Podcasts about christlike

A gorgeous barred owl perched on a tree branch at the end of her driveway — camera in hand, several stunning shots captured. And then, an hour later, sitting with a friend in the depths of a broken relationship. Two encounters, stark in their contrast, and yet Tammy Darling found herself recognizing something profound in the space between them: beauty and pain do not cancel each other out. They coexist. And it takes love — the particular, Christ-shaped kind of love — to see the beauty that lives inside pain and call it out. In this searching and compassionate episode, Tammy refuses to look away. From the homeless man on the park bench to the woman in the grocery store line carrying fear about her future, she asks the question most of us quietly avoid: how can we stand in awe of the natural beauty of this world and not simultaneously seek out the hidden beauty in the people around us who are suffering? Romans 8:18 reminds us that present sufferings are not worth comparing to the glory that is coming — but Tammy takes it further, arguing that even now, in the midst of pain, beauty can be found and spoken over those who cannot yet see it in themselves. When love comes alongside pain, beauty is born. And entering someone else's pain is not a burden — it is a privilege. Today's Bible Verse "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."— Romans 8:18, NIV Ponder Today Beauty and pain can coexist — even in the same moment. We don't have to choose between marveling at the world's beauty and grieving its brokenness. Holding both at once is a mark of a heart shaped by Christ's compassion. In the eyes of the hurting, there are pools of beauty waiting to be discovered. The pain may go deep, but the beauty goes deeper. Choosing to look — truly look — at people in pain is where that beauty begins to be revealed. Sight brings responsibility. What is seen cannot be unseen. When we recognize the pain and hidden beauty in another person, we are called to speak it, to act on it, and to enter it. Seeing and doing nothing is its own kind of turning away. Love coming alongside pain is how beauty is born. Compassion, empathy, grace, and mercy are not just kind responses to suffering — they are facets of the love that Christ Himself is, and they transform pain into something redemptive. We were commanded, not suggested, to love one another as Christ loved us. John 13:34 uses the word must. We cannot pass by the wounded stranger on the road. Engaging with the pain of others is not optional for those who follow Jesus. A Prayer for You Today Dearest Jesus, though we live in a broken and fallen world, there is much beauty to behold. We thank You for the privilege of entering into the pain of others so that Your beauty may shine through, even in the darkest of places. May our days be full of compassion and love for one another. When we are hurt, may we forgive. When we are rejected, may we remember that You were too. When we see the hurting around us, may we choose to engage and ease their pain. May beauty in pain be revealed in all we do and say. In Your precious name, Amen. Don't Miss an Episode If today's prayer opened your eyes to the beauty hidden in the pain around you, we'd love to stay connected. Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and more content to shape your heart toward compassion and Christlike love every day. If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

On this episode of the In the Room Podcast, Naomi, Jonah, and Logan discuss Pastor Troy's message in a series about being a blessing to others, emphasizing that God's yoke is easy and His burden is light because He carries our burdens with community. The group reflects on Genesis 12 and Abraham's call to be a blessing for future generations, then explores stewardship through personal examples: leading youth ministry, being intentional at work, managing finances, and valuing “behind-the-scenes” administrative gifts. They talk about not comparing gifts, cultivating what God has entrusted, and being faithful in small details, including health and phone use. The conversation highlights living as an example, reacting with Christlike selflessness, and how a church serves its community through God's mission, changed lives, and outreach.

We see it in politics, social media, the news, our workplaces, our homes, and often in our own hearts. Sometimes it erupts in obvious ways. Other times it hides behind irritation, bitterness, resentment, or what we call "pet peeves."In this episode of Sound Words Podcast, Jesse Randolph and Aaron Nicholson discuss what the Bible teaches about anger, why God takes it so seriously, how to distinguish righteous anger from sinful anger, and how believers can respond in a Christlike way.Sound Words is a ministry of Indian Hills Community Church, a Bible teaching church in Lincoln, NE. Sound Words is also a partner of Foundations Media, a collective of Christian creators passionate about promoting biblical theology and applying it to everyday life. Learn more at https://foundationsmedia.org.Follow on InstagramFollow on FacebookFollow on YouTubeFollow on TwitterFollow on ThreadsVisit https://ihcc.org

This Father's Day sermon uses a golf-ball illustration to teach that Christians are “set apart” and called to leave worldly ways behind, be renewed in their minds, and live out a new identity in Christ marked by integrity, self-control (especially over anger), and honest work. The pastor especially challenges parents—fathers in particular—to model Christlike living at home, guard their children from worldly ideologies, and rely on the Holy Spirit's power to break patterns like unresolved anger.

June 21, 2026Everyone goes through trials and temptations. We can either respond in a Christlike way or in a worldly way. When we raise the standard of our response to trials to Christ's standard, the Lord matures our faith and builds up our spiritual endurance. Confident in God's character and what He will produce in us, James challenges us to face every trial with pure joy.James 1:1-4

We live in a culture that places a high value on physical fitness, health, and self-improvement - especially true in Scottsdale! From gym memberships to training programs and nutrition plans, people understand that growth requires intentional effort. In this Sunday's passage, Paul uses that same imagery to teach us an important truth: spiritual maturity does not happen by accident. We'll see that before believers can be trained for Godliness, they must first be nourished by the truth of God's Word. Paul reminds Timothy to reject false teaching and feed himself on sound doctrine. Just as an athlete needs proper nutrition before entering the gym, Christians need the steady nourishment of Scripture if they are going to grow in faith, obedience, and Christlike character. Godliness does not happen by accident. We'll also discover why the pursuit of Godliness is worth the effort. While physical training has some value for this life, godliness holds promise for both the present life and the life to come. God has not left us alone in this pursuit. He has given us His Word, His Spirit, and His people to equip us for spiritual growth. I'm looking forward to discovering how we can make use of these gifts and learn what it means to train for a life that bears eternal fruit.

Send us Fan MailThis Podcast is part of a 10-year project to complete an in-depth, daily study of the entire Bible, chapter by chapter, verse by verse. Episode Notes:  Walking in Holiness. (Eph 4: 17-24)Some people grow up… and some people grow old. You've probably met both kinds.Some Christians grow up in Christ — they become wiser, steadier, more loving, more Christlike. Others grow old in Christ —attending church, learning the religious language, but never really changing. In this passage, Paul is urging us to be the first kind of people, those who grow up spiritually and become more like Christ. And he describes this growth using a phrase we've seen before: “Walking in righteousness.”Over the coming episodes, we're going to continue to look at the different ways Paul says we should “walk.” But today, we begin with this foundational one: Walking in righteousness… walking in holiness. So how do we grow spiritually and live righteously without becoming self‑righteous? How do we display holiness without becoming holier‑than‑thou? Paul begins to answer that in verse today's passage, Ephesians 4:17–24….Support the showThis podcast is not associated with the Bible Project YouTube channel or any other associated podcasts that use the name 'Bible Project'. It is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...Follow and support me on Patreon.Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | PatreonTo receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:Jeremy McCandless | SubstackCheck out my other Podcasts.My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comThe L.I.F.E. Podcast: (Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment Podcast).https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.comThe Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891The Classic Literature Podcast:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest...

Parenting is one of life's most challenging, yet rewarding relational roles. How can we be successful? In week four of Made for Relationships, Pastor Brad Cooper encourages us to walk in childlike faith, raise our kids with Christlike love, and learn what it means to be fathered by God. Parenting is one of life's most challenging, yet rewarding relational roles. How can we be successful? In week four of Made for Relationships, Pastor Brad Cooper encourages us to walk in childlike faith, raise our kids with Christlike love, and learn what it means to be fathered by God.

Toy Story 5 is capitalizing on a truly devastating part of our culture: the loss of childhood to technology. In this briefing, Kelly highlights some of the most important aspects of the movie to help parents grasp the weight of what it depicts. Can a tablet be the problem with kids no longer playing, and the solution to making more friends? What does it mean to grow up too fast? Is gaming the same as playing? Is the age of toys really over? Articles referenced: Plugged In: Toy Story 5 Scripture referenced: Proverbs 22:6   Upcoming Events: Great Homeschool Convention – Round Rock, Texas July 9-11 Kelly & Ryan will both be leading workshops and Brave Parenting will have an exhibitor booth JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide! An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum! Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology. Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today! Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite! Book a Speaking Event!! Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible. Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups. Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!

Vintage City Church | Removing the Root of Bitterness • 1 Peter 2:1 • Gary Peters In 1 Peter 2:1–3, Peter calls believers to put away sinful attitudes and hunger for God's Word. As we experience the kindness and grace of Christ, God transforms our hearts, helping us grow in maturity, love, and Christlike character.

In 2 Timothy 3, Paul warns Timothy that difficult days will come—not merely because of unbelievers outside the church, but because of people who claim godliness while denying its power. Paul contrasts counterfeit faith with authentic faith and calls believers to remain anchored in Christ, committed to the church, and grounded in God's Word.As followers of Jesus, we are called to recognize false teaching, pursue genuine Christlike character, persevere through hardship, and remain steadfast in the Scriptures that equip us for every good work. Authentic faith isn't measured by information alone, but by transformation through the power of Christ.

The sermon centers on the radical, self-sacrificial love modeled by Paul and ultimately by Christ, calling believers to measure their lives not by productivity or comfort, but by the depth of their spiritual investment in others' souls. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 12, it emphasizes that true Christ-like care seeks people not for what they can give, but for their eternal good, willingly spending time, energy, and emotion—even in the face of rejection or suspicion—while maintaining joy and integrity. The preacher challenges listeners to examine their own lives through a spiritual 'Fitbit' metaphor, asking whether their efforts are driven by self-interest or by a genuine burden for others' spiritual growth and joy. Key themes include the necessity of emotional and spiritual anguish for the sake of others, the joy found in sacrificial service, and the imperative to love even when unreciprocated, all rooted in Christ's example of enduring the cross for the joy set before Him. Ultimately, the message calls for a life of intentional, joyful, and self-giving love that reflects the heart of God.

On this Father's Day, we turn to God's Word to examine His design for husbands and fathers. In a culture filled with competing voices and opinions about family, Scripture provides clear instruction for what it means to lead, love, and serve in a way that honors Christ.From Ephesians, we explore the foundational role of being filled with the Spirit and how that shapes every aspect of a man's life—from his marriage to his parenting. This message highlights the daily commitments of a godly husband and father, calling men to yield to God's Spirit, love sacrificially, pursue holiness, care for their families, and faithfully raise their children in the truth.Whether you're a father, husband, future husband, or simply seeking to understand God's design for the family, this sermon offers both encouragement and challenge as we look to Christ as the ultimate example of servant-hearted leadership and love.

The person who is pursuing a God-honoring life will manifest tangible Christlike behaviors.

This Father's Day, we looked at what it means to call God "Our Father." Guest speaker O'Neil Coakley shared five marks of a Christlike father:leading spirituallyloving with compassionproviding identitydisciplining with wisdomleaving a legacyWe talked about the kind of father God is, and what that means for the way we live, lead, and parent.Whether you grew up with a father who modeled these things or one who didn't, this message points back to the Father who gets it right.Join us at New Vision Church in Fayetteville, Georgia — a community to belong, be loved, and believe.newvisionc.com | @nvcnextgen

May 17, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class   In this episode Joey continues a teaching series on common sins and struggles, focusing on selfishness as the root of many moral and relational problems. Drawing on Philippians 2:1–4 and James 3–4, the talk defines selfishness biblically, contrasts it with Christlike humility, and explains how selfish ambition, conceit, envy, and self-seeking lead to conflict and spiritual stagnation. The episode reviews how selfishness disguises itself as ambition, self-protection, convenience, or the pursuit of happiness, and shows how common behaviors — laziness, anger, pride, gossip, the love of money and even extreme sins like murder, adultery, and stealing — often trace back to an “I/ my” mindset. The speaker outlines practical warning signs (always needing to win arguments, refusing to apologize, demanding attention, controlling behavior, unwillingness to serve) and explains how inward selfishness can be harder to spot than outward acts. Two biblical case studies illustrate the problem: Cain's refusal to accept correction (Genesis 4) and the prodigal son's entitlement and wasted inheritance (Luke 15). James is used to show the origin of selfishness in worldly desires and its consequences — confusion, fights, and wars — and to present the opposite virtues: peace ableness, willingness to yield, mercy, and impartiality. The speaker closes by previewing the next session, which will examine additional biblical examples and offer concrete steps to overcome selfishness by cultivating humility, looking outward to others, serving sacrificially, and following Jesus' example. This teaching is delivered as a solo lesson (no guest speakers) and is intended to help listeners identify selfish patterns in their lives and begin practical spiritual growth toward humility and healthier relationships. Duration 41:08

May 31, 2026 - Sunday PM Service   This episode captures a youth-led evening service featuring prayers, scripture readings, hymns, and a heartfelt message from a recent high‑school graduate. Guests and participants include closing-prayer leader Corbin, Travis, devotionals from Cooper and Maddox, and several young men leading the service. The program blends announcements, communal worship, and a Gospel-centered talk focused on living out Christlike humility. Worship included classic and contemporary songs—"Jesus Loves Me," "Mansion Over the Hilltop," "God Is So Good," "I'll Fly Away," "Higher Ground," and "You Are Holy"—along with communal prayers and the Lord's Supper. Multiple prayers asked for the sick and shut‑ins, guidance for speakers, and strength for the young leaders as they serve the congregation. Scripture readings were Philippians 2:3–5, Matthew 5:14–16, and Galatians 6:9–10. The central sermon theme examined the phrase “do nothing from selfish ambition,” contrasting worldly ambition with the call to look outward, serve others, and pursue humility. Speakers emphasized that accomplishments fade but lives touched for Christ endure, urged the congregation not to grow weary in doing good, and reminded listeners that the seeds we plant in daily acts of kindness will yield a spiritual harvest. Key takeaways: pursue ambition for Christ rather than recognition, practice quiet acts of service (even when no one is watching), let your light shine so others glorify God, and remain faithful in planting seeds of love and generosity. The episode ends with an invitation to respond to the Gospel, share prayer requests, and a closing encouragement for all listeners—especially young people—to start sowing now and live as visible reflections of God's love.   Duration 28:22

Join us as we study through the Epistle to the Galatians in our sermon series, "The Gospel at Work."In today's podcast, we will be focusing on Galatians 5:2-6.If you have any questions or would like to leave a comment, please feel free to email us at info@ravenswoodbaptist.org

In Week 3 of Built Different, Pastor Ethan Harris closes the series by looking at 2 Peter 1:5–8 and the progression Peter gives us for a faith that grows into real, Christlike love.Peter knew what it felt like to fail, deny Jesus, and feel unworthy. But Jesus met him right where he was, restored him, and called him into a life of purpose. That same invitation is for us today.When we supplement our faith with virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love, we become people who are not ineffective or unfruitful. We become people who love like Jesus, serve like Jesus, and show the world that we are truly built different.

Have you ever read Scripture that sounds beautiful on paper but feels impossible to live out in real life? Walking through Romans 12:9–13, Pastor Collin Bullard highlights how the call to sincere love—marked by humility, zeal, patience, and generosity—reveals a standard far beyond what we can achieve on our own. The heart of the message is that genuine, Christlike love is not something we manufacture, but something God produces in us as we stay connected to Him. This leads us to stop striving in our own strength and instead come honestly before God, asking for help and trusting Him to transform our hearts from the inside out.

Fatherhood is one of the greatest callings with some of the greatest responsibilities. Host Casey Harper is joined by Family Research Council’s Harold Harper and Jared Bridges to share how becoming fathers transformed their lives. They discuss raising children in the truth of the Gospel, nurturing their God-given gifts, and helping them discern God’s will in everyday decisions. They also discuss the impact of having spiritual mentors and father figures who can guide, encourage, and help you become a more Christlike father.

Fatherhood is one of the greatest callings with some of the greatest responsibilities. Host Casey Harper is joined by Family Research Council's Harold Harper and Jared Bridges to share how becoming fathers transformed their lives. They discuss raising children in the truth of the Gospel, nurturing their God-given gifts, and helping them discern God's will in everyday decisions. They also discuss the impact of having spiritual mentors and father figures who can guide, encourage, and help you become a more Christlike father.

We live in a culture where it seems that the generations are at war with one another, families are falling apart – some going no contact, and children are increasingly without skills, purpose, and hope. Perhaps this is because we’ve lost sight of the benefits that intergenerational relationships bring. What children need to learn and experience is not what the internet offers. They need the slow, offline activities that grandparents can teach. They need to be reminded of their roots and to receive a heritage of faith, traditions, memories, virtue, and skills. In today’s podcast, Kelly argues for the essential role grandparents play in children’s lives. Both parents and grandparents listening will receive encouragement and practical steps to restore relationships, establish screen-free relational time between grandparents and grandchildren, persevere with kids who may resist slow, character-building activities, and understand why this is part of God’s design for the family. Articles referenced: The Troubling Rise of Family Estrangement Effects of grandparents' involvement on young children's resilience Socioemotional Engagement with Grandchildren: Associations with Loneliness and Quality of Life Grandparents Can Teach What the Internet Cannot Scripture referenced: Deuteronomy 4:9 Psalm 78:4-7 Proverbs 17:6 Psalm 127:3 Proverbs 13:22 Ephesians 2:10 Ruth 4:14-17   Upcoming Events: Great Homeschool Convention – Round Rock, Texas July 9-11 Kelly & Ryan will both be leading workshops and Brave Parenting will have an exhibitor booth JUST RELEASED: The Managing Media Creating Character STUDENT Study Guide! An 8-week biblical study examining how character is impacted by media and technology. The study can be done individually, in a small group, or even as homeschool curriculum! Great for middle school, high school, and young college students to develop Christlike character, which can then guide their use of media and technology. Get your copy of the STUDENT Study Guide today! Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite! Book a Speaking Event!! Buy the UPDATED book: Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated). Also available on Audible. Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook, with video teachings for small groups. Check out our brand new Brave Parenting Merch Sign up for the Brave Bullet Points newsletter! This helps us communicate what’s happening without social media – a win for everyone!

This Week at Genesis | This Mystery Is Profound In Ephesians 5, Paul describes marriage as a profound mystery that points beyond itself to the relationship between Christ and His Church. This message explores God's vision for marriage as a covenant of sacrificial love, mutual submission, and shared purpose. Together, we consider how the gospel reshapes our understanding of marriage—not as a means of self-fulfillment, but as a lifelong commitment to seek the good of another while growing into the likeness of Christ. Scripture & Themes

Fatherhood is one of the greatest callings with some of the greatest responsibilities. Host Casey Harper is joined by Family Research Council’s Harold Harper and Jared Bridges to share how becoming fathers transformed their lives. They discuss raising children in the truth of the Gospel, nurturing their God-given gifts, and helping them discern God’s will in everyday decisions. They also discuss the impact of having spiritual mentors and father figures who can guide, encourage, and help you become a more Christlike father.

A sermon preached by Rev. Ginger E. Gaines-Cirelli with Foundry UMC, June 7, 2026, Second Sunday after Pentecost. “We Know Who We Are”series. Texts: Romans 12:1-2, 9-13; Acts 2:41-47   Last week we reflected on grace. We remembered that God's grace comes before we ever think about God, before we ever do anything right, before we ever earn anything. Grace comes first. Grace comes last. Grace is always the ground beneath our feet. This week the question is: If grace comes first, how does grace actually change us?   I grew up before car seats were common. Heck—I regularly rode in the back of my dad's or grandpa's pickup truck to get ice cream or drive out to the lake. Looking back, it feels like I was raised in the Wild West!?  As a teenager, I'd been driving a year or so when a new law was passed that required seatbelts. We started hearing about studies showing how seatbelts saved lives. There were those crash-test dummy commercials—remember those? But putting on a seatbelt wasn't something I thought about.  And so every time I got into the car, I had to remind myself: Put on your seatbelt. Sometimes I'd forget. Sometimes I'd remember halfway down the road. But I kept doing it. And then one day I noticed something. I was driving somewhere and realized I already had my seatbelt on. I hadn't thought about it. I hadn't reminded myself. I had just done it. What had once felt awkward and inconvenient had become a habit. It had become instinct. I had practiced and learned a new thing.   Most of us understand this when it comes to driving. Or learning an instrument. Or speaking a language. Or playing a sport. Or exercising.   A friend once told me, “Nobody likes running when they first start. You have to just do it. After a while you'll reap the benefits.” I never forgot the wisdom. You may not start out loving the practice. But you practice because of what the practice is shaping you to become.   And I've been thinking this week that much of the Christian life works the same way. Many of us want to become more loving, more patient, more generous, more courageous. We want to respond to conflict with grace. We want to be less fearful and more trusting. We want our lives to reflect the love of Christ. But how does that happen?   John Wesley believed that the goal of the Christian life was what he called “Christian perfection.” Unfortunately, that phrase has caused confusion for generations. Wesley wasn't talking about becoming flawless. He wasn't talking about never making mistakes. He wasn't talking about acting like we've got it all together. He was talking about becoming so filled with the love of God that God's love begins to overflow from our lives.   I often picture it like a pitcher being filled with water. As we open ourselves to receive God's love and mercy—God's grace!—we are filled. And just as a pitcher overflows once it becomes full, so God's love begins to overflow in our lives. Love spills over. Mercy spills over. Compassion spills over. Generosity spills over. Wesley believed that this could happen. In fact, he believed it was the goal of those who would follow Christ.   Or as the hymn puts it: “Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love.” I love that phrase. The impulse of thy love. Because it suggests a life in which love becomes our first instinct. A life in which generosity and mercy become as natural as breathing. A life in which our hands move at the impulse of God's love. Wouldn't that be something?   The question is: How do we become those people? And Wesley's answer was surprisingly practical. We practice. We train. We place ourselves again and again in the flow of God's grace. Wesley called these practices “means of grace.” Prayer. Scripture. Worship. Holy Communion. Christian conversation and accountability. Small groups. Acts of mercy and service.   And this week, I want to invite you to choose one. Not all of them. Just one. Spend a few minutes each day reading scripture. Or pray each morning before you reach for your phone. Or read a daily devotion. Or intentionally perform one act of kindness or service each day. Choose one way to place yourself in the flow of God's grace and practice it every day this week.   These are means of grace not because they are things that earn God's love or make God love us more. They are not means of grace because checking enough religious boxes gets us into heaven. But because these practices place us where God's transforming grace can reach us. God's grace is always present—whether we're practicing the means of grace or not. But these practices have been shown over the centuries to place us in the flow of God's grace in a very concentrated way.   There is a distinction between trying and training. Anyone can try to run a marathon. But only someone who trains will actually finish one. The same is true of the Christian life. Anybody can try to be more loving. Anybody can try to be more patient. Anybody can try to forgive. But becoming Christlike requires more than trying. It requires training in grace.   This is why Methodists became Methodists. John Wesley was nothing if not methodical. The early Methodists became known for their methods—the practices and habits that helped them grow in love of God and neighbor. And that brings us to Romans 12.   After eleven chapters proclaiming the mercy and grace of God, Paul writes: “I appeal to you therefore...on the basis of God's mercy...” Paul doesn't begin with an appeal based on obligation or guilt or fear, but rather an appeal on the basis of God's mercy. Grace comes first. Then Paul says, “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.” Notice that he doesn't say, “Present your beliefs.” He says, “Present your bodies.” The Christian life isn't simply a set of ideas we agree with. It is a way of life. It is embodied. It is practiced.   Then Paul says: “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds.” This is such a perennial call—true in every age! It is easy to become conformed to the things of this world. All of us are being formed by something. The news forms us. Social media forms us. Fear forms us. Our families, culture, and education form us. The question is not whether we are being formed. The question is: By what?   Paul doesn't tell us to transform ourselves. He says, “Be transformed.” God is the one doing the transforming. Our work is to place ourselves where God's grace can do its work. And then Paul immediately shows us what a transformed life looks like: Let love be genuine. Love one another. Rejoice in hope. Be patient in suffering. Persevere in prayer. Practice hospitality.   These things are not feelings. They are practices. They are things we do again and again until they begin to shape who we are. Nobody wakes up one day naturally hospitable. Nobody wakes up instinctively patient. Nobody wakes up automatically generous. These things are formed through grace and practice.   And then our reading from Acts shows us what that formation looks like in community. The Spirit comes at Pentecost. Thousands are baptized. A movement is born. And what do they do next?   Luke says: “They devoted themselves.” That may be the most important phrase in the whole passage. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. They devoted themselves. Not occasionally or when it was convenient or when they felt inspired. They devoted themselves. They showed up again and again. They listened to the story of Jesus. They prayed together. They shared meals. They worshiped together. They cared for one another. And over time something happened. They became a different kind of people.   Their possessions became less important than their neighbors' needs. Their tables became larger. Their hearts became more generous. Their lives became more joyful. Their witness became more compelling. The Pentecost miracle of Acts 2 is not only that the Spirit came in a wondrous way and moved previously fearful disciples to do wondrous things. The miracle is also that people kept showing up. They devoted themselves to practices that opened them to God's grace. And God's grace formed them into a community that looked different from the world around them. They were not conformed to their age, but were transformed by the saving grace and love of God in Christ Jesus.   Friends, this is part of who we are as United Methodists. We have practices. We have rhythms. We have a path: prayer, presence, gifts, service, and witness, and all the means of grace handed down through generations. They're not handed down because God needs them, but because we do. Not because they earn us salvation, but because they help open us to receive the grace that is already being offered.   And over time, through worship and prayer, through scripture and communion, through service and generosity, God does what only God can do. God transforms us. God fills us. And little by little, sometimes so gradually we hardly notice, our lives begin to move at a different impulse. The impulse of love. The impulse of mercy. The impulse of grace.   “Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love.” That is the goal. It's not about perfectionism. The goal is perfect love—lives so shaped by God's grace that one day we discover we are no longer merely trying to love. By the grace of God, we have begun to move at the impulse of God's love. This week, choose one way to place yourself in the flow of God's grace. Not because God needs it. Because you do.  

visit: https://www.ysguys.comY's Guys made history with its first-ever remote broadcast, live from the Redmond Farm Store in Orem for Redmond Night with Y's Guys. Dave McCann and Blaine Fowler welcomed a packed lineup of BYU athletes, coaches, and special guests, including Kevin Young, Bruce Branch III, Robert Wright III, Richie Saunders, Bear Bachmeier, Tiger Bachmeier, Todd Miller, Ben Barton, Spencer Steiner, and Michael Johanson.The show opened with Kevin Young and Bruce Branch III discussing Bruce's arrival at BYU, his experience playing for USA Basketball, and the role his mother, Constance, has played in shaping his defensive mindset and team-first approach. Kevin talked about recruiting high-character players, building a family-centered culture, and what makes Bruce different from past BYU stars like Egor Demin and AJ Dybantsa. Robert Wright III also joined briefly, with both Bruce and Robert expressing excitement about playing together this season.Richie Saunders stopped by to talk about his recovery, the NBA Draft, and his hope to return to the court this fall. Richie said the draft process has been exciting and emotional, and he expressed deep gratitude for his wife, Rachel, and Cougar Nation's support during his rehab.Bear Bachmeier and Tiger Bachmeier joined the show together to talk about summer workouts, team bonding, the upcoming season, Notre Dame coming to LaVell Edwards Stadium, the Arizona game, and their first Bear and Tiger Football Camp. Bear emphasized BYU's mission of Christlike service and giving back to kids, while Tiger shared his excitement about playing alongside his brother and potentially catching a touchdown from him this fall.Ben Barton was named the Redmond Re-Lyte Athlete of the Week after winning the NCAA decathlon national championship in Eugene, Oregon. Ben became BYU's first decathlon national champion since Tito Steiner in 1981, scoring a personal-best 8,169 points. Later in the show, Ben joined in person to describe the emotional finish, his wife Clara's sacrifices after the birth of their son William, and what it means to represent BYU and the Church as a national champion.New BYU men's golf head coach Todd Miller joined the show to discuss taking over for Bruce Brockbank, the legacy of BYU golf, and the future of the program. Todd talked about Kihei Akina's historic freshman season, the depth of the team, his father Johnny Miller's influence, and his excitement about building on BYU golf's recent success.The show also included campus notes on BYU track and field, football preseason honors, the Brendan Sorsby eligibility situation at Texas Tech, Michael Rucker's call-up with the Seattle Mariners, and BYU women's volleyball's upcoming schedule. Spencer Steiner from Redmond gave a “Hydration 101” lesson about electrolytes, salt, and why athletes need more than water to stay properly hydrated. Michael Johanson from the BYU Alumni Association closed the guest lineup with thoughts on BYU's Cougs Care service efforts and the growing connection between athletics, alumni, and service.Timestamps (approximate):00:00 — Redmond Night with Y's Guys begins in Orem01:32 — Bruce Branch III and Robert Wright III join the show04:38 — Kevin Young talks BYU basketball culture and Bruce Branch15:19 — Five Questions with Kevin Young and Bruce Branch19:59 — Ben Barton named Redmond Re-Lyte Athlete of the Week22:34 — Richie Saunders discusses the NBA Draft and his recovery28:49 — Bear and Tiger Bachmeier join the show32:43 — Brendan Sorsby, Texas Tech, and Big 12 football talk38:53 — Bear and Tiger preview their football camp53:20 — BYU football, track and field, baseball, and volleyball notes1:02:18 — Todd Miller talks BYU golf and Kihei Akina1:24:55 — Ben Barton joins after winning the NCAA decathlon title1:41:35 — Spencer Steiner explains Redmond hydration and electrolytes1:48:56 — Michael Johanson on BYU Alumni service efforts1:54:19 — On This Day, Mike Holmgren quote, and show wrap-up Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anger doesn't always explode. Sometimes it lingers beneath the surface, quietly growing into resentment, bitterness, and broken relationships. In this episode of Take Heart, Cory Wing examines what Scripture teaches about anger, bitterness, forgiveness, and healing. Drawing from Ephesians, Proverbs, James, Hebrews, and the teachings of Christ, he explains the difference between righteous anger and sinful anger, why bitterness is so dangerous, and how the gospel provides lasting freedom. Whether you're struggling with unresolved conflict, resentment toward someone who has hurt you, or simply want to grow in Christlike forgiveness, this episode offers practical biblical wisdom and encouragement.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Chivalry.” Dr. Fazale Rana, also known as Dr. Fuz, joined us to discuss how biochemistry points to God’s design, explaining that discoveries in DNA and the unique human capacities for altruism, empathy, and chivalry reflect what it means to be made in the image of God. Dr. Fuz is the President, CEO, and Senior Scholar at Reasons to Believe, a non-profit that focuses on revealing God in science. Next, Seth Troutt joined us to talk about authentic masculinity, explaining how men can reject counterfeits such as passivity and toxic masculinity by pursuing godly character, Christlike responsibility, and biblical chivalry. Seth is the Teaching Pastor at Ironwood Church in the Phoenix metro area and author of “Authentic Masculinity: Leaving Behind the Counterfeits for God’s Design.” We then had Hutz Hertzberg join us to talk about the growing hunger for Christ-centered education, explaining why parents are rethinking their children’s schooling and how classical Christian education offers an alternative rooted in biblical truth. Hutz is the chairman at Hope in Truth and currently the Chief Education Officer of Turning Point USA’s education arm, Turning Point Education. You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Fuz Rana [ 20:17 ]Seth Troutt [ 33:57 ]Hutz Hetzberg [ 11:49 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anger doesn't always explode. Sometimes it lingers beneath the surface, quietly growing into resentment, bitterness, and broken relationships. In this episode of Take Heart, Cory Wing examines what Scripture teaches about anger, bitterness, forgiveness, and healing. Drawing from Ephesians, Proverbs, James, Hebrews, and the teachings of Christ, he explains the difference between righteous anger and sinful anger, why bitterness is so dangerous, and how the gospel provides lasting freedom. Whether you're struggling with unresolved conflict, resentment toward someone who has hurt you, or simply want to grow in Christlike forgiveness, this episode offers practical biblical wisdom and encouragement.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere

In this episode, Shiree explores a powerful framework inspired by Bryce Dunford that can transform the way we navigate relationships, especially with loved ones who have left the faith.What if "telestial," "terrestrial," and "celestial" describe more than where we end up someday? What if they also describe how we respond to people right now?A telestial response focuses on self-protection. A terrestrial response focuses on fairness. A celestial response focuses on love and asks, "What would Christ do?"Through practical examples and real-life family situations, you'll learn how to recognize your own responses, give yourself grace for where you are, and take the next step toward thinking more celestial.If you're struggling with hurt, conflict, or faith differences in your family, this episode offers a hopeful path forward—one rooted in Christlike love rather than guilt, fear, or retaliation.You'll learn:• The difference between telestial, terrestrial, and celestial responses• How these patterns show up in family relationships• What it means to "think celestial" in difficult situations• How to move forward with greater peace, grace, and loveLink to Bryce Dunford's Talking Scripture episode.Connect with Shiree at ⁠shireebest.com⁠ Join the⁠ "Just Love Them" Facebook group⁠Email Shiree at imlivinginjoy@gmail.com to join the Just Love Them Support Group.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Have you ever felt like God was silent, distant, or absent? In this powerful conversation, Kyle Strobel shares how seasons of spiritual dryness can become some of the most transformative moments in a believer's life. Discover why faith isn't built on emotional highs and how God often does His deepest work in the desert. If you're struggling with doubt, discouragement, or spiritual fatigue, this episode offers biblical hope and practical encouragement.About the GuestKyle Strobel is the Director of the Institute for Spiritual Formation and Associate Professor of Spiritual Theology at Talbot School of Theology. He is a theologian, author, speaker, and co-author of When God Seems Distant and Where Prayer Becomes Real. His work focuses on spiritual formation, prayer, and helping Christians experience genuine transformation in Christ. Reasons to ListenHope for Dry Seasons Discover why spiritual dryness is not necessarily a sign that something is wrong, but may actually be evidence that God is deepening your faith and transforming your heart. Practical Spiritual Formation Learn practical ways to continue praying, reading Scripture, and walking with Jesus when emotions and motivation disappear. Biblical Perspective Gain a deeper understanding of the Psalms, suffering, weakness, and God's surprising work in seasons that feel spiritually barren. Big TakeawaysGod Works in Deserts Seasons of spiritual dryness are often places where God exposes deeper issues of the heart and teaches us to trust Him by faith rather than feelings. Feelings Aren't Faith God's presence is not measured by emotional experiences. Mature faith learns to trust God's promises even when He feels distant. Weakness Reveals Need Spiritual growth happens when we recognize how much we need God's forgiveness, grace, and transforming work. The Psalms Give Language Honest prayers found in the Psalms help believers bring their confusion, disappointment, and struggles directly to God. Transformation Over Information Knowledge alone cannot produce Christlike character. Spiritual formation requires surrender, humility, and dependence on Jesus. Missional ChallengesPray the Psalms Daily Spend the next seven days praying one Psalm each day, allowing Scripture to shape your honest conversations with God. Practice Honest Prayer Bring one area of discouragement, doubt, or weakness directly to God instead of hiding it behind religious performance. Encourage a Struggling Believer Reach out to someone who may be experiencing spiritual dryness and remind them that God remains faithful even when He feels distant. Chapters00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Kyle Strobel 01:00 – Kyle's Personal Journey Through Spiritual Darkness 05:00 – Discovering the "Dark Night of the Soul" 10:00 – Why Information Doesn't Equal Transformation 13:00 – Understanding Spiritual Dryness in the Christian Life 16:00 – The Lifeline of Honest Community 17:00 – Learning to Pray the Psalms 19:00 – Why Churches Rarely Discuss Spiritual Dryness 25:00 – Passion vs. Deep Affection for Jesus 26:00 – Moving from Zeal to Steadfast Faithfulness 34:00 – What Churches Need to Understand About the Desert 37:00 – Practical Ways to Walk with God in Dry Seasons 43:00 – Finding God in Weakness 44:00 – Final Encouragement for Struggling Believers 45:00 – Fun Questions & Favorite Psalms 49:00 – Where to Connect with Kyle StrobelGuest Website & Social MediaBuy 'When God Seems Distant' BookWebsiteKyle Strobel Substack #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #Jesus #KyleStrobel #SpiritualFormation #PrayerLife #ChristianGrowth #FaithJourney #WhenGodSeemsDistant #ChristianPodcast

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Light of Hope Helpline https://www.ucg.org/light-of-hope 888 241-6211   Society is experiencing profound changes in how it views sexuality, marriage, gender identity, and personal relationships. These developments have created confusion for many Christians seeking to remain faithful to biblical teachings while responding with compassion to those facing difficult personal struggles. In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik speaks with Dr. Roy Fouch, a licensed professional clinical counselor, psychologist, and Director of Mental Health at the Hamilton County Justice Center in Ohio. Drawing from decades of counseling experience, Dr. Fouch examines the cultural shifts often described as the "new sexual revolution" and discusses their impact on individuals, families, and communities. Topics include pornography addiction, same-sex attraction, homosexuality, transgender identity, the influence of modern culture, and the importance of understanding God's purpose for human sexuality. Dr. Fouch explains the difference between temptation and behavior, discusses factors that can contribute to identity struggles, and offers practical guidance for those seeking help. A major focus of the conversation is hope. No matter how deeply a person may struggle, God's grace, forgiveness, and transforming power remain available. Dr. Fouch emphasizes the need for Christians to uphold biblical truth while extending Christlike love, compassion, and understanding to everyone. The discussion also highlights Light of Hope, a confidential counseling and referral service sponsored by the United Church of God that helps individuals and families facing emotional, mental health, addiction, and relationship challenges. This thoughtful conversation provides biblical insight, professional perspective, and encouragement for anyone seeking to navigate these important issues in today's rapidly changing world.

In this message from Ephesians 4, Michael Easley unpacks what it means to "walk in a manner worthy" of the calling believers have received in Christ. Paul's instruction is not about earning God's favor but living in a way that reflects the identity and privilege of belonging to God's family. A worthy walk is marked by five essential attitudes: humility, gentleness, patience, bearing with one another, and love. Easley explains that these qualities are not produced through willpower alone but through the work of the Holy Spirit as believers cooperate with Him. Love serves as the crown of these virtues, calling Christians to sacrificially place others before themselves, just as Christ loved the church. These attitudes produce a powerful result: unity. Paul emphasizes the church's unity through the repeated use of the word “one”—one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father. This unity is rooted in the work of the Trinity and the salvation believers share in Christ. Ultimately, Christians represent a far greater King than any earthly ruler. As adopted sons and daughters of God, believers are called to live with purpose, humility, and devotion, reflecting the character of the King they serve in every area of life. Takeaways Living worthy of our calling begins with humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with others in love. The Holy Spirit produces Christlike character as believers willingly cooperate with His work. Love is the crowning virtue that gives meaning and purpose to every other Christian characteristic. Unity in the church is rooted in the shared salvation believers have through the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Christians represent Christ everywhere they go and should reflect His character in their words and actions. As adopted children of the King, believers are called to live in a manner that honors their eternal identity. To read the Psalms, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.

Anger doesn't always explode. Sometimes it lingers beneath the surface, quietly growing into resentment, bitterness, and broken relationships. In this episode of Take Heart, Cory Wing examines what Scripture teaches about anger, bitterness, forgiveness, and healing. Drawing from Ephesians, Proverbs, James, Hebrews, and the teachings of Christ, he explains the difference between righteous anger and sinful anger, why bitterness is so dangerous, and how the gospel provides lasting freedom. Whether you're struggling with unresolved conflict, resentment toward someone who has hurt you, or simply want to grow in Christlike forgiveness, this episode offers practical biblical wisdom and encouragement.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Chivalry.” Dr. Fazale Rana, also known as Dr. Fuz, joined us to discuss how biochemistry points to God’s design, explaining that discoveries in DNA and the unique human capacities for altruism, empathy, and chivalry reflect what it means to be made in the image of God. Dr. Fuz is the President, CEO, and Senior Scholar at Reasons to Believe, a non-profit that focuses on revealing God in science. Next, Seth Troutt joined us to talk about authentic masculinity, explaining how men can reject counterfeits such as passivity and toxic masculinity by pursuing godly character, Christlike responsibility, and biblical chivalry. Seth is the Teaching Pastor at Ironwood Church in the Phoenix metro area and author of “Authentic Masculinity: Leaving Behind the Counterfeits for God’s Design.” We then had Hutz Hertzberg join us to talk about the growing hunger for Christ-centered education, explaining why parents are rethinking their children’s schooling and how classical Christian education offers an alternative rooted in biblical truth. Hutz is the chairman at Hope in Truth and currently the Chief Education Officer of Turning Point USA’s education arm, Turning Point Education. You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Fuz Rana [ 20:17 ]Seth Troutt [ 33:57 ]Hutz Hetzberg [ 11:49 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vintage City Church | Healthy Fear in the Nature of Christ pt.3 • 1 Peter 1:14-17 • Greg Sanders 1 Peter 1 teaches that suffering is an essential part of spiritual transformation. By following Jesus' example of surrender and trust, God uses our hardest moments to form Christlike character within us.

Lets talk about a part in John 5, where Jesus says He does only what He sees the Father doing and seeks not His own will but the Father's. I think many of us wonder why we feel stuck spiritually, yet rarely stop to examine what is actually shaping our decisions. So in this episode, we're reflecting on three questions:• What is driving your decision-making on a daily basis: God's leading, fear, obligation, ambition, or something else?• Has the way you've structured your life over the last six weeks or six months led you toward Christlike character or away from it?• What practical steps can you take to become more aware of God's presence and seek His will in your everyday life?Connect with me on:

Series: Christ Like VirtuesService: Sun Bible StudyType: SermonSpeaker: Colton Hamlett

Join us as we study through the Epistle to the Galatians in our sermon series, "The Gospel at Work."In today's podcast, we will be focusing on Galatians 5:2-6.If you have any questions or would like to leave a comment, please feel free to email us at info@ravenswoodbaptist.org

In this message from our Relationships in a Broken World series, Pastor Josh teaches from Philippians 2 on the remedy for fractured relationships. In a culture marked by loneliness, distraction, self-protection, and radical individualism, relationships do not usually explode all at once, they erode slowly over time. The deeper question is not just how to fix a relationship, but who we are becoming in the process. This message identifies several forces quietly damaging our relationships: we stop showing up, we stop opening up, we stop understanding, we stop celebrating, and we put ourselves at the center. But Philippians 2 points us back to Christ, who moved toward us with humility, empathy, vulnerability, and sacrificial love. His example is not just inspiration, it is the pattern for how believers are called to live with one another. Pastor Josh calls the church to shared grace, Christlike humility, and relational healing by putting Christ back at the center. Isolation is healed by Christlike presence, self-protection by Christlike vulnerability, empathy collapse by Christlike incarnation, honor erosion by Christlike humility, and radical individualism by Christlike sacrifice. 

God Gives Us What We Ask For by Autumn Dickson In the last post, we talked a bit about how the people implored Samuel for a monarchy. They were insistent, and Samuel saw their folly. He tried warning them; he understood what they were really asking for even if they didn't. Here is a modern rendition of that conversation. Israelites-We want a king! Give us a king like other nations! Samuel-Do you even understand what you're asking? Kings take your sons for war and your daughters to be servants. They take the best of your property. They serve themselves. Why do you want a king? Israelites-Give us a king! Samuel knew Who they were rejecting, and he knew they were trying to replace the ultimate Defender with a mortal. The Israelites already had a King, but they wanted a different one. They insisted on it. And interestingly enough, the Lord tells Samuel to go ahead. Samuel 8:22 And the Lord said to Samuel, Hearken unto their voice, and make them a king. And Samuel said unto the men of Israel, Go ye every man unto his city. The Lord tells Samuel to give them a king, and then He guides Samuel through the process of selecting and anointing kings. He gives the people what they want. The Lord literally just gives it to them. He didn't directly condemn them. He literally just gave them the curse they asked for. What I want to share today is my own interpretation of Judgment Day. I do not know exactly how Judgment Day or the eternities will look, but this is what I have come to believe thus far as I've studied the words of prophets and scripture. I'm sure it will evolve as I grow older, but this is my working theory. Part (and I emphasize part because I'm sure there are exceptions to this) of Judgment Day is the Lord saying, “Give them what they want.” I think we often picture the Lord condemning and cursing and exiling people, but I think we've got it a bit wrong. I think people choose where they're going more often than not. Let me give some examples of what I mean. Woman-I refuse to be a baby factory. I won't be oppressed like this. Heavenly Father-Okay. I won't force you. I'm not trying to make you a baby factory, I'm trying to make you a mother. I'm trying to save you from eternal emptiness, but I will give you what you want. Woman-You can't fool me! You're just trying to control me! The woman separates herself from what she perceives is a controlling, power-hungry god. She separates herself because she doesn't know the true God, because she doesn't understand what He's trying to offer her. It drives me nuts when people mischaracterize the Lord. Eternity is going to be painfully empty without posterity. PAINFUL. What do you even live for? Do you really think being single and childless is going to fulfill you for eternity? Sure, you'll be fine for a while, but there will come a day when you realize that you have no purpose because there is no progression or struggle. Eternity will be hell, and you will have put yourself there. Someday you're going to wake up and realize that God was trying to bless you, and you cursed yourself instead. It often blows my mind how people get things so wrong, but this has been prophesied. In the latter-days, people will call good evil and evil good. As a mother, I've been experimenting with how much agency to give my kids. And when I say “experiment,” I mean I get so tired of giving them instructions and being labelled a bad guy that I hide out in my room and let them go Lord of the Flies on each other. It usually gives me a small reprieve in exchange for hours of fixing the problems that cropped up while I was hiding. If I were to let them choose exactly what they wanted, they would refuse any kind of schooling, sports, self-development, and anything else that is essential for healthy adjustment to adult life. The irony is that for a long time, they would likely think they were happy, but I can see the misery that would come from never learning to read or work with a team. I can see the misery that would stem from watching their friends move on without them, watching the whole world move on without them. And if I allowed them to completely sink into TV and iPads, they would live there and be miserable and not even know it. If I let them take full control of their tiny-human-inclinations, they would scream at each other and kick each other, and they would turn into mean, miserable little gremlins who no one wants to be around. I get it, Heavenly Father. It's exhausting. It's so frustrating to give your loved ones everything they need to be truly happy and live a worthwhile life only to be labelled bossy and mean. Now that's a pretty bleak assessment of my parenting right there, and it's not always like that. Sometimes they appreciate me coaching them into better people. Sometimes I wake up and they're making bagels for their baby sisters without me. Sometimes I watch them play games with each other for hours. I watch them control their anger or forgive each other or do any number of wonderful, mature, Christlike things. So we're not complete failures over here, but I've definitely learned important lessons after becoming a mom. I have learned that humans often love making themselves miserable. Heavenly Father doesn't even have to curse us or send us to hell. We walk there willingly. We choose oppressive kings and empty saviors to fight our battles. We choose hell. How much of Judgment Day will be arrogant people cursing His name because they supposedly know better? How much of Judgment Day will be people walking away from the Lord because they have Him all wrong? How long will it take for them to wake up and realize the path they took is a curse and He was trying to save them? I testify of a Lord who is not a tyrant. He doesn't force our hand. He is the one who gave us our agency and protects it. Despite all that it costs Him, He preserves our agency while Satan would try to destroy it and enslave us. Despite the fact that He had to pay for it with the blood of His Son, despite the fact that He is spit upon by His enemies because He allows them to, despite the fact that He gets labelled as an oppressive tyrant (ironic when you consider the fact that He is allowing them to call Him a tyrant), He protects our agency. He will let us walk away and choose those difficult lessons. Don't choose the difficult lessons. I testify that He knows what He's doing. Follow Him! Let Him be your King. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – 1 Samuel 8–10; 13; 15–16 – Part 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

Brother Mike Madsen traces the downfall of King Saul through 1 Samuel 20-26, contrasting his pride and jealousy with Jonathan's loyalty and Abigail' s Christlike intercessions, and the hard, personal work of forgiving and laying down a vengeful heart.FREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE0:00 - Part 2 - Brother Michael Madsen1:37 Alma 29 and the abundance vs scarcity mentality3:16 Saul consumed by “I” disease4:57 David at Nob5;42 David flees to Gath, then to caves6:33 Doeg the Edomite and the slaughter of 85 priests8:04 D&C 121–power, the priesthood, and unrighteous dominion9:01 “What makes you think you're not in a similar spot now?”10:39 Tending your own small kingdom13:19 Why do you want to be with the Savior?14:59 Two kings, three temptations, and one prevailed15:24 Looking for Christ in everything and 1 Sam. 2316:33 Abiathar, the ephod, David spares Saul20:52 Samuel dies and Nabal's request22:44 David's weakness and marching to take revenge23:57 Abigail intercedes26:52 Sister Yee: ‘Abigail as type of Jesus Christ”28:53 Nabal's death29:13 Sister Yee's “Beauty for Ashes”32:28 Was David traumatized and receiving counsel35:52 The boy caught in the cog37:22 “Take all you'd like,” and the heart that changed in a cornfield38:11 President Oaks held at gunpoint43:00 President Nelson: “He is coming, get the youth ready”46:53 End of Part 2 - Brother Mike MadsenThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com