Podcasts about Ecclesiastes

Did Jesus, in his ministry and preaching, ever claim to be God? Many anti-Christian voices today promote the false idea that Jesus neither claimed divinity nor sought to convince his followers of it. This video offers a clear, accessible overview of how the Gospels present Jesus' divine nature—and how his words and works fulfill that claim. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

When my husband, Alan, and I decided to move across the country to Philadelphia to further his education, I didn’t have a job lined up, and we had no idea how we would afford student housing. On a Sunday, shortly before we were to leave, a church acquaintance introduced us to a former student of the university Alan was to attend who knew of an affordable apartment. Then, before we left, a workmate gave me the name of a contact at a Christian ministry. God answered our prayers and gave us opportunities—including an apartment and a job—through His people. Friends and family helped us move and ushered us on with prayer. The author of Ecclesiastes wrote about the benefits of not going through life alone: “Two are better than one” (4:9). Two get more work done, can help each other through struggles, offer companionship, and ward against danger (vv. 9-11). He went on to say, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (v. 12). A community has even greater benefits. More resources, more support. Alan and I benefited from the community we left behind. And God helped us to build a new community to help us feel at home in the big city. If you feel alone, ask God to help you find a friend, a good church, or a place to serve in a community.

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we remember the First Council held in the West. Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

According to the Bible, the love of money is the root of all evil. Many believe this sin only affects those who have money, but this is not true. Anyone, whether a believer or nonbeliever, can fall into the trap of loving money. Those pursuing their calling must be especially cautious not to succumb to this temptation. __________ 1 Timothy 6:10 KJV, 1 John 5:3 KJV, Matthew 6:24 NIV, Ecclesiastes 10:19 KJV, Genesis 12:10 KJV, Genesis 12:14–16 KJV, Luke 8:14 MSG, Matthew 6:33–34 KJV, Genesis 26:1–3, 12–14 KJV, Proverbs 10:22 KJV __________ Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com Leave a Comment: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/comments __________    

From Dust to Glory – The Vanity of Life Under the Sun Without the SonEcclesiastes 3:16-4:6 | King's Chapel Live StreamWhen we look honestly at the world around us, we often see injustice where there should be justice and wickedness where there should be righteousness. Ecclesiastes does not ignore these realities. It faces them head on.In Ecclesiastes 3:16 through 4:6, the Preacher reflects on some of the hardest truths about life under the sun. Justice is often corrupted. The righteous are mistreated. The oppressed have no comfort. And both humans and animals return to the dust in death.Yet Scripture does not leave us in despair. The gospel answers each of these painful realities.Where injustice fills the world, the cross becomes the place where our justification is secured. Jesus was treated unjustly so that sinners could be declared righteous before God. Where righteousness seems absent, the perfect righteousness of Christ is given to those who trust in Him.Even death, the great equalizer of humanity, is not the final word. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, death itself is defeated.And for those who feel crushed by the weight of life, Christ meets the oppressed with compassion. He knows suffering. He weeps with those who weep. In Him we find rest for restless hearts and, as Ecclesiastes describes it, a handful of quietness.This message reminds us that while life under the sun can feel heavy and unjust, life with the Son leads from dust to glory.Connect with King's Chapel in Longwood, FL - ▶️ www.kingschapelfl.com▶️ https://www.facebook.com/KingsChapelfl▶️ https://www.instagram.com/kingschapelfl/For the GLORY of our Great GodFor the GOOD of our NeighborEcclesiastes 4 sermon, injustice in the Bible, dust to dust sermon, hope in suffering Christianity, King's Chapel Longwood FL, biblical view of oppression, death defeated in Christ, finding rest in Jesus

God is wearing armor and passion as He goes to work. The covenant God is making is a someone. And peace and love are very attractive. Have a listen. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Daniel Emery Price Chad Bird

What does the Bible really say about sex, romance, and marriage? Pastor Todd Fletcher joins us to break down 10 powerful keys drawn from King Solomon's life and writings — including Song of Solomon, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes — that can transform your relationship and marriage.This episode is sponsored by The Master's University. To learn more about how you can invest in a college education devoted to Christ & Scripture, visit https://www.masters.eduIn this episode, we cover:✅ Rejecting the sins of your parents✅ How to choose a godly spouse✅ Why avoiding sexual sin protects your future✅ The importance of faithfulness in marriage✅ Pursuing excellence together as a couple✅ Making your wedding day special✅ Taking courtship and dating seriously✅ Enjoying marital intimacy as a gift from God✅ How to work through conflict and marital problems✅ Building a new life together — for the long haulTodd Fletcher has been the lead pastor of Chapel in the Hills Church in Golden, Colorado for 12 years and wrote his doctoral dissertation on the Song of Solomon.Whether you're single, dating, engaged, or married for decades — this conversation is packed with timeless biblical wisdom on love and relationships.

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we remember a different saint remembered on "St. Patrick's Day". Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

In the Book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon in all his wisdom worked hard to figure out why life is completely out of his control, even as a powerful king. In his writings, he was frustrated and angry and cynical and flippant and sarcastic. Does that sound familiar at all? Thank God that He gave us such a wide variety of people and circumstances in His Word to show us the collision between the divine and the human.Listen to Ecclesiastes 8:7-9 in The Message … Yes, there's a right time and way for everything, even though, unfortunately, we miss it for the most part. It's true that no one knows what's going to happen, or when. Who's around to tell us? No one can control the wind or lock it in a box. No one has any say-so regarding the day of death. No one can stop a battle in its tracks. No one who does evil can be saved by evil. All this I observed as I tried my best to understand all that's going on in this world. As long as men and women have the power to hurt each other, this is the way it is.Can you relate to any of Solomon's words?When we can't actually control anything about life but we want to, we usually end up hurting one another, trying to control each other. And we have to be so careful that we don't end up trying too hard to control our kids. Control is never the point of parenting.Let's fast-forward to the end of Ecclesiastes where Solomon finally resolves his search for truth.The words of the wise prod us to live well. They're like nails hammered home, holding life together. They are given by God, the one Shepherd. But regarding anything beyond this, dear friend, go easy. There's no end to the publishing of books, and constant study wears you out so you're no good for anything else. The last and final word is this: Fear God. Do what he tells you. And that's it. (Ecclesiastes 12:11-14 MSG) So, evidently it's okay to run through all of our crazy, mixed-up emotions and express our cynical and sarcastic opinions of how life treats us. Because what matters most after the process is where we end up. Better, not bitter. Realizing we will never be God and He always will be. And that will always be a great place to land.Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, please help me to realize I can vent with You as my Father. I can tell you exactly what I think. You already know what I'm thinking so I may as well just voice it. But remind me in those moments that all I am saying is that You have to be in control—and to thank You that I'm not. As above, so below.”

Paul wants to get to Jerusalem in time for Pentecost. The Holy Spirit reveals that suffering awaits him, and a prophet uses Paul's belt to demonstrate what will happen to him. And it is always better to give than receive. Have a listen.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Daniel Emery Price Erick Sorenson

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we head to the mailbag to answer another communion question! Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

Check out this great show from March 28, 2025 (2:41) Bible Study: Hosea 14:2-10 Father explains that the timeline of salvation history which anyone can follow! Mark 12:28-34 Father Explains the great commandments (21:36) Break 1 (24:31) Letters: Father answers a question about the timing of the exile of Israel as well as talks about the sacraments and how they are accepted by Catholics in the Protestant Church. Father answers these and other questions. Send him a letter at simon@relevantradio.com (33:32) Break 2 (34:00) Word of the Day Far (39:31) Phones: Joseph - I read that the Jews in Spain were from the family of David. What do you think? Marlene - If someone stole a consecrated host for the black mass, wouldn't Jesus take himself out of the host to prevent desecration? Bill - Is the form you are using on the radio a valid Baptism? Leaving out the 'of' and 'and'? Maureen - What is the difference between Sirach and Ecclesiastes?

Ecclesiastes 11:1-3

A sermon in our series, Ecclesiastes: Chasing the Wind.The Village Church is a community formed by the gospel and sent on God's mission to make, mature, and multiply disciples of Jesus. We gather in the heart of downtown Hamilton, Ohio, with the hope that God might be made known in every part of His city through every part of our lives.For more information about The Village, visit us online at myvillagechurch.com.

Pastor Sheek Teaches On John 4:5-30 Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Edward Killian Darrin Sheek Bob Hiller Brian W. Thomas

Solomon's experiment in Ecclesiastes 2 explores whether meaning can be found in life lived “under the sun,” apart from God. He pursues every human avenue of fulfillment: pleasure, wine, massive projects, wealth, sexual relationships, reputation, and legacy. With immense resources he essentially tries to build a secular Eden where nothing is off limits. Yet each pursuit ends the same way. Pleasure fades, achievements lose their shine, possessions multiply without satisfaction, and death ultimately levels every person. The verdict of the experiment is stark: life without God becomes empty and exhausting, a constant chase for something that never delivers lasting meaning. The deeper issue is misplacing meaning in things that cannot carry its weight. When people look to pleasure, relationships, status, or circumstances to provide identity and purpose, disappointment and resentment follow. Solomon's insight exposes a pattern that still shapes modern culture, where endless consumption and stimulation attempt to numb deeper questions of purpose. The answer is not rejecting enjoyment but rediscovering a joyful God who gives life as a gift, cultivating gratitude, and learning to receive daily blessings from Him rather than striving endlessly for the next thing. True satisfaction comes not from chasing more, but from living in relationship with the God who gives meaning to everything.

Join us as Pastor Wayne Penn Jr. continues teaching through our series on Ecclesiastes.

Listen to Pastor Larry preach from Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:8, observing how this passage commands us to rejoice in and remember our Creator.

Weekend Edition for March 14-15, 2026 Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

Went to a Garden Party. In this episode, we read a homily by St. Aelfric of York for Midlent Sunday. Aelfric sermonizes about the earthly and heavenly meaning of Jesus' feeding of the five thousand — its symbolism, historical import, and how loaves and fishes exegete the Old Testament books themselves. This and many, many wilderness wanderings in this episode of the podcast. SHOW NOTES:  The Homilies of the Anglo-Saxon Church https://www.gutenberg.org/files/38334/38334-h/38334-h.htm#page180   More from 1517: Support 1517 Podcast Network: https://www.1517.org/donate-podcasts 1517 Podcasts: http://www.1517.org/podcasts 1517 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1517org 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/1517-podcast-network/id6442751370 1517 Events Schedule: https://www.1517.org/events 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education: https://academy.1517.org/   What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today https://youtu.be/oqTGOUe7YG0?si=ZAdFLVhZYmSNgzsp  Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith https://shop.1517.org/products/9781964419961-being-family  A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco https://shop.1517.org/collections/coming-soon/products/9781964419879-a-reasoned-defense-of-the-faith Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann https://shop.1517.org/products/9781964419381-stretched  The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation https://shop.1517.org/products/9781964419121-the-essential-nestingen  Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper https://shop.1517.org/products/9781964419299-philip-melanchthons-commentary-on-ecclesiastes    More from the hosts: Donovan Riley https://www.1517.org/contributors/donavon-riley  Christopher Gillespie https://www.1517.org/contributors/christopher-gillespie   CONTACT and FOLLOW: Email mailto:BannedBooks@1517.org  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BannedBooksPod/  Twitter https://twitter.com/bannedbooks1517   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@BannedBooks Rumble https://rumble.com/c/c-1223313  Odysee https://odysee.com/@bannedbooks:5 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/banned-books/id1370993639  Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2ahA20sZMpBxg9vgiRVQba  Overcast https://overcast.fm/itunes1370993639/banned-books    MORE LINKS: Tin Foil Haloes https://t.me/bannedpastors Warrior Priest Gym & Podcast https://thewarriorpriestpodcast.wordpress.com   St John's Lutheran Church (Webster, MN) - FB Live Bible Study Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/356667039608511  Gillespie's Sermons and Catechesis http://youtube.com/stjohnrandomlake  Donavon's Substack https://donavonlriley.substack.com Gillespie's Nostr https://primal.net/p/nprofile1qqszfrg80ctjdr0wy5arrseu6h9g36kqx8fanr6a6zee0n8txa7xytc627hlq   Gillespie Coffee https://gillespie.coffee   Gillespie Media https://gillespie.media  

Friendship is not optional in the Christian life—it’s essential. Lauren Fletcher highlights how God designs relationships to encourage, support, and help us grow in Christ. By sharing our struggles, confessing sin, and offering genuine care, we reflect God’s love to one another. True friendships sharpen us, lift us up in times of need, and create a community where His love is experienced and expressed. Highlights Encouragement: Friends help us persevere and remind us of God’s truth (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Spiritual Growth: “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). Support in Hardship: Care packages, prayer, and practical help show Christ’s love in action. Confession & Healing: Sharing struggles removes shame and brings healing (James 5:16; Galatians 6:1-2). Together We Thrive: Ecclesiastes reminds us that life is better lived with others; multiple relationships strengthen resilience (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). Love in Action: By loving friends authentically, God’s love is manifested in us. Intersecting Faith & Life God did not intend for us to walk through life alone. Whether it’s encouragement in a hard season, spiritual accountability, or practical support, friends reflect His heart and make the Christian journey sustainable and joyful. Cultivating and investing in these relationships honors God and enriches our daily walk. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: We Need Each Other By Lauren Fletcher Bible Reading: “Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.” - 1 John 4:11-12 I have been blessed with many close friends. It wasn’t always that way, though. There was a time when I didn’t share much about myself with others. I hid the “not pretty” part of my life in a figurative coat closet, with the bad memories boxed up on the top shelf. There were things I had learned that you do not talk about. All of this changed when I started a new season of small groups at church. Within safe spaces, I learned I could share my life with others and be fully accepted. This surprised me. I realized the closet had to be opened, and the memories, one by one, taken off the shelf, boxes opened, and shared with others. What I learned was that friendship is a blessing and absolutely essential to the Christian life. In friendship, we encourage each other and help each other grow. I have a friend with a gift for encouragement. I call her sometimes for a “pep talk.” She has a great way of encouraging me in the Lord and reminding me of the truth. I can come with my difficult circumstances and prayer requests and leave with a sense of hope. I am so grateful to her. In 1 Thessalonians, it says, “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). It is so important to encourage each other because life can get difficult. We need each other’s help to keep going. As friends, we also help each other grow. In Proverbs, it says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). We make each other better in Christ. We help each other in times of need. As I joined a women’s group at my church, I saw this firsthand. Meeting around the fire, I’d hear women share their stories and what they were going through. Each person was met with support and love. Sometimes, we’d support each other through care packages, times of prayer, or even meal trains. This showed me how to love others in their hard seasons, how to be there for them. 1 John 4:11-12 says, “Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.” As we put our love into action, we show each other the love of Christ. We confess our sins to each other. I remember in college, I was struggling with sin. At some point, I confessed this sin to a friend of mine, who listened, supported me, and compassionately shared helpful scripture with me. What happened was I no longer felt alone in things or hidden in shame. In Galatians 6, Paul says, “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2). What I found in sharing these hard things with friends is that we begin to fight this battle together—I am no longer by myself in it. It also removes the shame that I feel, which causes me to hide sin. Coming into the light, my friends have been waiting and ready to help. In James, it says, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16). When we stop hiding our sin from each other and from God, He can heal us. Intersecting Faith & Life: As I’ve continued to learn about friendship, I've found that friends help pick each other up. In Ecclesiastes, it says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). The writer continues, “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). I pray that you find these things to be true in your friendships as well. God did not create us to be alone or to walk out this life by ourselves. I pray that God will bring you the right people at the right time and strengthen the relationships you already have. Lord, thank You for friendship. Thank You that you intended for us to walk through life with others. Thank You for the good plans You have for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11). I pray that You would bless my life with abundant relationships that reflect Your heart. Show me how to be a good friend. In Jesus’s name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we tell the story of James W. Alexander and his most famous Lenten hymn. Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

Send a textEver felt like you're swinging harder with a dull axe? We open with Ecclesiastes 10:10 and sit down with Benjamin Matteson, a veteran law enforcement officer, to explore how wisdom, mentorship, and brotherhood sharpen a man's life. From a childhood without church rhythms to a VBS invite that led to salvation and baptism, Benjamin's journey shows how a single mentor and a faithful community can transform isolation into purpose.Reclaiming the Wild is back — April 24–26 at Abundant Blessings Farm (Stem, NC). This isn't just a retreat… it's a reset: brotherhood, faith, outdoors, bonfires, and real conversations. Theme: we have been commanded to unite. Bring your son (or any male kid 5+) and make memories that last. Register now — let's reclaim the wild. It's time to stop sitting on the sidelines.Step into the fight and become the man God called you to be. Join a brotherhood built on truth, strength, and action. Visit thelionwithin.us right now and start leading with boldness and purpose. Iron sharpens iron — let's go.

At first I thought some apocalyptic event had hit our town. Schools were all empty, there wasn't a school bus in sight, lots of people suddenly disappeared. Not to worry. It was just Spring Break. Of course, for many of America's young people, Spring Break is code for "party like there's no tomorrow, baby." Well, after downing lots of booze and sometimes drugs, your internal censors just go off duty. So a lot of folks come back from break with little memory of some big mistakes. Partying that lasts for a night; regrets and scars that can last a lifetime. Going for "break" and coming back broken. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "Timeout Tragedies." There's this lie that sets people up for expensive choices, hurtful choices. What you do when you're away, or when you're alone, or when you're anonymous doesn't count. It's not just a lie students fall for. Businessmen on trips, women home alone, guys on the Internet, girls texting, people on vacation or at a party. I'm almost sure there's someone listening right now who would do anything to erase what they did when they believed it wouldn't matter. It does, doesn't it? Because while you can turn off your internal controls, you can't turn off your conscience. It picks up every wrong thing we do - or, in God's vocabulary, every sin. As observed by the wife of a governor who was disgraced by the discovery of his long - distance affair, she said, "You can pick your sin; you can't pick your consequences." It's so true. So your conscience is always running and so is your calculator. It's adding up the consequences, because as the Bible says, "whatever a man sows, he reaps." That's an inescapable law of the universe. Worst of all, the camera's always running, too. In our word for today from the Word of God, God's camera is described this way, "A man's ways are in full view of the Lord, and He examines all his paths." You know that "Sin City" commercial that says, "What you do here stays here"? No, forget about it! If God knows, you're caught. Oh, believe me, God knows. It doesn't matter how drunk you are, how depressed you are, how devious you are, how deserving you think you are. The Bible says, "be sure your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23). So, first the thrill, then the bill. The fear of discovery, the trail of cover-up deceit, the guilt, the shame, the loss of self-respect, the ugly consequences, and the judgment of Almighty God. "For," as the Bible says, "God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil" (Ecclesiastes 12:14). See, nothing good happens when we blow past God's stop signs. That's why we've got to run from the rocks that we've been drifting toward and saying "no!" to that seductive, but devilish voice that says "Forget about tomorrow; now is all that matters." Oh, tomorrow really does matter. But what about the memories? What about the shame of the mistakes that it's too late to change? Well, there's hope in a word called "forgiven." The very God whose plans for us we trash has made this stunning promise: "I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more" (Hebrews 8:12). Like the wonderful feeling of a shower when you're disgustingly dirty, God says He'll make us clean inside; every sin erased from His book, with our eternal sin-bill paid in full because of a cross. Where Jesus, God's one and only Son, in the Bible's words, "carried our sins in His own body on the tree" (1 Peter 2:24) and He absorbed the judgment I deserve: The choices that accuse us. Gone! Forgiven! That's what happens when a sinner grabs the Savior. It's nothing less than a new beginning. And that's why our website is called ANewStory.com. It's where you can find the information that will help you begin your new story with Jesus Christ. Please go there. The rebirth miracle is within your reach right now if you'll just tell Jesus, "I'm Yours from today on."

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” — Matthew 16:26 Those words from Jesus confront one of the deepest questions we can ask about money and success. Jesus spoke them to His disciples as He taught about the cost of following Him. In that moment, He contrasted two pursuits: gaining the world and preserving the soul. The question still echoes today: Is there a spiritual cost to financial success? On today's episode of Faith & Finance, John Rinehart, founder and CEO of Gospel Patrons, joined the show to explore that very question and what Scripture teaches about wealth, work, and spiritual health. The Bible's Honest Warnings About Wealth Financial success itself is not condemned in Scripture. In fact, the Bible includes many faithful believers who possessed great wealth—Abraham, Job, and Lydia among them. Yet Scripture also carries repeated warnings about the spiritual dangers that prosperity can create. As John explained on the show, wealth can be both a blessing and a temptation. The danger arises when our hearts begin to trust money instead of God. Jesus addressed this tension directly in Matthew 6:24: “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.” The issue is not the possession of wealth but the mastery of wealth over the human heart. And in a culture that celebrates success, possessions, and financial independence, those warnings are easy to overlook. The Cycle of Success That Can Lead to Spiritual Failure John describes a pattern many people fall into—a cycle of success that can quietly lead to spiritual drift. It often begins with a view of work that centers on earning money so we can eventually rest. We work hard, pursue success, and over time, our effort produces prosperity. Hard work and prosperity themselves are not wrong. In fact, Scripture often affirms diligence. But prosperity introduces a new danger. As John noted during the conversation, success can gradually lead us to forget the God who provided it in the first place. When we begin to see wealth as the product of our own ability rather than God's provision, our dependence on Him begins to fade. Before long, success that once felt like a blessing can become a spiritual trap. The Warning of the Rich Fool Jesus illustrates this danger in the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12:16–21. In the story, a farmer experiences an abundant harvest. Faced with overflowing crops, he decides to tear down his barns and build bigger ones to store them all. From a purely financial perspective, his plan sounds wise. But Jesus reveals the deeper problem. The man begins speaking to himself as though his wealth guarantees security and ease: “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” — Luke 12:19 Then comes the shocking turn. “But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you.'” — Luke 12:20 The problem wasn't the harvest—it was forgetting God. This story hits close to home in a culture that often equates success with building bigger barns. The Danger of Forgetting the Source This warning appears long before Jesus told that parable. As Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, Moses cautioned them about the spiritual risks that accompany prosperity. In Deuteronomy 8:17–18, he warned: “Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.' You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” John highlighted this verse as a key reminder: even the ability to create wealth is a gift from God. When we forget that truth, wealth easily shifts from blessing to idol. When Wealth Chokes Out Spiritual Fruit Jesus also warned that wealth can quietly interfere with spiritual growth. In the Parable of the Sower, He describes seeds that begin growing but are eventually overwhelmed by thorns. He explains the meaning in Mark 4:19: “The cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.” John also noted how startling that statement is. The Word of God is powerful, yet Jesus says the deceitfulness of riches can still choke its fruitfulness in a person's life. Wealth promises security and satisfaction—but it often delivers anxiety and distraction instead. God's Better Rhythm for Life Thankfully, Scripture offers a healthier path. John explained that instead of structuring life around work and wealth, God invites us into a different rhythm—one that begins with rest. The Sabbath command in Exodus 20:8–10 reminds us that our lives are not sustained by constant productivity. Rest re-centers our hearts. It draws our attention back to God through worship, Scripture, and time with the community of faith. From that place of rest, work becomes something different. Instead of merely trading time for money, work becomes an act of service and worship—an opportunity to use the gifts God has given us to bless others. When prosperity comes from that posture, it is received differently. Instead of assuming ownership, we begin to recognize stewardship. As Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us, God is the one who provides the power to create wealth. That truth reshapes how we think about money. Our resources are no longer simply tools for personal comfort—they become opportunities to participate in God's work. And that leads naturally to generosity. The Role of “Gospel Patrons” John's ministry, Gospel Patrons, highlights a powerful biblical pattern. Throughout Scripture and church history, movements of God have often been supported by generous believers whose financial resources helped fuel gospel work. Even during Jesus' ministry, Luke 8:3 tells us that several women helped support Him and His disciples “out of their means.” These supporters—often business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals—play a vital role in advancing the mission of God. They may not always preach sermons or travel as missionaries, but their faithful stewardship enables those ministries to flourish. Your Work Can Matter for Eternity One of the most encouraging points Reinhardt shared on the program is that believers working in business or professional careers are not second-class participants in God's Kingdom. Your daily work matters. When your work is offered to God, your resources stewarded faithfully, and your generosity directed toward His mission, your life becomes part of something eternal. Financial success does not have to lead to spiritual failure. When we remember the source of our wealth and steward it with humility and generosity, our work can become a powerful instrument in advancing God's Kingdom. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 68 and recently retired. With a home for sale and significant cash on hand, I'm trying to determine the best way to begin withdrawing from my 401(k) without pushing myself into a higher tax bracket before RMDs begin. What's the best strategy? My husband and I are doing Roth conversions, and our CPA suggested funding a charitable giving account to offset the taxes and then using it for our regular tithe. Is it biblically and ethically appropriate to tithe from a charitable account like that? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Gospel Patrons Gospel Patrons: People Whose Generosity Changed The World by John Rinehart Breaking the Cycle (Article by John Rinehart in Faithful Steward Magazine, Issue 1) An Uncommon Guide to Retirement: Finding God's Purpose for the Next Season of Life by Jeff Haanen Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hello Friends! I love to hear from you! Please send me a text message by clicking on this link! Blessings to You!In this episode, Dr. Jori discusses with her listeners Solomon's exhortation that everyone who eats and drinks sees good in all his labor for it is the gift of GOD. Scripture References: Ecclesiastes 3:13; James 4:14; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 Kings 4:29-34; Ecclesiastes 1:1-18; Ecclesiastes 12:11-14; Ecclesiastes 3:1-14; Galatians 5:22-23 Scripture translation used is the NASB “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB (New American Standard Bible) Copyright 1971, 1995, 2020 (only use the last year corresponding to the edition quoted) by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. www.Lockman.org”CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S NEW PODCAST- The First Love ProjectHere is the video introducing the podcast on You Tube-https://youtu.be/PhFY1moDDmsHERE IS A LINK TO THE YOUTUBE PLAYLIST FOR FIRST LOVE PROJECThttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdaujk1npuKR0BLSkTlKyxmuxavrZQHM6&si=dC10K4Qdh0xMKElU FIND DR. JORI ON OTHER PLATFORMS https://linktr.ee/drjorishaffer DAILY MUSICAL DEVOTIONAL BY THE WORSHIP INITIATIVE:Text SING to 79316CHECK OUT THE DWELL AUDIO BIBLE APP:Click this link for my unique referral code.  I use this frequently. Such a wonderful audio bible app. https://dwellapp.io/aff?ref=jorishafferBIBLE STUDY TOOLS DR. JORI USES:Note: These contain  Amazon affiliate links, meaning I get a commission, at no extra cost to you,  if you decide to make a purchase through my links.Here is a link to some of my favorite bible study tools on Amazon:https://geni.us/cHtrfEMr. Pen Bible Journaling Kitshttps://lvnta.com/lv_PTrHSCogbRim4yhEDnhttps://lvnta.com/lv_mkaMOuGe6m4oHR88uqhttps://lvnta.com/lv_dgvsxOc99t663A628z  BOOKS OF BIBLE COLOR CHARTI made this chart as a helpful tool for grouping the collections of books or letters  in the Holy Bible.  The colors in the different sections are the ones that I use in my journals.  Books of Bible Chart (color) (4).pdf - Google Drive    LOOKING TO RETAIN MORE OF WHAT YOUR PASTOR IS TEACHING?              CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S SERMON REFLECTION JOURNALS! Sermon Notes, Reflections and Applications Journal/Notebooks by Dr. Jori. Click the links below to be directed to amazon.com for purchase. Or search “Dr. Jori Shaffer” on Amazon to bring these up.  https://amzn.to/418LfRshttps://amzn.to/41862EyHere is a brief YouTube video that tells about the Journal/Notebooks as well:https://youtu.be/aXpQNYUEzds   Email: awordforthisday@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://awordforthisday.buzzsprout.comSupport the show

"I perceived that whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it. God has done it, so that people fear before him." Ecclesiastes 3:14  

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we remember the famous and infamous Simeon "the New Theologian". Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith continue discussing the story of Joseph and how it has been used to explain divine election, suffering, and the human will. They critique the common theological idea that God uses suffering to align human will with His will or to produce righteousness. Instead, they show how Luther's reading of the story points to God accomplishing election through preaching and absolution, not through suffering or human cooperation. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

Matt chats with Dr. Ingrid Faro about the problem of evil and suffering. Ingrid share with readers about not just the nature of evil, but how we can navigate through a world that finds itself caught up in it. Like the prophets, we must responsibly confront the evils of our own day as divine image-bearers. About Dr. Faro: Ingrid Faro (PhD, MDiv) is Interim President of Northern Seminary and Professor of Old Testament and Coordinator of the MA in Old Testament–Jerusalem University College Program. Ingrid is an author and international speaker on topics including deconstructing evil, navigating suffering, forgiveness, lament, abuse and power dynamics, women in the Bible and ministry, Genesis, and Ecclesiastes. Ingrid is the author of Evil in Genesis, co-author of Honest Answers, and author of the recently-released Demystifying Evil. Link to Ingrid's book, Redeeming Eden: https://a.co/d/00oj8xyy +++Support The Bible (Unmuted) via Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/TheBibleUnmuted⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Matthew's blog: matthewhalsted.substack.comDon't forget to subscribe to The Bible (Unmuted)!

It's one thing to thank God before a meal. It's another thing entirely to thank Him before sending off a tax payment. For many Christians, taxes are rarely associated with gratitude. They often feel like a burden—an interruption to our financial plans or resources we'd rather use elsewhere. But Scripture invites us to view taxes through a very different lens. Instead of seeing them merely as a loss, believers can see them as a reminder of God's provision and His sovereignty, and as an opportunity to live with integrity. Why Taxes Stir Frustration Few topics unite people quite like a shared dislike of paying taxes. It's easy to think, if I could just keep that money, I could do something better with it. And when government policies conflict with our convictions—or headlines highlight waste or corruption—resentment can grow even stronger. Yet Scripture calls us to approach the issue differently. Instead of responding with frustration alone, the Bible encourages gratitude, humility, and trust in God's sovereign rule. In Matthew 22:17, the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus with a political question: “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” Jesus responded by asking for a coin and pointing to the image stamped on it. His reply has echoed through history: “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” (Matthew 22:21) This answer was remarkable. Taxes under Rome were deeply unpopular. Rome was an occupying force, and tax revenue helped sustain a system that oppressed God's people. Yet Jesus did not call for revolt or avoidance. Instead, He acknowledged that paying taxes fits within God's ordering of society while making it clear that our ultimate allegiance belongs to God. Coins may bear Caesar's image, but our lives bear God's image—and they belong fully to Him. Trusting God's Sovereignty The apostle Paul reinforced this principle in Romans 13:6–7, writing during the reign of Nero—hardly a model of righteous leadership: “Because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God… Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.” Notice what Paul does not say. He doesn't ground obedience in the goodness of government. Instead, he points to the sovereignty of God. Paying taxes, then, is not primarily an expression of confidence in a human system. It is a recognition that God ultimately rules over nations, leaders, and history itself. Taxes Reveal God's Provision There is another perspective on taxes that believers often overlook. Before you pay a single dollar in taxes, something has already happened: God has provided. A mentor of mine, Ron Blue, often says around tax time, “Taxes represent God's provision.” If God had not provided income, there would be no taxes to pay. Think about it. Taxes imply that: Work was available. Income was earned. Needs were met. Daily bread was provided. In other words, taxes—uncomfortable as they may feel—are evidence that God has supplied what we need. Gratitude allows us to see provision before we see loss. Instead of asking only, How much am I paying? We can ask, What does this reveal about God's faithfulness? Integrity in a Culture of Loopholes This perspective also shapes how Christians respond during tax season. In a world full of shortcuts, loopholes, and justifications, believers are called to something different: integrity. Honesty in financial matters—especially the ones no one else sees—forms Christlike character. Filing accurately, reporting honestly, and paying what is owed becomes an act of discipleship. It's a quiet but powerful testimony of a life shaped by trust in God rather than self-protection. Turning Taxes into a Spiritual Discipline Finally, paying taxes can even become a spiritual discipline. Each time you write that check or submit that payment, let it prompt you to pray. Pray that God would guide leaders with wisdom, justice, and humility. Pray for policies that protect the vulnerable and promote the common good. Pray for leaders who recognize their need for God's guidance. You may disagree with those leaders. You may even oppose their policies. But Scripture reminds us they are still people made in God's image—people who need God's help just like the rest of us. In a culture eager to complain, believers have the opportunity to respond differently. When tax season arrives: Remember the Owner: God owns everything, including the income from which taxes are paid (Psalm 24:1). Recognize the Provider: Taxes remind us that God has provided resources in the first place. Respond with Integrity: Honesty reflects a heart that seeks to honor Christ. Reframe with Gratitude: Thank God for His provision rather than focusing only on what is owed. Respond with Prayer: Let taxes prompt intercession for leaders and systems of government. When viewed through the lens of Scripture, even something as mundane—and often frustrating—as taxes can remind us of deeper truths: God provides, God rules, and God calls His people to live with gratitude and integrity. Go Deeper: Our Ultimate Treasure If you'd like to explore these themes of stewardship, gratitude, and God's ownership more deeply, consider reading Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Devotional to Faithful Stewardship. This devotional walks through the biblical foundations of money and stewardship, helping readers see that financial decisions are ultimately spiritual decisions. Over 21 days, you'll discover how Scripture reshapes the way we think about earning, spending, saving, giving—and even paying taxes. You can learn more or order your copy at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I've inherited about $100,000 and don't know how to invest it. I'm 75, retired, debt-free, and living on a pension and Social Security. What are some safe options—like CDs or high-yield savings—that still give me access to the money if needed? My husband and I are separated. He's retired and receiving Social Security and a pension, while I'm still working. Can I claim spousal Social Security benefits on his record while we're separated, and would that reduce his benefit? I'm 56 and have about $310,000 in an old 401(k) and $268,000 in my current one. With market volatility, I'm considering moving the old account into a 10-year fixed annuity for safety. Is that a wise move? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Community Credit Union | AdelFi Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is a verse-by-verse Bible study of Joel 1:8-20, exploring the historical context, meaning, and faithful application of the passage within the Christian faith. What happens when everything you've built gets stripped to the bones? We walk line by line through Joel, where wave after wave of locusts erase Israel's harvest, silence the temple's offerings, and drain joy from the community. It's more than a natural disaster story. It's a sober look at the limits of human effort and the moment when God calls people from pride to prayer, from feasting to fasting, and from denial to lament.We unpack the symbols that matter: sackcloth as a public sign of grief, fasting as a reset of appetite and attention, and a solemn assembly that reunites a fractured people. Along the way, we connect Joel's imagery to a hard but hopeful truth—our best safeguards and systems are good gifts, but they can't save us from judgment or mend a heart that has drifted. The Day of the Lord enters the scene not as a vague threat but as moral clarity: destruction from the Almighty that confronts idolatry and invites return to Him. Ecclesiastes echoes through the conversation: the work of our hands fades, but the Word of God endures.We also explore why discipline can be grace. Like the cycle in Judges, crisis often becomes the turning point that drives people to cry out to God. When the fields are bare and the storehouses empty, the only honest path is toward the One who can both halt the ruin and begin restoration. By the end, we outline Joel's literary cues and set the stage for what comes next: a movement from devastation to renewal. If you've felt your plans devoured or your efforts exhausted, this chapter offers a map—name the loss, gather with others, fast, and call on the Lord.If this journey through Joel sparked reflection, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review telling us where you've seen God turn ruin into renewal.Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

Wednesday night Bible study with Pastor Craig Hall teaching from Calvary Chapel Fortuna.

Send me a text!Welcome back to Tamar's Testimony!

Don't turn back your foot from the Sabbath. God has big ears, long arms, and open eyes. And peace can ultimately only be found in one person. Have a listen. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Daniel Emery Price Chad Bird

Scott and Caleb are joined by Magnus Persson to talk about what it means to be confessional. Magnus discusses the importance of the Lutheran Confessions and how the church is called to be both evangelical and catholic in its mission. A confessional church proclaims the Gospel while upholding the universal truths and gifts God gives to the church to proclaim and teach. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith  

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we head to the mailbag to answer another young person's questions about podcasts and church history. Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

Send a textEver feel like you're swinging harder but not getting anywhere? We anchor this conversation in Ecclesiastes 10:10—if the axe is dull, more strength won't save you—and explore how sharpening through mentorship and discipleship turns effort into impact. With Ryan Zook, president of Men of Iron, we dig into why most men quietly crave a mentor, what keeps them from asking, and the simple structure that makes growth stick.Reclaiming the Wild is back — April 24–26 at Abundant Blessings Farm (Stem, NC). This isn't just a retreat… it's a reset: brotherhood, faith, outdoors, bonfires, and real conversations. Theme: we have been commanded to unite. Bring your son (or any male kid 5+) and make memories that last. Register now — let's reclaim the wild. It's time to stop sitting on the sidelines.Step into the fight and become the man God called you to be. Join a brotherhood built on truth, strength, and action. Visit thelionwithin.us right now and start leading with boldness and purpose. Iron sharpens iron — let's go.

Discipleship often sounds like something that requires a large program, a curriculum, or a major church initiative. But what if it's far simpler than that? What if discipleship often begins with just one intentional relationship? Sometimes a single faithful conversation—repeated over time—can shape how we follow Christ in every area of life, including our finances. Today, we spoke with Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass Financial Ministry, about a simple discipleship model that has quietly transformed lives for decades. And it all begins with one person investing in another. The Power of One-to-One Discipleship The vision began with Howard Dayton, the founder of Compass. Many people know Howard from his years teaching about biblical stewardship, but at the heart of his ministry has always been personal discipleship. Years ago, Howard made a simple commitment: each year, he would intentionally walk alongside one person. They would read Scripture together, discuss what God was teaching them, and reflect on how those truths applied to their lives. Alongside Scripture, they would read a few formative Christian books and meet regularly to talk through what they were learning. But there was one small request. At the end of the year, the person being discipled would commit to doing the same thing with someone else. That simple multiplication strategy became known as the “One More” program—disciple one person each year and invite them to do the same. Books That Shape the Heart Over time, the reading list has evolved, but the goal has always remained the same: to encourage deep spiritual formation. Some of the books commonly used in the process include: Humility by Andrew Murray Trusting God by Jerry Bridges Financial Discipleship by Peter Briscoe The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert Coleman Each of these works invites believers to reflect deeply on their relationship with God. But as Brian Holtz explained, the real power isn't in the book list. It's in the relationship. The conversations that happen as we discuss what God is teaching—how Scripture shapes decisions, priorities, and daily life—become the true treasure of the process. A Life-Shaping Year For Brian, this model of discipleship became deeply personal. Nearly a decade ago, his family had just relocated across state lines for work. Everything felt unsettled—his job, church, and even family rhythms. Nothing seemed to be falling into place. Then a friend invited him into this simple discipleship process: reading Scripture and a few books together over the course of a year. What began as a small commitment ended up transforming nearly every area of his life. His view of money changed. His relationship with the Lord deepened. His marriage and parenting were shaped in new ways. Eventually, that same relationship even influenced his career, leading him to join Compass Financial Ministry itself. What started as one faithful investment became a turning point in Brian's life—and he has since walked many others through the same journey. Where Discipleship Begins For many believers, the idea of discipling someone else can feel intimidating. We imagine complicated programs or advanced theological training. But Brian offers a far simpler starting point. Don't read books alone anymore. Invite someone to read with you—whether it's Scripture, a devotional, or a Christian book. Meet regularly, talk about what you're learning, and discuss how those truths apply to your life.  That's it. One conversation at a time. For those who want to follow the same approach used by Howard Dayton, Compass offers free study guides through its “One More” initiative, designed to help people disciple one person each year. One Faithful Relationship at a Time Discipleship rarely begins with a platform or a program. More often, it starts with a single faithful relationship—two people opening Scripture together, asking honest questions, and encouraging one another to follow Christ more closely. And when that investment is repeated again and again, the impact multiplies in ways we may never fully see. One conversation. One relationship. One more life shaped for eternity. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My 19-year-old daughter still lives at home, and we want to help her learn good money habits before she moves out. Should we charge her rent and save it for her? What percentage makes sense, where should we keep it, and is it wise for her to get a credit card to start building credit? We lived in a home for 20 years, then turned it into a rental five years ago. It hasn't been rented for about a year due to renovations. If we sell now, can we avoid capital gains taxes, and how should we handle tithing from the sale in the most tax-efficient way? My daughter is listed on my bank accounts, but her struggling business could lead to bankruptcy. Could that put my money at risk, and should I remove her from the accounts to protect it? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) National Christian Foundation (NCF) Compass Financial Ministry | One More Program Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Vanity of Life Under the Sun Without the Son, Pt. 5Time and EternityEcclesiastes 3:1-15 | King's Chapel Live StreamLife often feels like a series of changing seasons. There are times of joy and times of sorrow. Times of building and times of loss. Times when life feels clear and times when it feels confusing.Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us that none of these seasons are random. God governs time itself. Every season of life unfolds under His wisdom and care.In this message, we reflect on how God meets us in the reality of time. He governs our seasons, giving us peace when life feels uncertain. He redeems our time by stepping into history through Jesus, bringing meaning and joy to what might otherwise feel fleeting. And because God stands outside of time, we have hope that our lives are held within His eternal purposes.Scripture also tells us that God has placed eternity in the human heart. We long for something lasting because we were made for something more than the passing moments of life under the sun.When we trust the One who holds time in His hands, our perspective changes. Even the ordinary rhythms of life become reminders that God is at work, shaping our days and guiding our story toward His good purposes.Connect with King's Chapel in Longwood, FL - ▶️ www.kingschapelfl.com▶️ https://www.facebook.com/KingsChapelfl▶️ https://www.instagram.com/kingschapelfl/For the GLORY of our Great GodFor the GOOD of our NeighborEcclesiastes 3 sermon, time and seasons Bible, a time for everything sermon, God controls time, King's Chapel Longwood FL, meaning of time Ecclesiastes, eternity in our hearts sermon, biblical wisdom teaching

Ecclesiastes 6 confronts one of life's most unsettling questions: What is the point? Wealth, success, long life, and even family cannot ultimately satisfy if we cannot truly enjoy them, because every life still ends in death. This message explores the wisdom of contentment in a finite life, learning to receive God's gifts with gratitude while trusting the God who Sees our lives from beginning to end. In christ we discover the true contentment comes not from what we possess, but from the God who knows us and promises never to leave us.

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we remember one of the biggest names in American church controversies before the Civil War: Nathaniel Taylor. Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21 Long before Scripture speaks about budgets, investments, or generosity, it asks a deeper question: What do we truly value? Jesus' words in Matthew 6:21 aren't merely financial advice. They reveal a profound spiritual reality. Our treasures—what we prioritize, pursue, and protect—reveal the direction of our hearts. Understanding this truth reshapes the way we think about money, wealth, and ultimately, life itself. Everyone Is Chasing a Treasure Step into any office, business, or marketplace, and you'll see it quickly: everyone is pursuing something. For some, the pursuit is wealth. For others, it's freedom, comfort, reputation, or security. When you peel it back, treasure shows up in the things we sacrifice for, dream about, and worry over. Money often sits at the center of this pursuit because it seems to promise everything we desire. If we have enough, we imagine we'll finally feel secure, prepared, and in control. But there's a paradox. The more we accumulate, the more we fear losing it. The more we protect it, the more anxious we become. What once promised freedom slowly begins to feel like slavery. The problem isn't that money is bad. Scripture never teaches that. Money is simply a tool. The problem is that our hearts quietly ask money to do what only God can do: save us, secure us, and satisfy us. That's why Jesus spoke about treasure so often. Not because He opposed wealth, but because wealth competes for what belongs to God alone—our trust. Generosity Reveals the Heart Many people assume the solution to the love of money is simply to give more. And generosity is certainly celebrated throughout Scripture. Giving frees us to participate in God's work and bless others. But Jesus never treated giving like a formula. Instead, He treated it like a diagnosis. In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus watched as wealthy donors placed large gifts into the temple treasury. It must have looked impressive to everyone watching. But His attention turned to a poor widow who quietly dropped in two small coins. To most observers, her gift seemed insignificant. But Jesus saw something different. The wealthy gave from their surplus. The widow gave from trust. Her offering wasn't about optics or recognition. It was worship. She treasured God more than financial security. When Giving Isn't Enough Jesus reinforced this idea when He rebuked the Pharisees in Matthew 23:23. They carefully tithed even their smallest herbs—mint, dill, and cumin—yet neglected “the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness.” Their giving was meticulous. But their hearts were misplaced. If the act of giving alone could break the love of money, the Pharisees would have been the freest people in Israel. But they weren't. True freedom doesn't come from giving more. It comes from loving Christ most. The Treasure Worth Everything Jesus tells another story in Matthew 13:44 about a man who discovers a treasure hidden in a field. When he realizes what he has found, he joyfully sells everything he owns to buy the field. Notice what's remarkable about this story: the man isn't grieving his loss. He's thrilled. Why? Because he finally sees clearly what is truly valuable. He isn't losing—he's gaining. That's what happens when Christ becomes our treasure. Everything else falls into its proper place. Wealth becomes a tool instead of a master. Enjoyment becomes gratitude rather than entitlement. Generosity flows from joy instead of guilt. Stewardship becomes participation in God's work instead of anxiety about our own future. The Treasure That Came Looking for Us But the story of treasure doesn't end there. While humanity was searching for treasure, the greatest treasure came searching for us. Jesus didn't simply teach about treasure—He became the treasure who gave everything to redeem us. Hebrews 12:2 tells us that Christ endured the cross “for the joy that was set before him.” That joy was redeeming us. The gospel isn't ultimately a call to give up treasure. It's an invitation to receive a greater one. The Question That Matters Most The real question isn't whether you treasure something. You do. The question is who. Earthly treasures always demand protection. Christ alone protects us. And when Christ becomes our treasure, we gain something the world can never provide: a confidence no market can shake and a wealth no thief can steal. So today, pause and ask yourself the question Jesus raised long ago: Where is your treasure? Because wherever it is, that's where your heart will be also. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I started a construction business about a year and a half ago, and it's growing. How can I pursue growth faithfully without crossing the line from building wealth to pursuing greed? I'm overwhelmed by high-interest loans and paying $1,200–$1,500 every two weeks. Trinity Debt Management may be able to help, but the lenders won't negotiate. What's the best way to get out from under these loans? My husband normally manages our finances, but after his recent injury, I realized how unprepared I'd be to handle things on my own. With everything online—bills, investments, and passwords—how can I start getting organized and up to speed? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School by John Cortines and Gregory Baumer Set Your House in Order (Compass Financial Ministry Study) Cross International Christian Credit Counselors Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thirty years ago, I participated in an activity at an unemployment workshop that I still remember today. My fellow laid-off co-workers and I were asked to write our retirement speeches. Huh? We were looking for work and far from retirement age. But the facilitator revealed the purpose of the activity by saying, “Your speech will probably have little to do with your work.” She explained to us that a job really isn't the center of our lives. And while we may be grieving the loss of a job, our lives mean much more than being employed. The words about the end of Abraham’s life remind me of this lesson. He died at a “good old age” and had lived a “long and satisfying life” (Genesis 25:8 nlt). Throughout Scripture, we read about Abraham’s faithfulness in following God’s instructions, but we don’t read much about his work. The faith the patriarch displayed (15:6) reminds me of the Teacher’s conclusion in Ecclesiastes: “To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness” (2:26). The Teacher said this after considering the meaning of life and how one can find enjoyment in the midst of work or toil (vv. 24-25). Even during times of loss and anxiety brought by unemployment, it’s helpful to reflect on Abraham's example and the Teacher’s words—pointing us to true satisfaction found only in God.

Today on the Christian History Almanac, we head to the mailbag to answer a question about what God looks like and how we might depict him. Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517:   1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

Twice a year, we adjust our clocks—but it often feels like our bodies and routines take much longer to adjust. Daylight Saving Time can disrupt sleep, slow our mornings, and leave us feeling out of sync. While it may seem like a small inconvenience, even minor shifts can reveal how tightly we cling to our schedules and sense of control. Joshua 10:13 reminds us that God alone holds authority over time. When the sun stood still, it was not human effort that altered the day, but divine power. We cannot stop or stretch time, but we can trust the One who governs it. Ecclesiastes tells us there is a season for everything. God establishes times and purposes beyond our understanding. Even when change feels inconvenient, His timing remains perfect. Adjustments—whether seasonal or personal—invite us to surrender our rhythms to Him. It’s easy to grumble when sleep is lost or routines are disrupted. Yet even in something as ordinary as a clock change, we are given an opportunity: will we respond with frustration, or with trust? God uses seasons and shifts to refine our patience, remind us of our dependence, and redirect our focus. His timing is not random. He makes everything beautiful in its time—even the transitions we resist. As you “spring ahead,” remember that your schedule is not sovereign. God is. And He is faithful to guide your steps at exactly the right pace. Main Takeaways God alone has authority over time. Seasonal changes can reveal our reliance on routine and control. Ecclesiastes reminds us that God appoints every season with purpose. Even small disruptions offer opportunities to practice gratitude and trust. God’s timing is steady, purposeful, and good. Today’s Bible Verse “So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.” - Joshua 10:13 Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Help me trust Your timing and adjust my heart as You adjust my schedule.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Continue growing in faith and encouragement: LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts and devotionals Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, articles, and Bible study resources If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.