Podcasts about esv

Miracles, Heartbreak, and the Fight Against Human Trafficking   Nearly 50 million people remain trapped in modern slavery—but International Justice Mission founder Gary Haugen believes it could end in our lifetime. He joins host Curtis Chang to explore how IJM fights human trafficking by transforming broken justice systems, where God is amid horrific evil and patient prayer, and how Christians can stop watching from the sidelines and join the fight.   02:23 - The Evolution of IJM's Strategy of Strengthening Local Justice Systems 08:30 - US Complicity in Global Slavery 13:48 - The Impact of Unpredictable US Government Action  18:24 - Is Their a Contradiction in Evangelical Support? 24:23 - The Role of Miracles in Fighting Evil 28:56 - Waiting For Prayers to Be Answered  33:51 - The Dangers of Christian Hero Worship 45:26 - A Call to Action Against Modern Day Slavery   To give to Good Faith: https://goodfaith.org/donate   Mentioned in This Episode: Gary Haugen's biography IJM's work fighting trafficking and slavery IJM's response to the State Department funding pause U.S. State Department Trafficking in Persons Report Global Estimates of Modern Slavery Child trafficking and forced labor on Ghana's Lake Volta Good Faith episode 224: Francis Collins and Kristine Torjesen   Scriptures: Matthew 5:16 (ESV) Matthew 25:14–30 (ESV)   International Justice Mission: Get involved with IJM Pray with IJM Support IJM's advocacy work IJM resources for churches   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.  

❖ Today's Bible reading is Psalm 49: www.ESV.org/Psalm49 ❖ To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional: www.crossway.org/books/in-the-lord-i-take-refuge-hcj/ ❖ Browse other resources from Dane Ortlund: www.crossway.org/authors/dane-c-ortlund/

It’s easy to lose track of time without realizing where it went. A few minutes on social media becomes an hour, notifications interrupt meaningful conversations, and endless content competes for our attention. Technology can be a helpful tool, but when our phones, screens, and constant stream of information begin controlling our attention, they can quietly pull us away from God, our families, and the people and purposes He has placed in front of us. Ephesians 5:15-16 calls us to walk wisely and make the best use of our time. Redeeming our time doesn't necessarily mean eliminating technology—it means becoming intentional about what receives our attention. When we create space to pray, read Scripture, invest in relationships, and serve others, we begin using our time for something greater than simply staying busy or entertained. God has given us the gift of time, and we can ask Him for the wisdom and self-control to spend it in ways that honor Him and help us live faithfully. Highlights Why smartphones, social media, and constant information can quietly steal our time and attention What Ephesians 5:15-16 means when it calls us to make the best use of our time How technology can become a distraction from God, family, and meaningful relationships Practical ways to develop healthier screen-time habits and greater self-control Why intentional time with God should be protected from digital distractions How fasting from technology can help reset our attention and priorities Encouragement to redeem the time God has given us for His glory and the work He has called us to Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Redeeming, Not Wasting, Our Time By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16, ESV). As a millennial, I find myself reflecting upon a time before the technological boom we seem to be facing, specifically before AI, smartphones, and social media. I remember taking a walk or riding my bike after school without the anxiety of accidentally leaving my phone at home. I remember the excitement of turning in my disposable camera from the school dance and then looking through my friends’ photo albums when I was hanging out at their house. I remember soaking up the most mundane moments without feeling the need to document them. Some of that could very well be what it was like to be younger, but I cannot ignore how much the simplicity of life has become more complicated and distracted with these portable devices that seem to control us and steal our time. About six months ago, I started to feel convicted about the lack of self-control regarding my screen time with my phone, so I purchased a little device that literally turns your phone into a brick when your phone hovers over it, depending on how much you want to limit its functionality. You can customize specific functions and apps that you want to limit, and for me, it was quite simply shutting down my social media usage. After six months of using this limiting device, I can see how it has helped me create healthier habits that have helped me prioritize my time more wisely. Instead of my phone controlling me, I have been able to start controlling it and using it as the tool that it is. My prayer to the Lord is “I want to be found faithful.” I have asked Him very frequently how I can use my time to glorify Him and be a fruitful disciple of Jesus. The Apostle Paul lovingly warns the church at Ephesus: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16, ESV). Intersecting Life & Faith: If the days were evil during Paul’s day, they most assuredly are evil today! Although our cellphones, tablets, laptops, etc are not evil, I do believe we need to be cautious as to how much time we are devoting to them. We need to be aware of where we are directing our focus. We need to be attentive to what is capturing our attention that may be causing us to make unwise choices. For me, the distraction from my phone was keeping me from intentional time with my sons and causing me to become captured by covetousness and discontentment with the swath of influencers pushing product after product. As we live in the great information age, we are bombarded with opportunities to fill our time and our minds with so many things that can so easily replace our time of fellowship with the Lord, as well as distract us from the very thing He has called us to do: make disciples! Perhaps you may not have an issue with technology distracting you from the Lord- praise God! Stay strong and be an accountability partner for those around you who are easily pulled away from the things of God because of the ever-increasing information age and the age of social media influencers promoting materialism and vanity. But if you are like me (a stay-at-home/work-from-home mom) and you are finding yourself with limited time to spend with Jesus in prayer and the Word, I challenge you to ask the Lord if there is something you can arrange in your schedule to allow better time management. Also, ask Him if He would like for you to fast (technology, that is), something that could be causing division between you and Him. Devote specific time every day to spend some quiet time in fellowship with God and reading your Bible, without your cellphone or iPad within reach- turn them off during that time and perhaps put a timer on the most-used apps that you access throughout your day. You might just need extra help with self-control, like me! Be thankful for the benefits of the tools and global connections that technology brings us, but don’t allow technology to rob you of your connection to Jesus or distract you from all the blessings He has put right in front of you. We have been given the precious gift of time here on this earth; let’s not waste our time but redeem it all for God’s glory! Further Reading: Matthew 6:33 Hebrews 12:1-2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Reading by Deborah Volosin ---   Ezekiel 23-24   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel%2023-24&version=ESV&interface=print

On this week’s Prison Pulpit we start out by looking at some helpful thoughts from James White’s 12 year old sermon on Hebrews 13:3, the timeless passage on which this podcast is based. Then after talking a bit about the uniquely difficult situation in India, we briefly open up the latest edition of the missionary classic, Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret, and try to learn and apply a lesson from Taylor’s experiences. I'm your China travel guide in exile, Missionary Ben. Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I share a new Chinese city to pray for every single day. Email me with any questions, comments, or complaints: bfwesten AT gmail dot com. Finally, check out my personal landing page PrayGiveGo.us for everything else, including our missions website, substack, and books. Why the Prison Pulpit? The goal is to remind people to pray for persecuted believers as Hebrews 13:3 teaches. The ESV reads: “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them” James White comments on Hebrews 13:3 (in a sermon preached on June 22, 2014 in Arizona): Remember those who are in prison: “The ones bound, the ones who are in chains” As though in prison with them: “As if you yourself were chained together with them” “There are brothers, there are sisters, who some day in the glory of heaven, you will be closer to than anyone on this earth right now, who are suffering in the name of Christ. And in our day we probably have more information and more knowledge of this than any preceding generation has ever had.” Joy as Seven Pastors Freed From Jail in India https://www.barnabasaid.org/gb/news/joy-as-seven-pastors-freed-from-jail-in-india/ FREE EBOOK: Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret https://anekopress.com/product/hudson-taylors-spiritual-secret/ Pray for China Cities of the Week (Sep 1-6): https://chinacall.substack.com/p/pray-for-china-sep-1-7-2026 If you would like to “sponsor” a Chinese church leader at one of our upcoming strategic China training gatherings, I can personally provide you with the name (or secure nickname) of the particular pastor/leader who you sponsor, and for whom you can continue to pray for going forward. Help Us Equip and Encourage China’s Persecuted Church Sponsor a Chinese Pastor/Evangelist for $1000! Contact me (bfwesten AT gmail dot com) Or donate directly at: MCI3.org Follow China Compass Thank you for listening! Subscribe & leave a review on your preferred podcast platform! And don’t forget to visit PrayGiveGo.us for books + Heb. 13:3: Remember those who are in prison, “as bound with them”!

❖ Today's Bible reading is Psalm 48: www.ESV.org/Psalm48 ❖ To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional: www.crossway.org/books/in-the-lord-i-take-refuge-hcj/ ❖ Browse other resources from Dane Ortlund: www.crossway.org/authors/dane-c-ortlund/

Reading by Karen Griffin ---   Ezekiel 21-22   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel%2021-22&version=ESV&interface=print

On this week’s Prison Pulpit we start out by looking at some helpful thoughts from James White’s 12 year old sermon on Hebrews 13:3, the timeless passage on which this podcast is based. Then after talking a bit about the uniquely difficult situation in India, we briefly open up the latest edition of the missionary classic, Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret, and try to learn and apply a lesson from Taylor’s experiences. I'm your China travel guide in exile, Missionary Ben. Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I share a new Chinese city to pray for every single day. Email me with any questions, comments, or complaints: bfwesten AT gmail dot com. Finally, check out my personal landing page PrayGiveGo.us for everything else, including our missions website, substack, and books. Why the Prison Pulpit? The goal is to remind people to pray for persecuted believers as Hebrews 13:3 teaches. The ESV reads: “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them” James White comments on Hebrews 13:3 (in a sermon preached on June 22, 2014 in Arizona): Remember those who are in prison: “The ones bound, the ones who are in chains” As though in prison with them: “As if you yourself were chained together with them” “There are brothers, there are sisters, who some day in the glory of heaven, you will be closer to than anyone on this earth right now, who are suffering in the name of Christ. And in our day we probably have more information and more knowledge of this than any preceding generation has ever had.” Joy as Seven Pastors Freed From Jail in India https://www.barnabasaid.org/gb/news/joy-as-seven-pastors-freed-from-jail-in-india/ FREE EBOOK: Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret https://anekopress.com/product/hudson-taylors-spiritual-secret/ Pray for China Cities of the Week (Sep 1-6): https://chinacall.substack.com/p/pray-for-china-sep-1-7-2026 If you would like to “sponsor” a Chinese church leader at one of our upcoming strategic China training gatherings, I can personally provide you with the name (or secure nickname) of the particular pastor/leader who you sponsor, and for whom you can continue to pray for going forward. Help Us Equip and Encourage China’s Persecuted Church Sponsor a Chinese Pastor/Evangelist for $1000! Contact me (bfwesten AT gmail dot com) Or donate directly at: MCI3.org Follow China Compass Thank you for listening! Subscribe & leave a review on your preferred podcast platform! And don’t forget to visit PrayGiveGo.us for books + Heb. 13:3: Remember those who are in prison, “as bound with them”!

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Job33–34;Psalm58;Luke22 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Today's Bible reading is Psalm 47: www.ESV.org/Psalm47 ❖ To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional: www.crossway.org/books/in-the-lord-i-take-refuge-hcj/ ❖ Browse other resources from Dane Ortlund: www.crossway.org/authors/dane-c-ortlund/

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Jeremiah50:1–51:64 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Fear about the future can make us question whether God will provide what we need. Financial uncertainty, unanswered prayers, changing circumstances, and long seasons of waiting can make fear louder than faith. But 2 Peter 1:3 reminds us that God’s divine power has already given us everything we need for life and godliness. That doesn't mean we will always know how our needs will be met or when the answer will come. It means we can trust the God who knows what we need before we do. Jesus points us to the birds of the air as a reminder of God's care and provision. When we focus on fear, we can lose sight of the ways God has already been faithful. But when we intentionally remember His goodness, practice gratitude, and focus our minds on what is true, our perspective begins to change. God may provide through unexpected circumstances, generous people, simple acts of kindness, or opportunities to become an answer to someone else's prayer. Whatever today holds, we can trust that God has equipped us for what He has called us to face. Highlights What 2 Peter 1:3 means when it says God has given us everything we need for “life and godliness” How fear about finances and the future can become louder than our faith Why remembering God's past faithfulness can help quiet anxiety What Jesus teaches about God's provision through the birds of the air How gratitude and focusing on God's truth can change our perspective The unexpected ways God may provide for our practical and spiritual needs How simple acts of obedience and kindness can become part of God's provision for someone else Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Equipped for Today: What "Life and Godliness" Really Means By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence” (2 Peter 1:3 ESV). It’s so easy to fall into the trap of fear, isn’t it? To focus on the limited knowledge we can see rather than the truth of what God says. I often find myself guilty of this. There are times when faith is louder than fear, yes, but there are other times when fear gets louder than my faith. What are you afraid of? Finances, or lack thereof, or the future? The list could go on and on. I’ve been thinking a lot about God’s provision recently, inspired by a much-needed conversation with a good friend. As someone who works in the creative industry, income can ebb and flow and sometimes be inconsistent, and it’s easy to let the fear of the financial future get louder than my faith. And that fear hits even closer to home right now as I watch my family navigate a similar season. You see, my dad was laid off from his job late last year, and no matter how many doors he’s knocked on, as I write this, nothing yet has come through. We know God will provide and that He’s never failed us, but as the days continue with seemingly no answers in sight, sometimes, we wrestle with fear. Dwelling on fear, as easy as it can be to fall into that trap sometimes, is quite unhealthy. Whatever we dwell on and choose to think about will naturally affect what we believe and how we live. This means if we choose to fix our eyes on things above, then that will naturally affect what we believe about God, ourselves, and the circumstances we find ourselves in. I had a moment recently where fear threatened to consume me. I’m talking about anxiety physically gripping my heart, even though at church the previous day we’d talked about the importance of believing God’s truth over the lies in our heads. Yes, the timing was quite “convenient.” There’s a reason Scripture reminds us to focus on: “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8 ESV). Instead of worrying God won’t provide, why not reflect on what He has done in our lives already? It’s good to remember and recount what the Lord has done. When I chose gratitude and to remember His goodness instead of fear, my anxiety began to ease. The truth is, God always provides for everything we need. Often it comes at what we call “the last minute,” but it is certainly never too late. I love what Peter reminds us of in this passage here. God has granted us everything we need for life and godliness. In addition to caring for our spiritual needs, God cares about our material needs as well. When it comes to the practical side, what do we need for life? In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus tells the disciples not to worry about what they will eat, wear, or drink. And in verse 26 (ESV), he says: “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Let that soak in. If God cares for the birds of the air and provides everything they need, how much more will He provide for His children? Intersecting Faith & Life: Look around you. Do you have food to eat? Clothes on your back? Maybe you don’t know how you’ll pay the bills this month, but maybe you’re not supposed to know right now. I heard a story once about a man who needed money for his little son’s birthday party, but he and his wife didn’t even have that. They didn’t know what to do, but they wanted to bless him. While out on a walk, the Lord led him to the exact amount of money he needed to bless his little boy. When you need it, God will provide it. Sometimes, He’ll provide through a family that gives eggs from their farm to yours all summer. Or who invites you over and offers to pray over you. Or maybe God will use the kindness of a friend who introduced my dad to leadership at the company he works for, in hopes it may open a door for a job. Or what about my friend who took 2 hours out of his day to point me to the Lord and be a listening ear when I didn’t even realize how much I needed it? Sometimes, it’s simple things. Sometimes, we get to be that person for someone else, not realizing how a simple act of obedience can truly bless someone’s day and be what we didn’t even realize they needed. Other times, the Lord allows us to be on the receiving end of His goodness through His children. Pray with me: Dear Father God, please help me to trust that You will give me everything I need for life and godliness. You care about the sparrows and lilies of the field, so how much more do you care for me and provide for me? Thank You for Your provision in my life. In Jesus’s Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Reading by David Griffin ---   Ezekiel 18-20   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel%2018-20&version=ESV&interface=print

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/1Samuel25;1Corinthians6;Psalms40–41;Ezekiel4 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Job31–32;Psalm57;Luke21 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Our Lead Pastor, Whit George, continues week three of our Life Lessons by sharing a simple but powerful truth from James 1: it's the doing that makes the difference. Faith was never meant to stop at hearing God's Word. True transformation happens when belief leads to action. Discover how obedience flows from relationship with God, why His commands are for our good, and how taking practical steps of faith can lead to wisdom, freedom, and a deeper walk with Christ. In this message, Pastor Whit explores the following Scriptures: JAMES 1:22-23 ESV JAMES 1:24-25 ESV MATTHEW 12:33-34 ESV ACTS 2:37 ESV HEBREWS 10:26-27 ESV ROMANS 2:4 ESV JOHN 14:15 ESV PSALM 119:47-48 ESV PSALM 40:8 ESV PSALM 1:2 ESV JEREMIAH 15:16 ESV ROMANS 7:2 ESV1 JOHN 5:3 ESV MATTHEW 7:24 ESV PSALM 119:97-98 ESV

❖ Today's Bible reading is Psalm 46: www.ESV.org/Psalm46 ❖ To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional: www.crossway.org/books/in-the-lord-i-take-refuge-hcj/ ❖ Browse other resources from Dane Ortlund: www.crossway.org/authors/dane-c-ortlund/

Have you ever woken up from a dream and wondered if it was a message from God or just your imagination? In this enlightening episode, we explore how God has spoken through dreams throughout the Bible and how He continues to do so today. Learn practical ways to determine if your dreams are divine messages, expanding your understanding of how God communicates with His people.

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Ezekiel30:20–31:18;Jeremiah48:1–49:39 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Our Broken Arrow Senior Pastor, Ethan Vanse, continues week three of our series Life Lessons, exploring James 1 and the powerful truth that spiritual growth isn't found in simply hearing God's Word, but in putting it into practice. Through biblical examples and practical application, discover how obedience, trust, and daily responsiveness to God's voice lead to the life and freedom He desires for us. In this message, Pastor Ethan explores the following Scriptures: James 1:22-25 ESV Acts 2:37 ESV Acts 2:37 ESV 1 John 5:3 KJV Ephesians 6:1-3 ESV

Reading by Dennis Kemp ---   Ezekiel 16-17   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel%2016-17&version=ESV&interface=print

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/1Samuel24;1Corinthians5;Psalm39;Ezekiel3 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Jonah's story starts with a clear command and an immediate refusal. But his disobedience wasn't really about geography; it was about trust. Week 1 of Jonah: The God Who Won't Let Go. Jonah 1:1-3, ESV.

DO THE WORD Gordon Dabbs, PhD James 1.19-27 James 1.22 (ESV) But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. God's Word has not completed its work when we hear it, study it, underline it, or agree with it. The Word completes its work as we live it. James 1.19 (ESV) Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. . . James 1.21 (ESV) Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. Alignment precedes assignment. Sometimes we ask God for new instructions while ignoring the instructions he's already given. Alignment precedes assignment. James 1.22 (ESV) . . . be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1.25 (ESV) . . . the law of liberty. . . James 1.26 (ESV) If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. James 1.27 (NLT) Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. "Visit grandma. Bring shared meals to my elderly neighbors. Walk across the street to meet my neighbors and invite them over for a meal. Call my wife more often from work and tell her how thankful and grateful I am for our life together. Wash the dishes. Go for more walks and bike rides. Remember my grandchildren's birthdays . . . Pay closer attention to my inattentive students. Fast. Pray. Tithe." - Mercer Schuchardt “Because of what God has shown me, this week I will __________.”Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

DO THE WORD Gordon Dabbs, PhD James 1.19-27 James 1.22 (ESV) But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. God's Word has not completed its work when we hear it, study it, underline it, or agree with it. The Word completes its work as we live it. James 1.19 (ESV) Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. . . James 1.21 (ESV) Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. Alignment precedes assignment. Sometimes we ask God for new instructions while ignoring the instructions he's already given. Alignment precedes assignment. James 1.22 (ESV) . . . be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1.25 (ESV) . . . the law of liberty. . . James 1.26 (ESV) If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. James 1.27 (NLT) Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. "Visit grandma. Bring shared meals to my elderly neighbors. Walk across the street to meet my neighbors and invite them over for a meal. Call my wife more often from work and tell her how thankful and grateful I am for our life together. Wash the dishes. Go for more walks and bike rides. Remember my grandchildren's birthdays . . . Pay closer attention to my inattentive students. Fast. Pray. Tithe." - Mercer Schuchardt “Because of what God has shown me, this week I will __________.”Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

“The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor. All day long he craves and craves, but the righteous gives and does not hold back.” - ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭21‬:‭25‬-‭26‬ ‭ESV‬‬

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Job29–30;Psalm56;Luke20 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

ESV 7 So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Faith calls us beyond what we can see. As Grace City Church Lakeland celebrates the Grand Opening of our new home, we look at God's call to Moses in Exodus 3:1-12 and what it means to trust God when we can't see the full picture.This new home marks an important moment for our church and gives us even more opportunity to serve our city, reach people, and continue what God has called us to do!A church worth building is one where faith is bigger than what we can see.#GraceCityChurch #churchonlineGrace City Church in Lakeland, FloridaJoin Us Every Sunday at 8:30, 10:00 & 11:30am ESTListen To Our New Album “Middle Of A Miracle”https://found.ee/MiddleOfAMiracle?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAcGRvZgJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAadaHkMiRgRfESXvSqeN-LsEpJfgza2FCNQGPrrnmUGICJ4a-8XPuE_UvXSCDA_aem_bTEYaV9UnQnyr3WT5GMfdwGive Online: https://gracecity.com/give/Said Yes to Jesus Today? Let us know! https://gracecity.churchcenter.com/people/forms/588337Stay Connected:Website: https://gracecity.com/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/gracecityfl/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracecityfl/Scripture References: Matthew 11:25-30 ESVOur Vision:Leading people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. This is the vision of Grace City Church, led by Pastors Andrew and Christina Gard in Lakeland, Florida.—#GraceCityChurch #churchonline

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Ezekiel29:1–16;Jeremiah33:1–34:22 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Reading by David Anderson ---   Ezekiel 13-15   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezekiel%2013-15&version=ESV&interface=print

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/1Samuel23;1Corinthians4;Psalm38;Ezekiel2 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org

Revelation 3: 7-8 (ESV)

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION “I miss my home, [although I] don't remember it. Sometimes, I perceive a glimmer of it nonetheless. A longing for a feeling I can't remember or even name. But I know it's real, just beyond the sunset.”~The Stranger, Rings of Power S02E01 “But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”~2 Peter 3:13 “You are both free and bound. Free, paradoxically, because, now, you have a home… And bound: to that mystery, precisely, a bondage which liberates you into something of the glory and suffering of the world.”~Zadie Smith, contemporary English writer “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”~John 1:14SERMON PASSAGEPsalm 85 (ESV)1 Lord, you were favorable to your land;   you restored the fortunes of Jacob.2 You forgave the iniquity of your people;   you covered all their sin.                      Selah3 You withdrew all your wrath;   you turned from your hot anger. 4 Restore us again, O God of our salvation,   and put away your indignation toward us!5 Will you be angry with us forever?   Will you prolong your anger to all generations?6 Will you not revive us again,   that your people may rejoice in you?7 Show us your steadfast love, O Lord,   and grant us your salvation. 8 Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,   for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints;   but let them not turn back to folly.9 Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him,   that glory may dwell in our land. 10 Steadfast love and faithfulness meet;   righteousness and peace kiss each other.11 Faithfulness springs up from the ground,   and righteousness looks down from the sky.12 Yes, the Lord will give what is good,   and our land will yield its increase.13 Righteousness will go before him   and make his footsteps a way.

Revelation 19:11–21The Rider on a White Horse[11] Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. [12] His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. [13] He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. [14] And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. [15] From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. [16] On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.[17] Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, “Come, gather for the great supper of God, [18] to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great.” [19] And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. [20] And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. [21] And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh. (ESV)

Audio Recording Justice Rev. Tim Chang Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: ProverbsProverbs 21:3; 28:5; 14:31; 21:13; 14:20-21 (ESV)21:3 To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.28:5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it completely.14:31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.2:13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.14:20 The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends.21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.Sermon Outline1. The centrality of justiceProverbs 21:3 To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.Proverbs 28:5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it completely.2. The reality of injusticeProverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors himProverbs 21:13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.Proverbs 14:20 The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends.Proverbs 14:21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.3. The God of justiceProverbs 14:21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinnerProverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his MakerProverbs 21:13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.Prayer of ConfessionOur Heavenly Father, you are the God of justice. You always do what is right and good. But we confess that we fail to do righteousness and justice. We fail to love our neighbors. We close our ears to the cry of the poor. We favor those who bring us benefit. We choose to protect our own advantage. Forgive us. We deserve your just judgment, not your mercy. But in your kindness, you sent Jesus, who disadvantaged himself for our good. Jesus received the judgment we deserved and gave us the mercy we did not deserve. May this gift of the gospel change our hearts and lives, that we would do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?What are some ways Christians today can be faithful in reading the Bible, prayer, and going to church, but still neglect righteousness and justice in everyday life?Reflect on Proverbs 28:5. What connection does this verse make between seeking the Lord and understanding justice? Why do the two belong together? Consider the idea that the wicked “advantage themselves by disadvantaging others.” Where do you see this dynamic in your life? Reflect on Proverbs 21:13. What's the difference between actively harming someone and passively ignoring someone's suffering? Why do you think the Bible takes both seriously?How does Jesus reverse the patterns of injustice in these passages? How does the cross of Christ demonstrate both God's justice and his mercy? How does the mercy of Jesus compel us to pursue justice? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

For God does speak—now one way, now another— though no one perceives it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on people  as they slumber in their beds, he may speak in their ears and terrify them with warnings, to turn them from wrongdoing and keep them from pride, to preserve them from the pit,  their lives from perishing by the sword. —Job 33:14–18, ESV

A message from our sermon series - Sacred Exhortations - A study in the Psalms - Psalm 133 (ESV).

Revelation 2:8-11 “Suffering and The Greater Crown”Series: RevelationPreacher: Bill HarritSunday MorningDate: 30th August 2026Passage: Revelation 2:8-11

- Why do we sometimes think we know what God is or isn't doing? - Isaiah 45:1-13 ESV - What area of life will I give over to God's sovereignty? centerwaychurch.com/no-other

Audio Recording Justice Rev. Tim Chang Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: ProverbsProverbs 21:3; 28:5; 14:31; 21:13; 14:20-21 (ESV)21:3 To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.28:5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it completely.14:31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.2:13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.14:20 The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends.21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.Sermon Outline1. The centrality of justiceProverbs 21:3 To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.Proverbs 28:5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it completely.2. The reality of injusticeProverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors himProverbs 21:13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.Proverbs 14:20 The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends.Proverbs 14:21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.3. The God of justiceProverbs 14:21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinnerProverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his MakerProverbs 21:13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.Prayer of ConfessionOur Heavenly Father, you are the God of justice. You always do what is right and good. But we confess that we fail to do righteousness and justice. We fail to love our neighbors. We close our ears to the cry of the poor. We favor those who bring us benefit. We choose to protect our own advantage. Forgive us. We deserve your just judgment, not your mercy. But in your kindness, you sent Jesus, who disadvantaged himself for our good. Jesus received the judgment we deserved and gave us the mercy we did not deserve. May this gift of the gospel change our hearts and lives, that we would do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?What are some ways Christians today can be faithful in reading the Bible, prayer, and going to church, but still neglect righteousness and justice in everyday life?Reflect on Proverbs 28:5. What connection does this verse make between seeking the Lord and understanding justice? Why do the two belong together? Consider the idea that the wicked “advantage themselves by disadvantaging others.” Where do you see this dynamic in your life? Reflect on Proverbs 21:13. What's the difference between actively harming someone and passively ignoring someone's suffering? Why do you think the Bible takes both seriously?How does Jesus reverse the patterns of injustice in these passages? How does the cross of Christ demonstrate both God's justice and his mercy? How does the mercy of Jesus compel us to pursue justice? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Gospel Centered MinistrySpeaker: Matt CoburnSunday MorningDate: 30th August 2026Passage: 2 Corinthians 4:1-18

TODAY'S DAILY SPONSOR: Today’s episode is sponsored by Morning Mindset listener, Dylan. He says, “The Morning Mindset has helped me daily with my walk with Christ. I pray that this podcast continues to make a great impact in peoples lives.”

❖ Follow along with today's reading: www.esv.org/Job27–28;Psalm55;Luke19 ❖ The English Standard Version (ESV) is an 'essentially literal' translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes 'word-for-word' accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning. ❖ To learn more about the ESV and other audio resources, please visit www.ESV.org