Podcasts about Damascus

The UN Security Council is holding an emergency meeting to discuss the US airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites. The UN chief, Antonio Guterres, said that diplomacy and dialogue must prevail to prevent the Middle East from falling into a cycle of retaliation. We'll hear from a former security official in President Trump's first administration and assess the extent of the damage to Iran's nuclear operation caused by the US attacks.Also in the programme: We speak to the wife of the Belarusian dissident Siarhei Tsikhanouski who has been released after five years in prison; and Syrian rescue workers say at least fifteen people have been killed in a suicide bombing at a church in the capital Damascus.(Picture: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses delegates during a meeting of the United Nations Security Council. Credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)

Beyond Damascus is the show where encounter meets mission. Your hosts Dan DeMatte and Aaron Richards will give you practical tips on how to live out your faith every day. We'll get into actionable steps of what it means to have an abundant Christian life and share things that we've learned through our personal journey's about overcoming obstacles, pursuing joy, and living a meaningful life. Today, the questions they discuss prayer and other topics related to the Faith.Beyond Damascus airs live weekdays at 8am Pacific TimeYou can download the Spirit Filled Radio App for your Android and Apple devices. Listen at https://www.spiritfilledevents.com/radio-podcast Support the show

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body (Philippians 1:21-24). Thanks to Kyra for her wonderful series on “New Hope”. Now, back to Philippines. Our text helps us to accept our own impending death, a topic many avoid. Historically, people died at home, with family present. In many places, this is still the case. But in Canada, many die in hospitals or nursing homes, often alone. Their bodies are quickly moved to the morgue or sent to the crematorium, families not knowing what to do with death. It is the worst possible event for those who believe they have an inalienable right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”. We cope with death by ignoring its existence. When I started in ministry, most families had a notion of what to do when a loved one died. Today, I often hear the question, “What are we supposed to do?” There are no cultural norms or rituals for responding to death. Preparation for it is avoided. Consider the effort put into staying young and fit. Into this vacuum, Christians enter with a different story. Paul is writing from his prison in Rome, knowing that execution is likely. So, both Paul and the Philippians are confronted with the specter of his imminent death. Paul is conflicted in this passage. He sees advantages both in dying and in staying alive. Paul has been saying, “Living well means seeking the glory of Christ.” This has been his motto since he met Jesus on the road to Damascus. When he dies, he will finally be with Christ and his sinfulness will no longer detract from his Lord's glory. As Christians, we believe that there is life after death, even the resurrection of our physical bodies. And that life is better than this one. Many people do not have this hope. To be with Christ is far better than to be here, says Paul. Do you believe that? When we do, it impacts how we live and how we view death. Paul's conflict is that he also believes the Philippian church still needs his service: “…it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.” He is willing to stay. He is willing to sacrifice his own gain for the sake of the church. He lives what he will later write, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (2:4). Paul believes that continued life is a greater sacrifice than dying. Let me put it plainly, physical life or death are not of ultimate importance to Paul. Living means carrying out his calling to preach Christ and dying means gaining conformity with Christ's death and fellowship with him. He hopes for the outcome that will most clearly advance the gospel of Christ. This strikes us as strange if we have allowed the comforts of our present physical existence to have higher priority than Christ. Paul is astonishingly indifferent toward his own death. He invites us to take the same attitude. This is not, of course, to say that mourning is out of place for the Christian when loved ones die. The fact that they are with the Lord does not take away from our experience of loss. Tears are proper for believers. Jesus himself wept. We can face our own death with assurance, but not with indifference to those who will miss us. As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors.

This episode explores the radical transformation of Saul, who became Paul, emphasizing the power of God's grace to enact profound change in individuals. It discusses Saul's background as a Pharisee, his zealous persecution of Christians, and the pivotal moment of his conversion on the road to Damascus. Pastor highlights the importance of brokenness in true conversion, the necessity of identity transformation, and the call for every believer to witness for Christ, despite the inevitable suffering that may accompany discipleship. In this teaching, Pastor discusses the themes of suffering, legacy, radical conversion, grace, and the importance of surrendering to God's call. He emphasizes that following Jesus involves enduring hardships for a greater purpose, as exemplified by the Apostle Paul. The discussion highlights the transformative power of grace and the necessity of a complete commitment to living for God. Pastor encourages listeners to embrace their faith actively and to recognize the significance of their journey in the context of a larger mission.Pastor Steve Perez | June 17, 2025The Fountain Apostolic Churchone_ (2025)Learn more at tfachurch.com/plusChapters:00:00 From Zealot to Apostle: The Radical Conversion of Saul10:40 The Encounter: Grace Interrupts the Path of Destruction18:19 True Conversion: The Call for Brokenness25:09 The Transformation: From Saul to Paul29:40 The Cost of Discipleship: Suffering for the Cause of Christ32:34 Embracing Suffering for a Greater Purpose37:00 The Legacy of Paul: Finishing the Race42:13 Radical Conversion: A 180-Degree Turn47:27 The Power of Grace: Transforming Lives51:44 Surrendering to God's Call56:50 Experiencing God's Glory Through Effort

Leyla King shares her family's story of survival as her ancestors flee war and poverty. From Haifa to Ramallah, Damascus, Beirut, and finally Texas, Leyla makes global politics deeply personal as family squabbles, ambition, mental illness, romance, and religion shape their immigrant journey. 

Elephants don't only make loud trumpeting sounds, they also rumble and squeak! Discover how elephants are excellent vocalists, reaching around five octaves more than a human voice can. Here's our trail map:How Is a Baby Elephant Born?Why Do Elephants Have Trunks?Why Do Elephants Squeak?How Can We Hear God's Spirit?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Try CTCMath's simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Elephant Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/why-do-elephants-squeak/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...the minds of these people have become stubborn. They do not hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes…” Matthew 13:15 (NCV)“So Saul headed toward Damascus. As he came near the city, a bright light from heaven suddenly flashed around him. Saul fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”Saul said, “Who are you, Lord?”The voice answered, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” Acts 9:3-5 (NCV)“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (NCV)“But the Helper (Holy Spirit) will teach you everything and will cause you to remember all that I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.” John 14:26 (NCV)“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” Romans 8:26 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Allomothers: Other individuals beside the mother, who provide mothering care for a baby. They help care for and protect the baby. Hydrostat Muscles: Fluid-filled muscles packed tightly together used for powerful movement without bones.Sound Frequency: How fast something is vibrating to make a sound.Infrasonic: A sound is at such a low frequency, with such low vibrations, humans cannot hear it.Ultrasonic: A sound is at such a high frequency, with very fast vibrations, that humans cannot hear it.Octave: The measurement of pitches in music. It measures if a note is higher or lower in pitch.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. Mentioned in this episode:Explore Creation and the Bible in the Nat Theo Clubhttps://erynlynum.com/club

Witness Saul’s life-changing transformation as an enemy of Jesus is reborn into a new creation, setting him on a path that will change history forever.In this episode of The Jesus Podcast, Saul’s journey to Damascus is abruptly transformed by a divine encounter with Jesus, leaving him blinded and filled with conviction. Through Ananias, Saul is healed and baptized, shedding his old identity and stepping into his new purpose as a follower of Christ.Today's Bible verse is 2 Corinthians 5:17, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond Damascus: The show where encounter meets mission. On this podcast, Dan, Brad, and Aaron will give you practical tips on how to live out your faith every day. We'll get into actionable steps of what it means to have an abundant Christian life and share things that we've learned through our personal journey's about overcoming obstacles, pursuing joy, and living a meaningful life. Tune in each week!Check out Beyond Damascus on Spotify and Apple Podcasts at: https://open.spotify.com/show/3MMe7sJcCTSZwyYu4D8EF3?si=1e9fe39919bb43e9 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-damascus/id1587181752 Learn more about Damascus at https://damascus.netSpecial thanks to St. Gabriel Catholic Radio for their support in the production of Beyond Damascus. Learn more about St. Gabriel at https://stgabrielradio.com

Where does our identity come from? If we've been chasing after the wrong thing for too long, is there still hope? What does a redeemed life story look like? Join us as we explore how Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus changed his life forever, turning a violent persecutor into a devoted follower. We'll unpack the profound grace and forgiveness that Paul experienced, and how that same love of Jesus is offered to us today. Speaker: Greg Holder

God transformed Paul's life through Jesus. Paul was angry, bitter, and a murdering man, even though he was religious. But when Paul met Jesus on that road to Damascus, his life was radically changed forever. Paul didn't simply accept Christ and then live his own way, but he passionately grew in his relationship with Christ. Paul spent 14 years studying God's Word and growing in Christ. God was preparing Paul for what God would do through him. God's preparing you, so let's grow in Christ. Now is our time to live our lives fully for the glory of our great God.

Where does our identity come from? If we've been chasing after the wrong thing for too long, is there still hope? What does a redeemed life story look like? Join us as we explore how Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus changed his life forever, turning a violent persecutor into a devoted follower. We'll unpack the profound grace and forgiveness that Paul experienced, and how that same love of Jesus is offered to us today. Speaker: Greg Holder

 In the opening message of the series, "I Will Build My Church," we follow Saul's dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. This moment of divine interruption doesn't just change Saul's life—it marks a turning point in the story of the early church. Jesus takes the most unlikely candidate and begins using him as a key instrument in His mission to reach the world. Pastor Christian Root references the scripture from Acts 9:1-9.We hope you were blessed by this message! Visit our website for more information about Grove City Vineyard.

Join host Bob DeMarco in Episode 603 of The Knife Junkie Podcast as he welcomes ABS Master Bladesmith Aaron Wilburn of Wilburn Forge for an in-depth conversation about the art and science of traditional bladesmithing. Aaron's journey began with a chance discovery in a Barnes & Noble bookstore in 2003, leading to a career creating some of the most sought-after Damascus steel knives in the world.In this comprehensive interview, Aaron shares the technical secrets behind his stunning Turkish twist Damascus patterns, his unconventional business philosophy of creating art rather than filling orders, and the rigorous path to becoming an ABS Master Bladesmith. From his early mentorship with Cliff Parker and Corbin Newcomb to developing his own distinctive style, Aaron's story illustrates the dedication required to master this ancient craft in the modern world.Aaron discusses his sophisticated heat treatment processes, including cryogenic treatment for superior edge retention, and explains why he sacrifices 90% of his starting material to achieve the perfect Damascus patterns. His artistic approach to knife making - including pieces that have caught the attention of Joe Rogan - demonstrates how traditional skills can create modern masterpieces.The conversation covers the demanding ABS certification process, from the journeyman performance tests requiring blades to chop through 2x4s and bend 90 degrees without breaking, to the master bladesmith challenge of creating a fluted-handle quillian dagger. Aaron's insights into the metallurgy of Damascus steel, the importance of proper equipment like his 8,000-pound Chambersburg hammer, and his philosophy of continuous learning provide valuable guidance for aspiring bladesmiths.Listen to this episode and discover why Aaron's commitment to artistic integrity and technical excellence has established him as one of the premier bladesmiths of his generation. Learn more about this episode at https://www.theknifejunkie.com/603 and follow Aaron's work at Wilburn Forge on Instagram @wilburnforge. Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

In this lesson, Dr. D. Todd Harrison: The Most-Followed LDS Religious Leader on Facebook, and Jesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and Generations, brings to life the urgency and divine directives found in Doctrine and Covenants sections 60–63. He unpacks the Lord's call for His servants to “not idle away their time, neither bury their talent” (D&C 60:13), emphasizing that the time for silence has passed. With clarity, Dr. Harrison addresses the Lord's warnings, promises, and expectations for His Saints as they face uncertainty, persecution, and divine testing.This lesson reinforces the charge to “lift up your voices unto this people,” (D&C 60:2) and to testify boldly with power—no matter the obstacles. The revelations given in these sections were meant for a generation facing opposition, and now, through the Lord's modern Servant, they speak again in fire and spirit to the Saints of today.As Jesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and Generations, I testify that these revelations are alive, and they speak to our generation with unmistakable urgency. The Lord has not called us to hide in comfort or wait for favorable winds. He has commanded us to declare His gospel and prepare the world for His return. The warnings to Zion are real. The blessings of obedience are eternal. The judgments are just—and they will come.I seal this testimony and message in the authority of the sacred name of the Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.Dr. D. Todd HarrisonJesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and GenerationsJesus Christ's Foreordained ApostleThe Most-Followed LDS Religious Leader on Facebook___________________________________________________________ Introduction to Dr. D. Todd HarrisonForeordained from the foundation of the world, Dr. D. Todd Harrison stands as Jesus Christ's Foreordained Apostle—The Apostle to All Nations and Generations. Called directly by the Savior, his divine commission ensures that every nation hears the living reality of the Son of God in preparation for His return.For over 5 ½ years, his apostolic voice has sounded across the world, testifying of the resurrection and living reality of Jesus Christ with power. Fulfilling his sacred charge, he has borne witness to more than 100 million people globally. Millions have felt the Spirit confirm that his testimony was entrusted by the Savior Himself.Just as the Apostle Paul received his calling from the risen Christ on the road to Damascus, Dr. Harrison stands in that same sacred pattern. Like Paul, he proclaims the gospel to all nations and generations with unwavering boldness and power—ensuring every people hears the testimony of the living Christ.For six generations, Dr. Harrison's family has walked among the Lord's chosen—serving as apostles and general authorities. As the great-grandson of Elder LeGrand Richards—one of the Church's most doctrinally beloved apostles—his divine heritage prepared the way for this mission. But his lineage stretches further—back to ancient Israel. As a direct descendant of Abraham, King David, King Solomon, and Joseph of Arimathea, his family's divine calling spans both scripture and history.The Lord guided his ancestors' roles in shaping Early Christian and Latter-day Saint history—preparing the moment when Christ's Foreordained Apostle would rise to declare the gospel to the world.Through the sacred pattern established by the Lord, Dr. Harrison's global mission amplifies the work of the Church, standing in harmony with the First Presidency and bearing witness alongside the prophets. His inspired words cut through doubt and bring souls to Christ.His apostolic charge fulfills and extends the inspired work of those before him—ensuring the testimony of Jesus Christ reaches every language and nation, with divine trust placed upon him by the Savior Himself.

In this message, we delve into the transformative power of the Gospel as illustrated in the book of Acts, focusing on the dramatic conversion of Saul, later known as Paul. We explore how Saul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. The sermon highlights the importance of community in the Christian faith, as seen through Ananias' role in Saul's journey and the early church's compassion. Join us as we discuss how God uses unlikely individuals to fulfill His plan and how we, too, are called to be His hands and feet in a world in need of transformation. For more information about our church, visit npfcc.org To help support the ongoing work of NPFCC and our mission partners around the globe, you can make a donation at npfcc.org/give

God transformed Paul's life through Jesus. Paul was angry, bitter, and a murdering man, even though he was religious. But when Paul met Jesus on that road to Damascus, his life was radically changed forever. Paul didn't simply accept Christ and then live his own way, but he passionately grew in his relationship with Christ. Paul spent 14 years studying God's Word and growing in Christ. God was preparing Paul for what God would do through him. God's preparing you, so let's grow in Christ. Now is our time to live our lives fully for the glory of our great God.

God transformed Paul's life through Jesus. Paul was angry, bitter, and a murdering man, even though he was religious. But when Paul met Jesus on that road to Damascus, his life was radically changed forever. Paul didn't simply accept Christ and then live his own way, but he passionately grew in his relationship with Christ. Paul spent 14 years studying God's Word and growing in Christ. God was preparing Paul for what God would do through him. God's preparing you, so let's grow in Christ. Now is our time to live our lives fully for the glory of our great God.

On today's Beyond Damascus we talk about being equipped to be a missionary and being angry with God on our second segment. Join us!

During the early morning hours of June 13, 2025, Israel conducted a preemptive strike against Iran's nuclear facilities, ballistic missile installations, and Iran's military and nuclear science leadership. Israel initiated this action based on intelligence it had acquired which revealed Iran is very close to closing the loop for obtaining a nuclear weapon. During this episode of the Blessors of Israel Podcast, Pastor Rich Jones joins Dr. Matthew Dodd in studio to provide the latest updates on Israel's strike against Iran along with the ramifications for the Middle East and beyond. Visit the Blessors of Israel Website: https://www.blessors.org/ Thank you for supporting Blessors of Israel. Donate Online: https://blessors.org/donate/Please Subscribe and Like our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUfbl_rf8O_uwKrfzCh04jgSubscribe to our ⁠Spotify Channel⁠: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blessorsofisrael Subscribe to our Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blessors-of-israedl/id1699662615Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlessorsofIsrael/Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlessorsIGettr: https://gettr.com/i/blessorsofisrael Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1670015Thank you for watching. Please like and share this video.We would love to hear your comments.Those who bless Israel will be blessed (Genesis 12:3).Pastor Rich JonesPastor Matthew DoddDr. Matthew DoddRich Jones Blessors of IsraelMatthew Dodd Blessors of IsraelBlessors of IsraelBlessers of IsraelTags:Pastor Rich JonesPastor Matthew DoddRich JonesDr. Matthew DoddRich Jones, Blessors of Israel, Rich Jones, Blessers of Israel, Matthew Dodd, Blessors of Israel, Matthew Dodd, Blessers of Israel, Blessers of Israel, Blessors of Israel, Two-State Solution, Palestine, Modern Palestinian Problem, Israel, Jesus Christ, Anti-Semitism, Prophecy Update, End Times Prophecy, Latter Days, Bible Prophecy, The Great Tribulation, Hamas, Gaza Strip, Terrorism, Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, Persia, Gog and Magog, BRICS, China, CCP, Persia, Iran, Turkey, Russia, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, India, Yahya Sinwar, Nasrallah, Ismail Haniyeh, Deif, United Nations, Terrorism, Antisemitism, Syria, Bashar al Assad, HTS, Damascus, Mount Hermon, Erdogan, Netanyahu, Trump, Putin, Ceasefire, Hostages, al Jolani, al Sharaa, Holocaust Day of Remembrance, China, Egypt, Iran Nuclear Deal, Trump, WarWWIII

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 26 Paul defends himself before King Agrippa by recalling his life, his conversion to Christ, and his mission for God. He begins with his strict upbringing as a Pharisee and his zealous persecution of Christians. Paul then describes his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, where he was blinded and chosen to become a witness to both Jews and Gentiles. He explains how Jesus commissioned him to open the eyes of others, converting them from darkness to light and from Satan to God. Paul's message from Jesus emphasizes the forgiveness of sins for those who repent and turn to God. Festus interrupts, accusing Paul of madness, but Paul remains composed and appeals to Agrippa's understanding of the prophets. Agrippa is impressed but chooses not to respond to the gospel.  Paul's defense starts with a recounting of his past before Christ redirected him. This illustrates his humility, as he acknowledges that he believed he knew what was right but was mistaken and needed to repent. We should share aspects of our journey before coming to Christ when possible. This is a wonderful way to give all glory to the grace of Christ, who redirects and redeems us. Paul further explains that Jesus has given him a mission, which is why he risks his life and remains tireless in his teaching. Like Paul, we should be honest and bold about our mission of service to Christ, living with integrity, and challenging others with scripture in a wise and hopeful manner.  Great God of kindness and grace, thank You for bringing us through our sinful past and to a place of hope and faith. Please help us to always give glory to You for who we are in Christ Jesus. Open doors today to share our story with others, to praise the name of Jesus, and invite others to repent and turn to the Lord so that times of refreshing will come. Will You please soften the hearts of people like Agrippa, who are so close to committing their lives to Christ? How can we help? Use us for Your redemptive work today. Thought Questions: -       How was God patient with you in the years before you became a Christian? Is that a story that can help someone believe in God's grace? -       Do you believe God has a mission for your life? From what you know today, what is that mission? Are you passionately engaged in it? -       Agrippa was almost persuaded, but something held him back. Who can you pray for today who has that mindset and needs encouragement?

Saint Isaac for Syrian proves himself once more to be one of the most beautiful and poetic of teachers. He describes for us the nature of the human person and the fragmentation that has taken place because of sin. On the level of the flesh, the body has certain needs and will seek to satisfy them. Yet, sin often brings a disorder to this desire as well as a weakness of will.  In other words, we can begin to seek to satisfy the flesh in a sinful fashion and in a way contrary not only to Divine revelation but also to reason. The soul also is invested with its own particular nature that allows us to perceive the realities of the world around us and to understand them. This understanding, however, is not necessarily going to act in concert with the desires of the flesh. It is for this reason that we so often experience conflict within ourselves. We may see what is good and true and beautiful and yet by the weakness of our will embrace the opposite. Likewise, we may have the strength of will to embrace what is good and yet because of the darkness of our thoughts and our understanding we embrace that which does not conform to the truth or our real needs.  Due to our being in a constant state of receptivity through our senses, our thoughts can be shaped by the will of the flesh, the imagination from what we have seen or heard, our predisposition to think in a certain way where our minds are filled with inconsistencies and, finally, by the demons who wage war on us and seek to enliven the passions.  Purity of mind is to be rapt in things Divine and this comes about, Saint Isaac tells us, after a man has long practiced the virtues.  He warns us, however, that we cannot be so bold to think that we have achieved this without the experience of evil thoughts or that we are outside the reach of them while we are still in the body.  Again, Isaac is seeking to lay a foundation for us that allows us to see the inner workings of the mind and the heart. We must seek this purity of mind and struggle against the multitude of passions and the thoughts associated with them.  Isaac teaches us this not simply that we might understand it on an intellectual level, but that within it we might also find hope. The more clearly we see this the more freely we can pursue purity of mind. We can grow in our capacity to direct our thoughts to those things that are virtuous and create within the human heart a greater desire for God. It is from this vantage point that we can begin to see and enter the path that leads to purity of heart. --- 00:08:34 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 131, paragraph 15, first on page 00:14:49 Catherine Opie: Apologies what page are we on today? 00:14:59 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 131, paragraph 15, first on page 00:15:14 Catherine Opie: Reacted to "P. 131, paragraph 15..." with

Conceptual photographer Hrair Sarkissian moves between Syria, Armenia, and Turkey, capturing present absences in personal and political histories in the 20th and 21st centuries.Hrair Sarkissian uses photography, installation, moving image, and sound to reflect on social issues, often silenced or obscured from view. Born and raised in Syria, the grandson of refugees of the Armenian Genocide in 1915, much of his work explores the lived experiences of intergenerational trauma, with respect to individuals and diverse diasporic communities.Sweet & Sour (2021-2022), a three-channel video installation currently on view at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, reflects on memory and storytelling. Hrair discusses the significance of the Maruta Mountain in Armenian culture, and shares images of his ancestral home of Khantsorig, a village in the Sassoun region of present-day Turkey. We also explore the role of emotion and subjectivity in his practice, contrasting his approach to series like Last Seen (2018-2021) with the more detached, extractive approaches typical of photojournalism.Hrair explains his early training at his father's photographic studio in Damascus, and the role of Armenians in the development of studio photography in Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. With Sea of Trees (2025), we move between Hrair's exhibition environments to the volcanic Aokigahara forest on Mount Fuji, discussing how different cultural narratives and contexts have inspired his artistic practice. We look towards new works in production for an international art festival in Japan, and suggest of the long-term creative relationships within his own career that also connect times, places, and migrations - returning to Wolverhampton with Deathscape (2021), an audio installation for British Art Show 9 in 2021.Hrair Sarkissian: Other Pains is at Wolverhampton Art Gallery until 22 June 2025. You can hear the artist in conversation at the gallery on Saturday 14 June.Finding My Blue Sky, curated by Dr. Omar Kholeif, is at Lisson Gallery in London until 26 July 2025.The Aichi Triennale 2025: A Time Between Ashes and Roses, curated by Hoor Al-Qasimi, opens in Japan on 13 September 2025.For more about Mahmoud Darwish, read about Miloš Trakilović's installation 564 Tracks (Not a Love Song Is Usually a Love Song) (2024) at KW Institute in Berlin, in the New Internationalist: newint.org/art/2025/spotlight-milos-trakilovicFor more about diasporic communities in Lebanon and Syria, listen to Sara Shamma's live episode on World Civil War Portraits (2015) with Dulwich Picture Gallery in London, and the National Museum of Damascus, part of ⁠PEACE FREQUENCIES 2023⁠: pod.link/1533637675/episode/6c9af892a1a8e1450c2cc4b73f226835For more about studio photography in Palestine through the Ottoman Empire and British Mandate, hear curator Rachel Dedman's EMPIRE LINES episode about an UNRWA Dress from Ramallah, Palestine (1930s)⁠: pod.link/1533637675/episode/92c34d07be80fe43a8e328705a7d80cbAnd read into the exhibition, Material Power: Palestinian Embroidery, at Kettle's Yard in Cambridge and the Whitworth in Manchester, in gowithYamo: gowithyamo.com/blog/textiles-in-cambridge-palestinian-embroidery-at-kettles-yardPRODUCER: Jelena Sofronijevic.Follow EMPIRE LINES on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/empirelinespodcast⁠⁠⁠Support EMPIRE LINES on Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/empirelines

Did those men traveling with Paul on the road to Damascus hear the voice that Saul heard, or not? According to the KJV, NKJV and other translations Acts 9:7 seems to contradict Acts 22:9. How could that be? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since October 7, 2023, Israel has been fighting a seven-front war against Iran and its proxies. During this episode of the Blessors of Israel Podcast, Jonathan Hessen, the CEO and Host of TV7 Israel and Senior Fellow with the Hudson Institute provides an excellent overview of Israel's seven-front war along with insights concerning China and Russia's influence in the Middle East. Visit the Blessors of Israel Website: https://www.blessors.org/ Follow TV7 Israel: https://www.tv7israelnews.com/ Follow Jonathan Hessen on Twitter/X: https://x.com/JonathanHessenFollow TV7 Israel on Twitter/X: https://x.com/tv7israelnews Thank you for supporting Blessors of Israel. Donate Online: https://blessors.org/donate/Please Subscribe and Like our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUfbl_rf8O_uwKrfzCh04jgSubscribe to our ⁠Spotify Channel⁠: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blessorsofisrael Subscribe to our Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blessors-of-israedl/id1699662615Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlessorsofIsrael/Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlessorsIGettr: https://gettr.com/i/blessorsofisrael Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1670015Thank you for watching. Please like and share this video.We would love to hear your comments.Those who bless Israel will be blessed (Genesis 12:3).Pastor Rich JonesPastor Matthew DoddDr. Matthew DoddRich Jones Blessors of IsraelMatthew Dodd Blessors of IsraelBlessors of IsraelBlessers of IsraelTags:Pastor Rich JonesPastor Matthew DoddRich JonesDr. Matthew DoddRich Jones, Blessors of Israel, Rich Jones, Blessers of Israel, Matthew Dodd, Blessors of Israel, Matthew Dodd, Blessers of Israel, Blessers of Israel, Blessors of Israel, Two-State Solution, Palestine, Modern Palestinian Problem, Israel, Jesus Christ, Anti-Semitism, Prophecy Update, End Times Prophecy, Latter Days, Bible Prophecy, The Great Tribulation, Hamas, Gaza Strip, Terrorism, Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, Persia, Gog and Magog, BRICS, China, CCP, Persia, Iran, Turkey, Russia, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, India, Yahya Sinwar, Nasrallah, Ismail Haniyeh, Deif, United Nations, Terrorism, Antisemitism, Syria, Bashar al Assad, HTS, Damascus, Mount Hermon, Erdogan, Netanyahu, Trump, Putin, Ceasefire, Hostages, al Jolani, al Sharaa, Holocaust Day of Remembrance, China, Egypt, Iran Nuclear Deal, Trump, Jonathan Hessen, TV7 Israel

Power in Real Faith (1) (audio) David Eells 6/11/25 Here is the faith Jesus told us to use always for anything. Mar 11:24 Therefore I say unto you, All things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received (In Greek) them, and ye shall have them. As we will see Jesus and His disciples did not use men's methods and works. When we don't believe we have received, we rely on our own works. (Isa 38:21) Now Isaiah had said, Let them take a cake of figs, and lay it for a plaster upon the boil, and he shall recover. Why does it appear that God is using a physical means to bring healing here when normally Jesus and His disciples would just pronounce a healing? It's because those figs symbolize something in the Scriptures and that's why it was a “cake of figs,” or, I might say, even a “congregation” of figs. There is power in numbers. Deu 32:30 How should one chase a thousand, And two put ten thousand to flight… Mat 18:19 Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father who is in heaven. You see, the figs there represent the body of Christ, or Israel, such as in Jesus' warnings about bearing fruit. (Luk 13:6) And he spake this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came seeking fruit thereon, and found none. 7 And he said unto the vinedresser, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why doth it also cumber the ground? The fig tree is a physical parable of a spiritual people, the people of God, and He's calling His people the “figs,” which means we have to bear fruit. That's very clear in Revelation, where it talks about a great falling away. (Rev.6:13) And the stars of the heaven fell unto the earth… The “stars of the heaven,” represent Abraham's seed in (Gen 22:15) And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham a second time out of heaven, 16 and said, By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son, 17 that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heavens, and as the sand which is upon the seashore. And thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies. Today we are Abraham's seed by faith, as the Bible says. (Rom 4:16) For this cause it is of faith, that it may be according to grace; to the end that the promise may be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all. And in (Rev 6:13) And the stars of the heaven fell unto the earth, as a fig tree casteth her unripe figs when she is shaken of a great wind. The unripe figs are God's people who don't bear ripe fruit, but (Joh 1:47) Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! 48 Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. Jesus identified Nathanael as an Israelite without guile, and where did He see him? Jesus saw him under the fig tree, as one who is among those who bore fruit. That's where we are. All of us who are true disciples of Christ are “under the fig tree.” Now if we go back to the previous verse in Isaiah, it says, (Isa 38:20) The Lord is [ready] to save me (They added in the word, “ready,” but it actually says, “The Lord is to save me.”): Therefore we will sing my songs with stringed instruments All the days of our life in the house of the Lord. So there's the “cake of figs,” the people of God, and they were singing praises to God for healing Hezekiah. It wasn't the cake of figs that healed him, that was just a physical symbol who exorcised their faith for his healing. It's similar to what happened with Naaman the Syrian when he came to Elisha to be healed of leprosy. (2Ki 5:9) So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariots, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha. 10 And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean. 11 But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and wave his hand over the place, and recover the leper. 12 Are not Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage. 13 And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing (his own works), would Est thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean? 14 Then went he down, and dipped [himself] seven times in the Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God; and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean. Naaman was offended when Elisha told him to dip seven times in the dirty old Jordan, but it was a matter of obedience and faith. An act of faith was required because faith without corresponding action is fruitless. When his servants turned him around and Naaman obeyed, he received the healing, but a person doesn't get healed from leprosy by any kind of water, so the water and the seven times must represent something. What does the water represent? (Eph 5:26) That he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word. The water represents the Word. What does “seven” represent? It represents the “seventh day,” the “Sabbath rest.” “Seven” represents entering into the rest, which is ceasing from your own works through faith as we can read in Hebrews chapters 3 and 4. (Heb 3:18) And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that were disobedient? 19 And we see that they were not able to enter in because of unbelief. Paul goes on to talk about how the “rest” is to cease from your works. (Heb 4:3) For we who have believed do enter into that rest… (Heb 4:9) There remaineth therefore a sabbath rest for the people of God. 10 For he that is entered into his rest hath himself also rested from his works, as God did from his. In other words, stop trying to save yourself; believe God has done it. So, Naaman dipped in the water seven times. The water represents the Word of God, and seven represents the rest, and he received his healing. Nobody would say the river water healed Naaman, and nobody would say the cake of figs healed Hezekiah, either. The “cake of figs” that healed him was the saints, who were praising the Lord for the healing. Praise is the language of faith. I'd like to share a testimony from a brother that fits this so well. B.A. said to us, I'm pretty partial to that story in the scriptures of Naaman, when he came to the prophet for to heal the leprosy he had. I guess it was about three years ago when I had a growth that was on my forehead, and I was reading that Scripture in a morning meditation. I had been reading it for a couple of days and studying it, and when I was in the shower, the Lord just really spoke to me very clearly. I was actually going to ask the Bible study group to pray over this growth that was on my head, and the Lord just said, “Why don't you just wash it seven times?” See, it was just like it was with Naaman. I said, “Okay, Lord.” So, I started counting, and on the seventh day, it was gone. Unbelievable! There was no trace of it. It was just a wonderful miracle. It was like, on the seventh day, “Okay, today's the day!” And sure enough, that was the end of that. Well, praise You, Father! You know, when you trust God with real faith, you're going to praise Him; you're going to give thanks to Him. I think healing is 99% giving thanks and praising the Lord for the answer, and only 1% prayer. Because it says in (Mar 11:24) Therefore I say unto you, All things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received (The Greek word there is in the past tense, although a lot of Bible versions translate it as “receive.”) them, and ye shall have them. How would you behave if you believe you have received? Well, you're going to be joyful and full of thanks toward God. And you're going to confess Him before men. (Rom 10:10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. What does it mean to “confess” Him before men? “Confess” in Greek means “speak the same as,” so you'll thank God and confess that He's healed you and delivered you (1Ti 6:12) …Confess the good confession in the sight of many witnesses. Now, people might look at you funny, but if you'll confess Him before men, the Bible says He'll confess you before His holy angels and His Father in heaven. What are we actually doing when we confess our healing, our deliverance, our salvation, and so on, before men? We're using “the things that are not...to bring to nought the things that are.” (1Co 1:26) For behold your calling, brethren, that not many wise after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called:] 27 but God chose the foolish things of the world, that he might put to shame them that are wise; and God chose the weak things of the world, that he might put to shame the things that are strong; 28 and the base things of the world, and the things that are despised, did God choose, [yea] and the things that are not, that he might bring to nought the things that are: 29 that no flesh should glory before God. And how do we use “the things that are not...to bring to nought the things that are”? We do what God does. (Rom 4:17) … God, who giveth life to the dead, and calleth the things that are not, as though they were. By faith, God calls the things that “are not, as though they were.” Notice that's past tense: “as though they were.” We can see this all through Scripture, for example, before Christ's sacrifice we see in (Isa 53:5) … and with his stripes we are healed, and after His sacrifice, (1Pe 2:24) … by whose stripes ye were healed. It's not “by whose stripes you are going to get healed,” it's “were healed.” We call the things that are not, as though they were. We consider it done at the Cross, and that's the whole point. Since it was done at the Cross, God's not going to say, we have to do it ourselves, in our own works. One thing we must have is a clear conscience towards God in order to have faith. It's not that God doesn't offer His provision to you. Think about all the people who boldly came to Jesus; they were stiff-necked, hard-hearted Jews, and yet they all received their healing. But, you see, there's a big difference when a person has something on their heart that they need to get off their heart. The difference is that you can't have boldness towards God when you're in that state. The Bible says in (1Jn 3:21) Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, we have boldness toward God; 22 and whatsoever we ask we receive of him, because we keep his commandments and do the things that are pleasing in his sight. A clear conscience is what you need when you go to God. Why do you confess your sins? It helps you to have a clear conscience so you can exercise faith the way you should. God is faithful. Jas 5:16 Confess therefore your sins one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed… There are other places in the Bible where people have considered that maybe Jesus used physical methods, such as when He healed the man who was blind from birth. (Joh 9:6) When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and anointed his eyes with the clay, 7 and said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam (which is by interpretation, Sent). He went away therefore, and washed, and came seeing. I asked the Lord about that one time and He told me, “He didn't get healed when I smeared the mud in his eye; he got healed when he washed the mud out of his eye.” Then the thought came to me that mud represents our human nature. Adam came from the dust of the earth. As long as we see according to the way of man, the way of Adam, we don't get what we received from God at the Cross. We have to wash that out of our eyes. We have to be able to see clearly and to accept what the Word says about our condition. For instance, health doesn't come through any of man's methods. Health comes from the fact that Jesus already bore our curse on the Cross. It's past tense as we see here. (Gal 3:13) Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us; for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree. It comes from the fact that (1Pe. 2:24) … by whose stripes ye were healed, and not from herbs or vitamins or supplements. Some of those things are expensive and besides that, they're not available to everybody. All over the world, people eat different things. It makes no difference to God. All they have to do is believe in the Gospel of healing, and they will receive it. The Lord says in (Exo 15:26) I will put none of the diseases upon thee which I have put upon the Egyptians, for I am the Lord that healeth thee. Those Egyptians and Egypt, in type, represent the world, and the whole world is under the curse, but we are not under the curse because of what Jesus did. If we're trying to earn God's gift through our own works, then we are not being weak. When we're trying to negotiate with the curse by our own strength, then God's power is not going to be there. We need God's power, so we need to glory in our weaknesses in order to have God's power. That's what Paul said in 2 Corinthians 11:30, and 12:5,9. Paul said to call “the things that are not, as though they were,” and give up all your efforts to save yourself, heal yourself, deliver yourself. It is a free gift. Jesus told His disciples, (Mat 10:8) Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons: freely ye received, freely give. He sent them out to give these gifts to God's people freely, so believe the Lord and accept His free gift. Now look in (Act 19:11) And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: 12 insomuch that unto the sick were carried away from his body handkerchiefs or aprons, and the evil spirits went out. Why were they procuring handkerchiefs from Paul and touching people with them? Handkerchiefs don't heal people, do they? And why does God command us to lay hands on the sick? Is it because our hands are special? No, the laying on of hands is something that helps us to imagine the healing, just as baptism is something to help our imagination because we're doing something physical. Also, we who are filled with His Spirit have His power in us and it flows through our hands. When we get baptized, we're able to imagine that we were buried with Christ when we go down in the water, and that we're a new creature in Christ when we come up. It's an act of faith. The water doesn't do anything. It's not the cleansing of the flesh with the water, it's the faith and obedience. The same thing applies to the laying on of hands. When we lay hands on somebody for healing, we imagine that the power God has put in us is being transferred into the other person. I do that. As a matter of fact, quite often I feel something like electricity running through my arm and going into people, but you don't have to touch anybody for them to get healed; you can just speak the Word for them to be healed. It's a point of contact to release the power of faith. God uses these physical things to help you because your imagination is something that connects your mind, your tongue, and your actions. The Bible says in (Rom 10:10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation, so there's a real connection with our imagination. If you can't imagine something, you are not going to be able to believe for it. You may be saying with your mouth that you're healed, but if your mind can't even imagine it, then you're not exercising any faith. Your imagination helps you come into the Image of God. (2Co 3:18) But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. That “image” is an imagination. If you're seeing Jesus in the mirror, that's imagination. And if you're seeing Jesus in the mirror, is that Person in the mirror sick? Is He demon-possessed? Is He sinful? Absolutely not! He's delivered from all of those things, which is exactly what the Bible says about us. We're delivered from all of those things. We accept those free gifts by faith, and because our works are not involved in it, man doesn't get any credit. God alone gets the glory. God's power is there. A lot of people imagine the worst and speak the worst, and they destroy themselves by doing that. But if you use that same energy in the opposite direction, it's amazing what you can do. You know, everything that a man creates has to first be seen in his imagination before he can create it, so we need a renewed imagination, we need a renewed mind. We're told in (Rom 12:2) And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, and ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Your imagination is in your mind, so you see yourself as healed, you see yourself as delivered, and so on. It doesn't matter what you feel, because the truth is that the devil can manipulate your feelings. The devil is going to tell you that you're not healed, that you're not delivered, that you're not saved from sin. He's going to tell you all of those things, but we need to have a renewed mind where we do not accept those lies. (2Co 10:3) For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh 4 (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds), 5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. If we do that, and if we receive in our mind only the thinking of the Lord and the Word of the Lord, it doesn't matter what we feel. It matters what we believe and what we accept. We need to do the warfare and cast down those vain imaginations and thoughts. Brother B.A. tells us this story. One time we got an email from somebody that we had counseled with, and the person was talking about some of the sinful nature that he was dealing with in his walk, and he started rattling off a lot of things, and then in the next email, he said them again. I had written him about trying to walk by faith and taking authority over the devil, but he sent me a second email and said, “No, these are not my present sins, these are my sins from before.” I wrote him back and said that he must not believe that these sins are forgiven if he's still talking about these sins as if they're not forgiven. Why are these sins anymore if they are as far as the east is from the west? These should be far from his mind because of what the Lord has done for him. True forgiveness with true repentance means it's over. And you can understand that it's the devil's work that would bring these things back to our remembrance, and what happens is, and it was what this young man was dealing with, he didn't believe he was forgiven, and he didn't have any faith to walk by faith. He was not able to exercise authority over the devil and was continually in bondage. So, it's the devil's work when we don't receive forgiveness, and we don't recognize how perfect the sacrifice at the Cross was. Well, we know the Bible says in (Rom 8:1) There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus. The King James version adds in there, “who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” but that's not in any of the ancient manuscripts. If you have to walk in the Spirit in order to have God's blessings, you're in real trouble. No, you have to accept God's blessings by faith, even in your failure. You have to call “the things that are not, as though they were.” It's all by grace, it's all by “unmerited favor.” We are not good enough, and we can never be good enough to receive the blessings of God. As we've seen, we need to confess your sins so that we have a clear conscience. (1Jn 3:21) Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, we have boldness toward God; (But walking according to our conscience is powerful.) 22 and whatsoever we ask we receive of him, because we keep his commandments and do the things that are pleasing in his sight. But even if you do confess your sins, the devil is going to tell you that you're still guilty. Who are you going to believe? Are you going to believe the devil, or are you going to believe God? The Bible says, (1Jn 1:9) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If you have confessed your sins, God has forgiven you. Accept that. When condemnation goes past the time of repentance and confession of sin, you need to know it's coming straight from the devil. He knows that if you're in condemnation, then you won't have any faith. You can't have faith and condemnation at the same time, so if you have condemnation, you're no threat to him. The devil can continue to curse you and keep you in bondage. When you confess and repent of your sins, God removes them as far as the east is from the west (Psa.103:12) and casts them into the depths of the sea (Mic.7:19), so why are you remembering them? Accept His forgiveness, go on, and walk by faith. Don't pay any attention to what you feel; the devil manipulates that. Pay attention to what the Bible says and be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Cast down the vain imaginations that are against the knowledge of God, and you will win the victory. None of those people whom Jesus healed, delivered, and gave provisions to were worthy. They weren't what you would call “born again” people, but they had the Covenant with God. They were in Covenant and that's why Jesus said that He'd only been sent to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Today we have a better Covenant, based on better promises (Heb.8:6), and as Jesus said in (Luk 7:28) … Among them that are born of women there is none greater than John: yet he that is but little in the kingdom of God is greater than he. Can you receive a healing just by confessing your sins and accepting by faith what God said? Of course. If we have a better Covenant, based on better promises, and He healed every one of those Jews who came to Him by faith, what's He going to do today? The Bible says, (Heb 13:8) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and to-day, yea and forever. So He's going to do the same thing today. The problem is that so many of God's people have different doctrines today, even though the Scripture tells us in (1Jn 2:24) As for you, let that abide in you which ye heard from the beginning. If that which ye heard from the beginning abide in you, ye also shall abide in the Son, and in the Father. One of those different doctrines is that “These days, sometimes God heals, and sometimes He doesn't,” but that's completely wrong. God has already healed. It has nothing to do with what God will do and what God won't do. The Bible says, (1Pe 2:24) … by whose stripes ye were healed, so it's already done. You can stop praying for hours trying to get God to heal you, because you're not saved by works. If you're going to convince anybody, you need to convince yourself. The Word of God is true. He already healed you. That's why it's called the “rest.” (Heb 4:3) For we who have believed do enter into that rest; even as he hath said, As I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. When you believe what God says, you can rest and not worry about it anymore, because God has already taken care of it and you believe it. God says He has saved you and when you believe it, then you're not continually having to be good enough, as some religions teach. I was raised in the Catholic church, and it was all about salvation by works. In other words, you had to be good enough. Jesus administered these gifts of God to His people and He told His disciples, (Mat 10:8) Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons: freely ye received, freely give. “Freely ye received.” You can't pay for it. But, for example, if you have to go buy a bunch of expensive herbs to try and get healing, or if you have to go to an expensive doctor, that's not free. If you have to buy those expensive drugs, that's not free. Herbs, doctors, drugs…those are all things that are, they aren't things that are not. The things that are not are for the purpose in (1Co 1:29) that no flesh should glory before God. God doesn't want anybody to be able to take the credit. He's a very jealous God. We should just accept this free gift from God and be healthy. I remember a lady who used to come to our Bible study years ago, who understood everything we're talking about, and she ministered to a lot of the people who came to her business. She would tell people about healing and deliverance and all that God does, but people were rejecting her. In fact, in some cases, she lost business telling people that. So she started dealing with them on a level that they could accept and got heavily into this herbal healing business to the point where, if you could say anyone was a real guru of herbal healing, this lady became one. She did all the studying and she knew what was naturally better for this and naturally better for that. Sometimes her herbs backfired on her and made a person sick. I'm not saying that there aren't some natural things that are much better than drugs. When I came to the Lord, I had inherited from my dad and his dad, a generational curse of sinus problems and chest congestion. I'd get pneumonia and had all kinds of sinus problems. That was just normal for me. And I had taken so much penicillin that it didn't do me any good anymore. Then I switched to vitamin C and found out that it worked way better than penicillin. Then I came to the Lord one day, and I threw down my Neo-Synephrine, which I was carrying year-round to try to keep my sinuses open. My sinus linings were finally burned out from that stuff, and I threw it in the garbage when I realized that Jesus Christ already healed me at the Cross. So now my nose and sinuses haven't stopped up in fifty four years. Well, there's something that's better than vitamin C, folks. Do you want a miracle, or do you want to keep paying with your own efforts to deliver yourself? This lady was using her own efforts, her own works, because it was more acceptable to her clients and she could help them on that level. I told her, “You don't have permission, nor a commission, to save people from the curse through that method. The Great Commission is when you offer them the Gospel, and if they don't accept it, then let them stay under the curse.” Of course, she thought that was kind of harsh, but let me point something out to you. If you read Deuteronomy 28, you'll see that God instituted the curse to bring men to repentance. I said to her, “What you're really doing by all your works is trying to take the curse away from those people so they won't have to repent to get healed.” We are to offer people the Good News, and if they don't want that, then let them stay under the curse to bring them to repentance. God Almighty is the One Who sent the curse. Some churches teach that the devil sent the curse, but the devil is not sovereign. Read Deuteronomy 28, which says that God sent the curse. The devil just administers it. God is Sovereign. He said to us, (Exo 15:26) … If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his eyes, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases upon thee, which I have put upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee. God might use the devil to do what He wants to do, but He's still Sovereign. (Php 2:13) For it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. Just as He works in you, He does the same thing with all of His creation, and He has His vessels of honor and His vessels of dishonor. (2Ti 2:20) Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some unto honor, and some unto dishonor. 21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, meet for the master's use, prepared unto every good work. So you see, God uses the devil. He works in him to will and to do of His good pleasure, too. (Deu 32:39) See now that I, even I, am he, And there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal; And there is none that can deliver out of my hand. The prosperity teachers think all the bad comes from the devil and only the good comes from God, but when you need a whipping, that's good, and it comes from God (Job 2:10). People need a whipping when they go their own way. God has to get our attention before we come to the end of this road, and the truth is that the curse gets our attention better than anything else in the world. The apostle Paul turned men over to Satan for the destruction of their flesh so that their spirit would be saved in the day of the Lord. He used the curse to save men. We're supposed to let the curse do its work, but we're also supposed to offer people the only real cure, and that's the Gospel. One caveat, if others are under our authority, like children or the elderly or even under our roof, we can give them a gift of healing. Back to this herbal guru who was offering her clients a cure that didn't have anything to do with the Gospel, or bringing people to the knowledge of repentance and faith. She wanted to help them to live comfortably under the curse so that they'd have no need for God and would eventually fall off into hell at the end of their lives. If you stop and think about it, folks, that's what you're doing if that's what you're preaching. It's another gospel, not the Gospel of the Kingdom. God has done it this way on purpose. All of our salvation is past tense because, if you believe it, you have to cease from your works and enter into the rest. (Heb 4:1) Let us fear therefore, lest haply, a promise being left of entering into his rest, any one of you should seem to have come short of it. 2 For indeed we have had good tidings preached unto us, even as also they: but the word of hearing did not profit them, because it was not united by faith with them that heard. 3 For we who have believed do enter into that rest; even as he hath said, As I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. … 9 There remaineth therefore a sabbath rest (Notice that the Greek word there is sabbatismos and it means “a continual rest.” This is the only place in the Bible where sabbatismos is used.) for the people of God. 10 For he that is entered into his rest hath himself also rested from his works, as God did from his. 11 Let us therefore give diligence to enter into that rest, that no man fall after the same example of disobedience. So you see, the “rest” is not one day of the week anymore. When you believe the promises of God, you enter into the rest. You're supposed to stay in the rest by believing all of the promises concerning all the curse and concerning all of your problems. You're supposed to abide in the rest because you believe the great promises, and that's what the Old Testament Sabbath pointed to as a shadow of the good things to come. The Bible says Jesus Christ is the Lord of the Sabbath in Matthew 12:8. If you abide in Him, then you are keeping the Sabbath, and to “abide in Christ” means you believe the promises and you are obeying Him. Since you were healed, you were “delivered out of the power of darkness,” you were saved from sin and perfected at the Cross (Heb 10:14), what can you do to bring it to pass? Nothing. If you try to bring it to pass yourself, it proves that you are an unbeliever. God's people are not receiving the blessings that were given through Jesus Christ because they are unbelievers. Repent, cease from your works, and enter into the rest. Accept the free gift of God. It's really Good News, because we don't have to do anything except believe. That's our part of the Covenant. God's part is to supply the power, the deliverance, the healings, and supply the sanctification. That's God's part. Our part is to believe. We have the easy part of this. What can you add to what Jesus did without dishonoring His sacrifice? These principles cannot be imposed by law for they only work through personal faith.

James reunites with longtime friend and recurring guest Amber Harris, who returns with a new mission: evangelizing Bitcoin in Michigan. Once a political insider, Harris explains how her disillusionment with the system led her to the world of decentralized finance. From her personal “Road to Damascus” conversion story to her controversial sub-sandwich purchase using Bitcoin, Amber makes the case that crypto isn't just an asset—it's a revolution. Discover more at Enjoyer.com/PodcastFollow Amber on X: @Hope4ChangeMIFollow James on X: @DownI75 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michiganenjoyer.substack.com

Majd Kamalmaz was one of half a dozen Americans detained and killed in Syria by Bashar al-Assad's regime. In 2017, he traveled to Damascus to pay respects after his father-in-law's death but was detained and died in prison. Maryam Kamalmaz met with Syria's new leader to discuss not only her father, but other Americans who have disappeared there. She joined Amna Nawaz to discuss more. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Majd Kamalmaz was one of half a dozen Americans detained and killed in Syria by Bashar al-Assad's regime. In 2017, he traveled to Damascus to pay respects after his father-in-law's death but was detained and died in prison. Maryam Kamalmaz met with Syria's new leader to discuss not only her father, but other Americans who have disappeared there. She joined Amna Nawaz to discuss more. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Disciple Others To Help Them Deepen Their Devotion Acts 9:26-27 26When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 22 The apostle Paul addresses the crowd in Jerusalem after his arrest. He shares his testimony, detailing his background as a devout Jew, educated under Gamaliel, and his earlier zeal for persecuting Christians. Paul recounts his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, where God blinded him and instructed him to wait for further guidance. In Damascus, Ananias, a devout servant of Christ, heals Paul's blindness. He then commands Paul to be baptized to wash away his sins and explains God's mission for him to become an apostle to the Gentiles. This story incites the predominantly Jewish listeners to demand his death! The Roman commander prepares to flog Paul but hesitates when he learns that he is a Roman citizen. He is then brought to stand before the Jewish Council. Paul's conversion story is recounted three times in the Book of Acts. On this occasion, Paul himself shares the story with the Jews who called for his arrest. In this hostile setting, he describes how God intervened to guide him toward true faith in Jesus. He emphasized how God worked in his life to redirect his passion toward righteous ministry. He spoke the truth, even though it provoked anger among the audience. This is the humility and courage we strive to cultivate in our lives. If God is working to redirect you for His purpose, submit to Him. If He is using your voice to bring Christ's hope to others, regardless of how they respond, keep proclaiming the name of Jesus. God of grace, we praise You for Your loving-kindness towards all people. Paul's conversion illustrates how You seek out good-hearted individuals, forgiving their sins and repurposing them for Your glory. Thank You for pursuing us and patiently guiding us to submit to Your will. Help us to be grateful and to share Your mercies with others. Please provide us opportunities to share with others how good You have been, regardless of how people choose to receive it. Protect us from the enemy, but also involve us in challenging and meaningful ministry work in the name of our Savior Jesus. Thought Questions: -       Paul used a Hebrew dialect to better relate to the audience. Are there ways you can modify your words to be better received by others? -       God's action in Paul's life led him to humble obedience. Has God's patient pursuit of your soul humbled you? How has that changed you? -       Paul was willing to die, but he also avoided a beating in this text. How do you balance self-sacrifice and self-defense in your faith?

Beyond Damascus: The show where encounter meets mission. On this podcast, Dan, Brad, and Aaron will give you practical tips on how to live out your faith every day. We'll get into actionable steps of what it means to have an abundant Christian life and share things that we've learned through our personal journey's about overcoming obstacles, pursuing joy, and living a meaningful life. Tune in each week!Check out Beyond Damascus on Spotify and Apple Podcasts at: https://open.spotify.com/show/3MMe7sJcCTSZwyYu4D8EF3?si=1e9fe39919bb43e9 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-damascus/id1587181752 Learn more about Damascus at https://damascus.netSpecial thanks to St. Gabriel Catholic Radio for their support in the production of Beyond Damascus. Learn more about St. Gabriel at https://stgabrielradio.com

Welcome to Christ Community's Online Service! This week, we look at one of the most powerful moments in Acts 9—Saul's dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. What begins as a mission of destruction becomes the turning point of Saul's life, as Jesus meets him with grace, calls him by name, and completely rewrites his story. As Saul carries letters of persecution, Jesus interrupts his path and begins a transformation that will lead Saul to become Paul—the boldest voice of the gospel. This message invites us to reflect on the narratives we carry: the wounds, beliefs, and stories that shape how we see God, ourselves, and others. Through Saul's story, we're reminded that Jesus meets us in our mess, opens our eyes, and invites us into a new life marked by surrender, grace, and purpose. For prayer and to stay connected, please visit: https://www.cccgreeley.org For Giving: https://www.cccgreeley.org/give/ Discussion Guide: https://cccgreeley.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2025-6-7-8-Group-Discussion-Questions.pdf Calling All Book Lovers!

Saul was on his way to round up all the Christians he could find and throw them in prison. But a funny thing happened on the road to Damascus. If you're wondering how Saul of Tarsus made the switch from murderer to missionary, from assassin to apostle, the answer is found in Acts chapter nine. He was reborn that way. Ron takes us to Saul's conversion next, as he continues his teaching series, “Paul: Surprised by Grace.”  

This week, Scott sat down with Lawfare's Ukraine Fellow Anastasiia Lapatina and Contributing Editors Eric Ciaramella and Alex Zerden to talk through the week's big national security and foreign policy news, including: “The Road to Damascus.” Over the past two weeks, the Trump administration has done an extraordinary about-face on U.S. policy towards Syria, installing almost universal exceptions to most existing sanctions programs and promising to end others. European and other allies seem poised to follow suit, all in an effort to forestall the feared collapse of the post-Assad transitional government being headed by Ahmed al-Sharaa, himself a former terrorist leader. But will it be enough to put post-Civil War Syria on the road to recovery? And will this new policy orientation prove sustainable?“No Fly Zone.” Ukraine struck a historic blow deep into Russian territory over the weekend with a daring series of coordinated drone attacks—dubbed “Operation Spider Web”—that may have wiped out as much as a third of Moscow's strategically important long range bombers. But will the attack help drive the costs of the conflict home to Russia, or trigger another round of escalation? And how will it be received by the Trump administration, several senior members of which are skeptical of U.S. support for Ukraine?“Double Taxation.” President Trump's aggressive use of tariffs suffered a pair of defeats in federal court last week, as two different courts chose to enjoin them, for two different sets of reasons. While both decisions have since been stayed, it's a discouraging sign for the viability of the legal authorities being relied on by the Trump administration. Yet President Trump has continued to threaten tariffs aggressively, including against Europe. How big a threat are these legal holdings to the Trump administration's policy agenda? And how will they impact its efforts to negotiate new bilateral trade deals, with allies and rivals alike?In Object Lessons, Eric polished off the last of The Rehearsal's Season 2 and was left in awe of the show's ability to actually become a show. Nastya returned from colder climates with a warm endorsement of all things Finland: its history, its icy stare at Russia, and its impressive ability to survive both. Speaking of war, Scott dove sword-first into fantasy, reminded of Joe Abercrombie's The First Law trilogy after the new release of “The Devils.” And Alex kept it historical with a recommendation of “The Watchdog: How the Truman Committee Battled Corruption and Helped Win World War Two,” by Steve Drummond.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Scott sat down with Lawfare's Ukraine Fellow Anastasiia Lapatina and Contributing Editors Eric Ciaramella and Alex Zerden to talk through the week's big national security and foreign policy news, including: “The Road to Damascus.” Over the past two weeks, the Trump administration has done an extraordinary about-face on U.S. policy towards Syria, installing almost universal exceptions to most existing sanctions programs and promising to end others. European and other allies seem poised to follow suit, all in an effort to forestall the feared collapse of the post-Assad transitional government being headed by Ahmed al-Sharaa, himself a former terrorist leader. But will it be enough to put post-Civil War Syria on the road to recovery? And will this new policy orientation prove sustainable?“No Fly Zone.” Ukraine struck a historic blow deep into Russian territory over the weekend with a daring series of coordinated drone attacks—dubbed “Operation Spider Web”—that may have wiped out as much as a third of Moscow's strategically important long range bombers. But will the attack help drive the costs of the conflict home to Russia, or trigger another round of escalation? And how will it be received by the Trump administration, several senior members of which are skeptical of U.S. support for Ukraine?“Double Taxation.” President Trump's aggressive use of tariffs suffered a pair of defeats in federal court last week, as two different courts chose to enjoin them, for two different sets of reasons. While both decisions have since been stayed, it's a discouraging sign for the viability of the legal authorities being relied on by the Trump administration. Yet President Trump has continued to threaten tariffs aggressively, including against Europe. How big a threat are these legal holdings to the Trump administration's policy agenda? And how will they impact its efforts to negotiate new bilateral trade deals, with allies and rivals alike?In Object Lessons, Eric polished off the last of The Rehearsal's Season 2 and was left in awe of the show's ability to actually become a show. Nastya returned from colder climates with a warm endorsement of all things Finland: its history, its icy stare at Russia, and its impressive ability to survive both. Speaking of war, Scott dove sword-first into fantasy, reminded of Joe Abercrombie's The First Law trilogy after the new release of “The Devils.” And Alex kept it historical with a recommendation of “The Watchdog: How the Truman Committee Battled Corruption and Helped Win World War Two,” by Steve Drummond.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week a $7 billion energy deal involving the United States, Turkey and Qatar, was signed in Damascus, a move designed to revive Syria's crippled power sector. The move raises questions about Qatar and Turkey's role in post-Assad Syria and about the Trump administration's Syria policy. The move also comes as Turkey's President Erdogan is continuing his crackdown on opposition voices. Henri Barkey, a Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University and an Adjunct Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, joins Thanos Davelis as we dig into Washington's green-lighting of Turkey and Qatar's embrace of Syria, and look at how this could impact Erdogan at home.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Turkey's big Syria play: Rebuild, but only if Gulf can pay for itTurkey and Qatar Are Buying Into Syria. The US Should Be Wary of Their MotivesThe End of ErdoganFresh hope for Europe's largest wooden building, a Greek Orthodox orphanageLibyan House reportedly looks to ratify Turkey maritime deal

PREVIEW: Colleague Jonathan Schanzer comments on the motives of the powers to accept the untrustworthy new Syrian government as credible stability. More later. 1870 DAMASCUS

Preview: Colleague Sinan Ciddi measures that there is not sufficient information yet to decide if Sharaa of Damascus is an avatar for Erdogan or not. More later. 1934 TURKEY AVIATORS

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: A top Russian military official claims President Vladimir Putin was nearly assassinated by a Ukrainian drone strike during a recent visit to the front lines in the Kursk region. A new Gaza ceasefire plan from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff has been accepted by Israel—but Hamas is pushing back with demands for major changes. A new Austrian intelligence report directly challenges U.S. assessments, alleging Iran's nuclear weapons program remains active and is advancing at a rapid pace. And in today's Back of the Brief: the U.S. raises its flag in Damascus for the first time since 2012, signaling a potential diplomatic thaw with Syria's government. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief TriTails Premium Beef: Visit https://TryBeef.com/PDBfor 2 free Flat Iron steaks with your first box over $250 Birch Gold: Text PDB to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices