Podcasts about embracing god

Join us for Day1 Episode #4238 with Rev. Dr. Casey Sigmon, Associate Professor of Preaching and Worship at Saint Paul School of Theology. Her sermon, “Why Did Sarah Laugh? Embracing God's Holy Absurdity,” is based on Genesis 18:1-15 and 21:1-7. On the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost, Year A, Sigmon reflects on Sarah's laughter, God's unexpected promises, and the holy possibility that stories we thought were settled may not be settled after all.

What happens when every solution the world offers still leaves you empty? In this powerful episode, Kyla Gillespie shares her journey through gender confusion, transition, addiction, and ultimately life-changing restoration in Christ. Hear how God pursued her through deep brokenness and called her back to Himself with truth, grace, and love. This conversation offers hope for anyone wrestling with identity, purpose, or faith. Discover how Jesus transforms lives in ways no human solution ever can. About the GuestKyla Gillespie is an international speaker, author, ministry leader, and founder of Renewed & Transformed Ministries. After spending years wrestling with gender dysphoria, same-sex attraction, addiction, and eventually transitioning and detransitioning, Kyla now shares her testimony of God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ. Her passion is helping the Church engage conversations about identity, sexuality, and discipleship with both truth and grace. Reasons to ListenPowerful Redemption Story Hear firsthand how God pursued Kyla through addiction, gender transition, and deep personal brokenness, demonstrating that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. Practical Ministry Insights Learn how biblical friendships, authentic community, and discipleship can transform lives and help people navigate difficult identity struggles. Hope for Today's Culture Gain biblical wisdom and encouragement for addressing some of the most important conversations facing families, churches, and believers today. Big TakeawaysGod Calls Us Home No matter how far we wander, God lovingly pursues His children and invites them back into relationship with Him. Identity Begins with Christ Lasting peace is not found in self-definition but in discovering who God says we are. Community Matters Deeply Authentic Christian friendships provide a safe place for truth, grace, healing, and spiritual growth. Transformation Takes Time God often works through a process of discipleship, Scripture, prayer, and faithful relationships rather than instant change. No One Is Beyond Hope God's power to restore and redeem is greater than any struggle, addiction, shame, or confusion we face. Missional ChallengesBuild One Meaningful Friendship Intentionally spend time with someone who is different from you this week and listen to their story without judgment. Practice Honest Vulnerability Share one area of struggle with a trusted believer and invite them to pray and walk alongside you. Become Better Equipped Read a book or resource on biblical identity and sexuality so you can engage these conversations with both truth and compassion. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Kyla Gillespie 01:00 – Why Kyla Wrote TransFormed 04:00 – Childhood Experiences and Gender Confusion 08:00 – Same-Sex Attraction and Teenage Struggles 13:00 – Family Divorce and Emotional Pain 17:00 – Alcoholism and Walking Away from Faith 20:00 – Pursuing Gender Transition 27:00 – Meeting Faithful Christian Friends 33:00 – The Power of Community and Discipleship 38:00 – Surgery, Emptiness, and Crying Out to God 40:00 – "Return to Me, Kyla" 44:00 – Embracing God's Design 47:00 – Encouragement for Those Wrestling with Identity 52:00 – Advice for Parents, Pastors, and Leaders 55:00 – Kyla's Book and Ministry Resources 56:00 – Fun Questions and Closing ThoughtsGuest Website & Social MediaWebsite: Kyla Gillespie MinistriesBuy: 'Transformed' book on Amazon!#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #KylaGillespie #IdentityInChrist #GenderIdentity #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndFreedom #JesusChangesLives #BiblicalTruth #RedemptionStory

Celebrating 150 YearsMeditation: “Remember”Rev. Gary Watkins, Former Associate PastorRemembrance videoRev. George Munzing's Prayer for Trinity's future.Meditation: “Embracing God's Future”Rev. Dr. Doug Rumford, Former Lead Pastor#TUPCSA #TrinityTrinity United Presbyterian Church

A life can change in a single moment and sometimes it's the moment you never planned to survive. Apostle Clarence Langston joins me to share his raw, unforgettable journey from childhood trauma and the murder of his birth mother to anger, street life in Detroit, homelessness, and a suicide attempt that became a turning point instead of an ending.We talk about the reality of hearing a crushing internal “voice,” what despair feels like when you think nobody sees you, and how faith met him in the middle of it. Clarence also opens up about spiritual formation, being mentored early on, getting mislabeled in school, and the complicated road of finding church, getting hurt in church, and still choosing God. His stories around prayer, fasting, deliverance, and healing in layers are both intense and deeply practical for anyone seeking Christian healing, emotional freedom, and a way forward after trauma.Then we dig into his new book, Embracing God's Power in Our Weakness. We unpack humility, identity, and his powerful reframe: trading weakness for meekness so God has room to move. If you've wrestled with imposter syndrome, bitterness, revenge fantasies, or the fear that your past disqualifies you, this conversation brings hope with substance.Listen, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review if the message hits home. What part of Clarence's story mirrors something you're still trying to heal? Website: https://clarencelangston.com/ Book: https://embracinggodbook.com/Support the showElsa's AMAZON STORE Elsa's FAITH & FREEDOM MERCH STOREElsa's BOOKSElsa Kurt: You may know her for her uncanny, viral Kamala Harris impressions & conservative comedy skits, but she's also a lifelong Patriot & longtime Police Wife. She has channeled her fierce love and passion for God, family, country, and those who serve as the creator, Executive Producer & Host of the Elsa Kurt Show with Clay Novak. Her show discusses today's topics & news from a middle class/blue collar family & conservative perspective. The vocal LEOW's career began as a multi-genre author who has penned over 25 books, including twelve contemporary women's novels. Clay Novak: Clay Novak was commissioned in 1995 as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry and served as an officer for twenty four years in Mechanized Infantry, Airborne Infantry, and Cavalry units .  He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2019. Clay is a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger School and is a Master Rated Parachutist, serving for more tha...

As we enter Pride Month, conversations around identity, gender, and family dynamics are more prevalent than ever. This week, we sit down with Walt Heyer for a deeply personal and candid conversation that serves as a valuable tool for families navigating these complex topics. Walt shares his firsthand journey through gender dysphoria and cross-dressing, shedding light on how early childhood trauma can profoundly impact identity development. Together, we explore the historical context of gender treatments, the critical role of therapeutic support, and the long-term consequences of hormonal interventions. Walt emphasizes why active parental involvement is crucial and advocates for a deeper understanding of the root causes behind gender dysphoria. Rooted in a message of faith, healing, and redemption, this episode encourages families to foster open, honest conversations at home. Listener Note: This episode contains mature themes and discussions surrounding trauma and medical interventions that may not be suitable for children. Parental discretion is advised.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Early Roots of Identity Struggles: Walt’s experience with cross-dressing began at a young age, highlighting how early these complex issues can manifest in a child’s life. Psychological Impact: Cross-dressing and related behaviors can lead to significant and lasting psychological harm. Historical Context: There is an established historical precedent for gender dysphoria treatments that helps frame modern approaches. Risks of Medical Intervention: Hormonal treatments can carry severe, long-term physical and psychological consequences. The Vital Role of Parents: Active, intentional parental involvement is absolutely crucial when addressing a child’s internal struggles. Vetting Professional Help: Parents must carefully vet therapists and counselors to ensure they are truly helping uncover the truth rather than just affirming a symptom. Addressing the Source: It is essential to understand and address the underlying root causes—such as childhood trauma—rather than just treating the surface-level identity issues. The Power of Faith: Faith and spiritual redemption can play a deeply transformative role in an individual’s recovery and healing journey. A Legacy of Support: Through his website and personal counseling, Walt has successfully helped thousands of individuals and families navigate these struggles. A Call to the Church: The church has a distinct responsibility to actively support, equip, and walk alongside families facing these modern challenges.   RESOURCES MENTIONED: Find out more about Walt Heyer Books by Walt Heyer TTD365 Membership– Were you not able to join us at TTD this year? Don’t miss out on the encouragement. Listen to all sessions through our membership!    ABOUT THE GUEST:  Walt Heyer's male identity was fractured at an early age when his grandmother cross-dressed him in secret and affirmed how cute he looked as a girl. That led to other abuse, physical and sexual. In adulthood, Walt internally identified as a girl, continued to cross-dress, and drank to excess. Even so, Walt married, had children, and successfully climbed the corporate ladder until his ongoing distress caused him to seek a gender therapist who told him cross-sex hormones and “gender reassignment surgery” were the answer.   At age 42, Walt had the terribly destructive surgery and for the next 8 years, identified as a woman. But through a dramatic encounter with Jesus, Walt found redemption and healing. Walt has dedicated the last 20 years of his life helping thousands of people who identified as transgender and boldly sharing God's truth with compassion.   Walt serves as Senior Fellow at Family Research Council in Washington DC and recently published his eighth book, co-authored with Jennifer Bauwens, Ph.D., called Embracing God's Design—Addressing the Spiritual and Psychological Crisis Behind Transgender Identity.     PODCAST SPONSOR: What makes children great artists? They're born to create! From mud kitchens to blanket forts, paper airplanes, and more, kids love being creative! Art empowers your child to dream, to wonder, to pick up the paintbrush of their imagination. They want to discover, explore, and bring ideas to life on the palette or page. Creating a Masterpiece offers award-winning online step-by-step fine art lessons trusted by parents and recommended by Celebrate Kids, Simply Charlotte Mason, Teach Them Diligently, Ginger Hubbard, and many more.   Give your child the gift of art by visiting creatingamasterpiece.com.

What happens when life is filled with so much goodness that you can no longer keep up with it?After an intentional break from the podcast, Athena and Mims return to share the real reason behind their pause. Between milestones, caregiving, work, celebrations, leadership, and everyday responsibilities, they realized something important: sometimes our bodies arrive before our spirits do.In this honest conversation, they explore the fears that keep us from slowing down, why rest often feels harder than work, and how creating space for reflection can help us show up more fully for the people and moments that matter most.Whether you're navigating a busy season, feeling stretched too thin, or struggling to give yourself permission to rest, this episode is a reminder that pausing is not quitting—it's preparation.In This Episode:✨ Why taking a pause can feel uncomfortable—even when it's needed ✨ The fear of disappointing others when you choose rest ✨ Decision fatigue, overwhelm, and recognizing your limits ✨ The difference between earned rest and intentional rest ✨ Building a sustainable rhythm instead of constantly pushing through ✨ Lessons from leadership, legacy, and creating space for reflectionTorn Thought:In the middle of moving, producing, caregiving, solving, leading, and responding to everyone else's needs, we can forget to check whether our spirit has arrived where our body already is. Sometimes we need to pause long enough to catch up.What's Mending Us:

Introduction: Authority & Submission: God's Plan for Order. (1 Corinthians 11:2-16) God's Plan For Order Must Be UNDERSTOOD. (1 Cor 11:2-3) God's Plan for Order Must Be APPLIED. (1 Cor 11:4-6) God's Plan for Order Started at CREATION. (1 Cor 11:7-10) God's Plan for Order Brings BALANCE. (1 Cor 11:11-12) DECISION TIME: Are You On Board with God's Plan for Order? (1 Cor 11:13-16) Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Questions and Answers: What About Gender Roles in the Church? Jeff Miller Download Audio Transcript 00:36Open up those Bibles to the book of 1 Corinthians 11.00:42And as you do so, just please take a moment to pray for me to faithfully and clearly communicate the Word of God.00:53And I will pray for you to have a heart that is open to receive what God said.00:59Alright? Let's pray.01:05Father, we once again just ask for Your Spirit to be at work with Your Word in a supernatural way that we can't fully describe, but it always brings about life change when Your Spirit works that way. Father, I pray that You would help us to eliminate any distractions and to just take this time to laser focus on your word and what you've communicated to us here, Father.01:43We pray in Jesus' name and all of God's people said, amen.01:50Amen.01:51Amen.01:53When I was in college, I worked at Walmart.01:56This was in Ohio.01:58And one of my jobs at Walmart was when a customer bought something heavy, like a trampoline or an anvil or whatever Walmart sells, it was my job to get it in their car.02:13And I remember this one lady in particular, I was putting something heavy in her car, and she said, Are you married?02:24She wasn't proposing to me, by the way.02:26She was much, much, much older. And I was much, much, much younger. She goes, you married? And at the time, I was not. I said, no. She said, if you were, would you let your wife wear pants? And I got to tell you, I was young and a brand new Christian. And I was like, as opposed to what?02:59I just wasn't sure that I had a say in that matter. Is my wife going to wear pants? I'm like, that's a thing? I didn't know that was a thing. Well, it's a thing. It is a thing. In Corinth, it is a thing even more than ever today.03:26talking about, and I later discovered what she was talking about, gender roles, attire, what is appropriate, what is a woman? God created them male and female. We're going to talk about gender roles today.03:56And in this section, it's kind of a Q&A section. And here, next question up, we're going to see is what about gender roles? We're going to give you a little background here so you understand why Paul was writing what he wrote. But the church in Corinth, they had a lot of problems. And one of the problems they had was they had issues with feminism.04:28Now listen close because this, you have to understand this to understand why Paul is saying the things that he did here. But in that culture, in the Corinthian culture, married women would wear a veil or a head covering as a sign of modesty and submission to their husbands.04:56When a woman wore a veil, it was her way of saying, I'm taken. I'm not interested. I'm not available. You know, sort of like in our culture, we wear the wedding ring. That's your way of saying, look, I have been claimed. I'm not looking for someone else. All right? Some cultures today still use head coverings or veils in a similar custom. It was a sign of modesty and submission.05:26Well, some of the Corinthian women, in the name of liberty, would protest the traditional male and female roles. And they would make a statement that they're liberated women. They'd make the statement by throwing away their head coverings. And some would even take it a step further than that. And say, I'll show you how liberated I am. They would shave their heads.05:57and protest.06:02Now in past time and going through 1 Corinthians, we talked a lot about the prostitution in Corinth.06:10And let's just say prostitutes didn't wear veils.06:15Because prostitutes were going around saying, I'm available.06:21And you see some of the liberated Corinthian women were like, throwing their veils away too. Women rejecting their roles. Men abdicating their roles. It's an issue as old as the human race. Like, well, what about today? Well, obviously veils really aren't a thing in the American culture.06:58I'm not great at mincing words here, okay? But let's just be honest. In our culture, there are clear signs of masculinity and femininity, right? There are clear signs of that, right? Don't you dare leave me up here. There are clear signs in our culture of masculinity and femininity, right? I don't judge.07:24Okay, so if you come across a woman who has a purple crew cut, a skull tattoo on her face, and she's wearing combat boots, would you immediately think to yourself, that's very feminine? Would you? Would you? Okay. Or what if you came across a man, who was wearing mascara, and he had his fingernails painted pink, and he's wearing a pink mesh half tank top. Would you say, that's masculine? Would you? No. There's obvious signs of what's feminine and what's masculine. You're like, so this passage today is about clothes. Yeah.08:26And more than that, it's about men being men and women being women living the roles as God designed them to be lived out. And these roles for men and for women must be reflected in attitude, they must be reflected in conduct, and they even must be reflected in appearance.08:53This passage is about the fundamental way that God is at work in everything in the universe. It's a divine order that Satan would want to disrupt. Here's the real issue on the table in this passage. It's the issue of authority and submission. Now, as soon as you say the dirty S word in church, people get their guards up. Like, submission. Submission.09:23People get their guards up. There's already this like animosity. Submission. Really? This is the sermon you went with on Mother's Day? Submission? I do the preaching calendar in July. I did not see this coming until about like two weeks ago. And then I was like, oh dear. Here's the problem though with submission. You know what the problem is with submission?09:53Submission is people don't understand it.09:57I want to give you a couple biblical truths about submission to help us set up this passage.10:03It's an acronym, SOFT.10:08Listen, ladies, it's okay to be soft.10:11That's how God designed you, soft.10:14So what is submission?10:15S. S is for strength.10:18Listen, you know why people don't like to hear submission?10:21Because they think submission is weakness.10:23Submission is strength. I'll prove it very easily. Who was the most submissive person to ever walk the planet? Do you know? Jesus Christ. Jesus did not do one thing that wasn't in complete submission to his Father's authority. Jesus never had a day where he's like, well, the Father wants me to do this, but I don't feel like doing that. He never had a day like that. Jesus was He was completely submissive to the Father's will every second of His life, and He loved it. Okay, another question. Who was the strongest person to ever walk the planet? Jesus. The most submissive person ever somehow is also the strongest person ever. So is submission weakness? Submission is strength.11:24O.11:25Soft.11:26O.11:27O is for order.11:29Listen, when we talk about submission and authority, it's just the way God made everything to function.11:35It's just the way.11:36Everything that we see, everything that's unseen.11:38Submission, authority.11:40Authority, submission.11:41That's the way God structured the universe.11:44It's in the spiritual realm.11:48All right, we'll talk about that in a few minutes.11:51It's all over the earth.11:53The government, your workplace, the church, the home, authority and submission in every arena of life. It's everywhere. Authority and submission. The focus here in this passage has to do with men and women. Men and women are equal, but we're different. That's okay.12:23some roles for men and some roles for women. It has nothing to do with superiority or inferiority. It has nothing to do with that. It's your workplace. You are under your boss's authority, but that doesn't mean he's better than you or she is smarter than you. It's just about the structure that's been established. It's about order. It's about order. Somebody has to make decisions.12:52decisions out. It's just the way it works. Everywhere. All right? S, O, F and T go together. Faith and trust. Faith and trust. Do you have faith? Do you have faith? Well, one of the key ways faith is expressed is by submitting the authorities that God has placed over you. So long as the authority is not asking you to sin.13:22We express our faith by submitting to the authorities God has over us at our workplace, in the church, in the home. Faith says, God, I trust you by submitting to the authority that you placed over me. That's an act of faith. And it takes an incredibly strong person to be able to trust God to that degree. So here's the principle for this passage. Please really tune in here.13:52because this is the principle of this passage. And I was very careful I worded this. I'm going to read this to you twice, okay? But here's the principle of this passage. Christians should, in the name of laying down their rights, as Brian talked about last week, Christians should conform to their gender-specific patterns of dress and appearance that their culture identifies with being male, and female because God wants these roles embraced because authority and submission in these roles is God's plan for order. Let's say that again. This is the short version. If you want the long version, stick around. Christians should conform to their gender-specific patterns of dress and appearance that their their culture identifies with being male and female. Like, why? Because God wants us to embrace those roles. Why? Because authority and submission in these roles is God's plan for order. All right? That's the short version. Now, let's take a look at the text and see what exactly God said on your outline. Authority and submission, God's plan for order. That's what this is. This is God's plan for order.15:22This is the way God orchestrated everything. Authority and submission, God's plan for order. Number one, write this down. God's plan for order must be understood. It must be understood. Look at verse 2. Paul says, Now I commend you, because you remember me in everything, and maintain the traditions, even as I delivered them to you.15:52Paul is front-loading a very hard topic with praise. Paul says, you seek my counsel on everything. I appreciate that so much about you. You hold the traditions. Literally, that word is translated doctrine in other places in Scripture. Paul's like, you're people that care about the truth and harvest. Let me commend you. Listen, I know that this is a controversial topic. I get that.16:22And I know that this is an extremely unpopular topic. But you know what else I know about this church? That you come here because you want to know what God said. You come to this church because you believe that we want nothing more than to represent the Bible in our sermons, right? Check the record. That's all any of us have ever tried to do is just reflect God's truth. And I commend you for that.16:51Even when it's hard. Look at verse 3. Verse 3 is the thesis of the whole thing. Paul says, but I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ. The head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God. You see, here's the thesis. Authority and submission is God's design.17:22He says the head of man, the head of every man, is who? Christ. You're like, Jesus isn't the head of every man. Wait 15 minutes. Every knee will bow, okay? But the head of every man is Jesus Christ. Man, we better get on board with that sooner than later. Okay, the head of the wife is what?17:56You are so much more reluctant to say this one, aren't you? The head of the wife is the husband, right? And the head of Jesus is God. You see, Paul's just giving the thesis here. There are roles that have been established. And I love how he puts the hard one sandwiched between two very obvious ones. Do you see that?18:25It's obvious, right? The head of man is Christ, obviously. And the head of Jesus is God, right? Jesus completely submissive to the Father in all things, right? John 14, 28. Jesus regarded the Father greater than Him. And He says the head of every wife is the husband.18:51that men are called to have authority. There's the problem. Another problem that we have with submission. Because we don't get what authority means either. People get this idea that authority means man sits on the throne and chop, serve me, everything for me, my way, my preferences. That's not what authority means at all. Do you know what authority means. Biblically, authority is I have to make decisions that are going to bless and protect the people that God is entrusting to me. That is true in my home. I have to make decisions to bless and protect my family. That is true in the church. I have to make decisions in this church, and our elders have to make decisions in this church that's going to bless and protect the congregation, the people who come to this church, the members, the sheep of this fold.19:52That's what authority is.19:57And you see, Paul lays out this thesis.19:59You can't deny any of these things.20:03If you look very close, in every case, it's about trusting God by submitting, right?20:10How does man trust God?20:12Well, man trusts God by submitting to Christ.20:15I want to jump to the last one.20:17How did Jesus trust his Father?20:21He trusted His Father by submitting to Him. So how does the wife trust God? Right there in the middle, by submitting to her husband. Also, the other side of that, the authority in every case is not dominating. It's lovingly leading. Do you see that? How does Christ lead man? Lovingly. How did the Father lead Christ?20:51Therefore, how should the man lead his wife? Lovingly. So if you believe this universal law of authority and submission, then you're going to get the rest of the passage. All right? Number two, God's plan for order must be applied. God's plan for order must be applied. Look at verses 4 and 5.21:22He says, every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head.21:31But every wife who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, since it is the same as if her head were shaven.21:43So Paul is applying this principle here.21:45He's talking about prayer and prophecy.21:47What's that?21:48It was just talking about women preachers, right? No. No, the women as pastor thing, Paul makes that very clear in just a couple of chapters. You can write it down. Chapter 14, verses 34 and 35, Paul talks about women as pastors.22:18about that in this passage. This passage, he's focusing on the head covering customs, and later, like the pastor thing, we're going to get into the other gender issues. Chapter 14. So, he says, men, when you pray, when you prophesy, wherever that is, he says, your head should be uncovered. And women, you should have your head covered. Why did Paul say that?22:48because in Corinth, again, this is a culture-specific tradition, but in Corinth, if a person covered their head, that was a sign of being feminine. That was a very effeminate way to present yourself. And what Paul's simply saying here is, men, don't do that. Men, in Corinth, hey, don't cover your head.23:18Don't do it.23:20You're like, well, what about the Jewish men?23:24Because, you know, the Jewish men covered their head when they pray.23:27Yeah, that is a Jewish custom.23:29Came from the rabbis, not from the Bible, because of Moses being veiled after he talked to God.23:36So what about the Jewish men in Corinth?23:39Paul's like, no.23:41Jewish men, don't cover your head.23:43Why?23:44Because if people in Corinth see you praying with your head covered, they're going to think you're effeminate. Right? And you're like, all right, is this for all churches? I mean, is this for us today? I mean, tell me, Pastor Jeff, should I go home and throw away my Yankees cap? Are people going to think I'm effeminate if I wear that? No. Look, this is obviously, obviously, it's a Corinthian-specific issue.24:21Because, you know, Paul only addressed gender and veils in Corinth.24:27You don't see this anywhere else in the New Testament, not to any other church.24:35So what Paul is saying to the Corinthians is this.24:39Accommodate yourself to the customs of the Corinthians.24:42In other words, church, here's the principle.24:45Here's the principle that does apply to us. Don't violate customs that have significance in your culture. That's what he's saying. Don't violate customs that have significance in your culture. Meaning this, men should do what men do, and women should do what women do. Don't try to make some statement of liberation by taking on the appearance of the other gender.25:18In verse 6, he addresses the feminists. He says, For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head. Again, Paul here is speaking to the feminists. What he's saying here is this. Ladies, you want to protest?25:44Okay, you're making some kind of statement. You refuse to act like a lady. Is that what you're going for? Then just, okay, just shave your head. How about that? Because the response for these Corinthian church ladies would be like, shave my head. I'm not going to do that. That's like, that's disgraceful. Paul's like, then put a veil on Miss Corinth. Paul's being very facetious here. He says, look, you've got to go with the cultural norms.26:14when it comes to being male and female. You've got to know what's happening in that culture and you've got to go with it. Right? Like when we go to Thailand, some of the churches in Thailand, many of the churches in Thailand, when you go to church, the men sit on this side and the women sit on this side. They don't have a middle. All right? So when I go to Thailand, I don't just go strutting into the church like, I'm free in Christ. I'm sitting with the ladies. Because all the men are going to be like, that American guy. Is he a little weird, isn't he? Like, no, we sit with the dudes. Because that's just part of the custom. That's part of the culture. Right? That's what Paul's talking about here.27:14He's saying, look, boy, this is a hard sell. This is such a hard sell. When I got into ministry, I never imagined this would be a hard sell. But now that we live in a day of drag queen story hour and transgender stuff, the Bible just here says, embrace gender distinction. You know what it is in the United States in 2026. Your look, the way you act, your role.27:43If you're a man, be a man. If you're a woman, be a woman. That's what Paul's saying here. You've got to apply God's plan for order. Thirdly, authority and submission, God's plan for order. Thirdly, God's plan for order started at creation. Look at verse 7. He says, for a man to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. Stop there. Paul's saying, men, you are to lead. Not abdicate that role in submission. If too many men that just aren't stepping up, being the servant leader in the home that God has called them to be, that's a problem. There's a problem in Corinth. It's a problem.28:43in our day today. Man, you've got to step up and lovingly lead your family.28:50That's what Paul's saying here. Stop shrinking back.28:54He says, man, you're the glory of God. Then he says, woman, you're the glory of man.28:59This is how authority and submission was established. Man is the glory of God, means man was made to manifest God's will.29:10And woman being the glory of man means that woman was made to manifest man's will. You're like, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. Since when? Since creation. Look at verses 8 and 9. For man was not made from woman, but woman from man.29:40Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. Stop there. Authority and submission. The Bible says very clearly here and in Genesis 2 that woman was created to help man. And we need all the help we can get.30:10says the woman was made from man for man. Do you think God could have created men and women at the same time? Do you think that's possible? I think he could have if he wanted to. So why in the world did God create man first and then take woman from the man? Why did he do that? Why didn't he just create them both?30:40at the same time. And the answer is right here. He's establishing his plan for order.30:46Because look at verse 10.30:49He says, that is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head because of the angels.30:59Paul's saying, so, if you accept God's plan, authority and submission, God's plan for order, if you accept God's plan, show it by dressing the way that's reflected in your culture because of the angels. What? Whoa, what? Because of the angels. Yeah, obviously, duh, because of the angels. What do the angels have to do with any of this? Here it is, listen.31:37God's plan for order, authority, and submission. Do you know who gets that more than anybody? Do you know if you scoured the universe and you were looking for someone who understood this more than anyone, do you know who you would get? An angel. They get God's plan for order. They get it. They're like, okay, there's authority, there's submission. God's my authority. He says to do something, I do it.32:07They get how it works. Do you know what else they get? Angels get that rebelling against God's plan is a very bad idea. Speaking of angels, look at Jude, verse 6. And we studied Jude a few years ago. You can look up this whole sermon online. And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, God has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day. You see that? Because of the angels, Paul is pleading here. He goes, ladies, look, as soon as you talk about these matters of men and women and authority and submission, there's a lot of women immediately want to throw the whole thing out. And Paul is pleading here. He's like, ladies, look, God's plan is good.33:07And if you're not on board, learn from the angels who weren't on board that God takes it very seriously when his plan for order is rejected. God was serious about his plan for order at creation, at Corinth, and at Harvest Bible Chapel today. God's plan for order started at creation. Number four, God's plan for order brings balance. Look at verses 11 and 12. He says, nevertheless, in the Lord, woman is not independent of man, nor man of woman. For as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God.34:07God's amazing plan of order to work. We all have to do our part. We all have to work together. We're not independent. That's what he's saying. We're not independent. God designed us to be interdependent. That's how order works. The home, the church, understand.34:37Neither were designed to function just by man. The home, the church, neither was designed to function just by woman. In order for the home and the church to be at their absolute healthiest, both men and women have to be faithful to the roles that God established in creation.35:07Let's look at verse 12 again. This is so beautiful and so profound at the same time. He says, for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman, and all things are from God. Yes, man is called to have authority. And moms, moms, You have the responsibility and privilege to make your son a man who is going to serve God faithfully in his role. That's what Paul's talking about here. Yes, woman was taken from man at the beginning, and ever since then, man has come from woman, and man has been shaped by woman. Meaning, those of you who are moms of sons, listen, you made a son and now you are making a man. So moms, you hone your son into a man who's going to lead with love. You hone your son into a man who's going to lead with kindness, who's going to show respect. Moms, you make your sons into men of humility and self-sacrifice. Because moms, your impact on your son will ultimately exponentially manifest throughout the whole world with the impact that he's going to have when you send him out of your house. So you see there's balance. Every role fulfilled God's way advances his kingdom and glorifies the name of Jesus Christ. That's why Paul says, All things are from God. Number five. Decision time. Are you on board with God's plan for order? Look at verse 13. Paul says, judge for yourselves. Is it proper for a wife to pray to God, with her head uncovered. Judge for yourself. Paul's saying, in other words, is it appropriate for a woman to fight being feminine? Is that proper? Verse 14, he says, does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair, it is a disgrace for him? But if a woman has long hair, it is her glory, for her hair is to her for a covering. Judge for yourself, Paul says, authority and submission. Embracing God's gender roles. Is that proper? Is that appropriate? I think it's right back on the hair thing. Paul's like, hey, even beyond the Corinthian culture, he says, nature teaches men shouldn't have women's hair. He says, but it's It's right on a woman, though. So interesting. Paul says that the veil they wore, the head covering, it was just sort of an accent for the hair that God designed the woman to have anyways. Tradition came from somewhere, didn't it? And you're like, oh, all right, fine. Man doesn't have long hair. Woman should have long hair. All right. Here's where we get legalistic, right?39:06You ready for the legalism? We've got to define what's long hair. Four inches? Five inches? I don't know. Maybe the standard is just this. Every dude has got to shave their head. Women have to be tripping over their hair. It has to be that long. How about that? You guys, I'm not interested in legalism because God's Word certainly isn't.39:38Look, in our culture, men don't need to have a crew cut to look manly. In our culture, women can look extremely feminine with shorter hair. All right? Because in their culture and in our culture, it's about the heart. And that's why Paul says, judge for yourself. Look, be honest. If you've chosen a hairstyle because you're trying to be rebellious. That's a hard thing. If you've chosen a hairstyle because you're trying to make a statement with it, that's a hard thing. That's what he's addressing here. And if you're trying to make some kind of feminist statement with your hair or whatever, I just want to say this as lovingly as I can. If you're trying to make a statement with some feminist thing. Nobody here really cares about your statement.40:42But, God cares about your heart.40:48That's the bottom line.40:52That's the bottom line.40:54And probably my favorite verse in the whole passage is the next one.40:58Paul says, If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God.41:06Paul says, because he knows, look, nothing's changed. He knows writing this, people are going to be like, I'm sending Paul an email. And I'm sure there are people thinking that about me. And this is what God says. He's like, look, if you want to fight about living out and representing your gender role, you're not going to sway the church. Because God made a distinction between men and women.41:34We are God's church, so we're going to keep the distinction. Because God has a plan for order. For men, for women. And it's godly authority. And it's godly submission. Our worship team would make their way up. That was the introduction. Now here's the sermon. Men.42:04Act like a godly man. Women. Act like a lady. Act like a godly lady. This is God's plan for order. Let's pray. Father in heaven, I pray that you would give us understanding.42:38Because our whole culture would just rail against this passage today. We live in a culture that can't even define what a woman is when you have made it very clear that you want us to be the people that you've created us to be. Father, I pray that we would find great joy and fulfillment and contentment and contentment.43:09And finding our identity in Christ.43:14And living out the role, whatever that is, wherever you have us, however that looks, God.43:23Let us be a people that are shaped by the truths of your word.43:28We pray in Jesus' name. Amen. Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 11:2-11:16What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Explain 1 Cor 11:3. What does this say about authority and submission pertaining to God's plan for order?Is this passage teaching women should wear head coverings at Harvest? Why or why not? How does this apply today?Read 1 Cor 11:10. What do angels have to do with women understanding the roles of authority and submission? See also Jude 6.Why do you think this topic is such a source of contention (1 Cor 11:16)?BreakoutPray for one another.

Sermon from the pulpit of Falls Baptist Church

Shane talks with Terri Hord Owens, General Minister and President of the Christian Church Disciples of Christ in the US and Canada. She is the first Black woman to lead a mainline denomination as Chief Executive, and is a prominent, prophetic voice in the US and beyond. Connect with Terri Terri Hord Owens Facebook Disciples of Christ Facebook Instagram Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Terri's books Connect with RLC Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/  To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org   Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians  Instagram: @RedLetterXians  Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne  Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne 

Being heard, understood, and sympathized with are great things...but living life to the full also means living with courage. Ann White joins AllMomDoes host Julie Lyles Carr for a conversation about what is means to have courage in an anxious era and how sometimes the greatest courage of all is to get deeply honest about who you are.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4cVlFFc Key TopicsThe importance of courage rooted in faith, not the absence of fearAnne's personal journey from trauma and fear to trust and courageous actionThe seven steps to courage that transform emotional and spiritual healthPractical ways to identify safe people to share your struggles withThe role of vulnerability and its relationship with true courageHow to distinguish who to trust when seeking supportBalancing fear and courage: making daily intentional choicesThe significance of personal responsibility in growth and healingResources for emotional health: Bible studies, audio Bibles, and moreHow living courageously unlocks abundant life and joyTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to Courage and the Theme of the Episode01:00 - Anne White's Background and Journey of Faith02:00 - The Power of Vulnerability in Building Courage04:00 - Reckoning with Past Fears and Embracing God's Power06:00 - The Root of Courage: Discipleship and Personal Transformation07:30 - The Role of Biblically Sound Courage in Daily Life09:00 - Courage and Vulnerability in Women's Ministries11:00 - A Life-Changing Moment: Writing the Reality of Struggles12:30 - Steps of Courage: Facing Fear and Taking Risks14:00 - Choosing Trustworthy Support Systems16:00 - How to Identify Safe People to Share Your Heart18:00 - The Relationship Between Fear, Anxiety, and Courage21:00 - Practical Ways to Overcome Obstacles and Make Courageous Changes24:00 - The Power of Personal Responsibility in Response to Difficulties27:00 - Faith-Driven Decisions: Trusting God's Guidance in Courage29:00 - How Fear and Courage Coexist — Making the Daily Choice32:00 - The Stakes of Remaining in Comfort Zone Instead of Courage34:00 - The Transformational Power of Living Courageously with God36:00 - Resources for Emotional and Spiritual Growth: Bible Studies, podcasts, and apps38:00 - Connecting with Anne White and Courage for Life Ecosystem39:00 - Final Encouragement to Step Into Courage and Live Abundantly

Scripture: Matthew 18:21-35 Date: February 16, 2026 This sermon examines Matthew Chapter 18, focusing on forgiveness and reconciliation. It begins with Peter's inquiry about the limits of forgiveness, asserting that forgiveness is essential in the Christian faith. The pastor uses the parable of the unforgiving servant to illustrate the obligation to extend grace to others. Key questions about the necessity and process of forgiveness are addressed, with practical steps highlighted, such as cultivating compassion and letting go of debts. The message concludes by emphasizing that true forgiveness reflects God's grace and encourages self-reflection on one's own willingness to forgive. Topics: Matthew Chapter 18, forgiveness, reconciliation, Peter, parable, unforgiving servant, grace, compassion, self-reflection, Christian faith Chapters 00:00:06 — Introduction to Forgiveness 00:04:46 — The Unforgiving Servant 00:10:25 — Questions of Forgiveness 00:18:06 — Understanding Our Debt 00:20:59 — The King's Compassion 00:27:24 — The Call to Forgive 00:30:22 — How to Forgive 00:37:47 — The Cost of Forgiveness 00:42:44 — Embracing God's Grace

Join Pastor Clay NeSmith as he explores the life-changing message of being "born again" and embracing the incredible gifts God offers through Jesus Christ. Discover how trusting in God's promises, listening to His voice, and stepping into a personal relationship with Him can transform your life and impact generations to come. Whether you're new to faith or seeking a deeper connection, this sermon will encourage you to live life to the fullest in God's kingdom—starting today!

Join Dr. Michael Youssef for the next episode of LEADING THE WAY when he shares a message of TRUTH called, EMBRACING GOD'S LAVISH LOVE! (1 John 3) Support the show: https://au.ltw.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nathan Harmon shares his powerful journey from addiction and incarceration to becoming a global evangelist and advocate for mental health and faith.  In 2009, while driving impaired, Nathan was involved in a tragic accident which took the life of his passenger and forever altered the lives of both families, as well as his own. Nathan describes his gut wrenching and beautiful testimony of how radical grace, resilience, and divine purpose transformed his life and how he now impacts youth and communities worldwide. In Part 1 of this in-depth interview, Nathan shares prophetic insights, biblical connections, and spiritual strategies for understanding current events and the power of forgiveness and prayer in spiritual warfare.  Resources More from the Revelations Podcast hosted by Reagan Kramer: Website | Instagram | Apple Podcast | Youtube Nathan Harmon's Ministry Website - https://www.nathanharmon.org/ Nathan Harmon's Ministry Your Life Speaks- https://www.yourlifespeaks.org/ Nathan Harmon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanharmon1/ Become Part of Our Mission! Support The Revelations Podcast: Your support fuels our mission to share transformative messages of hope and faith. Click here to learn how you can contribute and be part of this growing community!   This Episode is brought to you by Advanced Medicine Alternatives Get back to the active life you love through natural & regenerative musculoskeletal healing: https://www.georgekramermd.com/ Chapters 00:00 The Power of Testimony 04:12 The Journey of Redemption 06:29 The Impact of Choices and Consequences 08:53 Forgiveness and Grace 11:33 Life After Tragedy 13:44 Finding Purpose in Pain 16:01 The Role of Community and Connection 18:34 Embracing God's Call 20:43 The Journey of Speaking and Sharing 23:18 Lessons from the Wilderness 25:45 The Future and Hope 30:30 Navigating Lockdowns and Miracles 31:24 The Power of God in Difficult Times 33:42 Lessons from Prison and the Exodus 35:39 Journey of Faith and Identity 37:08 Exploring the Middle East and Prophetic Patterns 39:44 Interceding for the Middle East              

God made men and women different — and truly understanding their distinctions is key to a healthy marriage. Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm break this down with guest Michael Foster. They discuss why men often carry burdens silently, why women tend to communicate more contextually, and how a woman's cyclical hormonal reality differs from a man's more stable pattern. Along the way, they unpack “disappointment dynamics” in early marriage, the temptation to despise or judge one another, and why learning to live with “understanding” is essential (1 Pet. 3:7). Their takeaway: embrace God's design, and your home will be stronger for it.

The post 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 Embracing God's Foolish Method appeared first on Grace Bible Church.

Week 5 of our "Emotionally Healthy Discipleship" Sermon Series

Guest: Walt HeyerOrganization: Family Research CouncilPositions: Senior Fellow with Center for Family StudiesBook: Embracing God's Design: Addressing the Spiritual and Psychological Crisis Behind Transgender IdentityInterview Location: 2026 National Religious Broadcasters Convention in NashvilleWebsites: waltheyer.com, frc.org

From the sermon series: "God Things Are Happening."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the sermon series: "God Things Are Happening."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Embracing God's Love While Healing from HurtABOUT THE NEWWe are a people of love and excellence who are result-oriented, spirit-led, word-rooted, prayer-driven, and kingdom-conscious. Led by Pst. Shola Okodugha, we are on a divine assignment to equip and raise men; to release people from strongholds that have stifled them from taking their rightful places, and to give young people an avenue for their God-given gifts to find expression.tOUR CREED"As sure as God helps us,We will not give upWe will not cave inWe will not quitWe will not failWe will not dieUntil our job is doneAnd victory is won"——Partner with us to spread the influence of God all over the world. Give - https://pay.squadco.com/TheNewglobal——BROADCAST DETAILSMinister: Pst.Shola OkodughaDate: Sunday, March 8, 2026

Embracing God's Grace while Rejecting Satan's Shame, A Guided Christian Meditation on Genesis 3:4-7 with the Recenter With Christ app The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in  and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.  Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.  You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing.  If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.   Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:   Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate,  deflate. Scripture for Meditation Genesis 3 RSV 4 But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not die. 5 For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." 6 So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, and he ate. 7 Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves aprons. NET 4 The serpent said to the woman, "Surely you will not die, 5 for God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will open and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." 6 When the woman saw that the tree produced fruit that was good for food, was attractive to the eye, and was desirable for making one wise, she took some of its fruit and ate it. She also gave some of it to her husband who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them opened, and they knew they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. Reflection on Scripture: Satan directly rejects what God taught Adam and Eve. Although in one way Satan put some truth in his lie. Their eyes were in fact opened when the partook of the fruit of the tree. Yet the ultimate point is they faced spiritual death when they ate of the fruit, which is separation from the presence of God, and they became subject to physical death. God's word was fulfilled. This scripture also begins to point out the beginning of shame. When we act in contrast to what God has told us to, we feel a conviction of our guilt from God. This can be a good and Godly influence. God's desire for us is not to retain this bad feeling and live in it. His desire is really aimed at bringing our hearts back in line with His will. He wants us to feel forgiven. He wants us to feel welcome back to his presence. So I think we should be aware of the effects of sin and seek to actively reject sin.  Satan is aware of God's grace. He knows God will forgive us when we turn to, and trust in Jesus as the source of forgiveness and salvation. He wants to actively deny that. He would prefer that we become immobilized by shame. He wants us to hide our sin from God which we will talk more about next week. Satan wants to turn our attention away from our God who longs to pour out forgiveness and guide us to overcome sin. So my invitation to you is to ponder, do you allow Satan to use shame to take your focus away from the forgiveness that God freely offers? Equally destructive is do you reject any negative emotions associated with your guilt because you feel sad about it? Rejoice in any guilt that draws your heart back to the Lord and reject the shame of the enemy who seeks to destroy your hope in a glorious forgiveness.  Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?  FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod    

Josh and Heather Avis share the story of wanting to start a family, how they navigated infertility and discovered God’s heart for orphans. When they tentatively considered foster care and adoption, they had no idea how God would lead them to adopt 3 kids, two of whom have Down Syndrome. Receive a copy of The Lucky Few and an audio download of "Joyfully Embracing God’s Children" for your donation of any amount! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

In a culture filled with confusion around sexuality and gender, parents need clarity, courage, and compassion. Elizabeth Urbanowicz offers practical, biblically grounded guidance to help you disciple your children with confidence while teaching truth in a way that reflects God's heart and design. Connect with Elizabeth on social: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foundationworldview Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foundation_worldview/ Get your copy of Helping Your Kids Know God's Good Design.   I Choose My Best Life Podcast is one of the  Top 20 Christian Women Podcasts I Choose My Best Life Books: Being Fully Known, Colorful Connections, Sacred Rest, Come Empty, Set Free to Live Free Connect with Saundra: Twitter: @DrDaltonSmith Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drdaltonsmith Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrSaundraDaltonSmith

Josh and Heather Avis share the story of wanting to start a family, how they navigated infertility and discovered God’s heart for orphans. When they tentatively considered foster care and adoption, they had no idea how God would lead them to adopt 3 kids, two of whom have Down Syndrome. Receive a copy of The Lucky Few and an audio download of "Joyfully Embracing God’s Children" for your donation of any amount! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Walt Heyer is a senior fellow with Family Research Council. Walt is a husband, father, and corporate executive who underwent gender transition surgery at the age of 42 and tried to live as a woman for 8 years. Through therapy and faith in God, Walt was restored to his male identity and biological reality. He now helps others who regret trying to live in a manner at odds with how God created them. His is a story of redemption and hope. Walt has written 7 books and numerous articles. His newest release is titled, Embracing God's Design: Addressing the Spiritual and Psychological Crisis Behind Transgender Identity. Over the years there's been a significant increase in those who are identifying differently than their biological sex. From drag queen story hours to the entertainment industry, from corporate America to medical institutions, to classroom reading material, school locker room policies and more, young people are being educated to believe that a boy can be a girl and vice-versa. As a result, some have gone on to chemically and physically damage themselves in an attempt to change their gender. So don't miss this edition of Crosstalk as Walt explains, from first hand experience, what this phenomenon is all about. It involves understanding how this trend impacts the mind of youth in their formative years, the impact on American society overall, the battle over language and word definitions as each side attempts to defend their positions, the impact of the educational system in this battle and much more, including input from listeners nationwide.

Walt Heyer is a senior fellow with Family Research Council. Walt is a husband, father, and corporate executive who underwent gender transition surgery at the age of 42 and tried to live as a woman for 8 years. Through therapy and faith in God, Walt was restored to his male identity and biological reality. He now helps others who regret trying to live in a manner at odds with how God created them. His is a story of redemption and hope. Walt has written 7 books and numerous articles. His newest release is titled, Embracing God's Design: Addressing the Spiritual and Psychological Crisis Behind Transgender Identity. Over the years there's been a significant increase in those who are identifying differently than their biological sex. From drag queen story hours to the entertainment industry, from corporate America to medical institutions, to classroom reading material, school locker room policies and more, young people are being educated to believe that a boy can be a girl and vice-versa. As a result, some have gone on to chemically and physically damage themselves in an attempt to change their gender. So don't miss this edition of Crosstalk as Walt explains, from first hand experience, what this phenomenon is all about. It involves understanding how this trend impacts the mind of youth in their formative years, the impact on American society overall, the battle over language and word definitions as each side attempts to defend their positions, the impact of the educational system in this battle and much more, including input from listeners nationwide.

What does it really mean to be saved by grace?In this message, Pastor Nick Tallo walks through Ephesians 2:8–10 and reminds us that salvation isn't about trying harder, being better, or doing more religious activity. It's about receiving a gift.Many of us wrestle with big questions: Do you believe in an afterlife? How confident are you in what comes next? What is that confidence based on?We often only slow down enough to ask those questions in life's hardest or quietest moments. But God doesn't leave us guessing. Through His Word, He gives us clear answers.Ephesians 2 shows us that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works. It's not something we earn. It's something we receive. Jesus offers us a brand-new identity, a new birth, and a new purpose.When Jesus talked with Nicodemus in John 3, He made it clear: salvation isn't about religious performance. It's about being born again and transformed from the inside out. And that transformation leads us into the good works God has already prepared for us.At 2Rivers, we believe Jesus is the lead story. Everything centers on Him and the life-changing grace He offers. Our prayer is that this message helps you take your next step toward becoming a passionate follower of Jesus.

We're kicking off the Scrupulosity Series by starting at the foundation, God's love.In this episode, Carrie explores how shame, church hurt, and feelings of unworthiness can cloud our view of Him, and how Scripture invites us to receive the steady, unchanging love of Christ that nothing can take away.Episode Highlights:How scrupulosity distorts your view of God's character and keeps you stuck in fearWhy embracing God's love is foundational to healing from religious OCDCommon reasons we reject God's love, including church hurt and shameThe difference between accepting God's forgiveness and compulsively seeking reassurancePractical ways to notice evidence of God's love in everyday lifeHow speaking Scripture daily can help renew your mind and strengthen your identity in ChristExplore the Empowered Mind: Christian ICBT for OCD: https://carriebock.com/training/ Carrie's services and courses: carriebock.com/services/ carriebock.com/resources/Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/christianfaithandocd/and like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/christianfaithandocd for the latest updates and sneak peeks.

Why do so many marriages feel anxious, tense, or disconnected — even when there's no major conflict?In Episode 106 of High Performance Parenting, Greg and Jacquie Francis explain how misaligned expectations and misunderstood differences quietly create anxiety in marriage — and how embracing God's design brings peace and connection.They cover:How expectations + unmet reality create anxietyWhy personality differences aren't flawsHow trying to “fix” your spouse damages connectionWhy celebrating quirks builds trustHow adjusting expectations brings peaceWhy God designed your spouse exactly as they areThis episode is a powerful reminder that connection grows when understanding replaces comparison.(00:00) Why Expectations Create Anxiety in Marriage(02:22) Learning and Celebrating Personality Differences(04:12) How Unrealistic Expectations Damage Connection(06:31) Stop Trying to Fix Your Spouse(08:17) Appreciating Strengths Instead of Weaknesses(10:06) Trusting Your Spouse's Strengths(13:38) Adjusting Expectations to Match Reality(16:15) Embracing God's Design for Your Marriage(17:55) Final Encouragement & Closing

Dive into the captivating Elijah and Elisha story from the Bible, where God interrupts ordinary life with an extraordinary calling. This powerful sermon explores lessons from Elijah, the bold prophet who confronted idolatry, and his successor Elisha, who embraced God's purpose by leaving the plow behind—burning his old life to fully trust in divine direction. Witness the faith journey of these Biblical prophets as Elisha inherits a double portion spirit, symbolizing deeper empowerment through the Holy Spirit for service and mission.Discover how God's calling in Bible narratives like this one challenges us to release habits, relationships, or comforts that hold us back, much like Elisha's radical decision. Through Christian mentorship under Elijah, Elisha grows in character before stepping into calling, reminding us that quiet seasons build roots for fruitful ministry. This aligns with a commitment to deeper life in Christ, where faith, obedience, and Holy Spirit guidance lead to transformation and purpose.Whether you're seeking inspiration on embracing God's purpose or exploring the prophet legacy, this sermon highlights that true calling demands decision, preparation, and bold movement—echoing the call to follow Jesus fully.

Host Bill Reichart sits down with theologian and author Dr. Kelly Kapic to explore the heart of his book, You're Only Human. Together they reflect on why embracing our limits is not a weakness but a gift from God, designed to draw us into deeper dependence on Him and richer community with one another. From the pace of modern life to the pressure of endless expectations, Kapic reminds Christian healthcare profesionals that being finite is part of God's good design. This episode offers hope, grace, and practical wisdom for living faithfully as creatures—resting, working, and worshiping in the freedom of knowing that we are not God, and we're not supposed to be. SHOW NOTES: International CMDA: https://icmda.net/ To contact Bethany, email btaylor5@une.edu. J58

The video "Set Apart: A Reflection on the Readings for the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time" by Deacon Dave & Layperson Lisa Show reflects on the readings for the second Sunday in ordinary time, focusing on Jesus's baptism and the call to holiness.Key takeaways from the reflection include:Sanctifying Grace (0:24-0:36): The Holy Spirit descends upon us at baptism, granting us sanctifying grace, which calls us to a life of holiness and makes us more like God.Called to be Set Apart (0:50-1:08): Similar to how Jesus is the Son of God, we are called to be set apart from the world, living in it but not being "of this world," but rather "of the supernatural world of God."Vessels of Light and Hope (1:23-1:37): In difficult times, we are reminded to be vessels of light, hope, and God's love to others.Holiness as Disposition and Obedience (1:42-2:09): Drawing from St. Thérèse of Lisieux, holiness is described as a disposition where our hearts, souls, and wills align with God, and it involves obedience to His will.Humility and Dependence on God (2:33-3:28): Holiness also means acknowledging our smallness and weakness, allowing God to carry us, as our strength comes through Christ. This calls for a great dependency on God and openness to growth in virtues.Growth in Prudence (3:37-4:38): The speaker shares a personal experience of growing in prudence, a virtue that helps us discern and act on what is good, particularly in communication like texts and emails.Strengthening Sanctifying Grace (4:42-5:00): Sanctifying grace is strengthened through prayer, acts of sacrifice, and acts of charity or love.Embracing God's Will (5:38-5:57): Being holy involves making an act of will towards what God desires, even when it means sacrificing our own desires. This practice makes it easier over time and helps us grow in virtue, allowing us to joyfully and easily do what is good.Call to Love (6:26-6:35): Ultimately, we are called to a life of holiness and love to all we encounter, striving to be like Jesus.

The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. — 2 Timothy 1:7 Fear is one of the greatest obstacles to embracing newness. It can hold us back from stepping into the new chapters of our lives, from trusting God's promises, and from becoming the people he has created us to be. Fear often whispers to us that we are unqualified, incapable, or unworthy of the changes that God wants to make in us. But the Bible tells us that fear is not from God. Instead, God has given us his Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. It's not about us having enough courage on our own; it's about relying on the strength and presence of the Holy Spirit. When we lean into God's power, we can face the unknown with confidence, knowing that the Lord is already ahead of us. I've had many moments in which fear has threatened to paralyze me from pursuing something new. Yet in those moments I've come to realize that God's “perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). Embracing God's Spirit within me means rejecting the lies that fear tries to tell me, and walking forward in the boldness of new life that God provides. Surrounded by God's love, we can let go of fear and walk into the space God has provided for his new work in our lives. Lord, thank you for your Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. Help me to let go of my fears and to embrace all the new things you have in store for me. Amen.

Check out thisisfoundry.com for more information about Foundry Church!Follow @thisisfoundry on social media for updates.

Ready to embrace the Lord's boundaries in your Christian business? Being hemmed in by His Holiness, you're perfectly prepared & positioned! As we navigate success with Jesus, there is a harmony of ambition and surrender that stems from His divine guidance. That means embracing how He sets our boundaries by hemming us in. It's not being boxed in as the world sees it, but rather, we find freedom in letting His protection and positioning guide all we do! Listen for these highlights: 00:39 Understanding Being Hemmed in by His Holiness 01:28 Exploring Psalm 139 02:41 Trusting God's Plan for Your Business 03:37 Embracing God's Boundaries 05:42 Navigating Success with Jesus 06:49 The Call to Let Jesus Lead Scripture for further study: Psalm 139:5-6 THE BOOK LAUNCH TEAM IS OPEN! My next book, Redefining Hustle: Navigating Success with Jesus, publishes in February! Join the launch team today!  NOW ENROLLING: NAVIGATING SUCCESS WITH JESUS MASTERCLASS! The Spring 2026 cohort of the Navigating Success with Jesus Masterclass is now enrolling! Reserve your seat at: https://erinharrigan.com/Masterclass LET'S BE FRIENDS ON SOCIAL LinkedIn: @erinharrigan IG: @erindharrigan SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNELhttps://youtube.com/@erinharrigan If this show brings you value, please give it a follow on Apple Podcasts and leave a review. If you listen to Spotify, be sure to click the follow button and the notification bell so you don't miss an episode.

God has an invitation for you this year! He is moving—often in ways that look different from anything you've seen before—and He's calling you to join Him. As you open your eyes, loosen old expectations, and make room for the fresh work of His Spirit, you'll be amazed at what He reveals. God's hand is already at work doing a new thing, and stepping into it requires renewed clarity, courage, and hope.You'll be inspired by both personal stories and powerful examples from Scripture—real accounts of ordinary people who recognized God's movement in unexpected places. Their journeys will encourage your own as you learn to release patterns that once served you well and embrace the “new wineskins” God is preparing for what's ahead.In this message, you'll discover how to:Recognize God's movement even when it comes through unexpected people or placesWelcome the new thing God is doing without clinging to familiar methodsSee God working in others with joy rather than skepticismStay attentive to the Holy Spirit's promptings in everyday momentsLet go of past limitations so you can step boldly into God's directionCultivate spiritual vision that notices God's fingerprints in both the miraculous and the ordinaryIf you're longing to be part of what God is doing in our day, it will require deeper faith, clearer sight, and a heart ready to follow wherever He leads. This is your invitation. God is already moving—now it's time to recognize His hand and walk with confidence into His new thing.

We all carry things we were never meant to keep. In this episode of RUNNING FREE, Pastor Ken Senchal challenges us to release regret, break free from addiction, confront sin, and let go of the lies that have defined us—so we can run the race God has set before us with endurance and joy. If you're ready to stop surviving and start living free, this message is for you.

This guided Scripture meditation, from Isaiah 43, utilizes the Lectio Divina meditation method. God is always doing something new. Yes, he remains the same – but we are always changing and therefore he is always up to something new in our lives. As you enter this new year – are you ready for the new work God wants to do in your life? Listen in to this guided meditation and allow the Holy Spirit to direct you to what he has for you. Here are some helpful links I discussed in the podcast: The guided retreat to help you move into this new year with intention is here. You can find Jodie at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Instagram @jodieniznik Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Lectio Divina and download your free Scripture Meditation Journal here. And if you’re ready to make Scripture Meditation a part of your new year, I encourage you to join my Monday email newsletter here. I’ll send out link to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Download free sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The passages we meditated on is as follows: Isaiah 43:16–19, NIV 16 This is what the Lord says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, 17 who drew out the chariots and horses, the army and reinforcements together, and they lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a wick: 18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Embracing God's Comfort In Our Trials (2 Corinthians 1:1-7)

Embracing God's Comfort In Our Trials (2 Corinthians 1:1-7)

Embracing God's Comfort In Our Trials (2 Corinthians 1:1-7)

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 2 Peter 1-3; John 1 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast! On this December 17th episode, your host Hunter (joined throughout by Hunter, Hunter, and Hunter) invites you into a heartfelt journey through the Scriptures as we near the end of the year-long Bible reading adventure. Today, we dive into 2 Peter chapters 1 through 3, reflecting on the promises and transformation offered by God, and finish in the rich opening of John chapter 1, exploring the mystery and hope of Christ—the Word made flesh. As Hunter guides us, you'll hear words of encouragement for those who are struggling during this season, and for those rejoicing as well—reminders that God's love and light are present no matter where we find ourselves. There's practical advice on embracing joy, finding peace, and living in the reality of being included in God's family. Prayerful moments anchor the episode, inviting you to seek God's goodness and purpose in your life. Whether you're searching for hope or celebrating life's gifts, this episode is an opportunity to pause, listen, and let God's Word be spoken over your heart—reminding you that you are loved and never alone. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let's walk together through another day in Scripture with the Daily Radio Bible. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Make every effort to respond to his promises. By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. Because God fulfilled his promise to Abraham, that Abraham would become the father of many nations, the peoples of the world would recognize and understand the fatherhood of God. They would see that they have been included, adopted into a relationship with the Creator of all the world. Because of this promise and what Christ has done, we share in God's divine nature. That's something that will and should blow our minds. Peter says that we share in God's divine nature. And Peter wants us to participate in that. To participate in what is. To acknowledge and see and live in the joy of what is your inclusion into the life and love of God. Because God was true to his word. God did what he said he would do. He came and he rescued us and made us his own. So let's live in that, my friends. The triune God sent his Son to come and rescue us, to awaken us to who we really are, to who he is, what he has done and who we really are. We are those that share in his divine nature. We are children of God, made in the image of God. God has come to reveal this, to make this known, to let it become the thing that animates our lives, sets us free and gives us joy. So let's do that. It's as we live in the reality of this amazing truth and good news, we will indeed escape the corruptions of this world. We will not give in to the lusts of the world, the sinfulness of our flesh. No, we will be walking in the Spirit. That's the desire and the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer that I have for my family, for my wife and my daughters and my son. And that is the prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: James 1-5 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast! In today's episode, Hunter invites us to gather on this 15th day of December for day 349 in our journey through the Bible. Together, we explore the heart of God as revealed in the book of James, discovering how God's light and steadfast love guide us through life's troubles and joys. Hunter encourages us to look deeply into scripture—through the lens of Jesus—reminding us of our identity as God's prized possessions, never forgotten or forsaken. Throughout this episode, we reflect on practical faith, genuine love, and the power of prayer, soaking in wisdom for everyday living. Whether enduring trials or seeking peace, Hunter assures us that God's grace is abundant and His presence is near. After reading and contemplating the Word, we move into a spirit-filled time of prayer, lifting up ourselves, our families, and the world. Gratitude echoes for the community that makes this ministry possible, and listeners are invited to partner in spreading hope and encouragement. As the episode closes, you'll be reminded of one life-changing truth: you are deeply loved. Join us as we listen, pray, and walk forward in God's joy together. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Wanderers brought back. This is a story of grace—one that is written over every human life. All of us have wandered, just like sheep, each one straying off on our own path. But the Good Shepherd does not leave us lost; he pursues us. God was not content with the ninety-nine—he sought after the one, every wandering soul. That is the good news: God's actions, his love, reach for the whole world. Behold the Lamb of God, slain for the sins of all—the enormity of this gospel is that it is for everyone, without exception. Sometimes this news seems so good it almost defies belief, and James knows this. He warns us not to forget who we truly are; not to look into the mirror of God's word and then forget our reflection when we turn away. In Christ, God chose to give birth to us, making us his prized possession, his beloved children. But it is easy to forget—especially when the truth seems too good. We fall back into the old lie: that God is distant, disapproving, far off. James wants to remind us how loved, how valued, how seen we are. God offered himself for us, count us among his treasured flock. This love is for all people and it's so immense we might struggle to take it in. Yet this, James says, is the truth: you are the beloved of God. Look deeply, look Christologically, at the word of God—see all scripture through Jesus, for he reveals both the Father's heart and our true identity. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you see it. The reality is better than you've imagined: you are loved, pursued, made new in Christ. My prayer for myself, for my family, and for you is that after seeing who you are in the mirror of God's word, you will not forget, but reflect that love in this world—in your relationships, in your home, everywhere God leads you. May we not be wanderers any longer, but living witnesses to the grace that has found us, restored us, and made us whole. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  b. 

On this episode of “The Kylee Cast,” author and speaker Walt Heyer joins Kylee Griswold to tell the story of how he lived eight years as “Laura Jensen,” only to become a Christian and rediscover the man God designed him to be. They also discuss why cross-dressing kids is child abuse, how trans activists manipulate language, and how to find a good trauma therapist.Find more of Walt's work here: https://waltheyer.com/Buy Walt's latest book, "Embracing God's Design" here: https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-Gods-Design-Psychological-Transgender/dp/1956454993?sr=8-6Find “Embracing God's Design” companion videos here: https://embracethedesign.com/The Federalist Foundation is a nonprofit, and we depend entirely on our listeners and readers — not corporations. If you value fearless, independent journalism, please consider a tax-deductible gift today at TheFederalist.com/donate. Your support keeps us going.

Walt Heyer, coauthor of “Embracing GOd’s Design” Embracing God’s Design: Addressing the Spiritual and Psychological Crisis Behind Transgender Identity Trans Life Survivors Walt Heyer’s WebsiteThe post Transgenderism and the US Military – Walt Heyer, 12/8/25 (3422) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Focus on the Family In Christ, you can experience redemption, even after you've made poor choices in your marriage. Jim Daly talks with Jim Turner on how to confront lies you might believe about yourself. Then, Greg shares how to respond well if a good friend calls you out on something. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/marriagepodcast or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book The Disconnected Man for your donation of any amount! Hope Restored Dealing with Emotional Disconnection in Marriage Contact our Counseling Team What Will Your Marriage Be Like In The Future? Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Marriage Podcast, please give us your feedback.

Walt Heyer, coauthor of “Embracing GOd's Design” Embracing God's Design: Addressing the Spiritual and Psychological Crisis Behind Transgender Identity Trans Life Survivors Walt Heyer's Website The post Transgenderism and Gender Dysphoria – Walt Heyer, 9/8/25 (2512) first appeared on Issues, Etc..