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The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com Garth Heckman Driving with Kim in the car when we were first married. I pulled a gun on a guy in a corvette! I was on my way to Youth Group - I was the youth pastor. Judges 6 11 Then the angel of the Lord came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash of the clan of Abiezer. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bottom of a winepress to hide the grain from the Midianites. 12 The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” 13 “Sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn't they say, ‘The Lord brought us up out of Egypt'? But now the Lord has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.” 14 Then the Lord turned to him and said, “Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!” 1. He Was Living in Poverty and Oppression For seven years, Israel had been brutally oppressed by the Midianites, Amalekites, and other eastern peoples. The oppression was so severe that the Israelites had abandoned their homes in the valleys to live in dens, caves, and strongholds in the mountains (Judges 6:2). The invaders would sweep through the land like locusts, destroying crops and slaughtering livestock. The text notes that Israel was "brought very low" because of Midian. Gideon wasn't a wealthy noble or a ruling judge; he was a victim of a devastating, nationwide economic and military siege. 2. He Was Hiding in a Winepress When the Angel of the Lord finds Gideon, he is threshing wheat in a winepress (Judges 6:11). Why this matters: Wheat was traditionally threshed in an open, elevated area (a threshing floor) so the wind could blow away the chaff. A winepress, however, was a pit dug into the ground or carved into rock. Operating out of fear, survival and panic. 3. He Was From an Insignificant, Idol-Worshipping Family 4. He Was Battling Deep Skepticism and Grief Gideon's immediate reaction to the Angel's blessing ("The Lord is with you, mighty warrior") is not pride, but bitter skepticism. He looked at his current reality and concluded that God had abandoned them: The Irony of the Title When God calls Gideon a "mighty warrior," Gideon is: In hiding (not in battle) Doubting God's presence (not acting in faith) Belittling his own status (not displaying courage) The title was prophetic. God was not validating Gideon's current resume; He was naming the potential that He was about to unlock through His own power. When the Angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon in Judges 6:12 and addressed him as a "mighty warrior" it was a statement of what God would do through him, not a description of who Gideon currently was. He saw what he would do - which in turn is who he would be - in turn is who He really was in Gods eyes! Can an egg fly? Can a puppy protect you? Can an acorn shade, protect and feed thousands of animals? Can a spark destroy city? We see an egg - God sees an eagle! We see a puppy - God sees the Rottweiler that attacked the sex predator who ran into the Childs yard. We see an acorn - God sees The Foret de Trancais 26,000 acre forest We see a spark - God sees the Chinchaga fire burning 4.2 million acres. Do you think when Jesus saw the disciples arguing over who would be the greatest, when Peter would deny him, when Thomas would doubt him, when they would not understand simple scripture, when they could not heal a boy, or worried over storms, food or religious leaders… HE SAW THEIR STORY! You will all be so committed and change the world so powerfully that they will need to Kill you to stop you! And you will be honored to give your life for me! How does Jesus see us? We are salt We are light We are friends We are secure in him We have overcome the world We will do greater works then Jesus We will have rivers of living water flow out of us We will tread on serpents, scorpions, nothing will hurt us We are plugged directly into him He is always with us We will crush the serpents head We are the head and not the tail We wear a robe of righteousness We are more than conquerors EVEN WITH THE DISCIPLES… JESUS WOULD BE DISAPPOINTED IN THEM - BUT NEVER REJECT THEM OR GET ANGRY AT THEM OR SHAMED THEM. Rather he would Ask a question Correct their perception And never reject them. 2 Kings 6 The King of Aram is mad and thinks there is a traitor. It is Elisha… Go kill him. - 14 So one night the king of Aram sent a great army with many chariots and horses to surround the city. 15 When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. “Oh, sir, what will we do now?” the young man cried to Elisha. 16 “Don't be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” 17 Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!” The Lord opened the young man's eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire. - Its right there! What is? Your answer - it's right there. You just can't see it. **Yesterday I was praying and seeking Gods wisdom on finances… he pointed to my kitchen table and showed me a stack of money… he said its right there. You just can't see it… but its there. You might think you can't see it because you are in the dark… no you are not in the dark, you are in the preparation phase which can feel like the dark. The Chinese Bamboo Tree (your example) Spends the first 5 years growing almost nothing above ground while developing a massive, deep root system. In the 6th year, it can grow 80–90 feet in just 6 weeks. The Saguaro Cactus Grows extremely slowly — often only 1–2 inches in the first 10 years. It can take 30–40 years before it even grows its first arm. Then, once established, it can live 150–200 years and reach 40–60 feet tall.
Victory In the Desert—Matthew 4:1-11 1. Doubting God's Provision 2. Presuming on God's Protection 3. Short-circuiting God's Plan
5.3.26 | Mark 12:30; Psalm 19:1-2; Romans 1:20
4.26.26 | Matthew 23:27-28, Acts 13:48-52
Speaker Nick Butcher Series Engage Play Audio Download MP3 Download PDF
Speaker Nick Butcher Series Engage Play Audio Download MP3 Download PDF
Have you been calling it self-doubt? Telling yourself you're not ready… not qualified… or that someone else is already doing what you feel called to do? Maybe you've been waiting for the day you finally feel confident enough to take the leap. Waiting for more clarity, more certainty, or some kind of sign before you move forward. If that's you, this episode is for you. In today's conversation, I'm sharing a powerful truth the Lord placed on my heart about what's really happening when we feel stuck in fear. For so long, we label it as imposter syndrome or self-doubt… but what if it's actually something deeper? What if the hesitation isn't about doubting yourself… but doubting God? Because if God has given you a calling, it was never about your qualifications to begin with. When we stay frozen, waiting for more clarity before taking even one small step… we aren't just questioning ourselves. We're questioning His provision, His plan, and whether He really knows what He's doing. And friend, that realization can change everything. In this episode, we're going after the inner critic and replacing it with truth. I'm walking you through how to shift your focus off your limitations and onto God's power, why obedience and clarity are directly connected, and how your faith can carry you through fear every single time. If you've been feeling stuck, uncertain, or like you're standing in your own way, this episode will help you release control, take your next step in obedience, and fully trust that God is leading you exactly where you're meant to go. I pray this blesses you! Ready to Make Consistent Income From a Podcast? Join my 5-Day Profitable Podcast Bootcamp! I'll show you how to create a podcast that makes steady income on autopilot—without relying on social media.
4.19.26 Matthew 14:28-31
Having doubts is part of the human experience and an ongoing aspect of our everyday lives. What do we do with doubt? Why do we try to deny doubt? Why does doubt paralyze us? What do we do when the “cloud of doubt” hovers over our lives? Join us as we learn how to walk in freedom & without fear by “Dealing With Doubt”.
04.12.26 | Matthew 28:17
We hope you enjoy this weeks message by Hudson Browning.
Revival Mom | Grow Deeper with God, Encourage children in the Lord, Christian Home
Have you ever found yourself wondering, “What's the point?” after praying the same daily prayer for months—or even years—without seeing breakthrough? In this episode, Alyssa Rahn speaks directly to the heart of the woman who is weary, discouraged, and quietly battling doubt. When prayers for your husband, children, marriage, business, or finances seem unanswered, it's easy for doubt—and even resentment—to creep in. You may know God is faithful, yet still feel guilt for questioning whether He's truly working behind the scenes. This episode offers deep biblical encouragement for the moments when faith feels fragile. Using a powerful fitness analogy and Scripture from the Psalms, Alyssa reminds you that doubt doesn't mean you're failing God—it means you're human. You'll hear how even King David wrestled with doubt, despair, and unanswered prayers—and how he chose to return to truth, praise, and remembrance. Alyssa also breaks down how our emotions are not meant to lead us, and how the Holy Spirit helps anchor us in truth when feelings try to take over. This conversation is especially for the woman standing in the gap for her family, navigating unseen spiritual warfare, and learning how to keep praying without losing heart. NEXT STEPS: Join the Unequally Yoked Wives Community > https://alyssarahn.com/community Grab Your Powerful Prayers & Declarations > https://alyssarahn.com/prayers Setup a Coaching Call, email Alyssa at alyssa@alyssarahn.com
Have you ever doubted God? Not that He exists, but that with all His promises to take care of His people, there are still a lot of bad things happening? Maybe your prayers aren't being answered? Incredibly, John the Baptist also did some doubting. Despite his whole life being prophetically announced, when he was imprisoned by Herod, he began to wonder if Jesus was really the Coming One.
2024-02-12 - Doubting God: Exodus 3_16-4_17 [Kg9ZG4Q8s8M] by Salvador Flores III
Is doubt part of faith? Is it acceptable for a Christian going through grief to ask questions of a sovereign God?
Listen in as we begin a new series in the book of Malachi. Brad teaches us this big, simple truth that God loves us even when it does not feel like it. He points us to remember, rest, and rejoice when we do not feel God's love. This sermon is from 10/26/25
Talking to the moms having doubts about God. Praying for those with fragile faith, struggles with children (including adult children), facing life's storms, or tough new jobs. Praying for YOU, mom, to feel valued, encouraged, and not to give up!
Just because you're a Christian doesn't mean you're immune from doubting God's love. And an insufficient grasp of God's love for us can lead to a host of other problems in our walk with the Lord. Malachi 1:1-5 can help. There we discover God's burden to reassure us of his love, and to do so by giving us a pair of gospel contact lenses. Will you put in your gospel contacts? Scriptures Referenced:Malachi 1:1-5; Eph 3:14-19; Romans 5:5-8 Visit PracticologyPodcast.com for more episodes.Follow the Practicology Podcast on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MandMsPodcast
Malachi 1:1-5 - From Doubting God's Love to Declaring God's Love We're beginning a new sermon series this morning. We'll be in the Book of Malachi for the next couple of months. You can find Malachi chapter 1 on page 953 in the Pew Bibles. Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament, so if you can find the book of Matthew, turn left a couple of pages. We'll begin with verses 1-5. One note before I read. In these verses, you will hear of a reference to Edom. The Edomites were the descendants of Esau. That will be some helpful context. Reading of Malachi 1:1-5 Prayer When I was in high school and college, I spent a few summers working at a Christian camp. Well, one particular summer, one of my fellow counsellors had a very difficult camper. This kid was, I think, only in 1st grade. And he was rambunctious. He was mean to the other campers. He struggled to follow rules. He didn't want to participate in activities. In those moments, his counsellor would get down on one knee to his level, and try gently instruct him. During dangerous activities, like archery, his counsellor would often have to hold his hand, to keep him safe. Of course, the other boys in his cabin would get angry at him. Their counsellor would always intervene and remind them all to speak kind words to one another. Well, one afternoon, things escalated. The counsellor tried to calm his camper down, but the boy lost it and started screaming. Literally, the whole camp could hear it. They were in the middle of a big group activity, so his counsellor had to gently carry him away. As this young boy was being carried away, he kept screaming over and over, “I hate you.” “I hate you.” To which his counsellor calmly responded over and over, “I love you.” “I love you.” Their back and forth slowly faded as they passed out of sight. The camper, of course, didn't understand that his counsellor did love him. He didn't know what love really looked like in that situation. To this boy, it didn't appear to be love at all. Maybe some of you who are parents have experienced something similar. Well, as we get to Malachi chapter 1, God's people, likewise, were questioning God's love. It didn't feel like God loved them. But he did. And in response, God mercifully reminds them of his love. Most of us here today have at one point or another cried out to God. We've questioned whether he was even there or if he was loving. Maybe that is what you are feeling today. My hope and prayer that you will leave here with a renewed or new sense of God's love for you. Introduction As we get into the book of Malachi, let me first mention some background things. Malachi is one of 12 books called minor prophets. They are called “minor” not because they are less important but because they are shorter. We don't actually know much about the prophet Malachi other than that his name means “messenger.” He was a messenger from God. As we will find out next week, he lived in Jerusalem. And based on the themes in the book and its position in the Old Testament cannon, Malachi prophesied sometime during the middle of the 400s BC. He very likely overlapped with Ezra and Nehemiah. At that time, some of the exiles had returned from Babylon to Jerusalem, and the temple had been rebuilt. The last thing to point out is the word “oracle” right there in verse 1. It's used throughout the Old Testament when a prophets were given a particularly burdensome word from God. Oracle, in fact, means burden – you know, like a heavy load that an animal would carry on its back and the weariness or distress that it would bring. When the word “oracle” is used to describe a prophetic utterance, it is conveying the weight of that prophecy. As we work our way through Malachi, we are going to see the weight of this prophecy. Over and over, God very clearly calls for repentance from grievous sin, and God warns them if they do not return to him. However, before all of that, God begins with a reminder of his love. And that is what verses 2-5 are about. If you turn to page 4 of your bulletin, you can see where we are headed. · First, God's Love Doubted. Verse 2. · Second, God's Love Defended, the end of verse 2 through verse 4 · And third, God's Love Declared, 5 So, God's love doubted, defended, and declared. 1. God's Love Doubted We see right there in verse 2 that the people doubted God's love for them. “I have loved you,” says the Lord, but you say, “how have you loved us?” By the way, this is the pattern throughout Malachi. God quotes the people questioning him, and then he answers. It's the organizing framework for the book. How have you loved us, Lord? It sure doesn't feel like you do. This was a difficult time in Jerusalem. We don't often think of it that way because, after all, the people were back in Jerusalem. The temple had been rebuilt. However, socially and economically, it was a very unstable time. Yes, the Persian kings had supported the return and rebuild, but that did not mean prosperity. No, the people experienced a lot of trouble and opposition. Taxes were high. Jobs were scarce. They were in the middle of a famine. The people had to mortgage their fields and vineyards and houses just to survive. Some even forced their sons and daughter into slavery. We know those things from Nehemiah 5. All of it weighed heavily on them. And think about their expectations. God had promised through Isaiah and Jeremiah a return from exile back to Jerusalem. The people had in their minds the glory of the former unified kingdom – you know, prosperity and peace. They pictured Solomon's temple restored to its original beauty and splendor. I'm sure some even pictured a return of the national power that Judah and Israel had once had. But their expectations came crashing down with the reality of their situation. They couldn't lift their eyes to see beyond each day… because of the difficulty that each day brought. It was not peace and prosperity, it was survival mode. And in their minds, who was at fault? God. And so, they were asking, how have you loved us, Lord? Where have you been? Have you or are you asking that? Lord, do you love me? It sure doesn't feel like it. I can't find a job or it's hard to financially survive each day. Or I've lost a parent or a spouse or a sibling or a child. Or even harder at times, my relationship with my son or daughter is estranged, or I've endured the pain of divorce. Or my health is deteriorating more each day, Or I struggle with chronic pain or a debilitating disease. Or my loved one is. I feel all alone. Or I've been a victim of abuse or false accusations. Lord, where are you? Do you really love me? Maybe someone told you this well-known phrases once: “God has a wonderful plan for your life.” Have you heard that before? It is one of the most unhelpful statements in evangelicalism. I'm not saying that it is not partially true. Stay tuned for that. But becoming a Christian does not mean that you will experience peace and prosperity in this life. To be sure, being a Christian does come with many blessings on earth. Blessings in relationship and community with one another in the church. Blessings of worship and prayer, and many others things. But if we expect that our days on earth will be filled with temporal success or health or relational flourishing, we will become deeply disappointed. And it may cause us to question God's love. I want you to note something in verse 2. Before the Lord quotes their questioning of his love, he begins by affirming that he does love them. “I have loved you.” By the way, that word “love” is not the word “hesed.” You know, God covenant lovingkindness. Rather, that word for “love” is the word “ahab.” It is a word for love that focuses on a loving relationship. It's God's love for them as his people whom he chose to be his people. In fact, the verb form indicates that God's love for them has been accomplished and it is definitive. It's like saying, I *did, I do, and I will * love you. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. God has, does, and will love his people. What I want to say to wrap up this first point is that in those times of doubting God's love... in those times when you are burdened by your suffering… or when you are wondering where the Lord is, God calls you to first remember that the Lord does love you. But rather than just leave it there, the Lord goes on to defend his love. He explains the source of his love. 2. God's Love Defended That brings us to #2. God's Love Defended. In the second half of verse 2, the Lord returns their question with a question himself. He asks, “Is not Esau Jacob's brother?” And then reminds them of his love for Jacob and his hatred for Esau. The Israelites are Jacob's descendants. Now, the reason that God reminds them about Jacob and Esau is because Jacob and Esau demonstrated both God's unmerited love as well as his just anger. Back in Genesis 25 and following, we learn about Jacob and Esau. They were both sons of Isaac. Twins, in fact. Esau was born first, so Esau was to have the privileges of being the firstborn, authority in the family, the blessing of Isaac, and a large share of the inheritance. But if you remember, Jacob took advantage of Esau. When Esau was famished, Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew. And then Jacob lied to and tricked their father into blessing him instead of Esau. Even though Jacob did not deserve it, God chose him and chose his descendants to be his people. Esau and his descendants, on the other hand, were rejected. You see, neither deserved God's love, yet God chose Jacob. Jacob and his descendants were the ones who received God's promise. But, back to Malachi, there was the problem. To the people in Jerusalem (you know, the returned exiles), it sure felt like God loved Esau's descendants and not Jacob's. As I mentioned earlier, the Edomites were the descendants of Esau. In fact, in some way, they partnered with or supported Babylon in the destruction of Jerusalem a hundred years earlier. We're not told how, but we're told elsewhere that Edom rejoiced in Jerusalem's destruction. The prophet Ezekiel even mentions that Edom took vengeance against Judah. So, it's possible Esau's descendants even participated in Babylon's destruction of Jerusalem. Let me make a side note here. There is some evidence that after the Babylonian exile, another nation overthrew Edom and the Edomites were forced to move. There is also evidence that at this time Edom began rebuilding just south of Judah. If that is true, it certainly explains verses 3 and 4. They were displaced by jackals, as it says, but they began to rebuild. I'm telling you all this because in these verses, God is both affirming his love for his people… and he is letting them know that even though Edom appears to be prospering again, it will be short-lived and their destruction would be eternal. In contrast, the suffering that God people were experiencing would be short-lived but their prosperity would be eternal. Why? Because God chose them to be his people. He loved them with an undeserved and unconditional love. Beloved in Christ. There are or will be times in your life when it seems like the enemies of faith are overcoming you. I'm talking about sin, death, and the devil. You will have moments when you are questioning God's love because you don't see a path forward. Your pain, suffering, grief, loneliness, or disappointments may overwhelm you at times. But if God has given you the gift of faith in Christ, you are one of God's chosen descendants of Jacob – his spiritual descendant. And God loves you. Does God have a wonderful plan for your life? Yes, because all his and your enemies will be defeated and one day, you will be rejoicing for eternity in his presence. Do you see what I am saying. This passage, for them and for us, is ultimately fulfilled in the unmerited love of God in Jesus Christ. God chose all his people to be his people, not because of any self-worthiness. No. Just like with Jacob, despite our sin, God chose us to be his people. He called us in him before the foundation of the world. And God's judgment against Edom is the judgment that Jesus bore on the cross for his people. What I am saying, is that in those moments of despair and doubt. Remember not only that God loves you, but remember that he has called you to be his through Christ. And one day, God will defeat once and for all the very burdens that are weighing you down. Just a week and a half ago, I was at an event where a missionary shared about a very difficult time. He and his wife were serving in Rwanda back during the difficult civil war there. It was tragic. Neighbors turned on neighbors. In a single day, a million people were killed. In one incident, a group or Christians fled to their church building. Their pursuers broke in and slaughtered every single one of them. As you can imagine, seeing all of it overwhelmed this missionary and his wife. But then it became more difficult. Because, soon after that, his wife went into premature labor while there. Their son was delivered but the hospital didn't have the expertise or medical equipment to save him. He died after only 5 days of life. This missionary described the deep struggle that he and his wife went through. They questioned God's love and goodness in all of it. They searched for answers. He then recounted how Job demanded God for answers. And how God answered Job back and asked, “where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?” And then this missionary said this: “Job never got answers, but he got presence. And in that presence, he worshipped.” That really struck me. God does not promise that we will not suffer in this life. But he does promise that he loves us and will be with us… and one day he will defeat his and our enemies forever. This missionary closed by sharing how they were drawn back to Jesus and God's love for them in him. 3. God's Love Declared Which brings us to point number 3. God's love declared. For the exiles who had returned to Jerusalem, both their worldview and their perception of God was small. Remember, God had promised them many things. He had promised a Messianic king. He had promised a restoration of a kingdom beyond what could be imagined. He promised to defeat their enemies. And that was part of their struggle. None of it seemed to be coming to pass. In fact, for them, it seemed to be getting worse rather than better. They forgot God's love and his promises, and they lost hope. What they needed was not only a reminder that they were God's chosen people whom he loved. They needed a reminder of his future promises. Verse 5 says “Your own eyes shall see this, and you shall say, ‘Great is the Lord beyond the border of Israel!'” Most prophecies in the Bible have a more immediate fulfillment but also a future redemptive fulfillment. For the immediate, there is some historical record that the Edomites were soon overcome by both Greek and then Roman conquests. But I think verse 5 is really meant to draw their attention to the future. To point them to a coming king who will be victorious, not only in Israel, but as verse 5 says, beyond its borders. It's like God was saying to them through Malachi, “Yes, I love you, but I also want you to lift your eyes up from your suffering to see what I will do! It will be far greater than you can imagine. Not only will the enemies of faith be destroyed, but you will see the greatness of my salvation to the world” As you may have figured out, it was still about 450 years before Jesus' birth. God was not saying that those particular people in Jerusalem would see the ultimate fulfillment of this verse. Perhaps they would see Edom overcome. But remember, the Lord was speaking to Israel. It is through them that that Savior would come. This is the last period in their history before Jesus came. And when he came, he would bring salvation not only to Israel, but his electing love would greatly expand beyond the border of Israel to the world. Beloved in Christ, you and I are part of this promise. We are here today worshiping our God who has saved us because God has and is fulfilling this promise to Israel. Christ has come and His Gospel is going forth in mighty ways throughout the earth. This is part of God's reminder to us when we are doubting his love. Yes, we can rest in the fact that we are God's people. We have his love in Christ. But in times of suffering and disappointment and grief and despair, we can lift our eyes up to see what God is doing all around us and around the word. It is truly amazing. And by seeing what God is doing, believing what he will do, we can and should then declare his love to the world. As verse 5 puts it, “you shall say, ‘Great is the Lord beyond the border of Israel!'” From doubting God's love to declaring God's love. Conclusion As we close, let me briefly say that these opening verses are the foundation to the rest of Malachi. We're going to see over and over the sin of the people, the sin of the priests, and the Lord's call for them to repent and return to him. Malachi begins where they needed to begin… it begins where we need to begin. Knowing and believing in God's saving and electing love in Christ. So, in our doubt and discouragement and pain, may we know and believe in God's undeserved love for us in Christ – he has chosen us in him. May we lift our eyes to see what he is doing, and may we declare the greatness of our God in all of it. Amen.
How confident are you in the reliability of scripture? Pastor Mike Fabarez concludes our study of Paul's miraculous survival on Malta, emphasizing why absolute confidence in God's word is essential for courageous endurance. We'll understand how divine authentication gives us certainty in an uncertain world.
Why does God allow trials in the lives of believers? Pastor Mike Fabarez addresses this crucial question, revealing how divine testing prepares us for future challenges. We'll continue examining Paul's snake bite experience on Malta and understand how God builds resilient faith through unexpected difficulties.
Does God ever get caught off guard by the crises in your life? Pastor Mike Fabarez reminds us that our sovereign God never says "oops" when unexpected trials strike. We'll witness Paul's miraculous survival from a deadly snake bite on Malta, and understand how even the most surprising circumstances serve God's greater purposes.
Trusting God’s love when you don’t feel it, plus how skeptics strengthened Justin Brierley’s faith, and balancing reverence and honesty in prayer. Featured musical artist: Austin Stone Worship Roundtable: Does God Really Care About Me? It’s easy to say “Jesus loves me” in church or when things are going well, but how do you have the faith to say it when God feels incredibly distant? What if circumstances in your life challenge your perception of His goodness, and now you’re wondering if He’s even there? Our guests open up about difficult seasons they’ve been through, the lies they’re tempted to believe about God and themselves, and what it looks like to fight for faith. If you’re wondering if God cares — not in general, but about you in particular — you’ll be encouraged by their stories. Send Us Your Show Ideas Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Why I’m Still a Christian When was the last time you shared your faith with a non-Christian? Justin Brierley has been conversing with atheists and agnostics (including Richard Dawkins) for years, and he’s passionate about equipping believers to examine secular arguments, test them with Scripture science, and common sense, and then be lights in our culture’s darkness. If you’re intimidated by unbelievers’ unbelief and what they have to say about it, Justin will help you find both courage and kindness for the conversation. Why I’m Still a Christian: After Two Decades of Conversations with Skeptics and Atheists–The Reason I Believe Watch This Segment on YouTube Visit Justin’s Website Hear Justin on the ReFocus Podcast Inbox: Yelling at God When life is hard and you’re sad, angry, disappointed or scared, how do you pray honestly to God while still showing reverence and respect? Pastor Mark Bates weighs in. Find us on YouTube
"Every believer faces trials that test their faith. Will you choose the path of fear or faith?In Genesis 26, Isaac confronted 5 common fears:Losing possessionsSpeaking truthFully surrendering to GodFacing conflictDoubting God's promisesBut here's the truth: God's faithfulness is greater than our fears.When we trust Him: • Provision replaces scarcity • Truth overcomes lies • Surrender leads to freedom • Conflict becomes opportunity • Promises find fulfillment
"Every believer faces trials that test their faith. Will you choose the path of fear or faith?In Genesis 26, Isaac confronted 5 common fears:Losing possessionsSpeaking truthFully surrendering to GodFacing conflictDoubting God's promisesBut here's the truth: God's faithfulness is greater than our fears.When we trust Him: • Provision replaces scarcity • Truth overcomes lies • Surrender leads to freedom • Conflict becomes opportunity • Promises find fulfillment
Title: Strengthened by The Sovereignty of GodText: Psalm 73Gary Buffaloe1. Doubting God's Sovereignty Leads to Spiritual Despondency2. Trusting God's Sovereignty Repairs Spiritual Despondency3. Proclaiming God's Sovereignty Rescues People from Spiritual DespondencyPlease reach out to us via email at: info@wilkesborobaptist.org
Series: Sovereignty and Struggle: Hope from the Bible's SongbookTitle: Strengthened by The Sovereignty of God (Gary Buffaloe)Text: Psalm 731. Doubting God's Sovereignty Leads to Spiritual Despondency2. Trusting God's Sovereignty Repairs Spiritual Despondency3. Proclaiming God's Sovereignty Rescues People from Spiritual DespondencyPlease reach out to us via email at: info@wilkesborobaptist.org
The Jesus Empowered Maiden: Female Identity, Authority and Freedom in Christ
Do you struggle with whether the God of the Bible is good? Or if His goodness is present all the time? Do you doubt that He loves you and has a good plan for your life? Friend, you're not alone — and you don't have to stay in that dark, confusing place. Discover 3 practical yet powerful steps to help you build confidence in God's goodness and His deep love for you. Plus, I'll share several key resources to support your journey from doubt to clarity and hope! -------------------- Take the Quiz: https://www.relateescape.com/quiz Get a weekly reminder of God's tender love for you. Plus, be the first to know about exclusive offers! https://bit.ly/GodLovesMeEmail Join Relate Escape Place: https://www.relateescape.com/membership Shop the Store: https://www.relateescape.com/store Follow Jenn on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/relateescape
Sins (Part 22) - Doubting God | Matthew 8:26, 16:8 | 22 June 2025 - Sunday Evening | Dr. Brad Weniger, Pastor
“Doubting God's Presence”Exodus 17:1-7A Life-Defining Question:“Is the LORD among us or not?”Common Responses…1. Atheism: “I don't believe in God!”…No hope!Ecclesiastes 2:24-25; Ephesians 2:122. Individualism: “I don't need God!”…No rest!Psalm 95:6-11; 127:1-2; Hebrew 3:123. Theism: “I trust the Rock!”1Corinthians 10:4; Psalm 46:1-2; 71:3; Isaiah 26:3-4…Never alone!Exodus 33:12-15; Isaiah 41:10; Matthew 28:20
In this week's episode -- the twenty second episode in our "overcomers" series -- we will discuss how to handle our doubts about God, how not to handle them and how the Lord handles our doubts. Scripture discussed this week: John 20:24-29, Mark 9:24, Psalm 42:11 and Isaiah 55:8-9.follow me on instagram! https://instagram.com/braxtenhmfollow me on tik tok! https://www.tiktok.com/@UCKFDLPcSq_V1LP76Kq4HL1g
Catch the interview with John Woodall and Pastor Scott JonesSometimes, God seems distant, uncaring, or inconsistent with his character. He is shrouded in mystery, and we want certainty. We will not always get the answers we seek or understand in this life. This message will be an invitation to trust God throughout our lives and give him the benefit of the doubt because of who he is.
“Doubting God's Provision”Exodus 16:1-36Main Point:We can trust God for our daily bread and must trust God's Son, for our eternal life.Significant Questions:1. Do you realize who you “grumble against”?2. Do you recognize your need for “testing”?3. Have you eaten “the bread of life”?4. Do you see “Sabbath rest” as a gift?5. Are you looking toward the “glory of the LORD”?
Watch out for the thought "God has dealt unfairly with me". Deuteronomy 32:4 The Rock- his work is perfect; all his way are just. A faithful God, without bias, he is righteous and true.
Segment 1: • Todd preached a topical sermon—yes, really. • Focus: The love of God, especially for those who feel unlovable. • If you think you haven't done enough to deserve God's love—you're right, and that's the beauty of grace. Segment 2: • God's love doesn't ebb and flow like human feelings. • You don't have to feel loving to be loving—feelings are unreliable. • God's love is anchored in His character, not your emotions or performance. Segment 3: • Don't go from legalism to lawlessness—or back again. • The law is still good when used rightly, but it can't save. • Paul corrected the Galatians for confusing justification with law-keeping. Segment 4: • Too many gospel presentations assume too much. • We often confuse apologetics (defending the faith) with evangelism (sharing the faith). • If people are totally depraved, they need more than clever answers—they need Christ. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!
Catch the message Doubting God: When Hell Seems Unfair by Pastor Scott Jones.God's love and eternal torment don't make sense on the surface, and many people reject the God of the Bible because of it. This is rooted in a misunderstanding of the purpose of hell and the goodness of humanity. This message will compare heaven and hell and provide clarity on who chooses to go to hell and how to avoid it.
Catch the message Doubting God: When Your Prayers Go Unanswered by Pastor Scott Jones.Who hasn't wrestled with the question, “Why doesn't God answer my prayers?” It can make us doubt if God is good if he is listening, and if he really cares. We will explore the purpose of prayer, and the reasons for unanswered prayer and invite people to trust him in the waiting.
Catch the message Doubting God: When One Way Seems Narrow by Pastor Scott Jones. The exclusivity of Jesus as the only way to God has been a stumbling block for many years. In our post- Christian society, it seems narrow to say that all other religions are wrong. We will address the claim of Jesus and why God provided any way to him at all.
Think you have to have it all together to be blessed?Think again.In today's episode, we're talking about how God's favor still finds you—even when you doubt, fall short, or feel unworthy.Real talk:• Doubting yourself? Normal.• Doubting God? Also normal.• Being disqualified? Not even possible when you're His.You'll learn how to stop letting guilt and doubt block what's already yours, and why knowing who you are in God changes everything.Because you're flawed, but still chosen. Messy, but still blessed.Hit play—you need this reminder.Scriptures Mentioned:Ephesians 2:8-9 | Romans 5:8 | Mark 9:24 | Psalm 139:14Share this episode and tag me if it spoke to you! Let's remind each other: grace wins.#BlessedAnyway #FaithInRealLife #GraceOverPerfectionThe Well Done Life Podcast Information:The Reset Experience Recap Video: https://youtu.be/4ynD3AEuz2I?si=okF38OJIH4vLoVmJPrevious Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/851650/episodes/17006161-rising-faith-holding-on-when-life-feels-heavy.mp3?download=trueInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelaldavis/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewelldonelifepodcastEmail: hello@thewelldonelife.com and thewelldonelife@gmail.com Thank you for listening. Text me your feedback. I really appreciate you!
Catch the message Doubting God: When You're Done Being A Christian by Pastor Scott Jones.Some people let doubt lead them away from their faith. Many are leaving Christianity over doubts about their faith or questions they can't seem to answer. This message will challenge people to do the work of wrestling with their doubts and false beliefs so that it will lead them to stick with their faith and grow deeper in their relationship with God.
Catch the message Doubting God: The Doubts In Your Box by Pastor Scott Jones.After the resurrection, at the ascension of Jesus, some worshipped him but some doubted. Thomas doubted that Jesus had risen from the dead. And it wasn't until he saw him that he believed. Jesus met him in his doubt and called him to a deeper faith. This message will invite people to be honest about their doubts with an invitation to those who don't know Jesus to put their faith in him. As Jesus said to Thomas, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Thanks for listening to this week's episode where Holly continues our series through the book of Numbers! To join us for our Weekly Meeting, we meet every Tuesday night at 8:00 in Memorial Hall. We'd love to have you! For more information about us, please visit www.cruuga.org. To get more connected or if you have questions, please fill out this form: cru.typeform.com/to/ixJ2S6aS
We address the challenging emotions that come with doubt and uncertainty in our faith journeys. It’s natural to question and seek understanding, especially during difficult times. We’ll explore biblical examples of doubt, practical steps for navigating these feelings, and how to find hope and reassurance in God’s promises even when our faith feels shaky. Join the Conversation: We want to hear from you! How do you handle moments of doubt in your faith? What helps you regain confidence in God? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. Let’s support one another as we seek answers and strengthen our faith together!
Focusing on all our disappointed dreams leaves us feeling miserably unloved. Does God's love depend on life going our way? In this message from Malachi 1, Pastor Philip Miller shifts our focus from life's gaps to God's graces, examining Israel's weighty concerns, wary hearts, and God's wonderous love. His love is bigger than our losses and disappointments. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.
Hiiii GGB! In this episode, we sit down with Craig Groeschel and explore his book 'The Benefit of Doubt.' "The strongest faith isn't a faith that never doubts," writes Groeschel. "Rather, it's a faith that grows through doubts." Written for individuals facing doubts about God and as an asset to reach loved ones struggling with doubts, each chapter of The Benefit of Doubt includes questions that lead readers to dive deeper into the reasons behind their doubt. Groeschel also provides resources at the end of the book for readers to re-engage their relationship with God as well as an appendix of encouraging scriptures for the days of doubt. A supplemental workbook will also release from Zondervan to complement The Benefit of Doubt. "I want you to know you can have both faith and questions at the same time. You can wrestle with God and embrace him," writes Groeschel. "While you will never have all your questions answered this side of Heaven, you can be sure of one thing. You can give God the benefit of the doubt." The Benefit of Doubt book and workbook release from Zondervan on February 18, 2025. Some questions we go dive into, but certainly not limited to— -Can you explain what deconstruction is and if it's ever good to deconstruct? -You share honestly about your doubts throughout your Christian walk. What have you learned by working through those doubts? -What do you say to someone who starts to doubt God because their prayers weren't answered? -Many people turn away from God because of hypocritical Christians. What do you say to someone who walks away from God because of a hurt or wound? -Christians believe Jesus is the only way to Heaven. What's your response to people who say that's arrogant? -Some people start to doubt God because they don't feel His presence. What would you say to someone who doesn't always feel God? -What encouragement do you have for someone who is struggling with doubt? All of Craig's links: Website- https://www.craiggroeschel.com/ Benefit of Doubt book- Instagram https://www.instagram.com/craiggroeschel/ YouVersion Bible App- https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/ https://www.craiggroeschel.com/books/the-benefit-of-doubt Life Church- https://www.craiggroeschel.com/lifechurch we love you SO much. Jesus loves you more. -Ang & Ari JOIN US ON GGB+
Episode 231: Doubting God's GoodnessHas God been good to you? Is God good to you right now? Do you have an expectation of God's goodness to you for the future? In this episode of the Mavericks & Misfits podcast, we are challenged to confront our doubts about God's goodness, especially during difficult times. The key scripture explored is Isaiah 54:2-3, where God exhorts His people to 'enlarge the place of your tent' and to 'lengthen your cords.' This passage, originally directed at ancient Israel, carries a profound message for us today: God wants us to prepare for growth, abundance, and His favor, even when we feel undeserving. Jeff Lyle draws credible parallels between Israel's rebellion and our own struggles with sin, reminding us that God's love and compassion persist even through seasons of His discipline. This message challenges us to shift our perspective from a works-based relationship with God to one rooted in His unconditional love and grace. As we journey in faith, we are encouraged to combat the enemy's accusations and embrace God's promises of restoration and blessing, regardless of our past failures or current circumstances.
When you face temptation, remember that sin leads to suffering but trusting God leads to blessing.