Podcasts about Faithfulness

Sunday Sermon from the books of Lamentations and 2 Timothy from John Bourgeois on March 8, 2026. Our hope for you is that you will know, love, and follow Jesus Christ -- leading to personal transformation, intimate community, and a life of radical mission. You are always welcome to join us for worship at West End Community Church.For more info, please visit the WECC website at westendcc.org

This episode centers on the theme “Multiply,” teaching that whatever flows from a person's heart—through words, attitudes, and actions—is a seed that will eventually produce a corresponding harvest in their life and relationships. Drawing from Proverbs, the Gospels, and Paul's letters, the sermon emphasizes heart-level transformation over behavior management, encouraging listeners to seek personal repentance, ongoing dependence on Christ, and patience as new, godly seeds take time to bear fruit. The speaker explains that change is often invisible at first and may not be immediately recognized by others, but perseverance in sowing righteousness will lead to a different harvest in due season. Ultimately, the message calls believers to generously sow good seeds in every area of life, trust God with the outcome, and resist complacency by continually allowing God to do “new things” in the heart.

Our Unity is Evidence We Partake of the Divine Nature MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful exploration of Jesus' identity, we delve into the profound High Priestly Prayer found in John 17. This prayer reveals Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet, but as one who shares in the divine nature with God the Father. We're challenged to consider: Who is Jesus to us personally? The prayer showcases Jesus' unique relationship with the Father, calling Him 'Father' over 160 times in the Gospels. This intimacy extends to us as believers, inviting us into the very fellowship of the Trinity. As we contemplate this, we're reminded that our unity as Christians is rooted in our union with God Himself. The prayer also reveals Jesus' eternal existence and His role in creation, emphasizing His divinity. This understanding transforms how we view the cross - not as a tragedy, but as our salvation. Let's reflect on how this deeper knowledge of Jesus' nature can impact our daily walk with Him and our relationships with others.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Fear. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Faithfulness. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): James 1:21-25; John 17 (entire chapter); John 10:30; John 10:27-33; Colossians 1:15; Colossians 1:19; 2 Peter 1:4 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “A Word from the Cross”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Faithfulness Matters

Faithfulness Matters

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Our shout-out today goes to George Zeck from Venice, FL. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. We cannot do this without donors like you. Our text today is 1 Corinthians 8:1-3. Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that "all of us possess knowledge." This "knowledge" puffs up, but love builds up. If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. But if anyone loves God, he is known by God. — 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 You can be theologically correct—and spiritually careless. Paul opens this section with a warning that cuts against a familiar instinct in believers: the belief that being right automatically makes us faithful. The real danger in a secular culture is not ignorance, but arrogance—truth held without consideration for others. The Corinthians understood that wooden and stone idols were nothing. They knew meat was just meat. Paul doesn't dispute that. He affirms it. But he exposes the problem. Knowledge alone inflates. It creates distance. It feeds superiority. It subtly shifts the question from "What honors God?" to "What am I allowed to do?" Do you see the shift? It is a shift from "He" to "me". But thoughtful "love" for God and others, combined with good theology, does stretch the believer to do some things they would not usually do. Stay humble in moments where pride could be misunderstood. Restrain actions where freedom is allowed. Consider how our accurate theological freedom might adversely affect others. That's why this section of chapter 8 still presses on us today. We may not debate food sacrificed to idols, but many believers still rationalize the so-called "gray areas" of life—places where Scripture allows freedom, yet pride tempts us to lean toward self rather than love. The Corinthians weren't arguing whether idols were real; they were arguing whether their knowledge gave them permission to participate, signal approval, or remain indifferent anyway. In the same way today, the issue is often not personal involvement but endorsement, celebration, or normalization. What God calls sin is reframed as virtue. Sexual immorality is affirmed as love. Abortion is defended as compassion. Same-sex marriage is praised as progress. Drunkenness, pornography, marijuana use, and indulgence are excused as harmless freedoms. Believers may not practice these things themselves, but participation, silence, or celebration can quietly communicate approval. And the defense often sounds spiritual: "I know better." "I'm free in Christ." "This doesn't affect my faith." "I'm not hurting anyone." Paul dismantles that logic. Being right is not the same as being faithful. If knowledge does not lead to love, it has already begun to lead us wrong. Truth without humility hardens hearts. Freedom without love compromises witness. Paul ends with a quiet but profound shift. Maturity is not defined by how much you know about God, but by whether you are known by God. Faithfulness in a pagan world is not measured by how much freedom you can defend, but by how carefully you steward it for the good of others and the glory of God. DO THIS: Before exercising a freedom you believe you have, pause and ask whether it builds others up or subtly elevates yourself. ASK THIS: Where am I more focused on being right than being loving? How might my freedoms affect the conscience or faith of others? Am I using knowledge to serve—or to justify myself? PRAY THIS: Father, guard my heart from pride disguised as conviction. Teach me to hold truth with humility and freedom with love. Shape my life so that it reflects Your heart, not just correct beliefs. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Make Room"

The Church did not begin with a plan. It began with a prayer. In this series through the Book of Acts, we follow the earliest followers of Jesus, ordinary people transformed by His love, united by His mission, and empowered by His Spirit. This is the story of how the Church was established and how the movement continues through us today.

The Simplicity of Devotion.

Sunday School 3/8/2026.

The sermon centers on the transformative power of faithful obedience, using Ruth's life as a paradigm of steadfast trust in God amid hardship, loss, and cultural alienation. It emphasizes that faithfulness—marked by humility, submission to divine and human authority, and perseverance through trials—yields spiritual rest, divine provision, and unexpected blessings, as seen in Ruth's journey from despair to becoming an ancestor of Christ. The preacher underscores key theological themes: God's covenantal faithfulness to those who commit to Him (2 Corinthians 6:16–18), the necessity of obedience as the pathway to fruitfulness (Galatians 6:9), and the reality that true success is not measured by worldly gain but by alignment with God's will. Through Ruth's example, the message calls believers to reject discouragement and surrender to God's timing, assuring that faithful service, even in obscurity, will be rewarded in due season, and that God's provision is sufficient, reliable, and far exceeding human expectation.

Introduction to the Topic of Faithfulness: The discussion shifted to continuing the study of the characteristics of God for God's teachers. Jevon Perra identified that they were starting with "faithfulness," which is the ninth characteristic in the manual for teachers.Reading and Interpretation of Faithfulness: Brian Genovese read the passage defining faithfulness as the measure of a teacher's advancement and their complete trust in the word of God to "set all things right". Jevon Perra summarized that true faithfulness involves reversing the world's thinking entirely by surrendering all problems, not just some, to one answer.Application of Faithfulness to Daily Life: Jevon Perra admitted that while it is easy to discuss spiritual lessons, it is hard to apply them to daily life, noting they struggle with compartmentalizing spiritual principles away from "real world" issues like money or family stress. They recognized that attachment to any outcome brings suffering, and true faithfulness means trusting that all things are perfect. Soo Kim then joined the meeting.Challenges of Implementing Faithfulness: Brian Genovese commented that using these enlightened concepts in daily activities is the tough part, especially the concept of faithfulness. Jevon Perra pointed out that whether faithfulness is easy or tricky is determined by the individual, and they noted that Brian Genovese appeared easygoing on the outside but admitted to struggling internally.Personal Growth and Letting Go of Judgments: Jevon Perra shared that as they get older, their problems are not as deep, and they are increasingly able to catch themself in moments of stress and let go of judgments. They concluded that fulfillment and peace come from faithfulness, which involves letting go of resistance to how things are, even though struggle is inherent to physical existence.The Necessity of Drama and Struggle: Jevon Perra emphasized that nobody wants a life or a movie without challenge or suffering, which is necessary for a good story. Jevon Perra shared that a mistake in a novel they wrote was not including an antagonist, because drama is essential for a better story.Relating Personal Drama to Conflict: The conversation turned to the issue of personal drama, which Jevon Perra noted they try to avoid and often judges in others, leading to their own suffering. Jevon Perra provided the example of marital conflicts, which can escalate from a small issue, like a misplaced toothbrush, into a battle of disrespect and attacks.Addressing Family Conflict and Judgment: Jevon Perra shared a personal conflict with their mother, who they feel persistently takes advantage of them, leading to feelings of anger and frustration. They questioned why they hold on to the suffering-inducing judgment that their mother should have the capacity to do things for herself.Discussing Manipulation and Lack of Forgiveness: Brian Genovese related to Jevon Perra's experience, describing growing up with a depressive mother who knew how to manipulate their emotions. Brian Genovese shared that the childhood experience of walking on eggshells and being afraid to speak led them to cut their mother out of their life for the last 15 years, preventing her from ever knowing their daughter. Jevon Perra connected the lack of forgiveness to the belief in separation and noted that these irritations are "gifts" that reveal inner errors.Weakness and Strength Translation to Career: Jevon Perra observed that Brian Genovese's greatest strength—being gentle, kind, and considerate—can also be a weakness, making it difficult for them to aggressively pursue their goals. Brian Genovese acknowledged that this translated into their professional career, where they initially sought security over freedom but eventually forgave their mother and transitioned to real estate, which offered the freedom to volunteer and help others, an action they always felt they needed to do.The Futility of Seeking External Change: Jevon Perra concluded that suffering is not resolved by changing one's environment, job, or people, noting their recent experience of resigning from a job for freedom, only to find themself working harder. They realized that attachment to a better past or future state is part of the cycle of self-judgment.Deepening the Definition of Faithfulness: Brian Genovese read the concluding passage on faithfulness, which describes it as consistent, wholly honest, unswerving, full of trust, gentle, joyous, and tolerant. The passage concludes that faithfulness, which implies the acceptance of God's word, rests in quiet certainty on that alone to which all faithfulness is due.Separation vs. Connection and Identity: Jevon Perra discussed the difference between heaven (connectedness with God) and hell (separation), noting that the world one sees depends on whether they are using Christ's vision or their own. Jevon Perra illustrated how identity is often based on superficial comparison, using examples of moving from California to Missouri and then to Orange County, where their sense of self-worth fluctuated based on where they were relative to others. They concluded that their ability to feel good has nothing to do with external circumstances because their identity is not that of a human in a body, but an eternal being who chose this experience.Resistance and Atonement: Jevon Perra stated that when they perceive an "unpushable boulder" that they must move, they experience stress and resistance. The only work to be done is letting go of resistance and judgment, a process called atonement, which is the recognition that the work is already done and there is no need to hold on to any grievances.Enlightenment and the Non-Person: Soo Kim introduced a concept from a meditation teacher that a "person" can never achieve enlightenment, because believing one is a person is already a form of separation. Soo Kim noted that the goal is to let go of the person and "pop into that state of enlightenment". Soo Kim observed that the ego tries to hijack and take credit for spiritual progress, which reinforces the personhood.Recognition vs. Service: Brian Genovese added that people often join volunteer groups for recognition, wanting credit for the work they do. Brian Genovese asserted that service should be for the greater good and to accomplish good works, not for personal recognition. Jevon Perra connected the desire for recognition to the belief that one is a separate "person".Ego Struggle with Status Change: Jevon Perra shared their personal ego struggle with a recent change in status, moving from president of their company to a sales representative with an office in a storage closet. Jevon Perra noted the irony that this demotion was what they wanted but that their ego struggled with the worse-looking business card and inability to feel superior in conversations.Self-Validation and Spiritual Bypassing: Soo Kim related to the desire for self-sufficiency and the feeling of unfairness when others receive more praise. Soo Kim emphasized the importance of self-validation and pointed out the danger of spiritual bypassing, questioning whether they are in a body or if the body is in them.The Body as a Fragmented Consciousness: Jevon Perra proposed a different perspective: the body is *in* the self, not the self *in* the body. Jevon Perra presented the analogy of consciousness as a powerful, shattered mirror, with the individual being one isolated fragment that lowered its awareness to experience separateness, demonstrating an "incredible amount of control".Acceptance and the Inevitable Script: Jevon Perra concluded that this perspective makes the individual completely separate from the character's script, enabling the character to be faithful, patient, and defenseless, even if the character's personality is always "sketchy". They stated that enlightenment might not change the things that they judge, and the suffering person will never be changed.Life as a Dream or Simulation: Brian Genovese furthered the discussion by questioning if their current reality is another dream, similar to the dream world entered during sleep. Jevon Perra agreed, citing Elon Musk's high probability assessment that this is a simulation or "base reality".The Appeal of Drama in the Simulation: Jevon Perra noted that the most popular video games are not focused on "hugging," but on conflict, stealing, and conquering, demonstrating a human preference for drama. They reflected on the hypocrisy of accepting drama in movies and games but rejecting it in their own life and with their family, which leads to suffering.Closing and Future Topic: Brian Genovese expressed that the discussion had "open[ed] another chamber" in their mind. The meeting concluded with the agreement to discuss "open-mindedness" next time.

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The Lopsided God of Adventism, Part 5 of 10Homecoming SabbathSpeaker: Randy Roberts

Sermon Date: 03/04/2026; Pastor Bill Bryson; Scripture Passage: Psalm 141Support the show

We would love to pray for you! Please send us your requests here. --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

“Faithfulness is the foundation of stewardship.” In this message, Pastor David Grobler continues the series on the “-ness” of the Christian life, focusing on faithfulness. Paul teaches in First Corinthians that what is required of a steward is not success or status — but faithfulness. Everything we have has been entrusted to us by God: our time, relationships, gifts, and responsibilities. Faithfulness is not something we simply claim; it is something found in us over time through consistency, integrity, and reliability. Before God entrusts more, He looks for faithfulness in what we already carry.

Remember God loves you so much he sent his Son Jesus Christ to take the punishment for your sins. You are of great value. Jesus loves you and He is just a prayer away! This episode includes AI-generated content.

It's All Him.

Join us as we continue our newest sermon series, JC Fitness. Together, we will learn about how spiritual growth requires not just effort, but alignment with God's ways. We're glad you're here! ABOUT US | We are cultivating a vibrant community of faith, hope and love that follows Jesus into the world so our neighbors may also experience God's goodness. Learn more at https://www.cpchb.org/core-values/PRAY  | To request prayer or pray with us, visit https://www.cpchb.org/prayer GIVE  |  To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people, visit  https://www.cpchb.org/give/ PRAYER REQUESTS | https://www.cpchb.org/prayerGIVE  | https://www.cpchb.org/give/CONNECT  |  We want to connect with you!  Visit us at  https://www.facebook.com/cpchb/    https://www.instagram.com/christpacificchurch/    Weekly eBlast: https://tinyurl.com/swy75ujv  MORE INFO | https://www.cpchb.org/

Today on the show, Adam McNutt, James Wisneski, and I gather to celebrate a significant milestone—700 episodes of the Speaking4Him podcast! I am incredibly excited and grateful to share this achievement with both of them and with you! Be sure to listen and share this episode with your family and friends. Here are some highlighted episodes: - **#17: Connected and Growing with Chris and Emilee!** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/10394666) - **#149: A Visit With The Wally Show!** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/20461095) - **#263: Sell More Chikin** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/21033516) - **#345: Experiencing Jesus With Lynnelle Pierce** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/21384762) - **#415: Lessons on Trust From Jason Romano** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/21664526) - **#500: Speaking4Him LIVE Celebration** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/21970452) - **#587: James Wisneski: Fisher of Men** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/22214393) - **#666: From Death to Life with Brittany Poppe** [Podcast](https://speaking4him.sermon.net/main/main/22417364) Thank you for your continued prayers and support, and thank you for being part of this journey!

Are you afraid that fully serving God will cost you your career, friends, or future? Discover why nothing surrendered to heaven is ever wasted, and how God's righteous nature guarantees He will never forget your labour of love today.

Patty Riddle Kirshner, a Nebraska pastor and evangelist, shares how her life changed when COVID swept through her church in August 2020. Patty spent 83 days in four hospitals, over four weeks in a coma, suffered paralysis from the neck down, and died briefly from cardiac arrest. During that moment, she describes being in heaven's "glory," overwhelmed by God's presence, seeing an unusual sky color and things that stunned her. God told her she could stay or return; she chose to come back because there was more work to do.  After extensive rehabilitation, she recovered movement and a national news team welcomed her home. Tragically, she soon faced her husband Ronnie's glioblastoma diagnosis; he died in May 2021. Patty reflects on the anger, the grief, learning to live "in the moment," staying connected to community and church, starting the widows' group Embrace, and testifying that God remained faithful through suffering, loss, and renewed purpose.  00:00 A Glimpse of Glory  00:41 Meet Patty and Her Story  01:33 Life Before COVID  02:37 Symptoms and Denial  04:43 Hospitalization and Fear  07:20 Coma and Ventilator Fight  10:29 Heart Stops Heaven Visit  13:36 Choose to Stay or Go  14:48 Rehab Isolation and Fear  18:45 Recovery and Witnessing  20:41 Vision of Anointing  22:24 Husband's Fall and Diagnosis  24:17 Grief After Loss  25:58 Finding Hope Again  26:56 New Love And Calling  28:51 Hard Questions Anger  31:14 Staying In The Moment  33:22 Advice For Widows  36:20 Embrace Support Group  40:59 Knowing God Is Real  44:07 Haiti Prophetic Warning  45:20 Ministry Links And Prayer of blessing over listeners  Patty's facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Evangelist-Patty-Riddle-100081176667734/  Patty's Website: https://www.womenunitedministry.com/

Faithfulness is often tested in the moments no one else sees. In this episode, we explore how integrity is built — not in grand gestures, but in quiet, ordinary decisions. Through a simple but powerful story about a toddler’s toy and a mother’s promise, we’re reminded that what feels small to us may mean everything to someone else. Jesus teaches that how we handle the “little” things reveals the condition of our hearts. When we resist the temptation to cut corners, we demonstrate trustworthiness — both before God and before others. What We Discuss Why small acts of obedience matter The temptation to minimize “insignificant” responsibilities How integrity is formed in private decisions The connection between stewardship and trust Why faithfulness today prepares us for greater responsibility tomorrow This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: To Be Faithful with the Little Things By Deidre Braley Bible Reading:Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. - Luke 16:10 Something you should know is that we have a dog and three young children. That means that nothing in our house is ever entirely clean, and also that there’s so much hullabaloo on any given morning in our home that when the dog starts to chew a kid’s toy, it is the least of my worries. But it was not the least of our two-year-old’s worries the other morning. We were trying to get everyone on the school bus and out the door when our dog found one of the wooden “bolts” from his play toolbox and started to roll it around in his mouth. “Oh, stop that,” I said, prying it from his mouth. I tossed it back on the floor and wouldn’t have given it another thought, except that our horrified toddler cried, “Mommy, will you clean it?” I assured him I would, of course, and then I gave him a hug and a kiss and sent him out the door with my husband so everyone could make it to their morning destination on time. As soon as the house was silent, I went about my morning rounds of tidying just enough clutter so I could work at home without being utterly distracted by the mess. When I went back into his bedroom to gather up the dirty clothes and clear a path for walking on his floor, I saw the dog-slobbered toy. And I have to be honest here—I thought to myself, “He’ll never know,” and almost just tossed it back in his toolbox without washing it. But then a small voice whispered into my spirit, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” I was convicted. I took out a baby wipe and gently rubbed it down, then went on with my day. When he got home that night, can you guess what he asked me right away? “Mommy, you clean my toy?” It is hard to describe the relief I felt knowing I could honestly say, “Yes, I did.” Just like I said I would. To me, that little wooden bolt had felt inconsequential. My mind had been running through all the deadlines I needed to meet that day and all the more “important” things I needed to accomplish. But to my son, that was the important thing. If I hadn’t been faithful with that, how could he trust me to be faithful at all? Intersecting Faith & Life: Since that day, I’ve been surprised by how many opportunities I’ve had to be faithful in the little things—and how often I’ve been tempted to cut corners, thinking that no one will notice or care anyway. But after telling the parable of the shrewd manager, Jesus asks, “So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own” (Luke 16:11-12)? In other words, the way we steward what we have today matters, and God sees the way we handle what he’s given to us to care for. The people around us do too. Our obedience in tending to the “little” things indicates the integrity of our character and whether we can also be trusted with the “big” things. As you go about your day today, I encourage you to keep Jesus’ words in your head: “Whoever can be trusted with very little…” Whenever you are tempted to cut a corner (like tossing that dog-slobbered toy back into the bin without washing it first), remember that this is an opportunity to be faithful—to show God and others that you are a person of integrity whom they can trust. Further Reading:The Parable of the Faithful Steward: Luke 12:35-48The Parable of the Talents: Matthew 25:14-28 1 Peter 4:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it mean for the church to show up faithfully in a digital world? In this conversation, Pastor Nate Preisinger sits down with Pastor Joseph Wolyniak to talk about the Narthex Project — a Lilly-funded initiative helping churches rethink digital ministry in a post-Christian age. Together they explore storytelling, online faithfulness, loving enemies in comment sections, and how the gospel speaks to deep human woundedness.This isn't about chasing trends. It's about sharing hope in a noisy world.What You'll Learn:Why digital ministry is a bridge, not the destinationHow storytelling reflects the heart of Jesus' ministryWhat it means to choose faithfulness over visible resultsWhy “love your enemies” matters onlineHow everyday Christians can practice digital evangelismChapters:0:00 Introduction to the Narthex Project2:00 Why churches had to pivot online4:30 Who are the “nones” and the spiritual-but-not-religious?10:00 Faithfulness vs. measurable success12:00 Is the church just playing the algorithm game?16:00 Digital evangelism and digital tithing21:00 Building church for people who aren't here yet26:00 Jesus as storyteller31:00 Reintroducing people to Jesus34:30 Trauma, original sin, and healing37:30 Loving enemies in a digital world44:00 Marching toward, not againstIf this conversation encourages you, like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who's wrestling with faith in a digital world. Your engagement helps more people encounter hope.Connect with Bethany:

On Sunday in Acts 13, we saw a clear and freeing truth:The gospel shifts our focus from pleasing people to pleasing God.As Paul proclaimed forgiveness and justification through Jesus, the room divided. Some rejoiced. Others resisted. And yet the disciples walked away filled with joy.Why? Because their identity was no longer fragile. Their standing before God was no longer up for debate. They were no longer living for approval — they were living from it. That shift changes everything. When we live for approval, criticism destabilizes us, and applause defines us. When we live from justification, rejection doesn't undo us, and success doesn't inflate us. Faithfulness becomes the goal.As you step into this week — into meetings, conversations, parenting moments, classrooms, and responsibilities — carry this question with you:Am I trying to earn approval, or am I resting in what Christ has already secured?If you feel the pull to prove yourself…If someone's opinion weighs heavily on you…If comparison starts creeping in…Remember: through Jesus, you are declared righteous. Your identity is settled.

We've demonized him because his pain makes us uncomfortable. His obedience didn't explode outward like rebellion; it collapsed inward into resentment. And honestly, that hits close to home for a lot of faithful people.Here's the quiet truth:Faithfulness without affirmation can turn into bitterness.

Sunday Morning WorshipWhen Failure Meets Faithfulness- 2 Samuel 11-12:25Reagan FarrisMarch 1, 2026Notes | https://calvarydothan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026_03_01_1.pdf

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Our shout-out today goes to Justin Gulbrandson from Olathe, KS. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. We cannot do this without donors like you. Our text today is 1 Corinthians 7:8-16. To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am. But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife. To the rest I say (I, not the Lord) that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he should not divorce her. If any woman has a husband who is an unbeliever, and he consents to live with her, she should not divorce him. For the unbelieving husband is made holy because of his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made holy because of her husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy. But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace. For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? — 1 Corinthians 7:8-16 Some passages of Scripture are clean and crisp. This one isn't. Paul is dealing with real people in real situations—singles struggling with desire, marriages under strain, believers married to unbelievers, and relationships where obedience isn't simple or symmetrical. And Paul doesn't flatten the complexity. Instead, he shows us something vital: Our faithfulness is practiced in complicated places. Paul speaks first to singles and widows. Singleness can be a gift—but not everyone is given that assignment. Desire for a relationship isn't spiritual failure. But ignoring the boundaries and parameters is dangerous. For some, faithfulness means remaining single. For others, faithfulness means entering covenant marriage. Then Paul turns to married believers. His counsel is clear and rooted in Jesus' teaching: don't treat divorce as your spiritual escape hatch. Holiness doesn't come from abandoning the covenant when things get hard. But then the situation gets even more complicated. What if you're married to someone who doesn't share your faith? Or what if you made a faith commitment in an existing marriage where your spouse is not a believer? In this instance, Paul doesn't jump to separation. He doesn't demand instant withdrawal. He doesn't spiritualize abandonment, like some do and will. If the unbelieving spouse is willing to stay, Paul says: stay. Your presence matters. Your faith shapes the spiritual environment of the home. God works through covenant faithfulness more often than dramatic exits. But Paul also refuses to turn marriage into a prison cell. If the unbelieving spouse chooses to leave, the believer is not enslaved. God does not call His people to endless relational warfare. God has called you to peace. That line matters. You are responsible for your obedience to God's Word—not outcomes you don't control. You cannot convert your spouse by force, pressure, or guilt. Faithfulness is not the same as control. Then Paul ends with holy expectation: "How do you know… whether you will save your spouse?" In other words, trust God with what only God can do. This section teaches us something important that some believers forget—obedience isn't always dramatic. Sometimes it looks like staying. Sometimes it looks like releasing. But it always looks like faithfulness, obedience, and trust in God's work beyond our control. Faithfulness is practiced in complicated places. DO THIS: Name your current relational reality honestly before God—without minimizing it or dramatizing it. Ask Him what faithfulness looks like here, not somewhere else. ASK THIS: Where am I tempted to escape rather than obey? How can I pursue peace without compromising holiness? What outcome am I trying to control that I need to entrust to God? PRAY THIS: Father, You see the complexity of my relationships. Give me wisdom to know when to stay faithful, when to pursue peace, and when to trust You with outcomes beyond my control. Teach me obedience that honors You in hard places. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Trust in God"

Today's sermon is Jesus: His Faithfulness by Paul Lester Find more teaching from Pastor Paul at www.ccmodesto.com

Follow along with our sermon notes here: https://www.thehubcitychurch.org/note/judges-gods-faithfulness-to-unfaithful-people-216-36-the-merciful-anger-of-god/

His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. — Lamentations 3:22-23 Have you ever lost sleep because your mind and heart were busy or burdened? You can lie down and try to fall asleep, but sleep won't come.Jeremiah surely knew what that was like. He often poured out his heart and soul to God and to his people, but most of the people ignored what he had to say as God's prophet. At times he was even put in prison for speaking God's Word.Jeremiah lamented over the people who denied God and persecuted him. The book of Lamentations is a brief collection of some of those laments. They are a companion piece to the narrative provided in the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah had done all he could to bring God's Word to his people, but it was not enough. Even so, one of the great hymns of faith—“Great Is Thy Faithfulness”—arises from the passage we have read for today.I have often wondered how a great song about faithfulness could be born out of lament. Yet this is a key insight for us to ponder. When times are good, we tend to forget about God and rely on ourselves. But when times are hard and we cry out to God in our struggles, we can often see God and his work more clearly. God's love, compassion, and faithfulness stand out against the darkness of sin and destruction.God is with us always, and he promises new beginnings and new life each day to all who seek him. “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” is a song we can sing every day! God of all days and nights, thank you for your faithfulness to us each day and throughout every season. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Sermon Date: 03/012026; Pastor Bill Bryson; Scripture Passage: Colossians 2:6-10Support the show

Sermon Date: 03/01/2026; Pastor Bill Bryson; Scripture Passage: Colossian 2:6-7Support the show

Joshua 22:1-34 I Andrew MurchI. Faithfulness produces obedience. (1-6)a. Promises given have been kept. (1-3)b. God's people take him at his word. (4-6)II. Apostasy destroys unity. (7-20)a. It appears they lost the plot. (7-12)b. Fidelity is worth the fight. (13-20)III. Fidelity preserves unity. (21-34)a. Covenant community fosters generational fidelity. (21-29)b. The Lord's presence preserves his people's faithfulness. (30-34)God's people fight to stay faithful.

Golden Stewards | All In In this message from the All In series, we look at Matthew 25 and the parable of the talents to understand biblical stewardship. God entrusts time, resources, and influence to His people and calls them to invest it for His kingdom. Golden Stewards challenges us to examine our fear, our priorities, and our faithfulness. Wealth is not the goal. Faithfulness is. And one day, we will stand before the Master and give an account. Key Insights: Everything we have, including time and ability, ultimately belongs to God. Stewardship is not about equal giving but faithful management of what we have been entrusted with. Fear often keeps us from investing in God's kingdom. Wealth reveals whether our heart is focused on temporary comfort or eternal impact. Faithfulness in small things leads to greater trust and responsibility in God's kingdom. Scripture Focus: Matthem 25:14 Speaker: Matt Petty Series: All In Location: Burnt Hickory Baptist Church Connect with us: ° Watch this sermon on YouTube ° Follow us on Facebook ° Follow us on Instagram ° Visit our website

Against the Grain (Daniel 1:8-21) - Pastor Brett Barton

Ordinary Faithfulness in Extraordinary Times— Exodus 1 1. When Power Opposes God's Promises (verses 1 – 14) 2. When Obedience Becomes Costly (verses 15 – 21) 3. When Hopelessness Prevails (verse 22)

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . . . — Psalm 23:4 Bible teachers have often wondered about the setting of this song of David. When was it written?In Psalm 23 we find descriptions of the work of a young man who herded and guarded his father's sheep, finding calm pastureland and plenty of water so that the sheep could eatand drink.We also hear echoes of David's life as a king, in which he often had to be wary of enemies. God provided a banquet table and an anointing or blessing, providing protection, abundance, and favor despite those enemies.In addition, we observe the reflections of an older man, looking back on his journey of life and looking forward to living with the Lord . . . forever!Many key phrases in this psalm have been read at commemorative services and at funerals. One key word is through. When you are in the midst of trouble and hardship, you want to know that it will come to an end. You want to be assured that you will come out on the other side.We can get through the darkest valleys in life knowing that God is with us. This month, as we review key texts about the faithfulness of God in the Bible, we will see again and again that God's faithfulness is part of the promise of his presence with us.In what areas do you need the assurance of God's presence in your life? Lord, may we know your presence so that we can take every step with you, no matter what is before us. Thank you for being our shepherd. Amen.

Send a textAre you focused on proving your worth and controlling results or are you focused on being a faithful steward of what God has given you to manage as a leader? Listen to this months episode to be challenged and encouraged about this very real tension Christian leaders face everyday. Brandon Wests book Support the showBe sure to rate and follow our podcast!

In a world filled with false teachings and spiritual deception, believers must remain grounded in biblical truth. Paul warned the Thessalonians about false claims regarding the end times, which caused fear and confusion among believers. Throughout history, deceptive movements have emerged through claimed revelations that add to or distort Scripture. Paul describes a future time when deception will peak through the Antichrist, but notes that the mystery of lawlessness is already at work today. People fall for deception because they refuse to love the truth. To stand firm, believers must remember that only God is God, begin each day with eternal perspective rather than worldly concerns, and trust in God's grace rather than perfect performance.https://www.ankenyfree.church

The study of end times can feel overwhelming, but understanding different perspectives helps us grasp what Scripture teaches about Christ's return. All Christians agree on foundational truths: Christ will return bodily and visibly, there will be final judgment and resurrection, and God will create new heavens and earth. The four major views are amillennialism (we're currently in the millennium), dispensational premillennialism (separate rapture and return), historic premillennialism (one return with literal millennium), and postmillennialism (gradual gospel victory). Each view has strengths and weaknesses, requiring humility in our interpretations. Regardless of which view you hold, Christ's return should motivate expectant living, godliness, and faithful gospel proclamation.https://www.ankenyfree.church

“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10).

What if the greatest change you could make in your financial life didn't start with budgeting, investing, or earning more—but with surrender? We don't usually think of surrender as a financial word. Yet Scripture places it at the center of faithful stewardship. The life-changing truth that God owns everything reshapes how we live, give, and manage what we've been entrusted. The First Question Scripture Asks About Money When we talk about finances, we tend to ask familiar questions: How much do I have? How much do I need? Am I doing well? They're natural questions—but they're not the first question Scripture asks. From the beginning, the Bible establishes that God is the owner. Before humanity ever managed a garden or named a creature, God formed, filled, and ruled creation. Psalm 24:1 declares it plainly: “The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof.” Simply put, God is the owner—and we are the stewards. For many of us, that's a familiar idea. But familiarity doesn't always lead to surrender. We may affirm God's ownership in theory while living as if everything depends on our effort. We say, “I worked for this,” or “I earned this.” Yet Scripture adds an essential truth: “It is He who gives you power to get wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18). Even our ability to work is a gift from God. Faithfulness, Not Outcomes Jesus reinforces this perspective in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30). A master entrusts resources to three servants. Two invest faithfully. One buries what he's been given out of fear. When the master returns, he doesn't praise them for increasing his net worth—he commends their faithfulness. That distinction matters. The world measures success by outcomes. God measures success by trust and faithfulness. If God owns everything, then we are not owners—we are managers. Scripture uses the term oikonomos, meaning household manager: someone who manages resources they didn't create, for purposes they didn't define, under a master they serve. At first, that may sound restrictive. In reality, it's freeing. If I'm not the owner, then I'm not the ultimate provider or protector. The weight shifts from my shoulders to God's. As Ron Blue often says, “If God owns it all, you can't lose anything.” Ownership carries pressure. Stewardship carries trust. Everyday Decisions Become Worship When we truly embrace stewardship, ordinary financial decisions take on spiritual meaning. Budgeting becomes aligning our desires with God's priorities. Giving becomes a response to His generosity. Planning becomes obedience rather than anxiety. Investing becomes multiplying what belongs to the Lord, not securing independence from Him. The Puritan preacher Thomas Watson once wrote, “What we keep we may lose. What we give to God is kept forever.” Paul echoes this in 1 Timothy 6:7: “We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” That reality isn't meant to discourage us—it's meant to liberate us. When we stop clinging to what we cannot keep, we're free to invest in what we can never lose. What Does God Expect From Us? If God owns everything, what does He ask of us? Jesus answers simply: “One who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much” (Luke 16:10). Faithfulness isn't about the size of what we manage—it's about surrender. And surrender always begins in the heart. When we embrace God's ownership, two gifts follow: Humility—we stop boasting in what we've accomplished. Hope—we realize we're not carrying the burden alone. God equips, guides, and provides. Where Is God Inviting You to Surrender? Where might God be inviting you to shift from being an owner to a steward? In your giving? Your planning? Your savings or lifestyle? Or in the quiet belief that your security depends more on markets than on the God who “owns the cattle on a thousand hills” (Psalm 50:10)? Stewardship isn't about God getting something from you. It's about God doing something in you. It reorders the heart so money takes its proper place—not as a master, but as a tool. If this idea resonates with you—that God owns it all and stewardship begins with surrender—I invite you to explore it further in Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship. You can learn more or order a copy for yourself, your church, or your small group at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My wife and I are in our late 30s, have accumulated some debt, and have struggled to stick to a budget. We want to be better stewards, but keep falling off track. Can you offer simple, practical guidance to help us manage money and stay consistent? I'm 24 and living with my parents, hoping to buy a home instead of renting. What steps should I take now to move toward homeownership? I'm nearing 65 and will have about $70,000 from my 401(k), plus a small annuity. What's the wisest way to invest that money at this stage to support my future? I'm 65 and trying to decide when to take Social Security and how to draw from our accounts. We're mostly debt-free and financially stable, but I hear conflicting advice. Should I delay benefits, start my wife's earlier, and in what order should we tap our savings and IRAs? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Faithfulness is saying an ongoing "amen" to the commitments we've made. Today, Sinclair Ferguson reminds us that while our consistent reliability may be consistently tested, we're not left to our own resources. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/things-unseen-with-sinclair-ferguson/faithful-trusted-and-true/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts