Podcasts about Ecclesiastes

How long would you be able to hold on if you had no hope for a better future? The world is full of broken people living broken lives: people who are looking for any reason to keep holding on. Pastor Jeff lays out the structure of the book of Ecclesiastes in today's message and shows you how true faith in Jesus can give you the hope you need to hold on through this life. No matter how difficult life's challenges may get, you have a God who cares for you and has prepared a better place for you.

Money can so easily capture our hearts. It promises security, comfort, and control—but often leaves us anxious and striving for more. Yet when we give, something remarkable happens. We're declaring our dependence on God, not our bank accounts.Dr. Art Rainer—founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose—joined us recently to explore how generosity becomes an act of trust that transforms our hearts and deepens our faith.Money Reveals the HeartLarry Burkett often said, “Every spending decision is a spiritual decision.” Dr. Rainer agrees.“Jesus said, Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” Art explained. “The Bible makes it clear—money management reflects heart management.”Scripture contains over 2,000 verses about money and possessions. Why? Because few things so clearly reveal what—or whom—we truly trust. For believers, the central question is this: Do we believe God's promises about provision, and are we willing to surrender this area of life to Him?Giving as an Act of TrustDr. Rainer describes giving as a tangible expression of faith. “God doesn't tell us to give and then leave us hanging,” he said. “He ties promises to generosity.”Those promises fall into three beautiful truths—God will provide, multiply, and enrich.1. God Promises to ProvideIn Malachi 3:10, the Lord declares:“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do, I will open the windows of heaven for you and pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in. Try it! Put me to the test!”“God invites us to trust Him,” Art said. “He promises to pour out an abundance of blessings—not necessarily material wealth, but blessings that can be spiritual, relational, or emotional. Maybe it's the contentment you've been chasing for years, or the joy of being part of something far greater than yourself.”2. God Promises to MultiplyIn John 6, a young boy offers his five loaves and two fish to Jesus—hardly enough to feed five thousand hungry people. Yet Christ multiplies that small gift until everyone is satisfied, with twelve baskets left over.“Many of us feel like that boy,” Art said. “We look at our meager resources and wonder, What difference can this make? But God is a God of multiplication. He can take whatever you give and expand it to accomplish His purposes. That's His promise—but it requires trust.”3. God Promises to EnrichWho doesn't love a good return on investment—or ROI? “God does too,” Art said.In 2 Corinthians 9:11, Paul writes, “You will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous.”“God gives so that we can give,” Art continued. “He blesses so that we can bless others. He's looking for conduits of generosity—people through whom His blessings can flow. When we live that way, generosity becomes not just a habit, but a way of life.”Trusting God With Your MoneyAs Dr. Rainer summed it up:“Generosity is an act of trust. It shifts our hearts from reliance on ourselves and money to reliance on God. If you're a Christian, you've already trusted Him with your soul. It's time to trust Him with your money.”When we give generously, we're not losing—we're investing in eternity. We're saying, “Lord, I believe You are my provider.” And that's one of the clearest ways to live out genuine faith.Learn more about Dr. Art Rainer's work at ChristianMoneySolutions.com.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 69 with no debt and considering a whole life insurance policy—$100,000 with premiums for 10 years—to leave tax-free money to my children. I already have a term policy that ends at 75. I also have $28,000 in an underperforming annuity with no surrender charge, and was advised to do a 1035 exchange into a new annuity at 4.65% for seven years. I've also invested in CDs at 4% and am considering high-yield savings accounts. What's the best strategy moving forward?My in-laws are around 80 and have fully matured savings bonds. When they used some for home upgrades, they faced a large tax bill. Is there any way to move or reinvest those bonds to delay or avoid taxes—perhaps into an IRA or Roth IRA?I manage finances for someone receiving annual settlement payments until 2036. He wants to create a trust now to support three families, but his lawyer recommends keeping the money in savings while he's alive. The payer says a trust can be set up after his death. Should he establish the trust now or wait?I'm debt-free and have my cash in a high-yield savings account, but rates are dropping. Should I invest some of it or find another way to protect and manage my money?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose by Dr. Art RainerThe Institute for Christian Financial HealthChristian Money SolutionsWise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD. Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU)GainbridgeWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.

Ecclesiastes 3:1Life isn't black and white—there's a lot of grey. There are times to compromise, and times to stand firm. Where we go wrong is when we compromise our theology to accommodate our lifestyle.

I'm using the 49 Week Bible Challenge for these podcasts. I encourage you to join me in this discipline. Today's readings are 2 Corinthians 5; 2 Chronicles 32; Ecclesiastes 1; Isaiah 27.If you're interested, here's the Greek word: συνέχει. Click here to see a brief explanation of the word.

A new MP3 sermon from Zion Presbyterian Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Oppression Drives Wise Men Insane Subtitle: Ecclesiastes Speaker: Romesh Prakashpalan Broadcaster: Zion Presbyterian Church Event: Prayer Meeting Date: 11/20/2025 Bible: Ecclesiastes 7:7-10 Length: 49 min.

The Search for Meaning collection reflects honestly on the world we encounter each day—often messy, disheartening, and marked by brokenness. But even here, God offers hope and guidance. Journey with Thomas Barr as he explores the rich lessons of Ecclesiastes 4-5.—With Passion City Online you can join us live every Sunday at 9:30a and 11:30a! Join us at https://passioncitychurch.com/dc—Give towards what God is doing through Passion City Church: https://passioncitychurch.com/dc/give—Subscribe to our Youtube channel to see more messages https://www.youtube.com/passioncitychurchdc—Follow along with Passion City Church DC: https://www.instagram.com/passioncitydc—Follow along with Pastor Ben Stuart: https://www.instagram.com/ben_stuart_—Passion City Church is a Jesus church with locations in Atlanta and Washington D.C. For more info on Passion, visit https://passioncitychurch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Markets rise and fall—but not all cycles tell the same story. What do those ups and downs really mean for your investments?Scripture reminds us in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Just as God designed natural cycles—the sun, the tides, the seasons—financial markets also move through cycles. While less predictable, these patterns help us understand where we are in the investing journey and how to prepare wisely for what's ahead.According to Mark Biller, Executive Editor at Sound Mind Investing (SMI), the two most common market cycles are known as bull markets (when prices rise) and bear markets (when prices fall). But within those categories lie two distinct types of trends: cyclical and secular.Cyclical vs. Secular: What's the Difference?“The terms might sound fancy,” says Biller, “but they really describe short-term versus long-term cycles.”Cyclical markets are the short-term ups and downs—periods that might last a few months to a few years.Secular markets are the broader, long-term trends that can span decades—often between 10 and 40 years.Think of it like waves on the ocean. Cyclical markets are the smaller waves that move in and out, while secular markets are the larger tides that shape the shoreline over time.Learning from History: Market ExamplesFrom 1968 to 1982, the S&P 500 was essentially flat—a 15-year stretch where inflation eroded nearly 60% of investors' purchasing power. That's what economists call a secular bear market—a long-term period of little to no progress.Yet within that broader season, there were multiple shorter-term bull and bear cycles. Investors who recognized those patterns could navigate the market with more perspective and less panic.The same was true from 2000 to 2009, another decade of overall stagnation in U.S. stocks. “But even then,” Biller notes, “we saw two cyclical bear markets with a five-year bull market sandwiched between them.”The takeaway? Even in long-term downturns, some shorter-term opportunities and recoveries keep markets moving forward over time.Why It Matters—Especially for Bond InvestorsUnderstanding these cycles isn't just an academic exercise. “It's actually more helpful when it comes to bonds than stocks,” Biller explains.That's because bond markets move in much longer secular cycles. From 1982 to 2021, the U.S. enjoyed a 40-year secular bull market in bonds as interest rates steadily declined from 15% to near zero. But since 2020, that trend has reversed. “Interest rates have been rising again,” Biller says, “and that's led to negative returns for many bond investors over the last five years.”This shift could signal the beginning of a secular bear market for bonds—a long period in which rising interest rates make it harder for bonds to perform well.Rethinking the Classic 60/40 PortfolioFor decades, the “60/40” portfolio—60% stocks and 40% bonds—was the gold standard for balanced investing. But in today's environment, that mix may need to evolve.“At Sound Mind Investing (SMI), we've reduced our bond allocation to around 30%,” Biller explains. “We haven't abandoned bonds altogether, but we're diversifying beyond them.”That diversification includes strategies like:Dynamic asset allocation—adjusting investments as market conditions shiftGold and commodities—as hedges against inflationReal estate and energy stocks—for long-term growth potentialAlternative assets like Bitcoin (in small doses), to add further varietyBuilding a Portfolio That Endures Every SeasonWhether markets are bullish or bearish, cyclical or secular, the goal remains the same: build a portfolio that's resilient and rooted in wisdom.Biller's encouragement for long-term investors is simple:“We're not advocating for dramatic changes, but rather thoughtful diversification. The goal is to build portfolios you can stick with through every kind of market season.”That perspective echoes a deeper truth for believers: our ultimate security isn't found in market trends but in God's unchanging character. Markets may rise and fall, but His promises endure forever.Faith, Patience, and PerspectiveUnderstanding both short- and long-term market cycles helps us invest with patience, discipline, and faith—trusting that God is sovereign over every season, financial or otherwise.As Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”In every bull and bear market, we're called to plan wisely, give generously, and trust deeply—knowing that the One who holds the future also holds us.For more practical investing insights and biblical wisdom, visit SoundMindInvesting.org.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm nearing retirement with no debt and some investment savings, but I don't have a pension. Would it make sense to use part of my investments to buy an annuity for guaranteed monthly income in addition to Social Security?I'm in my 70s, retired, and divorced, and much of my income goes toward alimony. How can I balance saving for emergencies while still giving more to the Lord's work, which I see as the greater reward?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Sound Mind Investing (SMI)Bulls and Bears, Cyclical and Secular (SMI Article by Mark Biller and Joseph Slife)SMI Dynamic Asset Allocation Model StrategyWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.

Taco Bell x Ecclesiastes 2:24-25Your daily crossover of faith and fandom! Experience daily Biblical encouragement from nerdy Christian podcasters, bloggers, and content creators. Join the Nerd of Godcast community at www.NOGSquad.com

Podcast Summary: Living a Meaningful Life — Insights from Ecclesiastes Today's episode wraps up our journey through the book of Ecclesiastes—a book that cuts through the noise and gets real about what actually matters. Ecclesiastes doesn't waste words. It points us straight to the heart of a meaningful, God-honoring life. 1. The Core Message: Fear God. Keep His Commands. Meaning starts with God, not us. He created us with intention, direction, and purpose. His commands aren't restrictions—they're a gift. They keep us aligned with the life He designed, not the cheap substitutes we often chase. Example: Just like a blueprint protects a builder from costly mistakes, God's commands keep us grounded and growing in the right direction. 2. Two Ways to Live: Human Wisdom vs. God's Wisdom Human wisdom feels right, until it doesn't. It promises fulfillment but ends in frustration. God's wisdom leads to life—strong, steady, and meaningful. When we trust His way, our perspective shifts: obedience becomes freedom, not burden. Thought: Where are you leaning on your own understanding instead of God's? 3. Accountability: Nothing Is Hidden Ecclesiastes reminds us that God sees every action—public and private. That's not meant to scare us but to anchor us. God's judgment is thorough, but His heart is merciful. He invites us to live with integrity, gratitude, and purpose. Anecdote: Think of the quiet decisions you make when no one is watching. Those moments form the real you—and God cares about every one. 4. The Bottom Line: Truth Worth Living The “whole duty” of humanity is simple: fear God and keep His commandments. It's not complicated, but it's powerful. Live this truth, and your life gains depth, direction, and eternal significance. Forward-Thinking Challenge: What's one command of God you need to lean into this week to realign your life with His purpose? Scriptures to Keep You Centered Proverbs 3:5–6 — Trust Him fully. Micah 6:8 — Do justice. Love mercy. Walk humbly.

Ecclesiastes 3 describes God's design for life as a series of divinely appointed seasons, where every event, from birth to death, has its proper time. This "eternal perspective" suggests that God orchestrates the cycles of life and that humans should find contentment and purpose in their appointed season, recognizing that "He has made everything beautiful in His time".Ultimately, the passage encourages patience and trust in God's timing, a belief that even life's toil is good and part of His eternal purpose. Key themes from Ecclesiastes 3Divine timing: The most famous verse, "To everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1), emphasizes that God has a specific and predetermined time for all events in life.Cycles of life: The passage lists many dualistic seasons, including "a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to weep, and a time to laugh". This illustrates that life is a series of cycles, not a straight line.Finding purpose in toil: Verse 12 suggests finding joy and eating and drinking as a gift from God, and verse 13 states that there is nothing better for people "than to rejoice, and to do good in their life". This means we should take pleasure in our work and labor, knowing that it is good because it comes from God.God's eternal purpose: The passage concludes by pointing to God's eternal purpose, stating that "whatever God does, it shall be for ever" (Ecclesiastes 3:14). This encourages a long-term perspective, trusting that God will ultimately bring all things to account and that His work is perfect and lasting. Applying Ecclesiastes 3 to lifeEmbrace the present moment: Since God is in control of time and seasons, we should find contentment in the season of life we are in. This means appreciating the moment, rather than anxiously rushing to the next.Seek divine guidance: Recognize that God's plan for your life is larger and more complex than we can understand. The passage encourages us to align our actions with His wisdom, rather than pushing or rushing Him, and trust that He will accomplish what He has planned.Find satisfaction in work: Consider your work to be a gift from God, a calling to serve Him where you are placed. This mindset can help you find joy in your daily toil, even during difficult times.Look for hope and peace: The passage offers a message of hope and peace, encouraging us to trust in God's perfect timing, even when things are difficult. It suggests that the ups and downs of life are all part of His larger plan and that He will bring beauty to all of it in His time. Please SUBSCRIBE!Check out an Online Course at www.EQUIPPEDACADEMY.COMBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/reason-for-truth--2774396/support.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25 Imagine a bundle of sticks, strong and unbreakable when tied together, yet easily snapped when separated. This is the essence of community in our spiritual journey. Just as the sticks depend on one another for strength, we too find our resilience and growth within the bonds of fellowship. The Bible reminds us in Hebrews 10:24-25 that we are called to motivate one another toward love and good deeds, emphasizing that together we can achieve greater heights. Let's consider the early church in Acts 2, where believers gathered in one accord, sharing everything they had. Their unity created an atmosphere of inspiration and support, allowing them to flourish. This story encourages us to seek out relationships where we can uplift one another, just as those early followers did. That's why "Community is the miracle where heavy loads grow lighter and long roads seem short because we walk them together." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." Let me paraphrase Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 again, "The best return on effort is earned in pairs. The profit is not just what you build, but who lifts you when you break..." That's why in a thriving community, your burdens are lighter, and joys are doubled, reflecting the beauty of sharing life with others. This is where mutual support and encouragement flourish, igniting our spirits and motivating us to pursue our passions. Helen Keller wisely said, "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." When we invest our hearts in community, we are not just building connections; we are creating a tapestry of support that enhances our spiritual growth. My grandma used to say, "I lend my shoulder, you lend your hope, and together we fulfill Christ's law with a yoke made easy by shared hearts." Galatians 6:2 says, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Prayer for the Day! Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of fellowship. May we cherish and nurture the bonds we share, lifting each other up in love and encouragement. Help us to cultivate a community rooted in Your grace, where we inspire one another to shine brightly for Your glory. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Every season of life carries memories—some that warm our hearts, and others that weigh heavily on our souls. As we move into the holiday months, today's prayer and devotional reminds us that many of us feel a deep mixture of joy and sorrow. Vivian Bricker reminds us that no matter what season we find ourselves in, God’s blessings are still present, even if they feel difficult to see. Scripture tells us that every good and perfect gift comes from the Father (James 1:17). Apart from God, we have no good thing (Psalm 16:2). And even in the hardest seasons, God is still at work—bringing life out of what feels dead (Ezekiel 37) and working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). Vivian vulnerably shares her own struggle to see God’s goodness in a difficult season. Perhaps you can relate. Sometimes life feels like Paddington Bear’s lament: “Why do bad things always happen to me?” And yet, the truth of Ecclesiastes 3:1 brings hope—this season will not last forever. Seasons change. Hardship has an end. God’s faithfulness does not. Even when blessings feel hidden, God’s presence remains constant. Psalm 23 reminds us that He is with us in every valley and on every mountaintop. And the greatest blessing of all—His unfailing love—cannot be taken from us (Romans 8:37–39). This Thanksgiving season, may we ask God for renewed vision to see His blessings, even in small ways, and to trust His steady love through every change. Today's Bible Reading:“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 Takeaway Truths God’s blessings surround us even when life feels heavy. Every season of life—good or painful—has a purpose and an appointed end. God’s presence and His love remain the greatest blessings we will ever receive. Let’s Pray Dear God, help me to see Your blessings in every season. Although this present season feels heavy, allow me to see You. Your blessings are always around me, and they fill me with much joy. Despite the difficult hardships and struggles I'm facing right now, I turn my focus to You. Shield my heart from negativity and help me to see Your blessings. I know they are always around me, just as Your presence always surrounds me. Walk with me as I enter this new season and help me to remember that You are eternally with me. There is time and a place for everything, and I praise You that You are the orchestrator behind them all. In Your Son’s Name, I pray, Amen. Related Scriptures James 1:17 Psalm 16:2 Romans 8:28 Psalm 23 Related Resources Planning Life in Light of Eternity (A Bible Study on Ecclesiastes 3:1-9) Understanding God’s Blessings in Hard Times – BibleStudyTools.com More audio devotionals at LifeAudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a rough season, we turn to Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 for comfort. Got Bible questions? You can still leave a voicemail at 305-290-1190! We may even put you in the show

It's one of the largest transfers of wealth in human history—trillions of dollars moving from one generation to the next. But this moment isn't just about inheritance. It's about passing on faith, values, and a vision for generosity.To explore how younger Christians are reimagining stewardship, we spoke with Christin Fejervary, Vice President for Brand and Experience at the National Christian Foundation (NCF)—a trusted partner helping believers give wisely and joyfully.From Obligation to Joyful GenerosityChristin's passion for generosity began early, though not in the way it's shaped her life today.“As a kid,” she shared, “giving was more of an obligation. I watched my parents tithe every week, and I learned discipline from that—but it wasn't until my 20s and 30s, and especially through working at NCF, that I saw how generosity changes us. It frees us from being tied to the things of this world.”That personal transformation has guided her work—helping others experience the joy that comes when giving is no longer a rule to follow but a relationship with God to live out.What's Driving the Next Generation to GiveWhen it comes to generosity, Millennials and Gen Z are rewriting the playbook.According to NCF's research, millennials—now roughly ages 29 to 44—view philanthropy as part of their identity. For Christian millennials, that identity is deeply spiritual: “My life is a way to give away.”Christin explains:“They believe all resources have equal value—not just money, but time, influence, and relationships. They don't just want to write a check. They want to be part of the change.”This shift from transactional to relational giving marks a profound change from previous generations.Reimagining Traditional ToolsYounger Christians aren't abandoning tools like donor-advised funds, estate plans, or investment portfolios—they're personalizing them.“They want to see impact,” Christin said. “They're asking, ‘How is my giving being used?' and ‘What difference is it making?'”They're also expanding how they define stewardship—using investment portfolios for charitable investing and seeking spiritual returns as much as financial ones.At NCF, this has led to growing interest in community-based giving. Across the country, younger givers are joining together to give collectively, blending faith, friendship, and impact.What Advisors Need to KnowFinancial advisors also play a key role in this transition. But Christin says serving the next generation requires a shift in mindset.“Younger Christians want to co-create their giving plans. They want a seat at the table and a voice in the process. It's not just about managing money—it's about helping them uncover all the ways God's entrusted them to give.”For advisors, that means focusing less on control and more on collaboration, connection, and calling.How Families Can Have Faith-Filled ConversationsGenerosity isn't just a financial transaction—it's a family story. Cristin encourages families to start there.“The data shows that both generations—young and old—see faith as a guiding principle,” she said. “The key is to unpack what faithfulness looks like for each generation. When families share stories of how God has provided and guided them, something powerful happens.”Listening to one another's experiences helps bridge differences and creates a shared vision for stewardship across generations.How NCF Is Helping the Next Generation Live GenerouslyAt the National Christian Foundation (NCF), this generational shift is sparking new ideas and tools for families and advisors alike.New Research & Resources: NCF has published a comprehensive Next Gen Generosity Report—designed to help both older and younger generations navigate these conversations.Experiences & Events: Through community gatherings and local partnerships, NCF helps families explore generosity together—often in creative, organic ways led by next-gen participants.Collaboration with Advisors and Churches: NCF connects givers to trusted partners who can guide them through every stage of stewardship—from first-time donors to business owners planning legacy gifts.You can explore these resources at FaithFi.com/NCF or NCFgiving.com/nextgenresearch.The Power of AgencyOne key insight from NCF's research is the role of agency in healthy stewardship.“We define agency as the ability to act on the free will God gives us,” Cristin explained. “The more we step into that responsibility—making decisions, taking ownership—the more confident and joyful we become.”That means even those who inherit wealth should be encouraged to find their “Gen 1” opportunities—ways to take initiative, make decisions, and live out their calling to give.The Influence of Women in GenerosityAnother striking finding: women—especially mothers—play a major role in shaping generosity.“Seventy-two percent of millennials we surveyed said their mothers were the biggest influence on their giving,” Cristin shared.Yet, the research also revealed that many women feel unheard in family wealth decisions. The next step, Cristin says, is ensuring their voices are part of the conversation.“This is the time to incorporate women's perspectives in giving and wealth transfer. Their influence is profound—and essential.”Passing Faith Along With FinancesAs this great wealth transfer unfolds, Cristin reminds us that what we pass on matters more than what we possess.“It's not just about money moving between generations,” she said. “It's about passing along faith, values, and purpose.”And that's a legacy that truly lasts. Learn more about how you can make generosity part of your family's story at FaithFi.com/NCF.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Our home is fully paid off, and we're nearing retirement. I've heard you discuss reverse mortgages, but I have always been hesitant. What are the real benefits and drawbacks, especially regarding the accumulated interest? Also, what kind of closing costs or fees should we expect, and which company do you recommend?I'm approaching my required minimum distribution and recently learned about qualified charitable distributions (QCDs). Can I withdraw the money first and then donate it, or must it go directly to the charity to qualify?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The National Christian Foundation (NCF)NCF Next Gen Generosity ReportWomen, Wealth, and Faith Research Study (Sign up to Participate) - Partnership with Women Doing Well and the Lake Institute on Faith & GivingWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.

When the holiday season ends, it's easy to shove everything back into bins and call it done. But what if this year you took a few extra minutes to put things away with purpose — and left yourself set up for peace, not overwhelm, when next season rolls around?   In this episode, I'm sharing five simple steps to help you declutter the leftover holiday chaos, reset your spaces, and start the new year with more peace, order, and intention. You'll learn how to: • Organize decorations, lights, and ornaments so they're easy to unpack next year • Sort and store cards, keepsakes, and photos without losing their meaning • Simplify your holiday storage systems so Christian home organization feels lighter, not overwhelming • Reset the spaces and routines that carried the weight of the holiday hustle • Reflect with purpose on what worked this season — and what needs to change heading into 2026 This conversation is all about creating space for a fresh start in your mind, in your heart — clearing the visual and mental clutter so your home, routines, and heart are aligned with what God is calling you into next. And I can't wait to hear what that may be. Praying for you this holiday season!

Today Dr. Mays talks about the importance of “Fearing” God. Foundation Scripture: Proverbs 1:7; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14How can Agape Leaders serve you?   Please find us at:         Website:  http://www.agapeleaders.org/    LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-mays/      Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/agapeleaders.org      Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/agapeleaders10/ Bible Break With Agape Leaders: http://www.agapeleaders.org/daily-devotionTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@greggmays            YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCmM7ETR652mLtDSKSjda-pwGet Your Copy of the A Word Wednesday Devotion: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=A+Word+Wednesday+Devotion&ref=nav_bb_sbRead Dr. Mays' book Practical Leadership: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=practical+leadership+lessons+from+an+average+leader&crid=259U5RNS5J5W5&sprefix=Practical+Leadership%2Caps%2C102&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_4_20 

It's always a pleasure to welcome back Dr. Shane Enete—Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University, founder of Biola's Financial Planning Program, and creator of The Money Storybook Bible Podcast. His creative work helps parents disciple their children in biblical stewardship by weaving financial lessons into retold Bible stories.When asked what inspired the podcast, Dr. Enete explained that the idea grew from a common question he receives: “How can I teach my kids about money?” His realization was simple yet profound—the Bible already does this. “The Bible talks about money more than almost any other topic, and it's filled with stories for all ages,” he said. “So I thought, what if I just told these stories to my kids in a way that helped them see themselves in the story and learn about money at the same time?”Stewardship as an Expression of LoveFor Dr. Enete, the goal goes far beyond teaching budgeting or saving. “Stewardship is one of the greatest opportunities we have to express our love for Jesus,” he said. “When we share, we're loving Him and others.”He hopes parents and children alike will see money not as a source of stress or status, but as an opportunity for love, wisdom, and worship. “I want kids to understand the dangers of debt and discontentment,” he added, “but even more, I want them to know that Jesus is everything—and that money can be used to love Him.”Storytime with a PurposeEach podcast episode features Dr. Enete reading to his own children, with interactive moments that bring the stories to life. “We start with fun icebreakers, like a ‘Would you rather' question, then read a Bible story together,” he explained. “Afterward, I ask questions to help them reflect, and we finish with a hands-on activity that reinforces the lesson.”One of Dr. Enete's favorite family moments came from a story about Solomon. “I asked my kids which world they'd rather live in—one where they're rich but don't know Jesus, or one where they have Jesus but not the riches. They didn't even hesitate—they chose Jesus. That's when I knew these lessons were hitting home.”The Story of Lydia: Business as MinistryOne memorable episode, Purple Snail Robes, retells the story of Lydia from Acts 16. In Dr. Enete's version, Lydia initially wants to give away her wealth to follow Paul, but he helps her see that her business can be a ministry in itself.“Sometimes God wants us to serve Him right where we are,” Paul tells her. “When you share what you have and do your work with skill and kindness, you're showing people who Jesus is.”Dr. Enete shared that Lydia's story was inspired by the idea of Gospel Patrons—those who use their resources to fuel God's work. “Lydia was one of the first gospel patrons,” he said. “I wanted kids to see that our work and business can glorify God. Plus,” he laughed, “the fact that purple dye came from smashed snails makes it extra fun for kids!”The Story of Nicodemus: Costly GenerosityAnother powerful episode, 75 Pounds of Spices, reimagines Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus as they prepare Jesus' body for burial—with a young girl named Abigail watching nearby. The story illustrates generosity that is both courageous and costly, as Joseph donates his tomb and Nicodemus buys an extravagant amount of burial spices.Even little Abigail joins in, offering her treasured blue necklace to honor Jesus. “That moment shows that no act of generosity is too small,” said Dr. Enete. “It's a picture of giving that flows from love—something children can grasp in a tangible way.”Free Resources for FamiliesTo help parents extend the lessons at home, Dr. Enete created a free activity book that pairs with the podcast. It includes fun exercises, badges, and a certificate of completion—each tied to key money principles like giving, saving, and contentment.You can find the podcast and resources at WholeHeartFinances.com.At the heart of The Money Storybook Bible Podcast is a simple but transformative message: Jesus is the true treasure. Teaching kids about money isn't just about dollars and cents—it's about helping them see that every financial decision can be an act of love for God and others.As Dr. Enete put it, “More than anything, I want kids to know that money isn't the goal—knowing and loving Jesus is.”On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've been diagnosed with a terminal illness and care for my four-year-old grandson. I have $100,000 in life insurance, $50,000 in retirement savings, and $20,000 in cash. How can I set up a trust and invest wisely to provide for him after I'm gone? Also, does the guardian I choose also control the trust, or must they be named separately as trustee or beneficiary?I've seen ads claiming thieves can steal your home's title unless you buy special insurance. Is that a real concern or just a scare tactic?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Money Storybook Bible PodcastWhole Heart FinancesWhole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy by Dr. Shane EneteWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.

In this message from Ecclesiastes 5:10-19, Pastor Dave tackles the myth that money and possessions can satisfy. He shows how even wealth brings stress, anxiety, and the pull of greed, and contrasts living “under the sun” with living “under the Son,” where everything we have belongs to God and is meant for eternal purposes. Learn how to trade guilt for gratitude, greed for generosity, and discover the freedom of stewarding your resources for God's kingdom. Be encouraged to rethink your relationship with money and pursue true contentment.

In this episode, I sit with my sister, Jenny Brown, to talk about a powerful biblical principle that affects every part of your life. If you want to reap, you have to plant. What you sow is what you will harvest, and Scripture shows that God works through very specific seasons and appointed times. We walk through Ecclesiastes 3 and the many scriptures that talk about time, what it means to sow intentionally, how to avoid careless seed, and how to trust God with the outcome. Jenny also shares practical stories and powerful lessons about obedience, prayer, timing, and the everyday seeds that shape our future. If you have been praying and waiting, or if you feel like you are in a season of drought, this message will help you see your moment in a new light. God has appointed times for travail, growth, and happiness. Your job is to plant with intention. God is the Lord of the Harvest. In this episode you will learn: • Why time in Scripture has multiple meanings and why that matters for your season • The spiritual principle of sowing and reaping • Why your words, actions, and attitude are seeds • Why careless seeds produce unwanted harvests • Why obedience in the moment matters • How to plant for the future you want • Why you cannot control the outcome • Why God controls the harvest and the timing Key Scriptures: Genesis 18.10Genesis 24.11Genesis 38.27Ecclesiastes 3Ephesians 6.7-8Luke 6.31-38Galatians 6.7Romans 12.1 If this message encourages you, make sure to subscribe so you can hear part two of this teaching next week. About your host: Jaime Luce' testimony has daunting personal mountains and treacherous financial valleys. She was trapped in day-to-day stress and couldn't see a way forward. But how she started is not how she finished! And she wants you to know God has a plan for your life too, no matter how tough it seems. Today, Jaime has been married to the love of her life for almost three decades, owns two companies, and has become an author and podcaster. God's way is always the blessed way! Free chapter of Jaime's new book: You Don't Need Money, You Just Need God: https://jaimeluce.com/book/ Connect: - Website: https://jaimeluce.com - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaime.luces.page - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaime_luce/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-luce-00395691/

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Tuesday morning, the 18th of November, 2025, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We go to the Gospel of John 6:27: “Do not labour (do not work) for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life,…” This is Jesus speaking. Then we go back to the Old Testament, to the Book of Ecclesiastes 1:14. They say it was written by Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived. He says it is “grasping for the wind” Are you grasping for the wind today? Are you on the wrong track? Are you spending all your time, all your effort, in building up things which will perish, maybe even before you die, and have no everlasting benefit to anyone or anything? We need to be like Jesus and get our priorities in order. Mark 8:36, the word of God says: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” I want to say to you today, be careful that you're not putting all your effort into something that has no eternal value. Yes, we have to put food on the table for our families, we have to be responsible citizens, but we have to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all these other things will be added to us.Today please, listen to what the Lord is saying to us. Stop chasing after the wind and start seeking Jesus Christ, and He will undertake for you in every area of your lives. Jesus bless you and goodbye.

Rev. James Harper preaches on Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 as part of our sermon series, "The Search: Questions of Meaning and Purpose."  Life feels increasingly uncertain, from economic instability to personal struggles, leaving us grappling with how little control we actually have. The book of Ecclesiastes addresses this human experience by revealing our finite nature through vivid imagery of unpredictable weather, falling trees, and the mystery of life itself. While human strategies often fail when our limitations collide with unexpected events, true certainty comes from understanding that God is actively involved in creation and our lives. His providence means He works through all circumstances for good, transforming how we navigate uncertainty. As society becomes more secular, the church offers unique hope to those wounded by worldly philosophies that ultimately fail to provide lasting meaning.

Ecclesiastes 7:25

Today we get to hear from Bobby Jamieson about the topic of futility in a fallen world. What ultimately matters in this life? What will truly satisfy us? What is the point of all this? Bobby walks us through how the book of Ecclesiastes speaks to life's big problems and points us to Jesus. We hope this episode encourages you to find your ultimate satisfaction in God himself.  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FULL SHOW NOTES⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ journeywomen.org/episode/contentment-fallen-world DISCUSSION QUESTIONS What worldly things are you looking to for satisfaction? What deeper idol does that expose? Thinking evangelistically, what are some open-ended questions you might ask others to get to the heart of what their values are and what they're striving for? In what ways can limits be a good thing?  What limits has the Lord placed over your life that press you deeper into your need for Him? What good gifts from God can you identify in your life today? What might you do or implement based on what you learned in this week's episode? FOR MORE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Give⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to Journeywomen Ministries: Journeywomen.org/give  Listen on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Android⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leave a rating & review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Interviews do not imply Journeywomen's endorsement of all writings and positions of the interviewee or any other resources mentioned.  On the Journeywomen podcast, we'll help you know and love God through his Word, find your hope in the gospel, and invest deeply in your local church as you go out on mission for the glory of God.

Today on the Back Porch, as we wrap Mountains & Valleys, Lisa, Allison & Dr. Howard linger on one last ridgeline: Solomon's story. We watch the golden king step off the path, small compromises becoming idols, until a fractured heart splinters a nation. We consider why sound theology must interpret culture and how Ecclesiastes summons us to fear God and keep His commands. Press pause on the Thanksgiving hustle, pour a warm coffee, and join us on the porch.

“He that cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby.” — Ecclesiastes 10:9 Oppressors may get their will of poor and needy men as easily as they can split logs of wood, but they had better mind, for it is a dangerous business, and a splinter from a tree has often killed the woodman. Jesus is persecuted […]

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode, we're joined by Hedi Schaefer. Hedi is a TEDx speaker, award-winning coach, and founder of The Impact Boutique, known for bridging inner transformation with Work-Life-Innovation. Creator of The 3 Cs of Change, she empowers leaders and visionaries to navigate uncertainty with courage, consciousness, and creativity - because true transformation begins when we become the change ourselves. Today we're resuming our series on How to End a Year Well. In this week's episode, we're discussing the topic: Endings Are Sacred Too. Heather shares about the word sacred and endings—and how sacred endings can be an act of worship. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley Hoskins for a conversation on ending the year well. In Day in the Bible, Heather reflects on Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, reminding us that there is a time and a season for everything. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social Media Haley's Instagram Hedi Schaefer  Website Join The Impact Boutique App What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Psalm 96, and Ecclesiastes 5: The LORD Cometh to Judge The Earth by Shawn Ozbun

Being a leader of Wisdom is one who loves God more than the World. If we have a better understanding of who God, His truth, and love Him above all then we will apply His truth into our lives.Bible Verses: Proverbs 1:20-29; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 2:6-15; Proverbs 3:13-18; Ecclesiastes 2:12-17----------------------------------------------------------------Top 20 list at Feedspot: ⁠⁠https://podcast.feedspot.com/christian_men_podcasts/⁠⁠E: warriorwithin.christianmanhood@gmail.com|TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pastorwarriorwithinMerch Store: https://wwcm-podcast.printify.me/productsPayPal DONATIONS: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=KC3DTP8HM7DAEYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WarriorWithinMinistriesStudios-----------------------------------------------------CODE: GRATITUDE25Affiliated with Talitha Coffee: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://talitha.com/pastordido⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----------------------------------------------------Track: Jim Yosef - Samurai [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds.Watch:Free Download / Stream:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://NCS.io/Samurai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

When Ron Blue joins us, it's always a masterclass in biblical wisdom. He's co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, a best-selling author, and a trusted mentor to many. Ron has spent decades helping believers apply God's principles to every area of life and business.Today, Ron unpacks what Scripture teaches about partnerships and how faith should shape the way we enter, manage, and exit them.The Broader Meaning of “Partnership”When the Apostle Paul warned believers about being “unequally yoked,” he wasn't speaking only about marriage. As Ron explains, “Paul was talking about partnerships—and there are so many kinds.”From professional firms and small businesses to investment ventures and partnerships, they can take many forms. And while they can be incredibly fruitful, they also carry spiritual and relational risks.Ron pointed out that partnerships often last a long time—sometimes decades. “The CPA firm I founded has been operating as a partnership for 50 years,” he said. “But not all partnerships endure well. Like marriage, many end in conflict.”Principle #1: Protect Your TestimonyRon's first principle is about spiritual integrity. “You have to ask what the partnership will do to your testimony,” he said. “If you're unequally yoked with someone whose values fundamentally differ from yours, you could lose your witness in the process.”He recalled being asked whether a Christian OB-GYN should enter a business partnership with a doctor who supports abortion. “Only you and God can answer that,” he said, “but it's a big question. Your witness is always at stake.”Principle #2: Plan Your Exit Before You Begin“Have your exit strategy in place before you form the partnership,” Ron advises.Just as couples prepare for challenges in marriage, business partners should anticipate potential separation. A clear exit plan protects both parties, ensures fairness, and helps maintain peace when the time comes to move on.“When you have that in place,” Ron said, “you avoid a lot of conflict and preserve your testimony if you're the believer who's leaving.”Principle #3: Preserve the Mission Beyond the RelationshipPerhaps the most powerful insight Ron shared was this: the mission must outlive the partnership.Ron recalled his own experience leading a financial planning firm. “After 23 years, I left—but no one left with me,” he said. “They were committed to the mission. That's what you want to see happen.”A strong exit strategy and shared vision help ensure that the work—and the witness—continue long after any individual departs.The Bottom LineShared faith isn't just good for business—it's essential for a lasting witness. Partnerships grounded in biblical principles reflect God's wisdom and preserve peace amid challenges.As Ron put it, “The most critical thing you want to preserve is your testimony. Everything else flows from that.”On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm concerned about vendors and service providers who want my bank account information for automatic withdrawals. I've been paying my lawn service with money orders, but now they require my account number. I told them we'd have to stop doing business because I'm not comfortable giving out that information. Isn't this kind of intrusive? What do you think about vendors wanting access to our accounts?My spouse and I are both 70 and ready to retire. I own 10 rental houses, but managing them has become too much. Once I sell the properties, what should I do with the proceeds? I understand the basics about capital gains and selling real estate, but I don't want the responsibility of managing individual stock investments myself.I've saved about $15,000 for a car, but have kept my current vehicle running as long as possible. It's a 2007 with 235,000 miles and is starting to have more issues. I found a good used car for about $8,500 and am wondering if I should buy it now or keep driving my current one until it dies, even though repairs may be on the horizon.My parents' health is declining, and we're moving them closer to family. Their current home is in an irrevocable trust, but we've found a condo they can buy before selling that house. Can the new condo be added to the same irrevocable trust? And when the old home sells, what happens to the proceeds?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.

Tommy Nelson walks through Ecclesiastes chapters 1 and 2 - the critiques of life. - - - - - - -KI Alumni! We would love to pray for you and any specific prayer requests that you have during our Alumni Day of Prayer on December 19th. Click here to submit your prayer requests.

Do you remember what a great night that November 5th, 2024 was? In a stunning move of unprecedented cooperation, groups that had never been together came together to usher Donald J. Trump into the White House in a literal landslide. Hopes were about as high as I can recall them ever being. Flash-forward to November 2025, and 100% of that election night good will is as distant a memory as Sunday morning pancakes on a Wednesday afternoon. MAGA is destroying itself, civil war is ripping it apart, what on Earth happened? We know, and we'll tell you today.“I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.” Ecclesiastes 9:11 (KJB)On this episode of the Prophecy News Podcast, one of the things I want to talk about today is TDS, or Trump Derangement Syndrome, but not from the perspective that the name might imply. Today we'll discuss Trump Derangement Syndrome from the perspective of people who are deranged for Trump, not against him, and how that derangement might apply even to Trump himself. Within the MAGA Movement, a sudden shift towards antisemitism has taken place, with the charge being led by people like Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, Nick Fuentes and a host of others. In addition to that, there are splits over white nationalism, Christian Nationalism, cultural elitism, hate speech, crypto corruption and a whole lot more. As much as they'd like to, Democrats can't take credit for nearly any of the MAGA meltdown as it seems to be a purely unforced error. Speaking of that, perhaps the number #1 thing working against Donald Trump right now is his own handling of the Epstein Files situation, something that grows worse and more bizarre by the day. All he'd have to do is release the files, something he's currently refusing to do, and no one seems to know why. On this episode, we show you the crumbling mess that is MAGA, and talk about what the short-term future for Trumpism, and 2028, just might look like.

"As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor." - Ecclesiastes 10:1 . . If you enjoyed the sermon, consider supporting us by subscribing to our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/freechristianchurch Visit Our Website: www.freechristian.church Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/freechristian.church? Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freecog/ . Please Subscribe for Sermons weekly! #FreeChristian #buildthebody #reachthelost #bibleteaching #gospel #church #worship #bible #Godloves #loveoneanother #churchfamily #loveoneanother

What Happens Next Pre-Trib Conference Follow us on Substack NBW Premier Membership Rapture Kits Radio Show Package The Great Last Days Apostasy NBW Ministries website Newsletter Signup NBW Ministries store Spirit of the False Prophet Audiobook YouTube Rumble Podbean Spirit of the False Prophet Spirit of the Antichrist Volume One Spirit of the Antichrist Volume Two Ecclesiastes, Christian Living, Solomon, Bible, Not By Works Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"The similarity between Freud and Kohelet [Ecclesiastes] is that both of them believe that there's no overarching totalistic system that  integrates all the disparate experiences that one has. You have that, Freud says, in psychotics, and you have that in philosophers, and you have that in devout people -  they look for systematicity. They try to cram everything into a framework of meaning. Both Freud and Kohelet reject that. They don't have a worldview in that way. However, in order to flourish, you do need a meaning-giving, affect-integrating and action-guiding set of considerations. You can't just be out there like a windowless monad floating around. There are some core beliefs and values that anchor a person, that give them footing. So there's a difference between a totalizing worldview and a workable framework that's open to critique."  Episode Description: We begin with a brief reading from On Transience and Ecclesiastes and consider how they both belong to 'Wisdom Literature' while separated by over 2000 years. Paul points out that while Freud works from a linear sense of time, Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) is drawn to the cycles of nature and human experience. He provides clinical examples that he feels are enriched by considering the teachings of Ecclesiastes which are very similar to the psychoanalytic way of thinking - "one must learn to live with what cannot be altered," the importance of the "downsizing of infantile narcissism," and  recognizing that "pleasure and joy are palpable, sensual and concrete experiences." We discuss the importance of an object-related life that includes forgiveness and gratitude as well as "embracing resignation without despair." We conclude with the deeply moving time poem "To every thing there is a season/ and a time to every purpose under heaven..."   Our Guest: Paul Marcus, PhD is a training and supervising analyst at the National Psychological Association for Psychoanalysis in New York and Co-chair of the discussion group Psychoanalysis and Spirituality in the American Psychoanalytic Association. He is the author/editor of 25 books including The Spiritual Resistance of Rabbi Leo Baeck: Psychoanalysis and Religion. He is the editor of Psychoanalytic Review.   Recommended Readings: Seow, C.L. 1997, Ecclesiastes: A New Translation. New Haven: Yale University Press   Fox, M. V., 2004, Ecclesiastes, Philadelphia: Jewish Publication Society   Heim, K.M., 2019, Ecclesiastes, Downers Grove: IVP Academic   

A study of Ecclesiastes 5:10–20; 6:1–2Subscribe to Grace on Youtube

This week Pastor Michael continues our "Marked" series teaching on walking in Wisdom in Relationships.  Romans 12:1-2, Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

11/16/2025 - Ecclesiastes 10:11-20 - Pursuit: The Undesired Guest by Pastor Dennis Fountain

Craig Coady | Christ Community CU

Sermon from Ecclesiastes 9:13-10:20

Ecclesiastes 12-The Long Game by Chaplain Braswell

As we come to end of the first half of the book, we are at the bottom, where the fog settles thickest. It feels insulting for Solomon to compare the inability of enjoying wealth with a stillborn child. But if we descend into the valley, we will see that Solomon is showing us there is actually something far worse in the godless search forsatisfaction. Listen to Pastor Brett's sermon on Ecclesiastes 6:1-9 for more.

Kingdom Culture- Week 3November 16, 2025Teacher: Pastor Dave BrownKingdom Culture: FormationThe goal of discipleship is not information transfer.  The goal of discipleship is to develop the type of relationship with Jesus that forms our character.Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?— Luke 9:23-25Whoever wants to save their life will lose it.I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure.  My heart took delight in all my labor; and this was the reward for all my toil.  Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.— Ecclesiastes 2:10-11The work God wants to do in us requires us to look within: to look deeper and be deeply formed.  Why? Because we are covertly and consistently being formed by a culture fashioned by shallowness.  In short, we are being shallowly formed.—Rich VillodasEnter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.— Matthew 7:13-14…but whoever loses their life for me will save it.The way of following Jesus requires a steadfast refusal to get caught up in the pace, power, and priorities of the world around us.  We are called to have our lives shaped by a different kind of power, pace, and priorities offered to us by God.— Rich VillodasThe 3 Steps to Breaking a Bad HabitTruthPracticeCommunityAlthough obeying rules does not lead to salvation, it can lead to formation. 3 Essential Practices for Re-formationSabbathExaminationServiceWhoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?— Luke 9:23-25 

We are in week 8 of our exploration of Ecclesiastes, as reverend Jackie Parks draws us through chapter 9:13-18 and confronts us with one of life's most uncomfortable truths: wisdom doesn't always lead to worldly success. Jackie draws us in to encounter the story of a poor, wise man who saves an entire city from a powerful king, only to be forgotten and despised. It's the ultimate letdown for our success-driven hearts. We want the underdog story to end with fame, influence, and lasting recognition. Instead, we're left wrestling with the absurdity of a hero whose wisdom worked but whose name vanished into obscurity. This passage strips away our transactional view of God—the idea that if we follow His ways, we'll be rewarded with prosperity, recognition, and measurable success. It challenges us to ask: Are we pursuing wisdom because it 'works' in getting us what we want, or because it's the way God created us to flourish? The message points us toward Christ, the ultimate embodiment of wisdom who was despised and rejected, yet through whom true victory came. We're invited to embrace a radical reorientation: wisdom isn't about future success but present faithfulness. It's not about fame but fruit. Living wisely means becoming more fully human in Christ, cultivating joy and faithfulness regardless of circumstances, and trusting that God's ways are worth following even when the world around us seems to reward foolishness.

Ecclesiastes 4:1-16

Ecclesiastes 11:1-12:8

In a world marked by injustice, violence and overwhelming need, how can Christians bring lasting hope — without burning out? Gary Haugen, founder and CEO of International Justice Mission, shares powerful lessons from decades confronting global injustice — on staying spiritually grounded, finding joy amid darkness and cultivating resilience that endures.  In this theologically rich conversation with NAE President Walter Kim, Gary reflects on how a biblical vision of justice — rooted in love and expressed through both personal compassion and systemic reform — has shaped his life and IJM's mission. In their conversation, you'll hear:How a life-changing investigation after the Rwandan genocide led Gary to found International Justice Mission; The role of the Church to call rulers to protect the vulnerable; Practical ways believers can join God's work of justice both locally and globally; and What gives Gary enduring hope for the future of the Church — and the work of justice.Subscribe today wherever you listen to podcasts.Do you like the podcast?Give us a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and leave us a review. This is the best way for others to discover these conversations. If you listen on Spotify, give us a follow and hit the notification bell to be sure you never miss an episode. And don't forget to pass your favorite episodes along to colleagues, friends and family.ResourcesFull conversation with Gary Haugen on YouTube

“The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook.” (1 Kings 17:6 NLT) When the Bible says that ravens brought Elijah food each morning and evening, it doesn’t mean that they took his order, flew through the local fast-food restaurant, and then delivered his meal. Ravens are scavengers. They brought little bits of meat and bread to Elijah. What’s more, the water in the brook from which he drank would have been somewhat polluted. So, Elijah didn’t enjoy an idyllic situation by any stretch of the imagination. How easily Elijah could have said, “Well, Lord, I don’t really want to be in this crummy little place, drinking river water. I kind of like being in front of people. I like the limelight.” But the Lord was preparing Elijah for something beyond his wildest dreams. Not long after his sojourn by the brook, Elijah found himself standing on Mount Carmel, engaged in a great showdown with the false prophets of Baal (see 1 Kings 18:20–40). Sometimes we don’t like where God has put us. We say, “Lord, I don’t like this situation. I don’t like where I am. I want to do something great for You. I want to make a difference in my world.” Maybe the Lord wants you to be effective right where you are. Maybe He wants you to take advantage of the opportunities in front of you and be faithful in the little things. Who knows what God has in store for you? One theme that works its way through Scripture is that God’s people are blessed when they trust in His timing and plan. The author of Proverbs advised, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take” (Proverbs 3:5–6 NLT). God Himself said, “Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:28–31 NLT). The apostle Paul offered this reminder: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28 NLT). And the author of Ecclesiastes wrote, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NLT). If God has you by some muddy little brook, so to speak, just hang in there. Make the most of the season you’re in. Be faithful, do what He has already told you, and wait on Him and His timing. God will do something wonderful for you or with you. Just be available and open to do what He would have you do. Reflection question: How can you thrive in the place you are right now? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's one of the most valuable things we have—and one of the easiest to waste. We've all heard the saying, “Time is money.” But if that's true, why do we spend it so carelessly? The truth is, time is worth far more than dollars and cents—it's the most limited resource God has given us. Learning to steward it well isn't just good productivity advice—it's an act of worship.If you've ever said, “I just need a little more time,” you're not alone. Many of us feel the pressure of time slipping through our fingers. Ironically, we often spend our days chasing money, status, or success—only to run out of the very thing we were trying to “buy back.”We treat time like a renewable resource when it's really more like a savings account that's constantly being drawn down. Every hour that passes is one you'll never get back. Yet our culture tempts us to equate our worth with how much we earn or produce.A Biblical View of TimeScripture offers a radically different view. In Psalm 90:12, Moses prays, “Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” He's not talking about counting hours on a clock but realizing that our time is limited—and therefore deeply valuable.From a biblical perspective, time isn't ours to manage however we wish. It's a gift from God, entrusted to us for His purposes. Just as money and talents belong to Him, so does our time.In Ephesians 5:15–16, Paul writes, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” The original Greek phrase for “making the best use” literally means “redeeming the time”—buying it back for God's glory. It's the same word Paul uses elsewhere to describe what Jesus did for us on the cross.Christ redeemed us from sin and emptiness, giving our lives eternal meaning. In the same way, we're called to redeem our time—to invest every moment, conversation, and decision in what will last forever.Here's the catch: if you don't decide what your time is worth, someone else will. Your job, your phone, your inbox, even social media—all have plans for your time. Unless you set boundaries, your days will fill up with things that seem urgent but aren't truly important.Jesus modeled something completely different. Even with the most important mission in history, He took time to rest, pray, eat with friends, and be fully present with people. He had the margin to be interrupted—to stop for the sick, listen to the hurting, and teach those who were searching. He never rushed, yet He always fulfilled the Father's will.How to Steward Your Time WellSo how can we live as if our time truly belongs to God?1. Reevaluate Your PrioritiesEvery decision is a trade. When you say yes to one thing, you say no to something else. Ask yourself, “What matters most in God's eyes—and am I giving that my best time?”2. Measure Time by Meaning, Not MoneyOur culture values time by dollars per hour, but God's economy works differently. A quiet afternoon encouraging a friend may not pay in cash—but it yields eternal dividends. As Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”3. Build Margin into Your LifeJust as financial margin creates freedom to give, time margin allows you to live generously. When you're not overscheduled, you can pause to listen, serve, or rest. Sabbath isn't wasted time—it's holy time that reminds us that God is in control.4. Steward Small MomentsEternal impact isn't found only in big events. It's in the five minutes you pray for someone, the ten minutes you spend in Scripture, or the conversation that points someone to Jesus. As Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.”Making Your Hours Count for EternityWhen you see your time through an eternal lens, every moment takes on new meaning. You stop chasing the clock and start cherishing what truly matters. Missionary C.T. Studd once wrote, “Only one life, 'twill soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last.”So what's your time really worth? It's worth exactly what you invest in eternity.Don't just count your hours—make your hours count. Live intentionally. Rest purposefully. Serve generously. And let every day remind you of the One who holds all time in His hands.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have two kids—a 14-year-old and a newborn—and just opened brokerage accounts for them. What are the best investment options, especially for my newborn with a longer time horizon? I'd like something more flexible than a college savings plan.I retired at 59 and receive Social Security disability. My home is paid off, I have no debt, and I have savings in retirement and trading accounts. I'm thinking about buying a new car with cash to avoid debt, but would it be wiser to finance or lease instead?I recently bought an RV with dealership financing at 7.9% for 20 years, though I don't plan to keep it that long. Does simple interest work the same across all banks, and is there a good calculator for figuring out principal payments on early payoff? Also, where could I refinance to get a lower rate?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Calculator.net | Credit Karma (Simple Loan Calculator) | Calculator SoupList of Faith-Based Investment FundsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.