Podcasts about choose him

One of Jesus' friends, Peter, he faced a terrifying storm. And in the middle of the chaos, in the middle of the real danger, Jesus invited him to do something shocking—step out of the boat into the stormy sea and walk on the water! But he walked on the water, feeling daring and alive. But when he remembered the wind and waves, it says, “fear overtook him again, and he began to sink.” Immediately, Jesus reached out His hand, catching Peter and lifting him up. Maybe you feel overwhelmed or afraid today. God sees you, and He wants to bring you peace. Could it be that Jesus is inviting you to step out in faith today? Right now? Choose Him today, trust Him with your life. You can pray to Him and say: “Jesus, I want to know You and trust You. Please help me to step forward in faith. I receive Your peace now. Amen.” Always remember, there is hope with God. Scripture Reference: Matthew 14:30-31 radio.hopewithgod.com

In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️‍

Following Christ may sound difficult, but it is the most fulfilling and rewarding thing that you will have in life! In this message from Soon Tau, one of our Acts London leaders, we learn about 3 C's on what it really means to follow Christ - to CHOOSE Him even when it's hard, to CARRY our cross daily for Him and be willing to COUNT the cost in following Him.

Harvest Church Arroyo Grande - Sunday July 6th, 2025   “Jesus Is All About Redemption” — drawn from John  13:18–30 — takes us into one of the most sobering and revealing moments in the Gospels: the betrayal by Judas. In contrast to Jesus' example of humble service, Judas represents pride, secrecy, and ultimate rebellion. Yet even toward Judas, Jesus extended grace.   In this message, Pastor Steve Henry reminds us that Jesus knew Judas' heart — yet He still washed his feet. He still offered the bread. He still extended a chance to repent.   This sermon walks us through:   1. The contrast between Jesus' humility and Judas' betrayal   2. The prophetic fulfillment of Psalm 41:9   3. God's ongoing invitation to choose life and redemption  

In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️‍

In this week's episode of the Spirit of Truth Podcast, we bring the book of Leviticus to a powerful close with a double portion teaching from Behar-Bechukotai (Leviticus 25–27). What starts with a challenge to walk in God's statutes ends with a heart-warming reminder of our worth in His eyes.Melissa walks us through the blessings and curses of Leviticus 26—God's covenant terms that are still very much alive today. Obedience is not a burden; it's a love language. Rebellion leads to consequences, but repentance always leads to restoration.In chapter 27, we shift into the language of redemption—vows, values, and voluntary dedication. What we give to God matters, but even more, He shows us we are redeemable, restorable, and returnable—no matter how far we've drifted.

Don't get too busy today to feel your connection with God. "If the devil can't make you bad, he'll make you busy" Clear your schedule and make space for Him in your heart, mind, and moments today. Whether it's sitting in silence, reading something spiritual, or simply listening with Love, create moments to align with His Presence. Heaven isn't measured by the things you do but by the Love you make time to share with Him. Choose love. Choose Him. Choose rest.I love you,nikEpisode Description: Experience a soulful guided meditation to ease anxiety, find inner peace, and align with God's love within you. Nikki Walton reminds us to silence the noise, surrender, and discover emotional healing and clarity through mindfulness and spiritual growth.Divine Mercy Chaplet Prayers- Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your Dearly Beloved Son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.10x For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Even in the agony, humility and suffering Jesus experienced in his crucifixion, Jesus' heart was/is still for the people, including his executioners. As his followers, we are called to love the people as Jesus loved. Make it practical this week. I. How can I have the Heart of Jesus, and who is he calling me to love? II. Choose what to do with Jesus! Choose Him today and grow in a right relationship with Him! III. If you need outside biblical references for the truth of the crucifixion of Jesus, google and read: A) a letter written by Mara bar Serapion to his son (73 AD) (B) the works of Josephus, the Jewish Historian (90 AD) (C) Tacitus, the Roman Historian (110-120 AD) (D) The Babylonian Talmud (AD 200)

The scriptures speak of the apostasy - a great falling away of the church. How does this happen? How do those who call themselves Christians, followers of Christ, walk away from His church? Deception. When we fail to study the scriptures, pray, and hold fast to the truth of God's word we fall prey to the Fake Gospel. This is a gospel that has been tainted by the doctrines of men. Be watchful! Remember if Jesus is not Lord of ALL He is not Lord at ALL. Choose Him today. Commit to Him. Hold fast to His Gospel. www.kingdomrock.org

The scriptures speak of the apostasy - a great falling away of the church. How does this happen? How do those who call themselves Christians, followers of Christ, walk away from His church? Deception. When we fail to study the scriptures, pray, and hold fast to the truth of God's word we fall prey to the Fake Gospel. This is a gospel that has been tainted by the doctrines of men. Be watchful! Remember if Jesus is not Lord of ALL He is not Lord at ALL. Choose Him today. Commit to Him. Hold fast to His Gospel. www.kingdomrock.org

The scriptures speak of the apostasy - a great falling away of the church. How does this happen? How do those who call themselves Christians, followers of Christ, walk away from His church? Deception. When we fail to study the scriptures, pray, and hold fast to the truth of God's word we fall prey to the Fake Gospel. This is a gospel that has been tainted by the doctrines of men. Be watchful! Remember if Jesus is not Lord of ALL He is not Lord at ALL. Choose Him today. Commit to Him. Hold fast to His Gospel. www.kingdomrock.org

This week Noah entered the ark! He had to have tremendous faith to follow God in obedience when all His circumstances revealed otherwise. It was still dry on land when God gave him orders to build the ark and he had much negative response from people for what he believed he heard God tell him! Noah had to trust and obey God!His weak challenge of faith is about obedience not sacrifice . It can be hard to believe we hear God to begin with let alone follow Him!But you can obey when you focus on the goodness of God. God's love for us can motivate us to obey . God is encouraging us to Choose Him and Not man ! You may be tested this week but remember that despite your weakness for provision, protection and acceptance God wants you to believe in His goodness and love for you and follow His voice!Remember in Deuteronomy 8:3 reads , “And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. “It is better to follow God in a faith test of obedience then deny Him with disobedience. He only wants what is good for you ! When you believe your needs are met by God in His sufficiency then you can follow him .If you lack this understanding of God's goodness then this will cripple your hearing and decision making skills and you may seek to please yourself first . The offering that is pleasing to God is that you believed and obeyed Him by faith .In the realm of faith we become receivers !! His yolk is easy and burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. “Focus on his goodness to be a receiver. Lift out your hands and receive your blessing ! He is not burdening you! Receive the blessing as He strengthens you in His Spirit to pass the faith test !Join DREAM MENTORS and BECOME A CERTIFIED COACH!Do you want to be trained as good disciples or biblical life coach ? Do you need to experience transformation in your souls so you can be the best God is calling you to be. Go to www.dreammentors.orgIt's time now to sign up for our next Ascension class and join Dr. Candice's Glory Road Community!Maximize Your Prophetic Potential monthly class is Monday December 9 at 12 pm and 6 pm EST. You can choose which one. Click here https://dream-mentors-transformational-life-coaching.teachable.com/p/maximize-your-prophetic-potential-course1/?preview=logged_outOnly $30 each month no discount code needed and join Candice Live Zoom!Get a copy of Dr Candice new book “365 Prophetic Revelations from Hebrew Calender”-https://amzn.to/4aQYoR0

Boaz redeems Naomi's land and legacy, pointing us to the One who redeems us all and gives us an eternal inheritance. Through their lineage we see King David and eventually Jesus. Ruth is not an Israelite and we will also see two other ancestors who are foreigners. This shows us that all who adopt Jesus as their Savior and King, will be redeemed. Choose Him as your Kinsman Redeemer, the Brother who bought your way back into the family of God.

Our Lord Jesus Christ died for our sins. Choose Him today. Watch the full video on Youtube: You can also watch it on Facebook: If you also enjoy podcasts, you can listen to Anchor: Follow the link to join Pastor Nimrod Mbae's WhatsApp Family: https://bit.ly/KoinoniaMinistries #heaven

This is a Holy Spirit inspired sermon titled: The Witcher By Erin Nicole. He encourages us to stay away from fortune tellers and sorcerers in the scriptures. I had an opportunity to use a song he had gifted me in the #1 Netflix series show from Mark Cuban's podcast host that had produced 2 of my songs. He didn't have direct connections to the show but told me it had the potential to be featured on the show. I didn't know what the show was so I watched a few episodes. Its all about witches and wizardry and I refused to separate the lyrics from the melody because He gifted it to me. He's got something way BIGGER planned for my future. Follow His ways and keep Him first place and He opens up doors WAY bigger than you could have ever imaged. Be patient. Choose Him and don't be afraid to say the name of Jesus Christ and He won't be afraid to say your name to the Father.

Sealed until the day of Redemption or are you choosing to live for self. The Holy Spirit seal us with God's approval which last forever as long as we continue to Choose HIM alone.

In John 6 Jesus told a crowd of people, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again." Something drew all those people to Jesus. The same thing that draws us to Jesus, or church, or God today. Most of us can't place our finger quite on it or don't even realize the feeling is there in the first place. What is that feeling? We are hungry. Hungry for what only Jesus can offer. Hungry and searching for what only He can provide. Listen as Pastor Tim shares a series entitled, Hungry, where he dives into how we can make sure we are getting the most out of what only Jesus can offer us.

Choose Him // Dominick Butler There is something special that takes place when we corporately decide to touch His heart together. Last night was a whirlwind. The Altar was not full of individuals pursuing personal breakthrough, it was a group of people that decided we are all after One Glorious Man, and His Name is Jesus. We continued magnifying the “Fear of the Lord” in scripture through the vein of the significance of ‘choice.' The Message was entitled, “Choose Him.” Everyday We most daily renew our affections and attentions unto Him. As we continually choose Him, we posture our hearts to make decisions that honor Him and ultimately lead us to the apex of our potential in this life. “When they cry for help, I will not answer. Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me. For they hated knowledge and CHOSE NOT TO FEAR THE LORD.” Proverbs 1 : 28-29 NLT For More info on Gold Street Garden visit; https://linktr.ee/goldstreetgarden

The enemy will never present itself in unpleasant forms, and when you fall repeatedly into its trap, the seemingly minute effects can compound and morph into something more serious which can destroy you. My friend, we encourage you to run away from temptation and to instead run towards God. Choose Him today.  ------  Arun Gogna has authored many books and his books are available on Shopee and Lazada.  Buy from Shopee: podlink.co/eos  Buy from Lazada: podlink.co/tir  -------  Follow us on Social Media  Facebook: fb@UmagangKayGogna  Instagram: @umagang.kay.gogna --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

The enemy will never present itself in unpleasant forms, and when you fall repeatedly into its trap, the seemingly minute effects can compound and morph into something more serious which can destroy you. My friend, we encourage you to run away from temptation and to instead run towards God. Choose Him today.  ------  Arun Gogna has authored many books and his books are available on Shopee and Lazada.  Buy from Shopee: podlink.co/eos  Buy from Lazada: podlink.co/tir  -------  Follow us on Social Media  Facebook: fb@UmagangKayGogna  Instagram: @umagang.kay.gogna --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

What's the purpose of She Chooses? Who is this podcast for? This is for the woman who desperately desires change, wants to believe the life she dreamed of isn't foolishness, and some where deep down believes it can and will happen. She's ready for it to happen and even willing, just lacks the "know how" to take the first step. If that's you - This podcast IS for you, because just like you - I've been in that place feeling stuck like you're in a pit. It's that place where you feel like a victim of life. As if it's just happening to you, and you think you have ZERO control over ANY thing. My sweet sister, I know that place all too well. Getting out of it feels hopeless, and overwhelming. You wonder where to start? And you consider whether escaping is even possible? I felt that way too, but God made a way pulling me from the muck and mire of my pit, and his desire is the same for YOU. Don't even allow your rebutted thoughts to declare differently. Your lack of confidence, and self doubt are no match for the love of our Heavenly Father. God's word shows us consistently ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Let's explore God's word. Learn who he is, and fall passionately in love with our Creator. Together, we will learn the truth of what He says. As a direct result, He will pull us from the miry pits formed by the lies we've believed, and the choices we've made, and we'll be shaped into the woman He desires us to be. And we're going to do it simply, step by step, decision by decision, as together we're learning how to – Choose Him.

“What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?”  Luke 9:25Many people dream of winning the lottery.  And oftentimes, the dream is for many millions of dollars.  Imagine what you would do if you became an instant millionaire or an instant billionaire.  Do you find yourself daydreaming about this?If so, perhaps the question above is a good one to ponder.  What good is it if you win the biggest lottery in history, become the wealthiest person on the face of the Earth, but lack the grace of God in your life and lack faith?  Would you trade your faith for being exceptionally wealthy and gaining the whole world?  Many people probably would or else Jesus would not have asked this question.Very often in life we have the wrong priorities.  We seek instant satisfaction and gratification over eternal fulfillment.  It's hard for many people to live with an eternal perspective.  Some may say, “Well, I choose both!  I want the whole world and the salvation of my soul!”  But Jesus' question presupposes that we cannot have both.  We must pick which one we choose to pursue.  Choosing a life of faith and the salvation of our souls requires that we let go of many things in this world.  Even if God were to bless us with much in this world, we must strive to live in such a way that we are ready and willing to “give it up” if it were beneficial to our eternal salvation, or the salvation of others.  This is hard to do and requires a very deep love of God.  It requires that we are convinced, on the deepest level, that the pursuit of holiness is more important than anything else.Reflect, today, upon this profound question from Jesus.  Know that He poses it to you.  How do you respond?  Do not hesitate to make God and His abundant mercy the central focus of your life.  Lent is one of the best times of the year to seriously look at the most fundamental desire and goal of your heart.  Choose Him above all else and you will be eternally grateful you did.My eternal Lord, as we enter into this Lenten season, give me the grace I need to look at my priorities.  Help me to honestly discern that which is the most fundamental and central driving motivation of my life.  Help me to choose You above all else so that You will help everything in my life to become ordered in accord with Your holy will.  Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2022 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

It's hard to believe that people could still want their own way after being faced with the mighty power of God. But Pastor Danny shows us in Revelation how that's exactly how some people will respond still. God doesn't want anyone to perish, He wants to draw all people to Himself and cover them but He is not going to force you to it. If you haven't chosen Him yet you should choose Him today. His love is better than life and it is certainly better than the trouble that we bring on ourselves. Choose Him and choose the way to life.

Let's be honest, we're not alright- We are anxious, worried, burdened, busy, distracted, overwhelmed, and troubled by many things. We must learn from Martha, Mary, and Jesus how to choose the good and better part- the one thing that is necessary, that matters, and will not be taken away-service to our Lord. Choose Him first because that's what's better for us -our advantage-, will last eternally, and all these 'other' things will be added unto you.

Let's be honest, we're not alright- We are anxious, worried, burdened, busy, distracted, overwhelmed, and troubled by many things. We must learn from Martha, Mary, and Jesus how to choose the good and better part- the one thing that is necessary, that matters, and will not be taken away-service to our Lord. Choose Him first because that's what's better for us -our advantage-, will last eternally, and all these 'other' things will be added unto you.

When we choose to work for God, we must remember that God is still Holy, and we cannot keep one foot in the world and the other serving Him. Repentance is not a burden, although it can be painful. It is in fact freedom! We weren't designed to be split between two thoughts. Choose Him!

If you're ready to give up or you're wondering how to find the strength to keep working out and making the right food choices, this is for you! Don't give up, sweet friend, don't quit, choose to believe again! You will find the power you need in the presence of the Lord! He alone can lift you up, push you forward and give you faith to keep going! Give it all to Him, He will never let you down.  Choose Him, He will pull you through! Press play to breakthrough and live from a place of victory, beautiful woman of God! He is with you on your fitness journey. Faith Fuel: "...being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;"  (Philippians 1:6 NKJV) "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” (Luke 1:45 NIV) Here's a prayer to encourage you from this episode that dives deep into day 40 of the Strong. Confident. His. Faith & Fitness Devotional. Dear God, Your powerful Word has built me up to a new level. When I see myself now, I see through your eyes. I feel so much Godly confidence to go after life in a whole new and exciting way. You have removed the lies and renewed my strength. The old me is gone. You have put a new song in my heart, and I will shine my light for you. I thank you and praise you. I am blessed to tell people I am ... Strong. Confident. His. In Jesus' name, amen. I hope you know the power you have in Christ in your fitness. So much love to you. God bless, Kim Dolan Leto Sign Up for Free Faith and Fitness Tips Start the Faith Inspired Transformation Workout Series For Free on Pure Flix Links Mentioned in This Episode Get Your Strong. Confident. His. Faith & Fitness Devotional Watch the Strong. Confident. His. Devotional Videos Series Faith Inspired Transformation Book and Workout Series Free Faith Filled Fitness Resources

He chose you despite your scars, your past, your weakness... But He chose you... Because you were made for a higher purpose, a glorious purpose... So respond to his calling, his call to be a part of something great... Choose HIM who chose you... --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/emerson-devaraj-d/message

Life can be too challenging at times. My friend, I encourage you to not deal with life alone. God is raising His hand, volunteering to team up with you. Choose Him, allow Him to be on your side and be assured of victory. _____ Arun Gogna has authored many books and his books are available on Shopee and Lazada. Buy from Shopee: podlink.co/eos Buy from Lazada: podlink.co/tir ------ Facebook: fb@gognaarun Instagram: @arun.gogna Tiktok: @wackyspeaker --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Life can be too challenging at times. My friend, I encourage you to not deal with life alone. God is raising His hand, volunteering to team up with you. Choose Him, allow Him to be on your side and be assured of victory. _____ Arun Gogna has authored many books and his books are available on Shopee and Lazada. Buy from Shopee: podlink.co/eos Buy from Lazada: podlink.co/tir ------ Facebook: fb@gognaarun Instagram: @arun.gogna Tiktok: @wackyspeaker --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

There is Trouble ahead, capital T.  What's written in Scripture happens. It's time to choose.  God hates lukewarm. He gave us plenty of hints in the Bible.  Choose Him.Choose life.  Choose God. 

God could force us to serve Him, but He wants us to CHOOSE Him!

2021 Annual Conference Excerpt from Day 3: God's Love Language 1. Love Him with all that you are: - "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" 2. Be crazily in love with Him - God is crazy enough that He banks on mere humans 3. Defend Him - You cannot defend the faith unless you are in love with God - Defend with compounded strength from our spiritual forefathers 4. Love God recklessly and selflessly - He sent His only Son to the cross for us (For God so loved the world, as to give his only begotten Son) 5. Choose Him over everything - He leaves the ninety-nine, to save the one! Bible Readings Matthew 22: 36-39 Acts 7: 1-10 Acts 7: 25-29 Acts 7: 37-38 Acts 7: 51-60

In today's devotional, Kenneth Copeland shares how he made the choice to believe and act upon the Word of God in every circumstance. Make the choice to follow God in every moment and overcome. Choose Him as your healer, your provider, your Lord and Saviour. Choose Him and choose life! ============ For more details and additional information on this podcast, visit https://dailyguidetovictory.com ============ Unless otherwise noted, all scripture is from the King James Version of the Bible. Scripture quotations marked The Amplified Bible are from The Amplified Bible, Old Testament © 1965, 1987 by The Zondervan Corporation. The Amplified New Testament © 1958, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Scripture quotation marked New King James Version are from the New King James Version © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Scripture quotations marked New International Version are from The Holy Bible, New International Version © 1973, 1978, 1984 by the International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. Scripture quotation marked New English Bible are from the New English Bible, Oxford University Press, Cambridge University Press © 1961, 1970.   © 1991-2021 Eagle Mountain International Church Inc. aka Kenneth Copeland Publications. All rights reserved.

Pastor Mac was back this weekend and had an awesome message reminding us that what is happening in America and the world right now has not taken God by surprise. His promises haven't changed and His power is still at work in the world.  Your job isn't to worry about what comes next, but to keep your eyes on Jesus. Recognize that we are living in the end of times. Now more than ever, God needs us as the church to step up and choose to love others. Stay kind. Be humble. Choose Him. Don't worry; instead, pray. Keep your focus off conspiracy theories and on our Savior.Our Links–• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingwordmn• Twitter: https://twitter.com/LivingWordMN• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingwordmn• Website: https://www.lwcc.org•Give online: https://bit.ly/2w8iXqK• If you recently committed your life to God, we'd like to give you a free eBook to help you in your spiritual journey. Click here to download: https://www.lwcc.org/nextsteps/ • If you have any additional questions or prayer requests email us at online@lwcc.orgThank you so much for watching! Likes, favorite moments, and feedback is always appreciated!

Pastor Mac was back this weekend and had an awesome message reminding us that what is happening in America and the world right now has not taken God by surprise. His promises haven't changed and His power is still at work in the world.  Your job isn't to worry about what comes next, but to keep your eyes on Jesus. Recognize that we are living in the end of times. Now more than ever, God needs us as the church to step up and choose to love others. Stay kind. Be humble. Choose Him. Don't worry; instead, pray. Keep your focus off conspiracy theories and on our Savior.Our Links–• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingwordmn• Twitter: https://twitter.com/LivingWordMN• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingwordmn• Website: https://www.lwcc.org•Give online: https://bit.ly/2w8iXqK• If you recently committed your life to God, we'd like to give you a free eBook to help you in your spiritual journey. Click here to download: https://www.lwcc.org/nextsteps/ • If you have any additional questions or prayer requests email us at online@lwcc.orgThank you so much for watching! Likes, favorite moments, and feedback is always appreciated!

This is lesson seven of Torah Time Digest: Riding on the High Places with My Beloved, written and read by Sonya T. Anderson. Torah Time Digest is a bible study guide dedicated to providing you with sound Hebraic roots teachings that you may use in your personal devotion time, or home bible study group.  You may subscribe to Torah Time Digest at www.YHWHNissi.com/subscribe.cfm. Torah Time Digest may also be delivered to your front door through our monthly Time With the Father subscription boxes which may be purchased on our website. In our day to day lives, we must be led by the glory of Yahweh, as revealed in the face of Yeshua Messiah. He is the one whom we need the most and He is the one who provides for us on a daily basis. Choose Him as your Savior, and your mainstay support. You will not be disappointed when you are led by His glory! www.YHWHNissi.comSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=GGM7GM5LRKNLG&source=url)

Daniel in the Lion's den; Choose Him this day;

This life won’t always make sense and evil things will continue to happen because we live in a fallen world. Pastor JD reminds you today, that the only answer for evil is Jesus. He is the Creator of the universe, but also died on the cross for your sins, and wants to be your personal Savior! Choose Him now and be saved!

This life won’t always make sense and evil things will continue to happen because we live in a fallen world. Pastor JD reminds you today, that the only answer for evil is Jesus. He is the Creator of the universe, but also died on the cross for your sins, and wants to be your personal Savior! Choose Him now and be saved!

Have you ever felt like there were only two sides to an argument and neither side seemed like a good choice? In todays political climate, the culture will tell you there are only two sides. Either side you choose, it feels like you're in a fight you can't win. God is calling us to Do Something. God is calling us to choose "The Third Option." God is calling us to Choose Him.

Write Your Story Welcome everyone in the room and everyone joining us online. This is Redemption Church and I am Chris Fluitt. For you who can see me I want to make you aware that I have been diagnosed with Bell's Palsy and the right side of my face is paralyzed. Please be in prayer that God sees me through this. I am not in pain. I am not having a stroke. I am still very excited to share the Word of God with you today. We are in the 3rd week of the Write Your Story sermon series. Quick review… Make your life a story worth telling. We believe that your life ought to be a great story. We challenge you to – Make your life a story worth telling. Great stories don't just happen. They don't just fall out of a pen onto the paper. Great stories are carefully crafted by an author. You must go to work on your story to make it great! Great stories aren't written, but crafted In week 1 we told you to begin with the end in mind. You have control over your story. So you need to know how you want your story to end. Last week, in week 2 we asked you – Who are the characters in your story? You, the one crafting your story, get to decide what characters appear in your story. Today I want to ask you “What decisions will your character make?” What decisions will your character make? If you really want to craft your story, then you as the major character in your story, need to make good decisions. Decisions Really every story is about decisions. Think for a moment about your favorite stories. Something happened that caused the characters you care about to have to DECIDE TO DO SOMETHING. And it is the decisions that were made that made you care more for the character and to ultimately love the story. There is no story without decisions. If there are no decisions, then nothing happens. Decisions are important! We asked for your help on social media this week. We asked for you to give some of your favorite decisions made in your favorite stories. There were moments of bravery and self-sacrifice… In Lord of the Rings, Samwise Gamgee decided that he & Frodo had come too far to fail and took matters into his own hands… he carried Frodo and fought a giant spider. In Les Miserables, Eponine jumps in front of a bullet meant for Marius. In star Wars, Luke Skywalker decides that he won't become like his father. In Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen instead of killing people in the competition, she seeks to save people in the competition. Decisions make the story. And the develop the character. What decisions will your character make? This sermon series was conceptualized about 6 years ago when I was counseling with someone who had a big decision to make. It was clear to me that they were likely to make a poor decision, and through God's help I was able to bring the idea of their life story to them. I want to share with you what I shared with them today. You are standing in front of a decision today, but I want you to imagine it is many years from now. You are sitting down at a computer to write your story. This is an autobiography. You are the author and this is your story. As you write your story, there are chapters of your life that you that you are excited to write. You write about being brave enough to start your education, start a business, and to ask that pretty girl out for a first date. You are amazed as you are writing, how easy it is to share your story. There are even some chapters where you talk about rough & stressful situations. You remember full well that those situations were not easy to live through, but you actually enjoy sharing this part of your story… because you seem to shine in these dark times. But then, your writing comes to a halt as you come to a part of your story that you are not proud of… this part of your story fills you with embarrassment, shame, guilt, & regret. You are tempted to not tell this part of your story. You are tempted to act like it never happened. You are tempted to push fast forward on your story and time jump 5 or 10 years. Then I looked at the person in the present where I am counseling them on their decision, and I ask… “Will you be proud of this decision or when you write your story will you be tempted to omit it.” This is an exercise we all need. Are we making decisions that we ultimately don't want in our story? People make decisions that they are so ashamed of that they spend the next 10 years in a bottle of alcoholism. When people decide to get divorced they go through their house and through their social media profiles and remove ALL the pictures they had with their ex-spouse. From the inside they must feel like it is removing cancer… but from the outside it looks like they are chopping up years of life memories. There are mothers who remember the birthdays of all their children, but they also carry the knowledge of with them that they never speak of. They had an abortion, but they know how old that child would be today. They may never speak of it, but they know and often wonder what that child would be doing today had they been born. There are decisions that you will regret so much that you would like to later omit them from your story. Secret sins, disloyalty, stealing, giving up, bad habits, laziness, walking away from relationships, walking away from God…. these will end up being bad decisions that will regret being in your story. Before you make a decision ask yourself… “will this decision tell the story I want to tell?” This is your story. You must craft this story by making the best decision. A good decision What is a good decision? Here is a simple way to think about a good decision. it is virtuous. it is brave. it is wise. Virtue Virtue is a standard of morality. If your decision is moral the chances are great that it is a great decision. Honesty, patience, love, kindness, humility… these are virtues that God's Word tells us to have over and over again. Brave Decisions done out of fear are usually not great. But a BRAVE decision is usually one to be proud of making. Wise Is the decision well informed? Is it a smart decision? Was this decision thought about? Did we seek wise advice before making this decision? Virtue, bravery, and wisdom make for a great decision. You will want these decisions in your story. A bad decision No virtue. Cowardly. Foolish. No Virtue Lying, greed, anger, hate, pride… these always make for bad decisions. Cowardly God's word has rough things to say about cowardice. In Revelation 21:8 it says the cowardly will have their part in the lake of fire! Cowardly decisions usually go the path of least resistance. Cowardly decisions usually try to themselves at the expense of others. Foolish Head scratching decisions that leave you saying… “What were they thinking? This was a dumb thing to do.” Ever make a non-virtuous, cowardly, or foolish decision? How proud of that decision are you? Are you glad that decision is in your story? Non-virtuous, cowardly, and foolish decisions make for bad stories. As you craft your story you need to think about your decisions. Right now, you have a choice in front of you. What decision will you make? Virtuous or non-virtuous? Brave or cowardly? Wise or foolish? We all have choices in front of us. Some decisions are difficult and we may want to put them off and procrastinate. But this doesn't make for a great story either. You need to make a decision. Make a decision Not making a decision will waste time. Not making a decision will frustrate and confuse everyone else around you. Not making a decision will keep you from the desired end of your story. Not making a decision will allow indecision to make your choice by default. Great stories aren't created by default… they are defined. You need to make definite choices to craft your story. Israel had a decision to make in 1 Kings 18. Would they follow God or would they follow the false God Baal. 1 Kings 18:21 (NIV2011) Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing. They stood between 2 opinions… and when the prophet pressed them they said nothing. But making no decision was making a decision. Remaining undecided on whether to follow God is no different from deciding to not follow God. There is no middle ground when it comes to God decisions. Matthew 12:30 (NIV2011) “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. Have you been putting off your decision to follow God? Is God your God? Maybe God is your God… but there are certain things that God wants you to do that you have not decided to do yet… Well how is that any different? “I want to follow God… except in the area of this sin… I don't want to follow God in that area yet…” How long will you halt between two opinions? Will we follow God or not? Today I invite you to make a decision to REALLY FOLLOW GOD! Make a decision You must make a decision. You can't be happy until you make a decision. There is no comfort while you sit on a picket fence. Make a decision today. And then here is something that is essential for a happy life story. Live the decision Once you make the decision you must live the decision out. It is not enough to say the decision out loud… it is not enough to write it in your journal… it is not enough to post a facebook update about the decision… you have to live the decision out. And this is key! LISTEN UP! You make a decision one time and then live out the decision for the rest of your life. For example… Make the decision that you are going to marry this person. Make the decision for better or worse that you will love them and remain faithful to them. You make that decision one time and then live out that decision. And that sounds simple. It is simple. Here is what is not simple… Having to make a decision every moment of every day. That is exhausting. Continuing with the marriage example… I decided to be faithful to my wife, but that woman over there just winked at me…. What will I decide to do? Someone just texted me a picture and wants to meet up… what will I decide? My wife just said something that made me angry… what will I decide now? It is exhausting to make a decision every moment of every day. Instead make a decision ONE TIME and then live that decision out. It makes a better story every time! If you make a decision once and then life that decision out, you will never have to halt between 2 opinions! You already have decided to be faithful… when that person flirts with you, you have already decided. When that person texts you, you have already decided to be faithful. When you get into an argument, you have already decided! And now you just live out that decision. It is so much simpler. And it leads you to the end of the story that you decided was best. When you decided to believe and follow Jesus… that was such a good decision. LIVE THAT DECISION OUT. Do you understand that God made a decision once and He has lived it out ever since? When you ask God to forgive you of your sin, He has already decided to forgive you! When you pray for God to be for you and not against you, God already decided he was going to be for you and not against you. Sometimes we think we need to help God to decide to heal us, lift us up, or redeem us…. No no no. It is already decided by Him and He will always live out that decision. These are the ever true promises of God. This ought to make you real happy! It is a happy truth, but it doesn't mean that Life is always easy. Sometimes life sucks Sometimes life sucks. It just does… Sometimes you lose your job, or have a bad doctor's diagnosis… sometimes your kids have trouble in school… sometimes other people make decisions that negatively affect you… Sometimes the tornado hits the house across the street… sometimes it hits your house. Matthew 5:45 (NIV2011) that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. Bad things happen in life. It rains on the righteous and the unrighteous. Life happens to you. What do you do when life happens to you? What do you do when things you would never choose, happen to you? We face struggles. Sometimes your spouse files for divorce. Sometimes your car breaks down at the worst moment. Sometimes your house burns to the ground. I have been struggling with Bell's palsy. It has been a struggle. Not being able to articulate a smile has been oddly emotional for me. It feels like a dumb problem… how can I not control the right side of my face. Early on I felt that I could get really depressed over this issue. Questions like “why God?” of course came into my mind. Why is this happening to me? Why is life happening to me? Some self-help books give you a pep talk… “when life happens to you, you happen to life. Just hit life right back…” I want to give you what I feel is better advise today. When life happens to you, remember that life happens for you. Life happens for you God is working for you in all things. Even in the struggle he is working… sometimes His best work is done is struggle. Romans 8:28 (NIV2011) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. God is working for you… IN ALL THINGS He is working for Good! Romans 5:3-4 (NIV2011) …but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Suffering can produce a greater story. Struggle can produce everything that makes you a better character in your story. The struggle of suffering is actually an opportunity to continue your decision. That decision I made when I was 8 years old that I would serve God… Does Bell's palsy strike that decision void? No. The calling and anointing to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ… Can Bell's palsy defeat that call? No. Suffering is an opportunity to produce greater things in us! It reveals that your decision and faith and God's calling is stronger than the struggle. This is your story. You need to make a decision and then live that decision… But Satan thinks differently. If you will allow me… I have a small sermon I want to preach directly to Satan. It is entitled… Sometimes life sucks… But Satan, you always suck Satan please turn with me to the first chapter of Job. Job 1:6-7 (NIV2011) One day the angels came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came with them. The Lord said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the Lord, “From roaming throughout the earth, going back and forth on it.” Job 1:8-9 (NIV2011) Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. Job 1:10-11 (NIV2011) “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” Satan believes that if Job loses the blessings of God that Job will SURELY curse God to His face. Satan believes that Job has NO CHOICE but to turn from serving God and turn to serving Satan. Job 1:12 (NIV2011) The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the Lord. And in Job chapter 1, you, Satan proceed to attack the blessings of Job. He loses his wealth, his home, his children, and his marriage… Sometimes life sucks… But Satan, you always suck Satan, sometimes life sucks…. But Satan, you always suck. Job 2:1-2 (NIV2011) On another day the angels came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came with them to present himself before him. And the Lord said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the Lord, “From roaming throughout the earth, going back and forth on it.” Job 2:3 (NIV2011) Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason.” Job 2:4-5 (NIV2011) “Skin for skin!” Satan replied. “A man will give all he has for his own life. But now stretch out your hand and strike his flesh and bones, and he will surely curse you to your face.” Satan, you took away the blessings of Job, but Job did not do as you expected. You thought he would have NO CHOICE but to curse God and serve you. Satan, you were wrong… but you thought if you could take away Job's health he would have NO CHOICE but to curse God and serve you. Job 2:6 (NIV2011) The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, he is in your hands; but you must spare his life.” Satan, you attacked Job's earthly blessings, and now you attacked Job's health. Job became sick and was covered with painful boils from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet. Sometimes life sucks… But Satan, you always suck You thought if you took away the blessings, that Job would have NO CHOICE… You thought if you took away the health, that Job would have NO CHOICE… After those 2 failures… there was only one more thing that you could possibly take away from Job… and that would be Job's life. But Satan… I have a verse for you. Satan if you like I can get this verse printed up on some nice stationary for you… because Satan I want you to know this verse. Job, in the midst of pain, grief, and absolute theological confusion not understanding why any of this is happening declares this in Job 13. Job 13:15 (NIV2011) Though God slay me, yet will I hope in him; Satan, you thought Job had NO CHOICE… But Job says that you can take away his blessings, take away his health, you can even take his life… BUT HE WILL STILL CHOOSE GOD OVER YOU! Satan you think you can put us in a position to have no choice… but you are wrong. God has given us the power to choose… And right now I choose God! Right now I choose worship! Right now I choose faith! I may not understand what is going on, but I still choose God over you. Easy choice! Sometimes life sucks… But Satan, you always suck Satan I don't think you know how much you suck. You are the worst. Satan I don't think you understand how good God is. He is the best. I choose God! I choose Jesus! Right now and for the rest of my life! (Satan you are the one with no choice) Choose Jesus today Jesus is the virtuous choice! Jesus is the brave choice! Jesus is the wise choice! Jesus is the choice your story needs! Choose Him today. Make a decision for Him today. Don't just stand in this altar today… Actively choose Him by worshipping… praying… hoping in… trusting in…

This week, Pastor Alex spoke out of Exodus on the topic of: follow, commune, and persevere. Throughout the book of Exodus we see God continually with His people. The Israelites were being led by the presence of God, and received His continual blessing and favor. God endlessly provided for them, and with their radical deliverance came a radical provision. Even when the Israelites were not choosing Him, God was choosing them. He was always faithful. Pastor Alex made three primary points: 1. We must choose to follow Him If we follow Jesus we get to commune with Him and be in His presence every day. We get to eat and drink with Him, walk with Him, and spend every moment of our lives with Him. Following God is not just one decision, it is a series of daily decisions. 2. We choose to commune with Him Following Jesus is an every-aspect-of-our-life thing. Therefore, we need to establish discipline and rhythms that allow us to spend time with God. 3. We choose to persevere Perseverance is a choice, and we need to recognize that God is a God of covenant and promises – He is faithful when we are faithless. He will carry us through. Practical ways to enact these steps: As we choose to follow Him, start each day acknowledging Him and being grateful. As we commune with Him, get into the regular habit of praying the Lords prayer, pray at or before lunch, and do communion regularly. Set alarms on your phone, and acknowledge God throughout the day. Choose Him daily. What is God leading us into in 2022? Life with God is not one decision, it's a series of many decisions.

The cry of our hearts is to be fully known and deeply loved. God created us this way. He built into us the capacity for relationship, first with Himself and also with others. His desire was that He would come to us and walk in the cool of the day. This was not meant to be a superficial relationship where we pretend to be someone we are not. (In fact He saw straight through when Adam and Eve tried to cover up their failings.) He knows us through and through. He knows our struggles and doubts. He knows our triumphs, compromises and defeats. In the words of Psalm 139, He is thoroughly aquatinted with all our ways. And He loves us. We were created for intimacy. I looked this word up in my 100 year old Webster's Dictionary. (Many of our definitions have been dumbed down over the years.) Intimacy means relating to one another on the deepest level. Honest. Authentic. Real. God created us to be in relationships that encompass the whole person. We long to be understood, accepted and loved at our very core. If we are loved but not known we are terrified because what will happen when we are found out? To be known and not loved can bring shame and chilling rejection. But to be fully known and deeply loved brings profound acceptance and satisfaction. This is what we were created for. In the words of Tim Keller in his book, The Meaning of Marriage, “It (being known and loved) is what we need more than anything. It liberates us from pretense, humbles us out of our self-righteousness, and fortifies us for any difficulty life can throw at us.” I cannot think of another place in the Bible that so eloquently explains how fully God knows us than Psalm 139. He has searched us out. He knows the pattern of our daily lives, when we lie down and get up. He understands our very thoughts from afar. He even knows what we are going to say before we say it. We move in Him, His hand is upon us. There is nowhere we can go to elude His presence. He knit us together and formed us in our mothers' wombs. He ordained our days before we even lived one of them. His thoughts toward us are precious and innumerable. In the words of David, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me.” But there is more, not only does God know us, He loves us. Being fully known as explained in Psalm 139 means we are laid open, we become vulnerable to rejection, censure and judgment. There is risk in every authentic relationship. We could be mocked and betrayed by the One who knows all our secrets. But we are safe because of the majestic character of God. He is trustworthy. When we turn in our hearts to God, He looks upon us with compassion and love. He extends mercy to us. His love is profound. He has demonstrated His great love for us by giving us the very life force of His most precious Son. Jesus shed His blood for us so that we might have life. God values us that much. Relationships are a two way proposition. God didn't create us for this relationship and then force us into it. We are not robots programmed so that we must automatically choose and obey Him, this would not lead to a satisfying relationship, it would lead to serfdom. He gave us the ability to freely choose whether we want to be in relationship with Him or not. He respects our free wills. He will not force us to love Him. We have to decide. God knows us fully and loves us deeply. We are safe in His unfathomable love. Our privilege is to respond to this love by saying yes to the intimate, satisfying relationship He offers. Choose Him this day, and keep on choosing Him. Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You that You know me even better than I know myself. And thank You that You love me in spite of myself. Help me to comprehend your incomprehensible love and to respond by saying yes to You. In Jesus' name, Amen