640,223 Life Choices Baby Bottle Drive The "Change For Life" campaign is kicking off here at Fellowship TODAY! Grab a baby bottle and bring it back, filled with change or a check (payable to Life Choices) Sunday, May 15. What a great way to help moms in our community with their needs.New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you joined the Fellowship Family to worship this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect” section of your bulletin, tear it off, and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Men's fellowship | May 11 | 5:30 a.m.Men, join us for breakfast, fellowship, and a time for prayer Wednesday, May 11, 5:30 a.m. Text "mensgroup" to 501-344-4449. Night Of Worship | May 15 | 6:00 p.m.“Glorify the Lord with me, let us exalt His name together.” - Psalm 34:3. Join us Sunday, May 15, at 6:00 pm for community, singing, guided prayer, and communion as we come together for the first night of worship in more than two years. This will be a special evening that you will not want to miss! Childcare is available for children 6 and younger by texting Shanna at 501-336-0332.Fellowship Kids VBS | July 11-15 Kids completing K-4th grades are invited to join us for a journey through Jerusalem, July 11-15, 9 AM-Noon. Spend the week learning about Jesus, His service, sorrow, and great joy with Fellowship Kids. Registration is $5/child and each child can invite one friend who they would like to hear the Good News. The friend can attend for free. If you would like to join us on our journey as a volunteer, we will provide a VBS experience for your younger children, while you serve. Register today at fellowshipconway.org/register. Fellowship Volunteers Do you have a heart to see our kids develop a relationship with Jesus and build a foundation of faith while having tons of fun? We have a place for you, behind the scenes or face to face. If you are interested in joining us as we continue our journey through the Bible this summer contact Heather McKinney at hmckinney@fellowshipconway.org. Easter offering We have $20,163 of the $30,000 needed for packing and sending 2400 shoe boxes to difficult areas to access. You can give by going to https://tinyurl.com/5acbydnk and selecting the "Easter Offering" which is option 2.

SHOW NOTES: On this show…we aren't going to be quick to dismiss our emotions or shame ourselves for overreacting. Instead, we're going to listen to our bodies, recognize the sensations, and be thankful that acting on instinct is our brain's natural protection. Your mind is command central and in most cases, is working for you not against you. In certain situations, you have a heightened sense of awareness for a reason. Cause for pause isn't just a catchy slogan but your brain's warning signal. Laughter, tears, shock, connection, joy, and peace are all delivering much-needed chemicals from your brain to your body at just the right moment. We can become overwhelmed, over-stimulated, and over-tired without reason except to say, OK, I hear you. Thank you for always looking out for me. Before someone tells you to stop feeling a certain way or to start feeling a certain way - shouldn't you take the time to understand where you're mind is coming from? I don't know about you but I am fascinated by the brain! We have such complex emotions, thoughts, and reactions, that it seems like our minds never shut off completely. Now, we could dwell on those moments where we find ourselves ruminating, worrying, or in a state of unnecessary panic over the past or the perceived future. But let's not. Let's try and understand how our brains protect us, and how they trigger us to be aware, question, and reason.  In 1784, philosopher Immanuel Kant penned a now-famous essay entitled, “What Is Enlightenment?” He called out people's tendency to blindly follow thought leaders. “If I have a book that thinks for me, a pastor who acts as my conscience, a physician who prescribes my diet, and so on — then I have no need to exert myself. I have no need to think if I can only pay; others will take care of that disagreeable business for me,” he wrote. His thesis for the essay became a rallying cry for the era. “Sapere Aude! (Dare to know.) ‘Have the courage to use your own understanding,' is, therefore, the motto of the enlightenment.” Today I feel very led to think a certain way. Not because there has been some thoroughly researched revelation and I'm late to the party but more of someone's ideas and opinions that spread and infect or impact large groups of people who adopt those same ideas and opinions as to their own. At times it feels like a tidal wave. Swim hard or get sucked down. What I want to say is HEY…wait a minute. Give me some time to sit with my feelings. Explore more than one point of view and come together with my own thoughts. THEN I might be ready to talk about it to see how my ideas match or differ from yours, or theirs, his, or hers.  Does that sound reasonable? Let's look at why our mind behaves as it does, how our brains protect us, and what it means to be a free thinker.  Caitlin Lance Hope gets us started on this exploration with Being and feeling safe – what's the brain got to do with it?! Found at sfac.org Z.Hereford teaches us How to Think for Yourself - just some ideas of course fund at essentiallifeskills.net I found a few more ideas on the subject at aconsciousrethink.com Remy Awika gives us The 10 Traits That Make You a Free-Thinker found at medium.com   CHALLENGE: Be informed, be inspired, be educated, but don't be led to make your mind up before you are ready. Your thoughts and opinions are valuable and should never be discounted. Take your time. I Know YOU Can Do It!

We're continuing our series in 1 John with Lead Pastor, John Carrano, encouraging us to know that we are a part of the family. . . . Reflection Questions - Are you surviving as an orphan or living as a dearly loved child? - How does my life reflect that? Challenge - Be part of the family of God this week! Scripture 1 John 2:28 - 3:10 1 Peter 2:10 Ephesians 5: 1-2 Galatians 5:22

Join us this week as guest speaker, Javier Garcia, shares an encouraging word. So listen as we discover that we are a letter from Christ, and how that means we should live. . . . Reflection Questions - What has God written in you? - What do you think others read in you? - Can others read in you what He has done? Why yes or no? Challenge - Be a letter from Christ this week! Intentionally share with others about who you are in Jesus. Scripture 2 Corinthians 3:2-3 2 Corinthians 5:17 John 3:17 John 16:13

I was talking with a friend the other day. He and his family have considered moving to another state. As we talked together about the possible transition, he said something that meant so much to me. He said, “The main thing that keeps us from moving is the thought of leaving our church community. The ministry and the relationships in the church are so valuable to us, we are finding it hard to leave it behind.I know God moves people from place to place, and we bless anyone who is following God's will for their lives. But my friend's love for the church and the people of God meant so much to me. As we read the New Testament we see that God created the church so we would all be together. We would share live together. We would share the mission of Jesus together.At the end of Acts chapter two we see this beautiful snapshot of the early church. Verse 44 says, “All the believers were together.”  What made the early church powerful was that they had two things.  They had the baptism in the Holy Spirit, and they had one another.  If believers had isolated themselves, the church would have never expanded.  It would have never grown to impact the world.  We are powerful because we are together. I read this week that a recent study found that 2/3 of Christians believe they can walk with God without other believers. This statistic breaks my heart because I know this is not God's will for us.This past year Covid restrictions forced most of our churches online. We are grateful for the tools of technology that enable us to spread the gospel further than ever before, but we must recognize that church is not a video, it's not a broadcast, and it's not a podcast. The church of Jesus Christ is a community.Christian community is not something we participate in, if we can find the time.  Serving Jesus together is the center of our activity.  Everything else flows out of our life together in Jesus.Romans 12 – “…so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”  Listen to those words… “each member belongs to all the others.” This means that church is not about me. It's about others. As I share in the community of Christ, as I bless others, I am obeying God.The scripture teaches us that community is not optional.  You many not feel like it.  You may feel like “I'm very self-sufficient. I don't need other people in my life.”  But the truth is you absolutely have to have other people in your life if you are going to be all God wants you to be. If you read the New Testament you begin to see a phrase that is repeated over and over. It is the phrase “one another.” Here's what God's Word instructs us to do…Love one another. Be devoted to one another. Encourage one another. Pray for one another. Honor one another. Serve one another. Bear with one another. Forgive one another. Submit to one another. Carry one another's burdens….and that's just the beginning. It goes on and on.There is no concept of Christianity lived in isolation in the New Testament. The idea that you could be a Christian and not be connected with other believers would be foreign to the New Testament writers and it is not God's will. Here's the bottom line. We need one another. I need you and you need me. Today's Challenge: Be a part of a community of believers. Make a commitment. No church is perfect. We are all struggling to be what God wants us to be. Plug in. Be faithful. Serve. Give. Use your gifts and talents. Be on mission for Jesus with other Christians. As you do, you honor Christ and fulfill his purpose for your life.

I remember buying my first car. I had worked hard all summer and saved my money. I noticed a guy near our church had a car out front with a for sale sign on it. My Dad and I went to check it out. He wanted a $1,000 for the car, but with my great negotiation skills, I was able to get him down to $950. It was a 1979 Datsun Station Wagon. The color was yellow. And the car was mine.I noticed though after driving a bit that the car pulled hard to the right side of the road. If I were to take my hands off the wheel, the car would eventually went off the road and into the ditch. Have you ever driven a car that tends to pull in one direction? It means the car is out of alignment. Have you ever had a car that was out alignment?Let me ask you another question: Is your life out of alignment? Is it in alignment with God's Word?It all starts in our thought life.  Your thoughts tend to pull to one direction. It might be self-pity. It might be unforgiveness. It might be fear. It might be lust. By faith we put both hands on the wheel and turn the steering wheel of our minds back to God.I don't have to convince you that we all struggle with this.  Our minds are very often disobedient to God.  All of the sudden you will catch yourself.  Why am I so worried?  Why am I so afraid?  You didn't wake up and consciously decide to feel resentful and bitter?  What happened?  Your thoughts went that way and you entertained them.  Ever notice that your thoughts are rebellious?  When you start to pray, your thoughts drift away.How can I bring my thoughts under control?  How can I renew my mind?  How can I come to the place where my thought life pleases God?Romans 12:2 – “Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Three guidelines God's Word gives us to renew our minds:•Examine my thoughtsPsalm 139:23 – “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts”We have to ask God to help us to monitor our thoughts.  We pray something like this… “Lord, this morning as I begin my day, I want my entire life to honor you…what I do, what I say, and even what I think… Father, if I am thinking things that conflict with your Word, reveal them to me.”•Focus my thoughtsColossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”Not only is it important to monitor your thought, but with God's help you can also, focus your thoughts.  You can give direction to your thoughts.  I can begin to tell my mind where I want it to go.•Feed my mindThis brings us to the third tool God gives us to have victory in our thought life.  I can learn to feed my mind.  I can be intentional about what I put in my mind. Of course the best way to feed our mind spiritually is with God's Word. When you think on the powerful truths of Scripture, God uses His Word to change your way of thinking. The Bible teaches that our minds can be renewed.“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)Today's Challenge: Be honest and take inventory of your thought life. Does it honor God? Do you need your mind to be renewed? Your life won't be transformed until you submit your way of thinking to Christ. Today's let's set our thoughts on things that are pleasing to God. 

Pastor Geoff EksteinPhillipians 3:12-16BIG IDEA: “True joy is found in Christ, not our own efforts.” OUTLINE: 1. The risk of spiritual arrogance? (Verse 12) 2. Where is your home? (Verse 13-14) 3. Finishing strong (Verse 15-16) 4. Challenge: Be wary of your attitude.

It's day 18 of the 21 day Gratitude Challenge. Today's additional nuggets include: - what 6 & 9 represents and connection to our Challenge - "Be salty ".... This challenge is about starting the day off with Gratitude. It's setting the tone of the day and encouraging yourself. Identifying the value in ourselves and redirecting our focus to what we have rather than focusing on what we don't have. This is a part of Iris' Shared Nuggets. Thank you for listening. Enjoy your day! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Day 17 Challenge: Be like Joey Gladstone, and “Cut it out”!

This morning we are pleased to have Pastor Blonnie Smith give us the Word as we continue in our Mythbusters series. She tackles the myth "That's What The Church Is For." Pastor's Notes: Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: 3 “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” 4 And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. INTRODUCTION Good morning, everyone! I’m so glad to be able to share this message with you today! It’s something that I’ve been passionate about for a while. You may have even heard it before. The title to this Mythbuster is “That is What the Church is For”. Pastor Brad and I were youth pastors for several years. We have watched as students got into trouble, and parents almost got mad at us because it happened. “Didn’t y’all teach them about porn?” “Sex before marriage?" In other words, you should have taught them better. After all, “That’s what the church is for.” So as I’ve prayed, I believe that God wanted me to speak on the role of the family in general, but specifically parents and children. BACKGROUND This letter is written by Paul to the people of Ephesus while in prison. To give a quick summary of the entire book, he begins by sharing the foundation of what their faith is laid upon. He showed how in their different backgrounds, both Jew and Gentile, they are now equal in the eyes of God through the blood of Jesus Christ.This illustrates that unity does not equal uniformity. In other words, we are all the same in our belief, but we each build up the church with different gifts and talents. Not one person can do it alone and see a body of believers grow. A healthy church is full of believers working in different areas to spread the same message. It’s important to understand that it is different gifts, but the same gospel. He also points out that we are all sinners before Christ, but in accepting Him as our Savior, God allowed our old self to die and became a new creation. Never get to the point where you forget this. Let me make this clear: We do not dwell in our past, but don’t forget that you have one too. Through true repentance, we are made new and wiped clean and can share our testimony with someone who is suffering from the same sin. Always remember where you came from and see it for what it is—sin. The greasy grace message has always been around, even in the beginning of the church. TRANSITION But after He lays out the framework of order on the church, He then begins to lay out some order for the family. Look at our scriptures with me again. (Re-read) APPLICATION1. The Challenge (vs. 1-3) What pops out at me every time I read it is this: Honor and obey, and you will be well and live long. Now the reason why I went back and summarized all of Ephesians is because when you just read one chapter or scripture, you miss exactly what the author is sharing. Yes, God can show you many things by just a scripture, but He desires you to look deeper. God said “My people perish because of lack of knowledge.” Taking the time to put in a little extra work will bring so much more understanding and blessing out of what you are studying. He first addressed the church as a whole, but then moved on to the individual. Reading one scripture will give you the impression that He is still addressing the whole, but in reality this is addressing how you should be not just in church, but in your own home. Now, we’ve all quoted this scripture to our child or even another child, but I want to show you the challenge that I see in this passage. You see, we’ve always just looked at this scripture and reminded them of it in Sunday school, or when they are acting a fool. But what if I was to show you that everything he speaks of in the first five chapters are all actions, and so wouldn’t it be fair to say that this challenge is not a reminder of what to say to children, but a reminder on what our actions as parents should be? Think about it: Our children mimic us. And so, in this scripture he is saying to honor and obey your parents and this will be your reward. But is it children the wrote the letter to? No! He was writing this to the leadership to read out-loud to the entire church. The example we set speaks volumes. The best lesson a child could learn is to see the influence in their life model how to do things. Studies show that the foundation of a child’s mind is set by the age of 4. This doesn’t mean that it’s concrete that is already set. There is still grace and time to set a good example and influence a child. The life we live says more than reminding them to honor and obey us. If we say that and then show a completely different side with our actions, then what we’ve done is shown that when you’re an adult you can do whatever you want. Parents—That’s why most kids grow up to never step foot in a church again after they leave home. They see someone who can use a few scriptures (only when it’s for discipline or correction towards them, or to justify what they are doing is ok), only come when they feel like it, and show little desire to be there. When it seems like a burden to you, then why would you expect it to be a joy to them? We are to lead by our example. Christ is the only person to ever come to this earth and be perfect, so quit trying to show your kids that you are. Trust me, they know what’s up. Be open about your flaws. They need to see you ask for forgiveness in your prayers and admit when you don’t have all the answers. What example do you want to set? When a child sees only perfection with zero flaws and someone who knows everything, when they don’t hit that mark it’s devastating. A child should see the example of “I don’t know the answer, but let’s work together and find it.” 2. The Charge (vs. 4a) Whether a parent, step parent, or guardian of a child, you are to lead a child with love. The scriptures tell us that everything we do, that if we do it without love then we did it in vain. Let your actions and love lead them and they will follow in your ways. Are there children who grew up in a great home surrounded by love that stray off? Yes. Ultimately, all you can do is pray, sow the word into them, and trust them to God. They have to make their own decisions. However, we must be solid in our influence over them. Teach your children the word of God not by just reading it to them. Teach them! This is where the myth “that’s what the church is for” really comes into play. It’s not just the job of the Sunday School teacher, the youth or kids pastor, or the boys and girls leaders to do it. We “provoke our children to wrath” by living differently in front of them than what we proclaim. In other words, “Do as I say, not as I do”. That NEVER works. We as parents are to teach them with our words, actions, and lives. Your child is your responsibility. YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. You should be the number one mentor in their life. If you do not teach them, the world will. This is a charge to the family as a whole. Model our Heavenly Father with the love and compassion He has. Parents, take back the control that the enemy has tried to take and see that it’s our responsibility and not the pastor, youth pastor, children’s pastor, or nursery workers. They are to compliment what you have already instilled at home. 3. The Counsel (vs. 4b) Everything we do should always follow the Word of God. He has given this to help instruct us as we instruct our children. We can’t teach our children what it means to follow Christ if we do not open this up ourselves and find out. Pray with your child. This not only shows them praying parents, it also shows the example of a child of God ‘s real relationship with their Heavenly Father. Does all this mean your child will act perfect. No! There are times when you will instruct and times when you will discipline. We all have to have correction. If you are a christian who never hears the voice of God’s guidance and correction, then you aren’t growing. I discipline my child because I care enough to see them grow to be responsible young men who love the Lord and have their own relationship with God. CONCLUSION So, here it is: Paul gave us a look into our salvation, what the church is, what we are called to do, how to cut all ties with the old self, and how to address any attack to the body. All of this is addressed to the whole, not just a few. And then he addresses the individual. You cannot do it alone as an individual without first having the church as a family in your life. The most important role as a spouse and parent is to have the same love for your church as Christ does. There is an order. Any imbalance throws everything off. That’s why we say it is so important to be in church. It’s not to have another number on our report each year on how big our church is. It’s to be in the order that God has placed us. How can you use your gifts He has placed in everyone if you are at home every Sunday? You can’t use them on the online church. You can’t use them on yourself sitting at home. And you certainly can’t always trust google for your answer to a scripture you don’t understand. The church is built up of you and me. Be the church that is the influence of your child and you won’t see it as their job to solely teach your child anymore. You will see growth happen and get so excited and hear God say “That is why I gave them to you”. There is no greater feeling than seeing growth in your child’s life and knowing you had a part in that. What did we learn? -The Challenge: Be the example. Allow the church leaders to compliment what you have already taught at home.   -The Counsel: Be the example by becoming the mentor your child needs. Challenge them to push past fear and discipline when needed. Instruction and discipline will prepare them for adulthood.   The Charge: Be that example using love. A loving father shows the love of the Heavenly Father.   ALTAR RESPONSE     -  Pray for people who need a Heavenly Father     -  Pray for parents, grandparents, etc

Sometimes walking away and letting go can be the hardest thing to do. Letting go of people, ideas, regrets, routines, or desires. Hard work, focus, and even love may not be enough to control a situation and dictate the outcome. Sometimes you simply have to let go and realize it’s not your fight, it’s not your journey, and it’s not your life. But there is a way to do this...and that’s with Love. Here’s a secret that I’m hoping is a revelation for you sooner rather than later. You can not change people. Waiting for someone to meet your expectations may be the cruelest irony. They will NEVER meet your expectations because it’s not theirs. Your hope should be they meet or exceed their own true potential. But your expectations are just that….your expectations. Detachment with love means caring enough about others to allow them to learn from their mistakes. It also means being responsible for our own welfare and making decisions without ulterior motives or the desire to control others. Perhaps the essence of detachment with love is responding with choice rather than reacting with anxiety.  The key is to stop being responsible for others and be responsible TO them—and to ourselves. The first step of any 12-step is Admit that you are powerless. Why do you think that is an important first step? Many people resist the term powerlessness because it contradicts much of what we have been taught. Believing you can do anything and fix everything if you just try harder and want it enough is instilled in us at an early age. The truth is we cannot do or fix everything, regardless of how hard we try or how much we want it. We cannot control the weather, war, illness, or other people. Sometimes we just need to learn to love, listen, and appreciate that things don’t always work out the way we wanted or on our desired timeline. Walking away with questions unanswered is ok. Everyone in on their own journey and if you step back to see that it would be unrealistic for everything to go just the way you anticipated. God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,Courage to change the things I can,And wisdom to know the difference. CHALLENGE: Be aware of the power struggle in your own life and who’s pulling harder. Question your resistance and remember, you are worth more. Your time, your attention, your patience, and your love are worth more. Split the difference with yourself.   I know YOU can do it!

Seems to be that going through security into any country can be a nightmare the U.S., the UK, Hungry you name it. Something that seems to be a common thread between all these stories is that once someone has a little bit of power or authority, they tend to abuse it. The people that are going through security are completely at the mercy of the person with the badge. How come sometimes people use that to their advantage unnecessarily? In some way, we all have power and authority. Do we abuse that power? Like in positions at work, remember that you manage 'things' and lead people. Never think of people as 'under you.' Be grateful for the position and the opportunity you are seen to be a leader. In that position, we have the chance to spread good, so be extra kind. You have a group who you have the responsibility to serve and lead. It's easy to say "I am kind to people but I work with such knuckle heads!" It's not uncommon for someone to think they are the only ones who got it right. Let people share their opinions and see how you can improve together. Gentle persuasion goes a long way, deal with people in kindness looking for a solution, not to just be right. Challenge: Be intentional about being unfailing kind - to make people feel understood, seen and heard. How would things change for you if you were more compassionate and respectful with those you work with? There is a great quote from C.S. Lewis that says "You never interact with a mere mortal." Every human being is cherished. Other Resources: How to Remove your Ego - It wasn't Invited! Don't be Hypersensitive, Face the Facts How to make more Friends Wherever you Go!

Luke 10:25-37 How can I inherit eternal life? The Law points us to our need for God. How can we justify ourselves before God? To whom should I be a neighbor? Jesus is the Great Samaritan. Challenge: Be a Good Samaritan to someone this week.Reflection Questions: 1. How does a person inherit eternal life? 2. Why do we have a tendency to try to earn God's favor? 3. Who do you consider to be your enemy? 4. How can we bless people who persecute us?

John 4:24 -God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship him in the Spirit and truth.Slide 2 God is spiritual.Romans 8:15-16 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.Evidence #1: The existence of the Universe.Evidence #2: Our “just so” UniversePsalm 19:-2 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.Evidence #3: Our Morally Good UniverseRomans 2:15 They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them. Challenge: Be prepared to lovingly help people think of God in a new way.Discussion Questions:1. Why might someone think you should believe only in things you can see, her, or touch? What are some other things you believe in, in addition to love that you can't see or experience directly through your senses?2. What are some things you can talk about from your own experience that show you – and might convince your friends – that God really exists?3. How does the fact that our universe had a beginning or the fact that it's fine-tuned with such exacting precision provide evidence for God?4. Do you think there could be objective morality apart from God? From where would it draw its authority?5. How has the evidence for God presented in this sermon affected your faith? Can evidence strengthen one's faith?

June 23, 2013                                                                                       Be the One Break the Silence 1 Kings 19:19b   Synopsis: It happens to the best of us and all the rest of us.  You know what I mean.  It happens when events in life seem to shut us up in a solitary place filled with silence.  Now silence is a good thing at times, but none of us like to be a prisoner to it.  That kind of silence is often so dark that it can make us long for death.  That’s where Elijah found himself (1 Kings 19).  Following the great triumph over the priests of Baal on Mount Carmel Elijah found himself running for his life, pursued by Jezebel.       Challenge: Be the ONE to Break the Silence.  As in Elijah’s case, God often sends “messengers” to feed and nurture those who are struggling.  You can do that.  If you are the Elijah listen, feed on the Word from the Lord and move on to where you need to be.  Listen, as God spoke to Elijah, god will speak to you through the Word who became flesh, through the word of the biblical message, or even directly.  Listen for the voice of the Lord and remember  you are not alone.       Scripture Text (NLT): 1 Kings 19:1-19   Scripture Reading: 1 Kings 19:1-4