Podcasts about everything god

Don't get into fear when you hear the word predestination in the Bible. Everything God has planned for our lives is good, but we do reap what we sow. There is good news: God has not "sovereignly" willed bad or evil for our lives. He is always working to bring good, but our own choices dictate whether we partner with God's plan for our lives.  

Main Idea: On the way back from Jerusalem, Mary and Joseph can't find Jesus because he's hanging out at the temple soaking up every word. He's listening with wide eyes no doubt. Later in his ministry we know that he depends on both his knowledge of scripture and his relationship with his father in heaven. Perhaps we need to recover the story seeking of children who always love to listen to stories. God's story is the overarching story of our lives. Scriptures: Luke 2:41-52

June 01, 2025 Daily Devotion: "The Blessed Day of Rest"Genesis 2:3 New Living Translation 3 And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation. Are you a little grumpy when you're tired? A lot grumpy? It's okay; we're all friends here. The fact is that exhaustion doesn't bring out the joy in people. Things that wouldn't even faze us on a good day can bring out the crazy in us when we've been too tired for too long. Everything God does has a purpose. When we read about something He did or said, we should really take note. During creation, for instance, He made a point of resting. Why would He do that? God wasn't weary from all the work (Isaiah 40:28). He wasn't about to take a nap (Psalm 121:4). God rested so that His people would follow His example (Exodus 16:30). It's okay to take a break and be refreshed. If you find yourself missing the joy and wondering when you became so irritable, carve out sometime to rest. It was important enough for God to set the example; let's follow it. Joyful people know how to rest.

The writer to the Hebrews says, you know what? In the past God spoke in various ways. God made himself known through miracles and the writings of the prophets. But let me tell you right now, this is how God declares himself, in His son. And the son is the exact representation of the Father. Everything God wanted us to know about who He is, He made known to Jesus. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1170/29

In a world where many doubt true transformation is possible, Ron Adkins' story proves otherwise in the most dramatic way. Once known as one of the most violent inmates in the prison system—serving nearly 600 years in sentences and spending 13 years in solitary confinement—Ron's life took a radical turn. Through a powerful spiritual awakening and a redefinition of his identity, he transformed from a feared gang member into a beacon of redemption and hope.This episode isn't just inspirational—it's a deep dive into the power of human potential. Ron shares how he broke free not just from physical restraints, but from the mental and emotional chains of his past. His story reveals the true nature of courage, the importance of identity in personal change, and how even the darkest chapters can become the foundation for a life of purpose and service.Key Quotes:• "Bravery is not being unafraid. It's doing it even though you're afraid, doing it while you're afraid." - Ron Adkins• "Everything God does is redemptive. He's the Redeemer." - Ron Adkins• "Writing is thinking. When you're writing, you're putting your thoughts down to paper, you're really digging down and really organizing your thoughts." - Ron Adkins• "It's continuously asking ourselves that as our knowledge grows."- Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:• Examine your personal identity - who are you telling yourself you are, and is that story limiting your potential?• Practice courage by doing things that scare you, understanding that bravery isn't the absence of fear, but action despite fear• Seek out mentors and spiritual guidance who can help you see your inherent value• Regularly reflect on your life story, looking for moments of divine intervention or unexpected grace• Start writing - use writing as a tool for thinking, processing, and understanding your personal journeyConclusion:Ron Adkins' story is living proof that transformation is always possible. Once facing 599 years in prison, he's now a voice of hope and redemption, showing that identity is a choice, not a life sentence. His journey reminds us that courage means acting despite fear, and that with faith, any path can be redirected. Ron's message isn't just about his past—it's a call to believe in your own power to change. Learn more at RadicalRestorationMinistries.com.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 2 Sam 21-23; 1 Thess 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! In today's episode, host Hunter invites us to journey through day 133 of our adventure in the Scriptures. We dive into the dramatic and moving stories of 2 Samuel chapters 21–23, witnessing the final days of King David, including the resolution of a long-standing famine, the tales of his mighty warriors, and David's heartfelt songs of praise to God. We also begin a new journey in the New Testament with 1 Thessalonians chapter 1, where Paul's words challenge and inspire us to see others through the lens of God's love. Hunter reflects on how an encounter with Jesus can transform our hearts and perspectives, encouraging us to embrace a love that reaches beyond our own borders and communities. Closing with thoughtful prayer and the Lord's Prayer, this episode is both a deep dive into Scripture and a gentle invitation to let God's joy and love shape our day. Stay tuned for encouragement, insight, and a reminder that you are truly loved—no doubt about it. TODAY'S DEVOTION: God's love changes everything—including how we see others. Here in 1 Thessalonians 1, Paul makes a remarkable declaration. He looks at this young, Gentile church in Thessalonica—people so different from him, people who didn't keep kosher or follow all the right traditions—and he says with conviction: “We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people.” For someone like Paul, who had grown up believing gentiles were outside the fold, excluded from God's love and promises, this was a radical shift. What happened? Paul had encountered Jesus. And when you meet Jesus, you begin to see people the way God sees them. That's what Jesus does: he changes how we see and love others. He broadens the boundaries of our hearts. Our natural tendency is to draw circles around those who look like us, those who think or act or believe like us. But when we encounter Christ, our eyes open to just how big God's love really is. Suddenly, we see neighbors, strangers, even those we once called outsiders, as loved and chosen—just as we are. Paul says, “now the word of the Lord is ringing out from you to people everywhere.” Transformation ignites a ripple effect. The Thessalonians, having received and experienced this all-inclusive love, became living messengers, carrying God's welcome everywhere they went. They became an example of what God's love can do in a community—and for the world. Let's make that our prayer and our posture: that the boundaries of God's love would expand in our own hearts, and that our encounter with Christ would cause us to see all people as loved and chosen. Let the word of the Lord ring out from us—our families, our churches, our very lives—declaring that God's invitation is for everyone. May every day be a day when our vision is shaped not by old ways of seeing, by fear or favoritism, but by the revolutionary grace that Jesus brings. That's a prayer I have for my own soul, for my family, for my wife, my daughters, my son, and that's a prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Loving God, you have knit us together in the body of Christ from every nation and tongue. Make us a vessel of your peace today. Where hatred stirs, let us bear your love. Where wounds run deep, let us be agents of pardon. Where fear grips hearts, may we speak faith. Where sorrow hangs heavy, may we carry joy. Teach us to listen more than we speak, to understand before we are understood, to love. For in surrender, we find abundance. In mercy, we discover grace. And in dying, we rise into your life. In the name of Jesus. 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 trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. 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  

The post I Believe Everything God Says appeared first on Living Fellowship.

Today's Promise: John 7:39 So many Christians know very little about the Holy Spirit. Yet, when you gave your heart to Christ, the Holy Spirit took up residence in you. Everything God is doing in your life today, He does through the Holy Spirit. Today we look at seven ways the Holy Spirit is working in our lives today. The secret to a successful Christian life is walking in the power God gives us through the Holy Spirit.

What is holiness? To be holy is to be consecrated, set apart, and dedicated to God. For some, this seems daunting. We can be intimidated by the word holy or the knowledge that God wants us to be holy. After all, we know our failings and shortcomings all too well.Main Points:1. But we must see that holiness is a good thing. Everything God calls us to pursue is for our good. Holiness is not outward actions and behaviors achieved in our strength. Becoming holy is a pursuit entered through the grace of God and developed with the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. In other words, you cannot become holy apart from God's help. He does not call us to become something without enabling us to do it.2. How can we get back on the track of pursuing holiness? To pursue holiness we actively seek and strive for a life that is set apart for God. It's a lifestyle characterized by moral purity, righteousness, and devotion to Him. It involves aligning our thoughts, attitudes, actions, and lifestyles with the principles and teachings of God's Word.3. Pursuing holiness involves separating ourselves from sinful behaviors, attitudes, and influences. It means turning away from anything that contradicts God's character and choosing to live a life that honors Him. Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 12:14 - “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”2 Corinthians 7:1 - “Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”1 Peter 1:14-15 - “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

 Wisdom Key #122

Everything God has done in history, He has done as Christians' covenant God

Everything God has done in history, He has done as Christians' covenant God

It is said every snowflake has a unique pattern given to it by God. Is it any wonder that each one of us is divinely and uniquely created by God? Papa Tom seeks out uniquely created children of God who have a story to tell. This podcast reveals one such individual who is endowed with a unique wiring for music. Come listen to Erskin Annavitarte describe how God our Father has wired him for music. Erskin is not just a musician, he is an artist who can assemble music for audiences. In our interview, he reminded me of the movie August Rush for those of you who have seen it. Everyone of us is uniquely created with talents and gifts, Erskin's gifts and talent are in music. Come listen as we discuss sound and frequencies, interesting scientific and spiritual aspects of music and sound. The effects of sounds and frequencies on our souls and our bodies to create and edify or, sadly to tear down or destroy. Everything God created, was created by speaking it into existence. In other words, sound energy. Everything tangible is composed of sound energy, hence, frequencies . A question is posed: "Can you hear the sound of the Father's voice in the music you hear?" Can you hear it in the words that are being spoken? or the frequencies being released? Lucifer could create music, but he did not use it for good. God creates everything good and for His purposes. I assure you, you will learn something new when you take a listen and you will be blessed in the learning of it. Information is provided in the podcast for you to connect with Erskin and download his music for your enjoyment and edification.Blessings:Papa Tom

In this powerful message, we're reminded that miracles are not just stories from ancient times, but living realities for those who need them today. The central story of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15 teaches us about persistence in prayer and the power of faith.Notes for this sermon: https://bit.ly/4kx42gKWebsite | https://lifechurchww.comFacebook | https://facebook.com/lifechurchwwInstagram | https://instagram.com/lifechurchwwVida Music | https://vidamsc.com

Dave Brisbin 3.2.25 Jesus doesn't save anyone passively, in spite of themselves, beyond their willingness to actively engage a way of experiencing transformed life he calls Kingdom. If we're waiting for a savior, no one is coming. If we're waiting for anything, we're not in Kingdom. Waiting is passive, not yet; Kingdom is always in motion, herenow. Jesus saves by empowering us to act in ways we may have thought not possible or not allowed. He shows us the process of fundamental change, challenging us to make the small choices we can make now to start dominos falling toward radical transformation not yet. The good news of the gospels is that God is all poured out. Everything God is and has to offer is already herenow. Nothing withheld…Kingdom within, in our midst. Jesus' message tells us that we are empowered to accept the everything of God any time and always, and his Way is the unavoidable process of realizing our empowerment, only and always experiential—the choice by increasingly audacious choice or trust. Tragically, we've been taught a disempowering God who mirrors human leaders to whom we must appeal, who keep us waiting for what we need. If we're waiting, we're not empowered, not in Kingdom, and such a God is anathema to Jesus. Yet we've also been taught that God is disempowered himself and only half of the cosmic equation. The other half, Satan, God's arch enemy and opponent, has the power to lead us into temptation. We imagine ourselves pawns in this cosmic battle, victims, collateral damage in a scorched earth. That is anathema to the Jews who wrote the scriptures from which we extract such a creature as Satan. For Jews, God is unopposable, the One without opposite. No battle is possible, and ha-satan, the adversary, is God's agent—whether a person, spiritual being, or our own inclination to evil—providing us with the alternate choices that make free will real. But the choice is always ours, and ha-satan has no power over us that we don't give. Jesus is telling us we are not victims. Everything we need is right here. The choice is always ours to break through any resistance that would tell us otherwise. Empowered.

Everything God created in the Garden was good—but why did He allow a deceiving serpent and a deadly tree to exist? Was it a test of devotion, or part of a greater plan pointing to Christ? We are not meant to be alone—we have Jesus, our spouses, and the Body of Christ to strengthen, support, and uplift one another. When we love and aid each other, we reflect God's divine plan for unity and purpose. This week, we dive into the profound mystery of why it was “not good” for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18) and how God's design for relationships, marriage, and the Body of Christ reflect His love and purpose.

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If what you're being taught isn't moving you to be centered in Christ and living out love then it's not God. Keep testing what you hear against what John teaches us in 1 John 4 and keep testing it. It's ok to wonder and ask questions when it comes to building your spiritual life. Everything God does flows from love and that's how you know it's God. If that's not what you're experiencing then maybe it's time to renovate your spiritual life and test your foundation against who God is and what Jesus lives out in scripture. 

January 12, 2025 The post Everything God Can Do appeared first on Crossview EFCA Church.

January 12, 2025 The post Everything God Can Do appeared first on Crossview EFCA Church.

Like it is today, divorce was a controversial topic in Jesus' day. Old Testament laws allowed it, while New Testament laws forbade it. So what was Jesus' response to this issue? He highlighted the sacred beauty of marriage. God created marriage to be between one man and one woman. Everything God makes is good—including marriage!

Why should we cultivate gratitude in our lives? On this week's episode of The Alex McFarland Show, Alex discusses seven reasons to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and what the Bible says about this topic. This episode is packed with scriptures to encourage and equip you to praise the living God with a thankful heart.7 Reasons to Cultivate a Spirit of Gratitude:It is God's will. (1Thess. 5:18)God is Good. (Psalm 107:1Gratitude is commanded and expected by our Maker. (Col. 3:17)It will enhance your prayer life. (Col. 4:2)Everything God is doing or allowing in your life is ultimately good and for your good. (James 1:7)For the Bible. He has shown us all things for life and godliness. (2 Peter 1:3)Gratitude on earth is proactive for the appreciation you will show when you see Jesus face to face. (Psalm 100:4)Scriptures:Malachi 3Hebrews 131 Thessalonians 5:18Psalm 100:4, 107:1, 136:1, 119:62 & 1641 Chronicles 16:34James 1:17Colossians 3:17, 4:2Ephesians 5:20Luke 18:1Romans 8:282 Peter 1:3Alex McFarland WebsiteAsk Alex OnlineMy Relationship with God BookletThe Cove - July 18th-20th, 2025 & July 28th-Aug 1st, 2025Speaking EventsBook AlexDonateAlex McFarland MinistriesP.O. Box 485Pleasant Garden, NC 273131-877-937-4631 (1-877-YES-GOD1)Send us a text

Everything God has promised, and we've prayed to manifest in our lives demands. He has to get us ready for what He has ready for us. Because, His preparation isn't just for us to receive but retain His blessings without them hindering our communion & connection with Him in the face of public temptation, opposition & accusation. So He prepares us for His best, the best way possible.How God prepares me for the promise, He:Redirects my lifeRefines my lifeRevises my lifeRedefines my lifeBig So What:Don't let "how" God prepares me cause me to forget "why" God has prepared me!

The Big Picture of the King and His Kingdom I want you to recall the five meta-narratives of the entire Bible from my previous sermon: God is completely unique; God gave us dominion of the Earth; we have rebelled against God and are in exile; God has been and will continue to repair the fix we are in; God will reestablish our place in Eden and on Earth. I also want you to think about how the Kingdom of God stretches out into eternity past and eternity future. In our own human history, the Kingdom of God started in a garden that resided in the land of Eden. The Garden of Eden was a real and specific location on Earth where Heaven and Earth co-existed. Isaiah and Ezekiel talk about this location being not only a garden but also a mountain (Isaiah 14:13-14 and Ezekiel 28:13-14). In Eastern and Mesopotamian cultures, a garden was where the king would spend leisure time with his family. It was also where kings met with their cabinet members. The garden inside the land of Eden then was a place created by God where Adam and Eve had fellowship with their heavenly Father. This is also where God met with His council members. These were angelic authorities, celestial beings, who were administrative rulers in God's kingdom. No doubt, Adam and Eve would have had multiple interactions with these beings while they lived in the Garden of God. This is why Eve did not freak out when the serpent spoke to her in Genesis 3. She had seen these beings before. Remember, there is no snake mentioned in the text of Genesis 3. In Hebrew, he is called the nachash [1]. The being that talked with Eve was a supernatural, ancient, super intelligent, celestial being, probably a seraph.  A seraph was one of the highest orders of throne guardians that surrounded God's throne. He may have been one of God's council members in the past. Once Adam and Eve agreed to follow the nachash, they sabotaged their relationship with God and their ability to spread the dominion of Eden to the rest of the globe. Nonetheless, God has been moving forward to correct this dilemma for thousands of years. He is still using His heavenly and earthly councils to redeem the earth. The King and His Council All nations have kings or some sort of leadership that resembles kingship. Even our own Democratic Republic has fallen under the rule of people acting like kings. All kings have council members to help them administer their rule over the affairs of their kingdom. Human leaders did not make this concept up. It existed long before the Earth was created. The first council is the one that God established before the creation week of Earth. It's called the Divine Council. Now, even though God does not need help ruling over His universe, He insists on sharing responsibilities with the beings that He has made. Whether they are human or celestial. The problem is that among the celestial beings, certain council members rebelled against God. You may want to call them the infernal council. They absolutely hate God's human children and all righteous celestial beings who have remained loyal to God. Just as the Divine Council existed before the creation week, so too do I believe this rebellion occurred before the creation week. Others believe that it occurred possibly on Day 2 or 4 of the creation or soon after. Which ever position you take, it was a horrendous betrayal towards God and His remaining loyal family members. The King Delegates Responsibilities to His Divine Council Consider this: although Yahweh is supreme over His council, He allows them to discuss solutions. He then delegates to them authority for particular assignments. However, Yahweh is unique and superior to His council members. Scripture is full of examples where Yahweh is shown to rule among His council members. One example is Psalm 89:5-7: Let the heavens praise your wonders, O LORD (Yahweh), your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones! For who in the skies can be compared to the LORD (Yahweh)? Who among the heavenly beings [2] is like the LORD (Yahweh), God greatly to be feared in the council of the holy ones, and awesome above all who are around him?   Some argue that the “holy ones” are human leaders, human “saints.” But the context proves otherwise because the residence of these council members is “in the skies.” Another example is in Daniel 4:17. Although Yahweh is supreme over His council members, He allows them to form and implement their own solutions: The sentence is by the decree of the watchers (council members), the decision by the word of the holy ones, to the end that the living may know that the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will and sets over it the lowliest of men. The council formed the solution for Nebuchadnezzar's arrogance and then they carried out the sentence. This resulted in the humbling of Nebuchadnezzar and the declaration of God's ultimate power over all nations. This is similar to 1Kings 22. A heavenly council meeting was called to determine the fate of Ahab, the wicked king of Israel. God allowed His divine council to deliberate Ahab's demise. Here are verses 19-23: And Micaiah said, “Therefore hear the word of the Lord (Yahweh): I saw the Lord sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven (council members) standing beside him on his right hand and on his left; and the Lord said, ‘Who will entice Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?'And one said one thing, and another said another. Then a spirit came forward and stood before the Lord, saying, ‘I will entice him.' And the Lord said to him, ‘By what means?'And he said, ‘I will go out, and will be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.'And he said, ‘You are to entice him, and you shall succeed; go out and do so.' Now therefore behold, the Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these your prophets; the Lord has declared disaster for you.” Both stories are about kings who have ignored warnings from Yahweh. Notice also that in both cases God allowed His celestial council members to deliberate the solution and then implement the punishment.   The Infernal Council Moses warned Israel not to worship the “host of heaven” in Deuteronomy 4:19 because of the Tower of Babel affair. After the Tower of Babel event occurred, celestial authorities were assigned to govern the nations and then shepherd them back into a right relationship with God. This is Moses' point in Deuteronomy 32:8-9: When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God [3] (angelic authorities). But the LORD's portion is his people, Jacob his allotted heritage. At some point, these heavenly shepherds became corrupt and received the worship of men. This is the point Moses is making in all of Deuteronomy 32: worship belongs to Yahweh only; do not worship the gods of the nations because they are rebel council members. This relates to Psalm 82, where Yahweh crashes a council meeting among the fallen heavenly shepherds and rebukes them for their rebellion. Verses 1 through 4 say: God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment: “How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Selah Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 58:1-2 captures this same idea: Do you indeed decree what is right, you gods? Do you judge the children of man uprightly? No, in your hearts you devise wrongs; your hands deal out violence on earth. Some argue that these passages do not support the Divine Council worldview. They see Psalm 82 as an event where God enters a council meeting of earthly kings and judges. I would respectfully push back – verse 7 proves that God is not angry at mere humans in this scene. He is rebuking fallen entities when He says that they will die like mere men. This would not be a punishment if God were rebuking human rebels. Again, it is important to understand that this passage is not talking about humans who have offended God; it is talking about fallen angelic authorities. These beings were once righteous participants of Yahweh's council. Everything God creates is good and perfect. They began their journey in agreement with the plans and purposes of God. I don't accept the theological concept, as some do, that Yahweh created them as evil entities to begin with; or that He created them with the idea that they would one day rebel in order to advance His own glory. Nevertheless, they did rebel. And since they had once been part of God's kingdom, they naturally formed their own authority structures based off of the kingdom they rejected. So, I believe that the infernal council is an imitation of what they once experienced in the Kingdom of God.   This is not Polytheism, This is not Mormonism In the last sermon, I covered several attributes that prove that Yahweh is completely different than all other elohim, or the “sons of God” that He created to operate in His council. God is omnipresent, omnipotent, omniscient, eternal, and immutable. He is the creator of all other heavenly beings; He existed before them. He can strip them of their immortality, and no heavenly being can outmaneuver Him. This is important to know because of the resistance you will get from those who are unfamiliar with this subject. People will want to categorize you as a polytheist or a Mormon. Neither of these are true. Most ancient cultures were polytheistic in nature. They believed in many gods. Often there was a chief god ruling the lesser gods and demigods. They often incorporated succession stories where one chief god was defeated in battle by a lesser god, who then became the leader. But what I am teaching is that our God is different. He is not a leader among a group of gods who are similar in nature; He is infinitely higher in supremacy. Again, He is the uncreated Creator. There is no being equal to Him. However, as I have already outlined, He assigns authority and responsibility to the heavenly sons of God, which He created. He also expects us to occupy our territory while expanding His kingdom.   I am also not teaching Mormonism. Mormons teach that you can become a god; in fact, they claim that God was once like us. Joseph Smith said: “It is the first principle of the Gospel to know for a certainty the Character of God. . . . He was once a man like us; . . . God himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus Christ himself did” [4]   But I insist that Mormonism is incorrect. I teach that God was never a created being. John 4:24 says, God is spirit (not a man), and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” Again, as I outlined in the last sermon, there are unique attributes that belong only to Yahweh and no other being. Conclusion The Divine Council worldview has solid biblical backing. First, we see in several places that God is supreme yet also delegates His authority to a celestial council of lesser beings. These council members are called the “sons of God” in the Old Testament. Second, we see that certain members of this council rebelled against God and formed their own wicked authority structures. The Divine Council worldview that I am advocating is not a salvation issue. Those who disagree are not my enemies; however, without it, I believe you will have a truncated understanding of the spiritual realm. Some simply see the spiritual realm as more of a fairy tale than a reality. To them, heaven is nothing more than an eternal vacation spot where you sit on clouds and play harps. This kind of thinking is childish; there is so much more going on. One of my biggest complaints about modern Christianity is that it refuses to leave elementary school, so to speak. Many churches teach superficial concepts, and as a result, their congregations are withering in the shallow soil of mediocrity. And so, over the last several generations, the church has raised a gaggle of believers who barely understand their Bible and their God. The Divine Council worldview has helped me back up and look at the whole tapestry of Scripture. When I read a passage, I find threads that move in multiple directions and create larger ideas. For me, understanding the Bible through the Divine Council worldview has been as stunning as going from a black and white TV to the brilliant colors of plasma TV. It's like watching an action movie with a pair of good 3-D glasses. JCN 7/24 [1] In the Hebrew text, this rebel being is called han nachash, the nachash (Gen.3:1,2,4,13,14). As a noun, nachash means serpent (think more of a dragon rather than a snake); as a verb, it means a deceiver or a diviner; as an adjective, it means bronze or an object that is brazen or a radiant being that glows from within. All three meanings are at play here. The ideas of luminosity, serpentine features, and divine wisdom all relate to a divine throne guardian being. Both Hebrew and Gentile readers would have instantly understood this concept. Both seraphim and cherubim are known as guardians around God's throne. The Hebrew word seraph (Is. 6:2) especially relates here because its meaning derives from a burning, fiery serpentine being.   [2] In Hebrew: ben el the “sons of God,” the celestial beings of heaven.  [3]Some translations render the phrase as “sons of Israel,” while others render it “sons of God.” I believe that translations like KJV, NIV, and NASB are misinformed to render the phrase as “sons of Israel.” The phrase “sons of Israel” follows the Masoretic Texts, which were edited by Jewish scholars in the middle ages who were hostile to Christianity, and the supernatural appearances of the 2nd person of the Trinity (Jesus) throughout Old Testament passages. The Septuagint and the Dead Sea Scrolls uphold the phrase “sons of God.” Both of these sources were penned by Jewish scholars about 1000 years before the Masoretic Texts were collated. [4]Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith, 1976, pp. 345 –46.

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In Ecclesiastes 3:9-14 and John 1, Pastor Jim explains how the eternal God places eternity in our hearts. Everything God does lasts forever, and that includes the endurance of our souls. We recognize that our response to Jesus is directly linked to how we spend eternity. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: Ecclesiastes 3:9-14 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 27th, 2024.

In Ecclesiastes 3:9-14 and John 1, Pastor Jim explains how the eternal God places eternity in our hearts. Everything God does lasts forever, and that includes the endurance of our souls. We recognize that our response to Jesus is directly linked to how we spend eternity. Speaker: Minister & Senior Pastor, Jim Samra Passage: Ecclesiastes 3:9-14 This was recorded live in Grand Rapids, MI on October 27th, 2024.

Everything God does is through faith! We apply what we know about faith to so much of our lives, but what about having faith in God for the healing of our nation? If you're ready to see a radical release of the power of God in our country, listen to Richard Harris's encouraging message on how to have faith and hope for America! For more resources and to view our upcoming conferences and events: www.charisbiblecollege.org

Today's episode Pastor Todd & Katie Holmes speak what it means to sabotage yourself with doubt and negative mindsets. A lot of people think very little of themselves and this is NOT a good thing! God created you for excellence and as you begin to pursue a relationship with and knowing Hi, you will discover who HE made you to be! He makes ALL THINGS NEW, including YOU! Don't just sit back and wait, go after EVERYTHING God has for you! NEW EPISODES every Monday & Friday @ Noon. https://www.facebook.com/TheRiverOfTriCities/ https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiverofTriCitiesChurch https://www.instagram.com/rivertcchurch/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/thelastdayspodcast/?hl=en

What frogs in your life are you tolerating and won't let God remove? Everything God has for your life – MUST be built. But before He builds it, God wants to clear out the field to make way for better things. Peel back the fingers on that thing you are holding on to from your past and give it to God. Stop dealing with it tomorrow – deal with it today! At Union, we exist to help people unite with purpose. This is the podcast of Union Church led by Pastor Stephen Chandler. Connect With Us https://theunionchurch.com | Website  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBnAXqF7XlgHetiQlgtk-BQ  | Youtube  https://www.instagram.com/weareunionchurch/?hl=en | Instagram    

The Big Picture of the King and His Kingdom I want you to recall the five meta-narratives of the entire Bible from my previous sermon: God is completely unique; God gave us dominion of the Earth; we have rebelled against God and are in exile; God has been and will continue to repair the fix we are in; God will reestablish our place in Eden and on Earth. I also want you to think about how the Kingdom of God stretches out into eternity past and eternity future. In our own human history, the Kingdom of God started in a garden that resided in the land of Eden. The Garden of Eden was a real and specific location on Earth where Heaven and Earth co-existed. Isaiah and Ezekiel talk about this location being not only a garden but also a mountain (Isaiah 14:13-14 and Ezekiel 28:13-14). In Eastern and Mesopotamian cultures, a garden was where the king would spend leisure time with his family. It was also where kings met with their cabinet members. The garden inside the land of Eden then was a place created by God where Adam and Eve had fellowship with their heavenly Father. This is also where God met with His council members. These were angelic authorities, celestial beings, who were administrative rulers in God's kingdom. No doubt, Adam and Eve would have had multiple interactions with these beings while they lived in the Garden of God. This is why Eve did not freak out when the serpent spoke to her in Genesis 3. She had seen these beings before. Remember, there is no snake mentioned in the text of Genesis 3. In Hebrew, he is called the nachash [1]. The being that talked with Eve was a supernatural, ancient, super intelligent, celestial being, probably a seraph.  A seraph was one of the highest orders of throne guardians that surrounded God's throne. He may have been one of God's council members in the past. Once Adam and Eve agreed to follow the nachash, they sabotaged their relationship with God and their ability to spread the dominion of Eden to the rest of the globe. Nonetheless, God has been moving forward to correct this dilemma for thousands of years. He is still using His heavenly and earthly councils to redeem the earth. The King and His Council All nations have kings or some sort of leadership that resembles kingship. Even our own Democratic Republic has fallen under the rule of people acting like kings. All kings have council members to help them administer their rule over the affairs of their kingdom. Human leaders did not make this concept up. It existed long before the Earth was created. The first council is the one that God established before the creation week of Earth. It's called the Divine Council. Now, even though God does not need help ruling over His universe, He insists on sharing responsibilities with the beings that He has made. Whether they are human or celestial. The problem is that among the celestial beings, certain council members rebelled against God. You may want to call them the infernal council. They absolutely hate God's human children and all righteous celestial beings who have remained loyal to God. Just as the Divine Council existed before the creation week, so too do I believe this rebellion occurred before the creation week. Others believe that it occurred possibly on Day 2 or 4 of the creation or soon after. Which ever position you take, it was a horrendous betrayal towards God and His remaining loyal family members. The King Delegates Responsibilities to His Divine Council Consider this: although Yahweh is supreme over His council, He allows them to discuss solutions. He then delegates to them authority for particular assignments. However, Yahweh is unique and superior to His council members. Scripture is full of examples where Yahweh is shown to rule among His council members. One example is Psalm 89:5-7: Let the heavens praise your wonders, O LORD (Yahweh), your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones! For who in the skies can be compared to the LORD (Yahweh)? Who among the heavenly beings [2] is like the LORD (Yahweh), God greatly to be feared in the council of the holy ones, and awesome above all who are around him?   Some argue that the “holy ones” are human leaders, human “saints.” But the context proves otherwise because the residence of these council members is “in the skies.” Another example is in Daniel 4:17. Although Yahweh is supreme over His council members, He allows them to form and implement their own solutions: The sentence is by the decree of the watchers (council members), the decision by the word of the holy ones, to the end that the living may know that the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will and sets over it the lowliest of men. The council formed the solution for Nebuchadnezzar's arrogance and then they carried out the sentence. This resulted in the humbling of Nebuchadnezzar and the declaration of God's ultimate power over all nations. This is similar to 1Kings 22. A heavenly council meeting was called to determine the fate of Ahab, the wicked king of Israel. God allowed His divine council to deliberate Ahab's demise. Here are verses 19-23: And Micaiah said, “Therefore hear the word of the Lord (Yahweh): I saw the Lord sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven (council members) standing beside him on his right hand and on his left; and the Lord said, ‘Who will entice Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?'And one said one thing, and another said another. Then a spirit came forward and stood before the Lord, saying, ‘I will entice him.' And the Lord said to him, ‘By what means?'And he said, ‘I will go out, and will be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.'And he said, ‘You are to entice him, and you shall succeed; go out and do so.' Now therefore behold, the Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these your prophets; the Lord has declared disaster for you.” Both stories are about kings who have ignored warnings from Yahweh. Notice also that in both cases God allowed His celestial council members to deliberate the solution and then implement the punishment.   The Infernal Council Moses warned Israel not to worship the “host of heaven” in Deuteronomy 4:19 because of the Tower of Babel affair. After the Tower of Babel event occurred, celestial authorities were assigned to govern the nations and then shepherd them back into a right relationship with God. This is Moses' point in Deuteronomy 32:8-9: When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God [3] (angelic authorities). But the LORD's portion is his people, Jacob his allotted heritage. At some point, these heavenly shepherds became corrupt and received the worship of men. This is the point Moses is making in all of Deuteronomy 32: worship belongs to Yahweh only; do not worship the gods of the nations because they are rebel council members. This relates to Psalm 82, where Yahweh crashes a council meeting among the fallen heavenly shepherds and rebukes them for their rebellion. Verses 1 through 4 say: God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment: “How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Selah Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 58:1-2 captures this same idea: Do you indeed decree what is right, you gods? Do you judge the children of man uprightly? No, in your hearts you devise wrongs; your hands deal out violence on earth. Some argue that these passages do not support the Divine Council worldview. They see Psalm 82 as an event where God enters a council meeting of earthly kings and judges. I would respectfully push back – verse 7 proves that God is not angry at mere humans in this scene. He is rebuking fallen entities when He says that they will die like mere men. This would not be a punishment if God were rebuking human rebels. Again, it is important to understand that this passage is not talking about humans who have offended God; it is talking about fallen angelic authorities. These beings were once righteous participants of Yahweh's council. Everything God creates is good and perfect. They began their journey in agreement with the plans and purposes of God. I don't accept the theological concept, as some do, that Yahweh created them as evil entities to begin with; or that He created them with the idea that they would one day rebel in order to advance His own glory. Nevertheless, they did rebel. And since they had once been part of God's kingdom, they naturally formed their own authority structures based off of the kingdom they rejected. So, I believe that the infernal council is an imitation of what they once experienced in the Kingdom of God.   This is not Polytheism, This is not Mormonism In the last sermon, I covered several attributes that prove that Yahweh is completely different than all other elohim, or the “sons of God” that He created to operate in His council. God is omnipresent, omnipotent, omniscient, eternal, and immutable. He is the creator of all other heavenly beings; He existed before them. He can strip them of their immortality, and no heavenly being can outmaneuver Him. This is important to know because of the resistance you will get from those who are unfamiliar with this subject. People will want to categorize you as a polytheist or a Mormon. Neither of these are true. Most ancient cultures were polytheistic in nature. They believed in many gods. Often there was a chief god ruling the lesser gods and demigods. They often incorporated succession stories where one chief god was defeated in battle by a lesser god, who then became the leader. But what I am teaching is that our God is different. He is not a leader among a group of gods who are similar in nature; He is infinitely higher in supremacy. Again, He is the uncreated Creator. There is no being equal to Him. However, as I have already outlined, He assigns authority and responsibility to the heavenly sons of God, which He created. He also expects us to occupy our territory while expanding His kingdom.   I am also not teaching Mormonism. Mormons teach that you can become a god; in fact, they claim that God was once like us. Joseph Smith said: “It is the first principle of the Gospel to know for a certainty the Character of God. . . . He was once a man like us; . . . God himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus Christ himself did” [4]   But I insist that Mormonism is incorrect. I teach that God was never a created being. John 4:24 says, God is spirit (not a man), and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” Again, as I outlined in the last sermon, there are unique attributes that belong only to Yahweh and no other being. Conclusion The Divine Council worldview has solid biblical backing. First, we see in several places that God is supreme yet also delegates His authority to a celestial council of lesser beings. These council members are called the “sons of God” in the Old Testament. Second, we see that certain members of this council rebelled against God and formed their own wicked authority structures. The Divine Council worldview that I am advocating is not a salvation issue. Those who disagree are not my enemies; however, without it, I believe you will have a truncated understanding of the spiritual realm. Some simply see the spiritual realm as more of a fairy tale than a reality. To them, heaven is nothing more than an eternal vacation spot where you sit on clouds and play harps. This kind of thinking is childish; there is so much more going on. One of my biggest complaints about modern Christianity is that it refuses to leave elementary school, so to speak. Many churches teach superficial concepts, and as a result, their congregations are withering in the shallow soil of mediocrity. And so, over the last several generations, the church has raised a gaggle of believers who barely understand their Bible and their God. The Divine Council worldview has helped me back up and look at the whole tapestry of Scripture. When I read a passage, I find threads that move in multiple directions and create larger ideas. For me, understanding the Bible through the Divine Council worldview has been as stunning as going from a black and white TV to the brilliant colors of plasma TV. It's like watching an action movie with a pair of good 3-D glasses. JCN 7/24 [1] In the Hebrew text, this rebel being is called han nachash, the nachash (Gen.3:1,2,4,13,14). As a noun, nachash means serpent (think more of a dragon rather than a snake); as a verb, it means a deceiver or a diviner; as an adjective, it means bronze or an object that is brazen or a radiant being that glows from within. All three meanings are at play here. The ideas of luminosity, serpentine features, and divine wisdom all relate to a divine throne guardian being. Both Hebrew and Gentile readers would have instantly understood this concept. Both seraphim and cherubim are known as guardians around God's throne. The Hebrew word seraph (Is. 6:2) especially relates here because its meaning derives from a burning, fiery serpentine being.   [2] In Hebrew: ben el the “sons of God,” the celestial beings of heaven.  [3]Some translations render the phrase as “sons of Israel,” while others render it “sons of God.” I believe that translations like KJV, NIV, and NASB are misinformed to render the phrase as “sons of Israel.” The phrase “sons of Israel” follows the Masoretic Texts, which were edited by Jewish scholars in the middle ages who were hostile to Christianity, and the supernatural appearances of the 2nd person of the Trinity (Jesus) throughout Old Testament passages. The Septuagint and the Dead Sea Scrolls uphold the phrase “sons of God.” Both of these sources were penned by Jewish scholars about 1000 years before the Masoretic Texts were collated. [4]Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith, 1976, pp. 345 –46.  

Moses led the flock when he should have been leading people. When you are running from God and not living out his intention, you do less than you were created to do. I want God to engage in a conversation with me about my needs, where I am. It shouldn't at least be the opening conversation. Guide begins here with Moses. I am sending you to pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt. Moses, there's a calling on your life, and now it's time to step up to it. Joshua follows Moses. Sometimes when everything goes bad in our life, we actually relinquish our intention rather than embrace it. Jonah is the story of a person who knew God's intention but chose not to live it out. And here's the crazy thing about being a human. We can violate and reject the intention God gave it. Everything God creates is under his intention. Wouldn't it be better to align your life with the intention for which you were created, so the whole universe will be in your favor? Have you ever noticed how much energy we lose when we're unhappy?

In the eleventh episode of "Divine Guidance," Duane Sheriff teaches Kingdom Protocol and how it helps us discern the voice of the Holy Spirit. We can confirm God's voice by recognizing three vital witnesses: righteousness, peace, and joy. God always speaks in righteousness. In Isaiah 45:19, God says, "I have not spoken in secret." Everything God says aligns with righteousness, making this a key marker to identify His voice. In Psalms 23:3, the scripture reveals that the Lord leads us in "paths of righteousness" for His name's sake. The second witness is peace. Colossians 3:15 tells us to let the peace of God rule in our hearts. This peace acts like an umpire, helping us make decisions that align with God's will. Duane shares a personal experience where his loss of peace served as a sign from God to alter his path, illustrating how peace can be a powerful indicator of divine guidance. Lastly, joy is a significant witness of the Holy Spirit's voice. Nehemiah 8:10 says, "The joy of the Lord is your strength." We will experience a deep, abiding joy when we align with God's will. Joy comes from making righteous and peaceful decisions, which pleases the Holy Spirit. By understanding and applying these Kingdom Protocols—righteousness, peace, and joy—we can confidently navigate our spiritual journey and grow closer to God.

Subscribe & Enjoy Set up your alarm clock every day for 19.00 to Unlock God's most Powerful Unlimited Daily Miracles for YOU, your Friends, Family, Organizations, Leaders and Presidents UNITE all together & Pray 1 minute+ in #GlobalPrayersChain for Ultimate Global Peace by 2027: -WATCH Today's 1125TH Most Powerful Summit https://youtu.be/bmGFBhr39JY Immediately

You cannot live life without faith. What drives faith is that we're all looking to make sense of life. The more meaningless your life is, the more empty you will be of life, he says. Hope remains not just faith, but hope. Hope only exists in the future. The moment you get something you hope for, guess what? It's no longer a source of hope. Human beings are designed with a need for progress. Hope is not optional. It's essential. The moment you feel depressed, go, oh, my soul is telling me my life can be more. Only humans feel the depression of being less than they can see in their imagination. Everything God does is always expanding. You are designed to keep growing every moment of your life. When you love someone, you lose your mind. The best way to never put yourself in danger is to never love just before yourself. Love realigns your choices and redefines your life. Why do we even think about unconditional love? It's because our souls know we're designed for unconditional love.

Tell me the truth: Were you delighted to go to work today? Or were you thinking, "Whoa, it's only Tuesday; four more days until the weekend”? Why do we find this fairly universal attitude toward work? Everyone seems to live for the weekends. The title of my series this week is "Thank God It's Monday!" because if you're a Christ-follower and have been set free from sin and its curse by faith in Jesus, then you can—and should— have a totally different view of your work. You should be able to honestly say, "Thank God it's Monday—or Tuesday!" We saw yesterday God gave Adam work to do in the Garden of Eden, and until sin entered the picture, work was something to be enjoyed, something fulfilling and meaningful. Everything God created was good, so work was good. The original workplace was pleasant, a place of fellowship with others and with God, a place of cooperation and obedience. Adam's job was to take care of the garden—or farm—and that was a sacred assignment from God, not some secular job he had to do to earn a living. But once sin entered, that original plan was corrupted. And from that point on work became drudgery. Do you wonder why your workplace seems so miserable sometimes, or why relationships are so strained where you work, or why it's so difficult to get motivated in your job? It's because work has suffered the "thorns and thistles" of the curse as found in Genesis 3. In our corrupted workplaces, people reject God and often any other authority placed over them. There may be little cooperation and lots of jealousy. Seems like everybody is out for number one with little regard for the welfare of others. The workplace is ruled by human nature and that is a sinful nature. And here you are, a born-again believer in Jesus Christ, forced to go out into that corrupted workplace five days a week! Do you sometimes just long to be set free from this sin-corrupted work environment? Here's the thing. Jesus came to redeem us from the curse of sin, but he purposely left us in this world. We now have the amazing opportunity to demonstrate what work is really supposed to be like—yes, even in the midst of that corrupted workplace! Have you ever thought about the privilege you have to show your world how God intended work to be? Do you do that? Would you like to? I'll give you some suggestions starting tomorrow.

Thank you for listening to our Surge Church Podcast. Everything God does is built on principles. There are principles that govern life and govern His Kingdom. These principles are always at work. There are principles the govern laws of promotion. As we walk in these principles, we become the kind of people God can promote and elevate. 

Recharge

This isn't your ordinary Bible study. We're going on an exciting adventure through the Apostle Paul's powerful words on grace, justification, and God's love. Each week, we'll be exploring these timeless truths and figuring out how they fit into our crazy, everyday lives. "A Summer in Romans" is all about deepening our grip on the gospel message and drawing closer to God. So, pack your bags and let's hit the road on this faith journey together! If you liked this podcast, please like, subscribe and/or SHARE. If you would like to know more information about Canyon Springs Church in San Diego, visit http://www.canyonsprings.org Subscribe to all of our podcasts on iTunes here: http://goo.gl/h0mlhv

(Matthew 24:32-36) The Messiah will return soon, and He is not finished with His beloved nation of Israel. Everything God foretells He always fulfills. Listen to today's episode as Christ uses His creation to illustrate these truths! (08152240625) Download our Study Guide for the Parables of Jesus: https://enjoyingthejourney.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2404-15-Parables-of-Jesus-FLYER-web.pdf

McKenna Gehrke is more than beauty and brains.. she's an absolute doll and we are thrilled to have her on this week's episode! McKenna is an Arizona native, University of Arizona dance team alum, current Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and the host of her own podcast, On Eight! She shares her passions and mission to help other girls succeed in chasing their dreams as well as her journey to making hers come true. Through all of life's ups and downs, McKenna says God has been her rock and she holds onto His promise that He will always be with us. Make sure to follow, like & SUBSCRIBE to all things Sweet As Honey! SUBSCRIBE & WATCH this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/@thesweetashoneypodcastFollow Sweet As Honey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetashoneypodcast/Follow Claire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clairewolford/--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sweetashoneypodcast/support--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sweetashoneypodcast/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sweetashoneypodcast/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sweetashoneypodcast/support

Everything God has made is resistant to bondage and oppression. We were designed to have dominion. Every prolonged battle has an expiration date. This message makes the declaration that you're not just coming out of captivity, but you're not coming out empty.

We don't like hardship. But the writer of Hebrews reminds us that God uses hard times in our lives to discipline us. An intelligent son realizes, “Dad's disciplining me because he loves me.” Everything God does is for our good, even the spankings and corrections. Let's receive God's discipline so that we can really live.

Mercy isn't just something God does, it is at the core of everything God does. That is why when we show mercy to others, we are showing others the love of God. Today, Brett shares from Galatians 6:1-2 about how we can be merciful to others. To hear Brett's message on Blessed are the merciful go to: https://youtu.be/4eIipGSbcqg Share your stories, prayer requests, or your response to this devotional in the comments below. If you would like to know more about New Life, who we are, what we believe, or when we meet, visit http://newlife.church. Or you can fill out a digital connection card at http://newlife.church/connect - we would love to get to know you better!

What is holiness? To be holy is to be consecrated, set apart, and dedicated to God. For some, this seems daunting. We can be intimidated by the word holy or the knowledge that God wants us to be holy. After all, we know our failings and shortcomings all too well.Main Points:1. But we must see that holiness is a good thing. Everything God calls us to pursue is for our own good. Holiness is not outward actions and behaviors achieved in our own strength. Becoming holy is a pursuit entered through the grace of God and developed with the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. In other words, you cannot become holy apart from God's help. He does not call us to become something without enabling us to do it.2. How can we get back on the track of pursuing holiness? To pursue holiness we actively seek and strive for a life that is set apart for God. It's a lifestyle characterized by moral purity, righteousness, and devotion to Him. It involves aligning our thoughts, attitudes, actions, and lifestyle with the principles and teachings of God's Word.3. Pursuing holiness involves separating ourselves from sinful behaviors, attitudes, and influences. It means turning away from anything that contradicts God's character and choosing to live a life that honors Him. Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 12:14 - “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”2 Corinthians 7:1 - “Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”1 Peter 1:14-15 - “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”Quick Links:Subscribe to The 5 Minute Discipleship NewsletterDonate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Christians who have been unengaged in politics are now beginning to engage. So, why would the host of one of David’s favorite podcasts suggest many of them are “mucking up everything?” David’s explanation of a key period in Medieval Christendom discussed in the podcast and tied to a key U.S. Supreme Court decision, along with David’s comments on observations about law by Hale Institute director Jeff Shafer, provide an answer.

Today's Promise: John 7:39 So many Christians know very little about the Holy Spirit. Yet, when you gave your heart to Christ, the Holy Spirit took up residence in you. Everything God is doing in your life today, He does through the Holy Spirit. Today we look at seven ways the Holy Spirit is working in our lives today. The secret to a successful Christian life is walking in the power God gives us through the Holy Spirit.

Ernest Hemingway’s first full-length novel features hard-drinking friends who have recently endured World War I. They bear the scars, literal and figurative, of the war’s devastation and try to cope with it via parties, grand adventures, and sleeping around. Always, there is alcohol to numb the pain. No one is happy. Hemingway’s title for his book, The Sun Also Rises, comes straight from the pages of Ecclesiastes (1:5 nkjv). In Ecclesiastes, King Solomon refers to himself as “the Teacher.” He observes, “Everything is meaningless” (v. 1) and asks, “What do people gain from all their labors?” (v. 3). Solomon saw how the sun rises and sets, the wind blows to and fro, the rivers flow endlessly into a never satisfied sea (vv. 5–7). Ultimately, all is forgotten (v. 11). Both Hemingway and Ecclesiastes confront us with the stark futility of living for this life only. Solomon, however, weaves bright hints of the divine into his book. There is permanence—and real hope. Ecclesiastes shows us as we truly are, but it also shows God as He is. “Everything God does will endure forever,” said Solomon (3:14), and therein lies our great hope. For God has given us the gift of us His Son Jesus. Apart from God, we’re adrift in an endless, never satisfied sea. Through His risen Son Jesus, we’re reconciled to Him. We discover our meaning, value, and purpose.

In this episode we cover our biggest lessons of 2023! Everything God has taught us and what we believe to be the most important highlights of our year. We speak to not prioritizing the Lord's work over the Lord's presence. Understanding that the only thing that is necessary is to lay at his feet. Along with what it means to be a true servant of Christ. As well as how wait on God and hear his voice even when it feels more convenient to go your own way + more! We'll be back in for our first episode January 3rd, 2024! Can't wait to talk to y'all then. Much love! CONNECT: