Podcasts about Fear God

Pastor Jon Verwey Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. — Ecclesiastes 12:13 NIV The way of the Kingdom is not striving for greatness through power and control but choosing last place through humility and service. 30 They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, 31 because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.” 32 But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it. 33 They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” 34 But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. — Mark 9:30–34 NIV 35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” 36 He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” — Mark 9:35–37 NIV “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last… and servant of all.” 38 “Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.” 39 “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, 40 for whoever is not against us is for us. 41 Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward. — Mark 9:38–41 NIV “…those who face the mess they've made of their lives, repent of it, and trust [Jesus] as Lord and Savior [will] receive eternal life — something far beyond anything humanity can manufacture.” — Professor John Lennox The way of the Kingdom is not striving for greatness through power and control but choosing last place through humility and service.

Today I want to ask a question that might feel uncomfortable at first, but it matters more than we realize. When you think about God, do you feel drawn in or do you tense up a little inside? A lot of believers say they “fear the Lord,” but what they're actually carrying is fear of God - fear of disappointing Him, mishearing Him, or getting something wrong. Those two experiences may sound similar on the surface, but they lead to very different fruit in your life. And if your relationship with God has felt more anxious than secure, this episode is going to help you understand why. Rooting for you,JessicaNext steps:Learn more about working with me 1:1 as your mental health coach: https://www.jessicahottle.com/mental-health-coachingOr book your free 20-minute consultation here!Get my self-paced course, Untangle Your Thoughts program: https://www.jessicahottle.com/healEmail me at >> jessica@jessicahottle.comThe information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or clinical advice. While we discuss mental health topics, this is not a substitute for professional care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation.

This week, I challenge the idea that we are meant to fear God. What if fear has been misplaced? What if the real power (and responsibility) lies within us? I explore how our thoughts, intentions, and actions shape our reality far more than divine punishment ever could. This episode is about moving from fear-based obedience to conscious alignment, recognising that we are co-creators of our lives, and understanding that spiritual growth isn't about submission, it's about self-responsibility. KEY TAKEAWAYS Fear has been misdirected. The real power to shape, sabotage, or elevate your life lies in your own thoughts, actions, and patterns — not in divine punishment. You are the architect of your reality. Your intentions ripple outward, your habits compound, and your choices create feedback loops that shape your destiny. Spiritual growth is alignment, not fear. Growth comes from awareness and responsibility, not from obedience rooted in anxiety. Consequences are self-created. Regret, stagnation, and fulfillment are often reflections of our own actions — not something imposed externally.   HOST BIO I am Summer. A spiritual being having human experiences. From age 11 I have been obsessed with all things self-development; looking at it from every angle, in pursuit of finding answers for my life. Like all other humans I am figuring it out. Along the way I have discovered knowledge and concepts that have changed my existence and helped navigate my youth, The process of learning and undoing, growing, and evolving has led me right here. The host of 'Inner Wealth', where I bring together the most profound teachings I've learnt during my time here on earth; in hopes of making it a little easier for others to get to the same wisdom. Sharing the line of truth to living a prosperous life. The core of my purpose is to be of service to humanity.  CONTACT ME Follow me on Instagram for more insights and to stay up to date with the pod @innerwealth.podcast This podcast was brought to you by Frankly Podcasting.

In this sermon, Tommy walks the congregation through Ecclesiastes 12, using King Solomon's final reflections to confront the reality of aging, mortality, and meaning. Written near the end of Solomon's life, Ecclesiastes reflects a man who has experienced wealth, wisdom, pleasure, and power—yet concludes that life lived merely “under the sun” is ultimately meaningless apart from God. The sermon opens by framing Ecclesiastes as deeply honest and intentionally sobering. Solomon repeatedly uses the word “meaningless” to describe life when it is viewed only from an earthly perspective. This is not nihilism, but realism—designed to awaken people, especially the young, before time, strength, and opportunity slip away. Tommy explains that Ecclesiastes 12 is written as an allegory of aging, describing the gradual decline of the human body and mind. Solomon urges readers to “remember your Creator in the days of your youth,” because aging brings psychological, physiological, and eventually physical decline. The mind grows weary, joy becomes harder to find, and life can feel increasingly dark and repetitive. This is the psychological toll of aging when hope is rooted only in earthly things. Physiologically, Solomon's imagery vividly portrays the body breaking down: trembling hands, weakened legs, failing eyesight, loss of hearing, disrupted sleep, and diminished desire. Rather than being crude, the allegory preserves dignity while making the point unmistakable—human strength is temporary, and decline is inevitable. Finally, the physical conclusion is unavoidable: death. The “silver cord” is severed, the “golden bowl” is broken, and the spirit returns to God. Tommy emphasizes that Scripture is clear—death is certain, and judgment follows. Ignoring this reality does not delay it. Yet the sermon does not end in despair. Solomon closes with clarity and hope: “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of mankind.” Life gains meaning when lived with God at the center. Obedience, reverence, and eternal perspective anchor life with purpose that aging and death cannot erase. Tommy's central message is clear: wisdom is not found in denying mortality, but in preparing for it. The best time to orient life around God is not later—but now. Discussion Questions What does it mean to live life “under the sun,” and where do you see that mindset influencing your daily decisions? Why do you think Solomon specifically urges people to remember God while they are young? How does facing the reality of aging and death change the way you prioritize your time, energy, and relationships? In what ways can fearing God and keeping His commandments bring meaning to ordinary, everyday life? What is one practical step you can take this week to live with a more eternal perspective? If you'd like, I can also: Condense this into a small-group handout Rewrite it in a more devotional tone Create a teaching outline or sermon recap slide

What does it mean to follow Jesus in a divided and volatile world?In this message from 1 Peter 2:11–17, we explore the identity of the church as an exiled and immigrant people - citizens of God's kingdom living within earthly nations.How should Christians relate to government?Is the church political?What does it mean to “honor the emperor” without fearing him?Drawing on Scripture and the witness of voices like Martin Luther King Jr. and Stanley Hauerwas, this sermon calls the church to faithful public discipleship - neither partisan nor passive, but formed by the way of Jesus.Honor everyone. Love the community of brothers and sisters. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

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Revelation 14 ESV The Lamb and the 144,00014 Then I looked, and behold, on Mount Zion stood the Lamb, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads. 2 And I heard a voice from heaven like the roar of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps, 3 and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders. No one could learn that song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. 4 It is these who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins. It is these who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These have been redeemed from mankind as firstfruits for God and the Lamb, 5 and in their mouth no lie was found, for they are blameless.The Messages of the Three Angels6 Then I saw another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people. 7 And he said with a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.”8 Another angel, a second, followed, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality.”9 And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, 10 he also will drink the wine of God's wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. 11 And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast and its image, and whoever receives the mark of its name.”12 Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”The Harvest of the Earth14 Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and seated on the cloud one like a son of man, with a golden crown on his head, and a sharp sickle in his hand. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, calling with a loud voice to him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle, and reap, for the hour to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is fully ripe.” 16 So he who sat on the cloud swung his sickle across the earth, and the earth was reaped.17 Then another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. 18 And another angel came out from the altar, the angel who has authority over the fire, and he called with a loud voice to the one who had the sharp sickle, “Put in your sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, for its grapes are ripe.” 19 So the angel swung his sickle across the earth and gathered the grape harvest of the earth and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. 20 And the winepress was trodden outside the city, and blood flowed from the winepress, as high as a horse's bridle, for 1,600 stadia. For more information about Redeemer Church Lubbock visit our website at redeemerlubbock.org.

We've been all over the place in the 12 chapters of this Book. What is Solomon getting at? There is much in this life that is vanity, but Solomon is still striving to present his audience with wisdom and words of substance. But what is the point if it's all vanity? Because words have meaning. God has given us the wise words of Scripture to be like goads that prick us uncomfortably when we need to hear them. They are like nails that are driven home to hit the spot in our heart that needs attention. And they have been given by one Shepherd, who speaks to us in words that we can understand. Always go back to the truth written by our one Shepherd. All the books in the world won't give you the peace that can only be found in Christ, or the holiness that is only worked in us by the Holy Spirit. The conclusion of the matter: fear God and keep His Commandments. You have all sorts of choices to make in your life, so go forward in the fear of the Lord and make principled decisions based on the Lord's Commandments. God will being every work into judgment on the last great day, and our only hope when we stand before Him is for the blood of the Lamb to cover our sins. Because God has shown us His love in Jesus, we can now be assured that old things are passed away and all things are made new. Rest in Christ and His salvation!

"In Ecclesiastes 12:9–14, Solomon brings his searching, unsettling, and deeply honest book to its decisive conclusion. After exposing the vanity of life lived “under the sun,” he leaves us with the only answer that can bear the weight of death, judgment, and meaning: fear God and keep His commandments.This final passage reminds us that Ecclesiastes does not end in despair but in clarity. The Preacher—wise, deliberate, and orderly—has spoken words of truth given by one Shepherd. These words are described as goads that pierce the conscience and well-driven nails that provide a firm foundation for faith. They convict, but they also secure. They unsettle false hopes, but they anchor us in what lasts.Solomon warns us not to go beyond these words. Endless books and human speculation weary the soul, but the Word of God alone comes with divine authority. Scripture is not merely human wisdom—it is the voice of the Shepherd Himself, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who speaks life to His people.The climactic exhortation is unmistakable: “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” This is not moralism divorced from grace. True fear of God expresses itself in obedience that flows from faith, repentance, and refuge in Christ. Those who truly fear God trust Him, tremble at His Word, and seek to walk in His ways—not to earn life, but because life is found in Him.The reason for this call is sobering and unavoidable: God will bring every deed into judgment, including every secret thing. Nothing escapes His sight. All of life is fleeting, but judgment is certain. Only those who fear God and take refuge in Christ will stand on that day.And yet, these are called words of delight. Why? Because when all false securities are stripped away, the Shepherd provides a hope that does not fade—a life that is not vanity, but eternal. Ecclesiastes drives us away from trusting the world and presses us into the only refuge that lasts.May God grant us grace to hear these words, to tremble, to trust, and to find them a true delight as they lead us to Christ, whose words are everlasting life.#Ecclesiastes #FearGod #KeepHisCommandments #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianSermon #WordOfGod #ChristOurShepherd #JudgmentAndGrace #EternalLife"

Send us a textAre You Starting In The Right Place? Fear God (first order of business)Thank you for listening, our heart's prayer is for you and I to walk daily with Jesus, our joy and peace aimingforjesus.com YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@aimingforjesus5346 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aiming_for_jesus/ Threads https://www.threads.com/@aiming_for_jesus X https://x.com/AimingForJesus Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@aiming.for.jesus

All Is Vanity | Ecclesiastes 12

What does it mean to fear an all-loving God? Is it just reverence and awe, or are we actually supposed to be afraid? Kaitlyn and Mike wrestle with biblical stories, common misconceptions about Greek and Hebrew word studies, and the difference between fear that drives us away from God and fear that draws us closer. They also explore how a healthy fear of God can free us from fear of people, power, and politics and why that paradox might actually be good news.   0:00 - Theme Song   3:11 - Fear as Respect?   8:23 - Power is Frightening   16:15 - Sponsor - With & For: Psychology and Spirituality for Thriving Podcast. Check it out now! https://pod.link/1712333330   17:17 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order   19:22 - Fire and Brimstone   27:21 - Fear is Powerful   31:53 - End Credits

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17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

Subject: Book of Ecclesiastes 11:7-10 Speaker or Performer: Dennis Helton Scripture Passage(s): Ecclesiastes 11:7-10 Date of Delivery: February 1, 2026

January 30 | Genesis 31:17-55; Matthew 10:24-39; Psalm 13:5-6; Proverbs 6:6-11 // Looking for ways to help your kids learn God's Word? Join Pastor Dale, Pastor Joel and Pastor Grant for the Walking Through the Word Podcast 4 Kids daily at lifereachresources.com/podcasts.   

Featuring Abram's discussion with God in Genesis 15:2-6.Don't forget to check out our website! https://treasurehuntpodcast.wixsite.com/realtreasure

A Brutally Honest Take on the UncontrollablesWe live in a culture obsessed with control. Hustle harder. Plan smarter. Pray longer. If you do all the right things, life should cooperate. That's the promise of hustle culture—and it's incredibly seductive.But Ecclesiastes offers a brutally honest response.As we close our Ecclesiastes series, Qoheleth—the Teacher—pulls back the curtain on the illusion of control. Life “under the sun” is not a machine we operate; it's a mystery we inhabit. And the more we try to control it, the more frustrated and disillusioned we become.Earlier in the book, Qoheleth introduced us to two key ideas that shape everything else. First, his name—Qoheleth—means “Teacher,” the one who gathers people to tell the truth. Second, the word hevel—often translated “meaningless”—literally means vapor. Life is fleeting, unstable, and impossible to grasp.Pleasure is hevel.Wealth is hevel.They're not sins. They're not gods. They're gifts—but terrible masters.In this final message, Ecclesiastes confronts three unavoidable realities of life: the uncontrollables.1. You Can't Control the CreatorWe live under the illusion that we are in charge—especially in American culture. Ecclesiastes says otherwise.Ecclesiastes 7:13–14 (NLT) says, “Accept the way God does things, for who can straighten what he has made crooked?”The hardest truth for control-oriented people is this: God is God, and we are not.Scripture teaches that God is sovereign—not just aware of events, but actively holding the universe together and directing history toward His purposes. Sometimes God acts directly. Sometimes He allows human choices. But even when He permits something, He never loses control.God is the primary cause—the one with the plan and the power.Humans are secondary causes—we make real choices with real responsibility.The bottom line is humbling: you are not the scriptwriter of your life.2. You Can't Control the ConsequencesWe assume life is a meritocracy—that the fastest, smartest, and hardest-working people always win. Ecclesiastes dismantles that assumption.Ecclesiastes 9:11 (NLT) says, “The fastest runner doesn't always win the race… It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time.”Timing matters. Circumstances matter. Opportunity matters.This doesn't mean effort is pointless. In fact, Ecclesiastes affirms wisdom and preparation.Ecclesiastes 10:10 (NLT) says, “Using a dull ax requires great strength, so sharpen the blade.”Sharpen the blade. Work hard. Be wise.But even then, outcomes are never guaranteed.Ecclesiastes doesn't call us to quit trying—it calls us to stop pretending we're in control.3. You Can't Control the ClockSome people are better at predicting the future than others. Many of them are rich. But it's still a guess.Ecclesiastes is clear: the future is unknowable, and death is unavoidable.Ecclesiastes 8:7–8 (NLT) says, “No one really knows what is going to happen… None of us can hold back our spirit from departing.”No amount of money, innovation, or optimism can stop time—or death. The human mortality rate remains a steady 100%.That reality sounds dark until we realize what Ecclesiastes is doing: stripping away false hope so we can find real hope.The Only Thing You Can ControlIf we can't control the Creator, the consequences, or the clock—what can we control?Ecclesiastes ends with clarity.Ecclesiastes 12:13–14 (NLT) says, “Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone's duty.”You can control your response to God.Not your parents' faith.Not your spouse's obedience.Not your pastor's integrity.Yours.To fear God means more than being afraid. It means awe,

13 Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution,[a] whether it be to the emperor[b] as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants[c] of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. 18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust.

Scripture Reading: Revelation 13:11-18 A second beast appears in Revelation 13, "exercising all the authority of the first beast . . . and makes the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast" (Rev 13:12).  This beast is called the 'false prophet' in Revelation 16:13; 19:20; 20:10.  This title suggests that he will bring a religious element to the kingdom of the antichrist.  He will have the power to do supernatural acts (Rev 13:13-15).  The combination of a political, militaristic leader and an ecumenical religious leader will be a potent force in galvanizing the earth's population.  Coercion to worship the antichrist will be used in the form of economic boycott (Rev 13:16,17) and threat of death (Rev 13:15).  In the face of such global, open, rebellion against God, what happens in chapter 14 stands out as a remarkable display of God's grace.  There is a description of the 144,000 Jewish evangelists, who were first mentioned in chapter 7.  Then there is the appearance of three angels who bring to the earth a message of warning and life.  To the whole earth one angel declares, "Fear God and give Him glory . . . worship Him who made heaven and earth" (Rev 14:7). In the face of undisguised disdain for the true and living God, He patiently and mercifully holds out the gracious offer of life in Christ.  People continue to refuse God's love.  It is to be dying of thirst and still to refuse the outstretched hand of God, holding a cup of the water of life.

Send us a textThe fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom!! Proverbs 9;10 Many walking around that say they Love God have zero fear of God, we call these people luke warm and sadly there are many like this today. God is raising up his children to boldly step in to position to help many come home. It's time to get in your word and have fear of God so you can grow in wisdom and knowledge. He's calling many to be warriors at this time. Proverbs 28;14Proverbs 14;27

This sermon, drawn from Luke 12:4–12, confronts the pervasive danger of hypocrisy rooted in the fear of man, exposing how the desire for human approval leads people to conceal their true selves. Jesus dismantles this fear not by minimizing human threats, but by redirecting attention to the ultimate authority of God, whose power to judge eternally surpasses any earthly harm. The passage unfolds a Trinitarian framework: God the Father is shown as intimately sovereign and loving, knowing even the smallest details of human life; God the Son is the basis of our salvation, and public acknowledgment of Him is the mark of genuine faith; and God the Holy Spirit is the source of conviction and illumination, whose rejection in persistent unbelief constitutes the unforgivable sin. The sermon concludes with a powerful promise of divine empowerment, assuring believers that in moments of persecution, the Holy Spirit will provide the words needed in the very hour of trial, freeing the faithful from fear and enabling bold, faithful witness grounded in eternal truth.

Worship led by Danny Gutierrez

In this podcast, Pastor Justin continues unpacking our assignment for the year, digging into how the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. You'll never get the wisdom of God without first fearing God. Support the show

Confession usually comes after someone gets caught. But real confession happens before exposure. The difference reveals whether a person fears God or just fears consequences, and whether belief actually governs behavior when no one is watching.

Confession usually comes after someone gets caught. But real confession happens before exposure. The difference reveals whether a person fears God or just fears consequences—and whether belief actually governs behavior when no one is watching. Chalcedon Podcast, used with permission.

Too often, we make choices in life based on fear. Listen to what God has to say instead. The situation is still scary, but when we know He is with us we don't have to be afraid.

Fear God, not man

ShemotExodus 1:1 – 6:1Fear God and Find HappinessStay ConnectedLinktree: https://linktr.ee/jacobstentWebsite: https://jacobstent.org/Facebook: @jacobstentfellowshipInstagram: @jacobstentDownload Our App: https://jacobstent.org/appGiving: https://jacobstent.org/giveEmail Signup: http://eepurl.com/g-YpcDJoin us for our Shabbat service with Bill Cloud and the Jacob's Tent Family!If you are enjoying this live stream, PLEASE consider sending in an offering, tithe, or donation to help us continue spread the gospel free from Jacob's Tent. We work hard to make sure this is an enjoyable experience to our online community, but it doesn't come without a price.Give online via the Jacobs Tent app, our website, or text any amount to 84321 to support this ministry. Yahweh bless you and keep you! Shalom.

Featuring God's provision in the wilderness from Exodus 16-17:1.Don't forget to check out our website! https://treasurehuntpodcast.wixsite.com/realtreasure

Gerald E. Weston | Recorded November 22, 2025

Gerald E. Weston | Recorded November 22, 2025

The Age old Question:  What is the Meaning or Purpose of Life?  So many have contemplated this, and have also attempted to answer.  For Me?  All truth comes from the scriptures of the Bible, and funny enough, it actually tells us very Directly in Ecclesiastes 12:13 “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. Biblical Truths:  No one is an accident. Not a single person is created without purpose. No matter what you may think, your life has valuable meaning; in fact, every decision we make has eternal consequences. So, In Christ, purpose is not a mystery — it is a promise. Hope is not fragile — it is anchored in resurrection. Victory is not uncertain — In Christ, God always ensures it. We are called with a high calling, secure in an eternal purpose, and destined to share in His glory — especially the day when the dead in Christ shall rise first. We Uncover our God-given purpose, Renew our unshakeable hope, and Celebrate our promised future for every believer who is …in Christ. Email Us: info@heartofworshipchurch.com Visit Our Website: www.heartofworshipchurch.com For Prayer Requests: pray@heartofworshipcurch.com

1Remember also your Creator inthe days of your youth, beforethe evil days come and the years draw near of whichyou will say, I have no pleasure in them;2beforethe sun and the light and the moon and the stars are darkened and the clouds return after the rain,3in the day when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men are bent, and the grinders cease because they are few, andthose who look through the windows are dimmed,4andthe doors on the street are shutwhenthe sound of the grinding is low, and one rises up at the sound of a bird, and allthe daughters of song are brought low5they are afraid also of what is high, andterrors are in the way; the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper drags itself along,and desire fails, because man is going to hiseternalhome, and themourners go about the streets6before the silver cord is snapped, orthe golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher isshattered at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern,7andthe dust returns to the earth as it was, andthe spirit returns to Godwho gave it.8Vanityof vanities, saysthe Preacher; all is vanity. 9Besides being wise,the Preacher also taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arrangingmany proverbs with great care.10The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth. 11The words of the wise are like goads, and likenails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they aregiven byone Shepherd.12My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of makingmany books there is no end, andmuch study is a weariness of the flesh. 13The end of the matter; all has been heard.Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.14ForGod will bring every deed into judgment, withevery secret thing, whether good or evil.

We connect Rehoboam's failure and Judah's forced burdens with Jesus' promise of a “light” burden, showing why following him means trading weights, not living weightless. We unpack yokes, crosses, rejection, and allegiance as practical, hopeful paths of discipleship.• Rehoboam's arrogance contrasted with God's lighter rule• What Jesus means by an easy yoke and light burden• Yoke as surrender of direction and pace• Burden as carrying good for others• Love your enemies through dignified nonretaliation• Take up your cross as daily self-denial• Expect and endure the burden of rejection• Fear God over human power• Confess Christ as an act of allegiance• Gratitude and resilience when discipleship feels heavyLet us know what you find in your own study!Send Mike a quick message! (If you seek a reply, instead please contact through Outloudbible.com) Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

In 3 instances Angels visited people outlining God's plan for the birth of Christ. Today, Tom Pounder shares from Luke 1 and 2. While God's plan may sound scary, we do not need to fear. We can trust Him knowing that He will walk beside us throughout. 00:00 - Introduction01:53 - Luke 1 v11-1303:20 - Luke 1 v26-3004:40 - Luke 206:32 - Isaiah 4107:41 - ConclusionShare 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!

In 3 instances Angels visited people outlining God's plan for the birth of Christ. Today, Tom Pounder shares from Luke 1 and 2. While God's plan may sound scary, we do not need to fear. We can trust Him knowing that He will walk beside us throughout. 00:00 - Introduction01:53 - Luke 1 v11-1303:20 - Luke 1 v26-3004:40 - Luke 206:32 - Isaiah 4107:41 - ConclusionShare 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!

Ecclesiastes is written by a “Preacher.” This Hebrew word, Qoheleth, pictures a speaker standing before an assembly to deliver an important message. The Qoheleth, King Solomon, was no ordinary preacher. He was the wisest man on earth. “And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore, so that Solomon's wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east and all the wisdom of Egypt. For he was wiser than all other men.” After a life of successes and failures, Solomon leaves us the words he most wants us to remember: “The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.”Take-Home Message: Obedience to God is everyone's entire duty.The Preacher's Process (9-10)The Preacher's Source (11)The Preacher's Warning (12)The Preacher's Conclusion (13-14)After all has been heard, the entire duty of mankind is to obey God, because God will bring all deeds into judgment, including everything hidden, whether good or evil.

What do we give the King of Kings?  What could we possibly give to the One who owns everything?  He created all things, and all things are under His feet.  Join Kim in this podcast of Woman of the Well Ministries as she takes us on a journey through the Scriptures revealing what God wants from all mankind.  Come with us as we explore the gifts we may choose to give to Jesus.   Scriptures Mentioned in this Episode 1 Peter 1:3–4 – A living hope and incorruptible inheritance. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+1%3A3-4&version=KJV Matthew 2:1–11 – The visit of the wise men and their gifts to Jesus. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+2%3A1-11&version=KJV Micah 6:8 – What does the Lord require of you? www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Micah+6%3A8&version=KJV Ephesians 5:15–16 – Walk circumspectly and redeem the time. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+5%3A15-16&version=KJV Matthew 6:33 – Seek first the kingdom of God. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6%3A33&version=KJV 2 Timothy 2:15 – Study to show yourself approved. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+2%3A15&version=KJV John 1:14 – The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1%3A14&version=KJV James 1:17 – Every good and perfect gift is from above. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+1%3A17&version=KJV 1 Corinthians 6:20 – Glorify God in your body and spirit. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+6%3A20&version=KJV Luke 12:32–34 – Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+12%3A32-34&version=KJV Ecclesiastes 12:13 – Fear God and keep His commandments. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ecclesiastes+12%3A13&version=KJV Romans 12:1–2 – Present your bodies a living sacrifice. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12%3A1-2&version=KJV Did you enjoy this podcast? Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can listen to us on all major podcasting platforms like Apple Podcasts,  Spotify,  Google Podcasts,  YouTube, and Podbean. Check out Kim's latest Bible Bit book on Amazon! Do you want to bring Kim Miller to your church, upcoming retreat, or conference? Contact us! This podcast is brought to you by Woman at the Well Ministries and is supported by our faithful listeners. To support this podcast, please visit our support page. 

“Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher. All is vanity.” Ecclesiastes 1:2 As a philosopher I have loved the great tradition of human wisdom. For many years I drank from the tributaries. Aristotle taught that the good life is something one lives, not something one acquires. Socrates taught that wisdom begins in humility. These insights nourished me long before I realized they were preparing me to recognize the far greater wisdom God has given in Scripture. The Greek thinkers stood downstream from a fountain they dimly sensed but could not reach. The book of Ecclesiastes speaks from that very source. Qoheleth, קהלת, the Assembler, often called the Preacher, gathers what God has revealed about life in this world. He describes the human condition with a single Hebrew word: hevel, breath, vapor. Not meaninglessness, but ungraspability - and paradox. Life slips through the fingers of those who try to seize it, and understanding reaches its limit in paradox. What cannot be possessed must be received. What we cannot control must become ours by gift. And this is why Ecclesiastes so often speaks the language of generosity. Work is a gift. Food and drink are gifts. Joy is gift. Companionship is gift. Time itself is gift. The Preacher calls us to leave behind the restless striving that characterizes life in the tributaries, and to return instead to the fountain where every good and perfect gift flows from the hand of the Giver. He also tells us something our age urgently needs to hear. There is nothing new under the sun. Our modern confidence in our own progress (central to the evolutionary mythos) is little more than hubris. We imagine ourselves advanced beyond our “primitive” forebears, yet our world repeats the same patterns of confusion and pride. Postmodern deconstruction, gender confusion, DEI initiatives, and cultural relativism are not new. They are ancient errors retold in new vocabulary. Ecclesiastes understood the human heart long before our age attempted to deconstruct it. Near the end of the book the imagery sharpens. “The words of the wise are like goads,” given by one Shepherd to guide us back toward the fountain of wisdom. When the risen Jesus confronted Saul and said, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads,” Paul, deeply trained in Greek language and philosophy, recognized the proverb immediately. The Shepherd's mercy often comes to us as a sharp turn, redirecting us from the dry channels of self-reliance back to the living waters of God Himself. The book ends where all honest searching must end. Fear God. Keep His commandments. Receive His gifts with gratitude. This is the whole duty of man, the culmination not only of the Bible's wisdom literature, but of every sincere philosophical quest. I wandered long among the tributaries, but Scripture led me home to the Fount of every blessing and tuned my heart to sing His grace. Here is a helpful overview of Ecclesiastes. May your listening be as blessed as ours was in the reading. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrsQ1tc-2w

“Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher. All is vanity.” Ecclesiastes 1:2 As a philosopher I have loved the great tradition of human wisdom. For many years I drank from the tributaries. Aristotle taught that the good life is something one lives, not something one acquires. Socrates taught that wisdom begins in humility. These insights nourished me long before I realized they were preparing me to recognize the far greater wisdom God has given in Scripture. The Greek thinkers stood downstream from a fountain they dimly sensed but could not reach. The book of Ecclesiastes speaks from that very source. Qoheleth, קהלת, the Assembler, often called the Preacher, gathers what God has revealed about life in this world. He describes the human condition with a single Hebrew word: hevel, breath, vapor. Not meaninglessness, but ungraspability - and paradox. Life slips through the fingers of those who try to seize it, and understanding reaches its limit in paradox. What cannot be possessed must be received. What we cannot control must become ours by gift. And this is why Ecclesiastes so often speaks the language of generosity. Work is a gift. Food and drink are gifts. Joy is gift. Companionship is gift. Time itself is gift. The Preacher calls us to leave behind the restless striving that characterizes life in the tributaries, and to return instead to the fountain where every good and perfect gift flows from the hand of the Giver. He also tells us something our age urgently needs to hear. There is nothing new under the sun. Our modern confidence in our own progress (central to the evolutionary mythos) is little more than hubris. We imagine ourselves advanced beyond our “primitive” forebears, yet our world repeats the same patterns of confusion and pride. Postmodern deconstruction, gender confusion, DEI initiatives, and cultural relativism are not new. They are ancient errors retold in new vocabulary. Ecclesiastes understood the human heart long before our age attempted to deconstruct it. Near the end of the book the imagery sharpens. “The words of the wise are like goads,” given by one Shepherd to guide us back toward the fountain of wisdom. When the risen Jesus confronted Saul and said, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads,” Paul, deeply trained in Greek language and philosophy, recognized the proverb immediately. The Shepherd's mercy often comes to us as a sharp turn, redirecting us from the dry channels of self-reliance back to the living waters of God Himself. The book ends where all honest searching must end. Fear God. Keep His commandments. Receive His gifts with gratitude. This is the whole duty of man, the culmination not only of the Bible's wisdom literature, but of every sincere philosophical quest. I wandered long among the tributaries, but Scripture led me home to the Fount of every blessing and tuned my heart to sing His grace. Here is a helpful overview of Ecclesiastes. May your listening be as blessed as ours was in the reading. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrsQ1tc-2w

“Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher. All is vanity.” Ecclesiastes 1:2 As a philosopher I have loved the great tradition of human wisdom. For many years I drank from the tributaries. Aristotle taught that the good life is something one lives, not something one acquires. Socrates taught that wisdom begins in humility. These insights nourished me long before I realized they were preparing me to recognize the far greater wisdom God has given in Scripture. The Greek thinkers stood downstream from a fountain they dimly sensed but could not reach. The book of Ecclesiastes speaks from that very source. Qoheleth, קהלת, the Assembler, often called the Preacher, gathers what God has revealed about life in this world. He describes the human condition with a single Hebrew word: hevel, breath, vapor. Not meaninglessness, but ungraspability - and paradox. Life slips through the fingers of those who try to seize it, and understanding reaches its limit in paradox. What cannot be possessed must be received. What we cannot control must become ours by gift. And this is why Ecclesiastes so often speaks the language of generosity. Work is a gift. Food and drink are gifts. Joy is gift. Companionship is gift. Time itself is gift. The Preacher calls us to leave behind the restless striving that characterizes life in the tributaries, and to return instead to the fountain where every good and perfect gift flows from the hand of the Giver. He also tells us something our age urgently needs to hear. There is nothing new under the sun. Our modern confidence in our own progress (central to the evolutionary mythos) is little more than hubris. We imagine ourselves advanced beyond our “primitive” forebears, yet our world repeats the same patterns of confusion and pride. Postmodern deconstruction, gender confusion, DEI initiatives, and cultural relativism are not new. They are ancient errors retold in new vocabulary. Ecclesiastes understood the human heart long before our age attempted to deconstruct it. Near the end of the book the imagery sharpens. “The words of the wise are like goads,” given by one Shepherd to guide us back toward the fountain of wisdom. When the risen Jesus confronted Saul and said, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads,” Paul, deeply trained in Greek language and philosophy, recognized the proverb immediately. The Shepherd's mercy often comes to us as a sharp turn, redirecting us from the dry channels of self-reliance back to the living waters of God Himself. The book ends where all honest searching must end. Fear God. Keep His commandments. Receive His gifts with gratitude. This is the whole duty of man, the culmination not only of the Bible's wisdom literature, but of every sincere philosophical quest. I wandered long among the tributaries, but Scripture led me home to the Fount of every blessing and tuned my heart to sing His grace. Here is a helpful overview of Ecclesiastes. May your listening be as blessed as ours was in the reading. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrsQ1tc-2w

Ecc 5:6  Don't let your mouth make you sin. And don't defend yourself by telling the Temple messenger that the promise you made was a mistake. That would make God angry, and he might wipe out everything you have achieved.Ecc 5:7  Talk is cheap, like daydreams and other useless activities. Fear God instead. 

In this episode of Uncommon Sense, I'm discussing my changing views on Israel, Donald Trump, and Candace Owens and why principles grounded in Scripture must always matter more than personalities.I'll discuss how easy it is to get swept up in political figures, influencers, and movements… all while forgetting that God alone is who we should be following. The devil is just like a stalker prowling around, watching, scheming, seeking someone to devour. And in these chaotic times, he's using deception, manipulation, and emotional brainwashing to pull people into confusion and ultimately into Hell.In this episode, we're talking about how the synagogue of Satan is operating openly today, pushing narratives meant to distract and divide. I am urging my listeners to stay anchored in the Word, remain spiritually alert, and refuse to be seduced by personalities, platforms, or “conservative celebrities” who very well may not be aligned with God's truth.Ultimately, we all need to return to the Bible (now more than ever) and to guard our minds and souls as the days grow darker and darker.--https://www.bible.com/

Does having the fear of God mean being scared of God? Should I be terrified of God? What is the biblical understanding of the fear of the Lord?