Podcasts about for zion

In this broadcast of For Zion's Sake, Shelley and June Volk discuss the profound theme of living "for His sake." Building on Jesus' teaching in John 15:13 on laying down one's life, they explore how God consistently acts throughout Scripture—from the Exodus to the prayers of Daniel—to uphold and glorify His own name. The Volks remind believers that carrying God's name is both a privilege and a high calling, urging listeners to live in a way that reflects His character, brings honor to Messiah, and intercedes faithfully for others. Key Takeaways Living for Jesus First: Laying down one's life for others is only possible when believers live primary for Jesus, letting His grace and life flow through them. God Acts for His Name's Sake: Scriptural accounts in Daniel and Ezekiel show that God's mercy, forgiveness, and deliverance are grounded in His desire to uphold His own holy character. Bearing the Stamp of God: Believers are identified with God's name; daily choices, speech, and conduct either bring glory or reproach to Him. Persistent Intercession: Followers of Christ are encouraged to pray faithfully for family, friends, and adversaries, asking God to reveal His righteousness and salvation. Bible Passages Referenced John 15:13 – Greater love has no man than to lay down his life for his friends. 1 Samuel 12:19–22 – The Lord's commitment to His people for His great name's sake. Psalm 103:10–11 – God's immense lovingkindness and mercy toward those who fear Him. Daniel 9:16–19 – Daniel's prayer appealing to God's compassion and the honor of His name. Ezekiel 20:7–9 – God delivering His people out of Egypt so His name would not be profaned. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcast Description In this broadcast of For Zion's Sake, Shelley and June Volk share a message on what it truly means to live "for His sake." Exploring the distinction between fleeting human affection and divine, unconditional love, they emphasize that God's love requires a daily commitment to lay down one's life for others. By drawing from the Old and New Testaments, the Volks explain how God acts to honor His own name and character, calling believers to embody that same standard by representing His name through sacrificial living, daily forgiveness, and spiritual steadfastness. Key Takeaways A Daily Way of Life: True godly love is not merely a single heroic gesture or a passing feeling; it is a intentional, sacrificial choice to live daily for the sake of others and Christ. Overcoming Spiritual Opposition: Believers face spiritual warfare rather than physical enemies; recognizing this helps Christians respond to conflict with grace, forgiveness, and endurance. Living for God's Name: Just as God protects and stays faithful to His people for the sake of His name (1 Samuel 12:22), believers carry His name and represent His character in everything they do. Reflecting the Divine Nature: Human effort alone cannot produce godly love; believers must allow Christ's love to flow through them to impact their families, communities, and even their adversaries. Bible Passages Referenced John 15:13–14 – Greater love has no one than laying down one's life for friends. 1 Samuel 12:19–22 – The Lord promises not to abandon His people for His great name's sake. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Description: Hosts Shelly and June Volk continue their series on Psalm 22, focusing on the shift from the Messiah’s suffering to the triumph of His resurrection and global kingdom. Exploring key Old and New Covenant connections, the Volks discuss the true meaning of revelation knowledge (epignosis), the promise of the New Covenant written on the heart, and how the call to repentance (shuv) brings both Jew and Gentile into worship before the God of Israel. Key Takeaways: From Suffering to Glory: Psalm 22 transitions from the agony of the cross to a declaration of global praise, showing how Messiah’s ultimate victory brings joy to the nations. Experiential Knowledge (Epignosis): Based on Ephesians 1:17–18, true knowledge of God is spiritual revelation that shapes how believers think, act, and live. The New Covenant Premise: The New Testament builds directly on Jeremiah 31:31 and Ezekiel 36:26, where God writes His law upon the heart rather than tablets of stone. The Call to Repent (Shuv): Psalm 22:27 prophesies that all ends of the earth will "turn" (shuv / repent) back to the Lord, pointing to a restored world under His kingdom. Eternal Perspective in Dark Times: Believers are encouraged to look past present world turmoil and anchor their faith in God's eternal promises and sovereign rule. Scripture & Bible Passages Referenced: Isaiah 62:1 – "For Zion's sake I will not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest..." Psalm 22:22–27 – Prophetic declaration of Messiah telling of God's name, calling Israel and the nations to praise and turn to the Lord. Luke 24:44 – Jesus affirms that all things written in the Law of Moses, Prophets, and Psalms concerning Him must be fulfilled. Ephesians 1:16–18 – Prayer for the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge (epignosis) of Him. Jeremiah 31:31–33 & Ezekiel 36:26 – The promise of the New Covenant and a new heart. 2 Corinthians 5:21 – God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Isaiah 49:5–6 – Messiah appointed not only to restore Israel, but to be a light to the Gentiles to the ends of the earth. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosts Shelly and June Volk continue their deep dive into Psalm 22, demonstrating how this prophetic Hebrew scripture—written a thousand years before Jesus—foretells the Messiah's suffering, sacrifice, and ultimate victory. Connecting Old Testament prophecies with New Testament fulfillments in the Gospels, Luke, and Ephesians, the Volks explore how Messiah endured the agony of the cross to redeem humanity and provide a blueprint for believers seeking God in times of affliction. Key Takeaways: Prophetic Fulfillment: Written a millennium prior, Psalm 22 gives a detailed, prophetic account of Yeshua’s crucifixion, from the piercing of His hands and feet to the casting of lots for His garments. The Full Scope of Divine Scripture: Referencing Luke 24:44, the broadcast highlights that all things written about the Messiah in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled. Experiential Knowledge (Epignosis): Based on Ephesians 1:17–18, true knowledge of God goes beyond head knowledge—it is a deep, transformational experience that shapes how believers endure trials. From Agony to Praise: Though the Messiah experienced a momentary separation while bearing the world's sin, His cries of distress ultimately resolved into global praise and divine restoration. The Passover Connection: Just as the blood of the lamb protected Israel in Egypt, Yeshua acts as the Lamb of God whose sacrifice delivers believers from death and sin. Scripture & Bible Passages Referenced: Isaiah 62:1 – For Zion's sake I will not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest. Psalm 22:1–31 – A prophetic Psalm of David detailing the agony, crucifixion, and triumphant praise of the Messiah. Luke 24:44 – Jesus confirms that all scriptures written concerning Him in the Law, Prophets, and Psalms must be fulfilled. Ephesians 1:16–18 – Paul’s prayer for believers to receive a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the full knowledge of God. Luke 23:34–37 & Matthew 27:39–44 – Historical fulfillment of Psalm 22 during the crucifixion of Jesus. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zion’s Coming Salvation 62 For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,    and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not be quiet,until her righteousness goes forth as brightness,    and her salvation as a burning torch.2 The nations shall see your righteousness,    and all the kings your glory,and you shall be called by a new name    that the mouth of the Lord will give.3 You shall […]

Here is a podcast description structured for this concluding episode, based on the transcript provided: Podcast Title: Living a "Nevertheless" Life: Standing Firm on an Unshakable FoundationEpisode Description Welcome to the series finale on For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. Wrapping up their weeklong exploration of the word "Nevertheless," Shelly and Scott address a foundational question: What does a nevertheless life actually look like? In a world defined by shifting cultures, changing economies, and unpredictable circumstances, believers are called to stand on a foundation that remains completely sure. From Paul's encouraging words in 2 Timothy to Jesus' poignant challenge to the church in Revelation regarding returning to our "first love," this episode highlights that living a "nevertheless" life is about far more than just correct doctrine—it's about wholehearted surrender, firm hope in future promises, and a deep, intimate relationship with God. Key Takeaways An Unshakable Foundation: Grounded in 2 Timothy 2:19, while everything in our culture and environment fluctuates, God's foundation stands firm and His covenant remains completely secure. Returning to Your First Love: Looking at Revelation 2:4–5, God isn't merely impressed by our good deeds or busy schedules. Living a "nevertheless" life requires guarding our hearts against distraction and keeping our personal love for Christ as our top priority. Looking Ahead with Hope: Drawing from 2 Peter 3:13–14, believers aren't stranded in the past; we look forward with confidence to the new heavens and new earth, anchored by the certainty that every future promise of God will be fulfilled. Relationship Over Performance: As Scott emphasizes, God spoke His pleasure over Jesus at His baptism before He ever performed a miracle. God desires our hearts and intimate connection far more than what we can accomplish for Him. A Summary of the Series: Every "nevertheless" in Scripture—from Abraham and Sarah in their old age to Peter's full nets and Jesus in Gethsemane—points to the reality that God's faithful character always overcomes human limitations. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: The Sure Foundation of God: 2 Timothy 2:19 Remembering Your First Love: Revelation 2:4–5 Looking for New Heavens and New Earth: 2 Peter 3:13–14 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is a podcast description structured for this episode, based on the transcript from the current page: Podcast Title: Standing on His Counsel: Launching Out Into the DeepEpisode Description Welcome back to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelley Volk and his son, Scott Volk. In this episode of their series on the word "Nevertheless," Shelley and Scott discuss how faith doesn't ignore difficult circumstances—it simply chooses to trust that God's word is greater than our current reality. Drawing from the Book of Proverbs, the Psalms, and the Gospels, this message reminds us that human plans may change, but the counsel of the Lord always stands. Even when we feel cut off, feel heaven is silent, or face deep disappointment after working hard with nothing to show for it, stepping out in faith at God's command changes everything. Join us as we learn to trade our human limitations for God’s character, stepping beyond the shallow waters of self-reliance into the deep places of His faithfulness. Key Takeaways God’s Counsel Endures: While human hearts formulate many plans, Proverbs 19:21 reminds us that God's purpose and authority supersede every human strategy, offering ultimate stability. Faith Above Feelings: In Psalm 31:22, David felt cut off and abandoned, yet God heard his cry. Our feelings constantly shift, but God's faithfulness remains steadfast regardless of how silent heaven seems. Repentance Over Disobedience: As seen in Judges 2:16, God never condones sin, but He always responds to a repentant heart by raising up deliverance and mercy. Stepping Out into the Deep: Following the disciples' experience in Luke 5, moving past disappointment requires launching out into the deep waters where we can no longer rely on our own ability, allowing God to perform what only He can do. Overcoming the World: Grounded in John 16:33, Christ promises His presence and victory in the middle of tribulation, teaching us that faith isn't the absence of trials, but the presence of Christ. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: The Counsel of the Lord: Proverbs 19:21 He Heard My Supplication: Psalm 31:22 God Raises Up Deliverers: Judges 2:16 Overcoming the World: John 16:33 Launch Out Into the Deep: Luke 5:4–5 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is a podcast description structured for this episode, based on the transcript from the current page: Podcast Title: The Ultimate Surrender: Finding Strength in the Greatest "Nevertheless"Episode Description Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. In this powerful continuation of their study on the word "Nevertheless," Shelly and Scott look at what they call the single greatest "nevertheless" in all of Scripture: Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Faced with the immediate reality of betrayal, suffering, and the cross, Jesus didn't pretend the pain wasn't real. Instead, He brought His honest struggle to the Father and declared, "Nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt." Join us as we unpack what it means to face our own "Gethsemane moments"—whether dealing with illness, heartbreak, or closed doors—and discover how surrendering our will to God's higher plans brings true transformation, strength, and spiritual victory. Key Takeaways The Greatest Act of Surrender: Facing the agony of the cross, Jesus prayed for the cup to pass if possible, yet anchored His heart in "nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt." Real faith doesn't deny human pain or struggle; it surrenders through it. Every Believer’s Gethsemane: Every Christian eventually encounters moments of deep trial or disappointment where they must choose between insisting on their own desire or submitting to God's ultimate plan. Crucified Yet Living: Reflecting on Paul's declaration in Galatians 2:20 ("I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live..."), true Christian living isn't about self-improvement, but wholehearted surrender that lets Christ live through us. Purpose in Discipline: Pain and spiritual discipline are never purposeless. While chastening feels grievous in the present moment, it eventually yields the "peaceable fruit of righteousness" in those who yield to it. God’s Order for Victory: Drawing from James 4:7, the speaker notes that resisting the devil only works after first submitting to God. True victory over spiritual enemies flows entirely from a heart of initial surrender. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: The Prayer in Gethsemane: Matthew 26:39 Crucified with Christ: Galatians 2:20 The Fruit of Discipline: Hebrews 12:11 Submit and Resist: James 4:7 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description Welcome back to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. Continuing their deep dive into the profound biblical word "Nevertheless," Shelly and Scott explore how this single word serves as a direct window into the character and heart of God—most clearly demonstrated through His relationship with Israel. While human failure, unfaithfulness, and broken covenants demand judgment, God repeatedly steps in with a "nevertheless" to offer covenant mercy. From Jeremiah and Ezekiel to the Psalms and Nehemiah, this episode reveals that God’s faithfulness never relies on our perfection, but on His unchanging promises. Join us to discover how the truth of God’s everlasting covenant brings hope, comfort, and restoration to anyone who feels far from Him. Key Takeaways A Window into God's Heart: The word "nevertheless" is more than just a phrase of hope; it shows that God doesn't abandon His promises even when His people stumble or fail. Justice vs. Mercy: While justice calls for consequences, God’s covenant calls for mercy. Israel faced real discipline and exile, yet God promised never to make a full end of them because of His covenant. The Witness of Israel's Survival: Centuries of survival despite persecution and dispersion stand as a living testament to God's faithfulness, proving that His promises are kept by His power, not human strength. Saved for His Name's Sake: Salvation and mercy are not earned by merit or perfect obedience. God acts for His name's sake because He is naturally gracious, merciful, and incapable of denying Himself. Mercy Has the Final Word: For anyone feeling far from the Lord, the message remains the same: God disciplines in love and forgives in mercy, guaranteeing that His grace always has the last word. Scripture References & Links Follow along with the scriptures featured in today's broadcast: Unfaithfulness and the Promise of Mercy: Jeremiah 5:11 & Jeremiah 5:18 An Everlasting Covenant Remembered: Ezekiel 16:58–60 Saved for His Name's Sake: Psalm 106:6–8 A Gracious and Merciful God: Nehemiah 9:31 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Shelly Volk and his son, Scott Volk. In this thoughtful and encouraging broadcast, Shelly and Scott focus entirely on a single, transformative word found throughout Scripture: "Nevertheless." When situations seem completely hopeless, when human efforts fail, and when circumstances appear impossible, God frequently speaks the word "nevertheless" to rewrite the narrative. However, grasping the weight of this word requires us to embrace a foundational truth: God’s thoughts and ways are vastly higher than our own. From the miraculous birth of Isaac to the falling walls of Jericho and Peter's late-night catch of fish, this episode explores what happens when we set aside our personal expectations, stop demanding explanations, and yield to God's divine perspective. Key Takeaways Higher Thoughts, Higher Ways: Grounded in Isaiah 55, we are reminded that our struggles often stem from expecting God to work on our human timelines and through our limited logic. The "Nevertheless" Turnaround: "Nevertheless" marks the exact boundary where human impossibility meets divine intervention. Everything stated before the "nevertheless" may be true (e.g., exhaustion, failure, lack of progress), but God's word always has the final say. Miracles Beyond Logic: Throughout biblical history—whether reducing Gideon's army to 300 or asking Joshua to defeat a fortress by marching and shouting—God delights in using methods that defy human reasoning so that the glory belongs solely to Him. Trust Precedes Understanding: We naturally want God to explain His plans before we obey. True faith requires trusting His character and heart first, knowing that clarity and understanding will follow in His timing. At Thy Word: Following Simon Peter's example in Luke 5, when we've worked all night and caught nothing, our response to Christ's direction must always be, "Nevertheless at Thy word." Scripture References & Links Explore and meditate on the scripture passages featured in today's message: God's Thoughts are Higher: Isaiah 55:8–9 Unsearchable Judgments and Ways: Romans 11:33 Teach Me Thy Way: Psalm 86:11 Nevertheless at Thy Word: Luke 5:4–5 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Title: Be Anxious for Nothing: Cultivating Trust in a Worried World Join hosts Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni) for the conclusion of this week's series on anxiety. In a world full of turbulence and reasons to worry, For Zion's Sake dives deep into the ultimate scriptural antidote to panic: unconditional trust and cultivated faithfulness in God. From the prison cells of Philippi to the timeless wisdom of missionary Hudson Taylor, this episode provides a vital roadmap for shifting your focus away from shifting circumstances and anchoring your mind securely in the perfect peace of the Lord. Key Takeaways: The Weight of Worry: Recognizing that the biblical definition of anxiety is a literal "weighing down" of the heart, which frequently opens the door to depression among believers. Cultivating Faithfulness: A look at faith as a fruit of the Spirit that must be nourished and tested to grow. Just as Abraham trusted God without hesitation through his greatest trials, our faith is actively cultivated during difficult seasons. The Power of Praise in the Midnight Hour: Reflecting on Paul and Silas, who chose prayer and worship over panic while chained in a prison cell, resulting in a supernatural breakthrough and salvation for those around them. The Hudson Taylor Principle: Embracing the freedom that comes when we hand over our work, plans, families, and lives entirely to God—leaving nothing left to worry or fret about. Perfect Peace (Shalom Shalom): A breakdown of the Hebrew repetition of peace in Isaiah, proving that double-measure peace is guaranteed exclusively to those who keep their minds firmly established on Him. Featured Bible Passages: Philippians 4:6-7 – "Be anxious for nothing..." and the peace that guards your heart. Proverbs 12:25 – How anxiety weighs down the heart of man. Psalm 55:22 – Casting your burdens on the Lord to be sustained. 1 Peter 5:7 – Casting all your care upon Him because He cares for you. Psalm 37:3 – Trusting in the Lord, doing good, and cultivating faithfulness. Acts 16 – Paul and Silas praising God at midnight in prison. Isaiah 26:3-4 – Keeping the firmly established mind in perfect peace (Shalom, Shalom). Psalm 32:10 – Mercy surrounding those who trust in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trusting the Lord with all your heart and leaning not on your own understanding. Psalm 125:1 – Becoming unmoved like Mount Zion. Psalm 31:1-5 – Committing your spirit into the hands of the Lord, our rock and fortress. Jeremiah 17:7-8 – The man who trusts in the Lord being like a tree planted by the waters that does not fear drought. Nahum 1:7 – The Lord as a stronghold who knows those who trust in Him. Connect & Support: Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082 Website: shellyandjunevolk.com This broadcast is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund.Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Title: Be Anxious for Nothing — Overcoming Affliction and Renewing the Inner Man Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni). In this episode, Shelley and Juni continue their exploration of overcoming anxiety, taking a closer look at how believers can cultivate righteousness and maintain eternal perspectives during heavy trials. From the midnight praises of Paul and Silas in a Philippian jail cell to timeless, convicting wisdom from Charles Spurgeon, learn how to stop losing heart when life gets heavy, shifting your gaze from temporal afflictions to the eternal weight of God's glory. Key Takeaways: The Spiritual Focus Deficit: A reminder that the original Greek root of anxiety means "turning in another direction." Worry pulls our gaze away from the Creator and anchors it firmly onto the problem. Midnight in the Prison Cells: A powerful examination of Paul and Silas in Philippi (Acts 16:25-30). Instead of giving way to panic or anxiety over their chains, they immediately weaponized prayer and praise at midnight, triggering a supernatural breakthrough. Renewing the Inner Man Daily: Juni breaks down 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, sharing how even when our physical bodies or situations are decaying, our inner man is daily renewed when we look past temporal, visible issues to eternal realities. Spurgeon on Fretful Folly: Highlighting Charles Spurgeon's classic message Do Not Worry, Shelley shares how anxiety is both needless and useless. Just as a bird sings without two grains of barley to its name, heirs of heaven are called to trust a Father who easily commands the bottles of heaven. Sustained Through the Burden: Standing firmly on the promise of Psalm 55:22—realizing that if we genuinely cast our heavy burdens onto the Lord, He guarantees He will sustain us and keep the righteous from being permanently moved. Featured Bible Passages: Philippians 4:6 — "Be anxious for nothing..." Proverbs 12:25 — Anxiety in the heart causing depression versus a good word making it glad. Psalm 28:2, 6 — The Lord hearing the voice of urgent supplication. Psalm 119:170 — Asking for deliverance according to God's word. 1 Peter 5:7 — Casting all anxiety upon Him because He cares for you. Psalm 37:3 — Trusting in the Lord and cultivating faithfulness. Romans 4 — Abraham hoping against hope without his faith wavering. Acts 16:25-30 — Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns in prison, leading to the jailer's salvation. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 — Momentary light affliction producing an eternal weight of glory. Psalm 55:22 — "Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you..." Connect & Support: Get in Touch: We love connecting with our community. Write to us with prayer requests, questions, or updates at: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Online Resources: For more teachings, digital archives, and up-to-date ministry insights, check out our website at shellyandjunevolk.com. This radio broadcast is made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Psalm 127 Fund. Put a stake in the ground today, cast out fear, and may the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace! Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Title: Be Anxious for Nothing — Finding Strength and Faith in the Promises of God Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni). In this powerful episode, Shelley and Juni dive deep into the spiritual anatomy of anxiety and worry, exploring how it drains our daily strength and pulls our focus completely away from God. Pulling wisdom from the original Greek and Hebrew definitions, timeless quotes from faith heroes, and the ultimate template of faith found in the life of Abraham, this episode offers a practical blueprint for turning your anxiety over to the Lord and walking in supernatural peace. Key Takeaways: The Definition of Anxiety: In Greek, anxiety literally means "to turn or be drawn away in a different direction." When we focus entirely on our overwhelming circumstances, we inadvertently turn our eyes away from God. The Weight of Worry: In Hebrew, anxiety translates directly to being "heavy laden" or weighted down. Scripturally, a heart heavy with anxiety is a direct catalyst for situational depression (Proverbs 12:25). The Danger of Carrying Tomorrow: Reflecting on powerful insights from Charles Spurgeon and Corrie ten Boom, the Volks remind us that worry doesn't empty tomorrow of its sorrow—it simply empties today of its strength by trying to carry two days' loads at once. Surrendering the "All": Applying the life-changing perspective of missionary Hudson Taylor: when we completely hand over our plans, families, work, and lives to God, there is simply nothing left for us to fret over. The Abraham Template: A study of Abram's immediate, unanxious obedience to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4) and his unwavering posture of "hope against hope" regarding God's promise of a child (Romans 4:17-21). Even when human reasoning said it was impossible, he grew strong in faith by cultivating God's faithfulness. Featured Bible Passages: Philippians 4:6 — "Be anxious for nothing..." Proverbs 12:25 — Anxiety in the heart causes depression, but a good word makes it glad. Psalm 28:2, 6 — Crying out for help and blessing the Lord who hears our supplications. Psalm 86:6 — Giving ear to prayer and taking heed to the voice of supplication. Psalm 119:170 — "Let my supplication come before thee; deliver me according to thy word." 1 Peter 5:7 — Casting all your anxiety upon Him because He cares for you. Psalm 37:3 — Trust in the Lord, do good, dwell in the land, and cultivate faithfulness. Genesis 12:1-4 — God's unconditional covenant with Abram and his immediate departure. Genesis 15:1-6 — The promise of a biological heir and Abram's counting of the stars. Romans 4:17-21 — Believing in hope against hope and growing strong in faith without wavering. Connect & Support: Get in Touch: If you have been blessed by this message, have a testimony to share, or would like to send a prayer request, please write to us at: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Online Resources: Access previous broadcasts, articles, and ministry updates anytime by visiting our official website at shellyandjunevolk.com. This program is lovingly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Until next time, may the Lord bless you, keep you, and give you his perfect peace!Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Title: Be Anxious for Nothing — Cultivating Faithfulness Through Earnest Prayer Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni). In this episode, Shelley and Juni continue their timely discussion on overcoming anxiety, worry, and the universal stressors that weigh down the human heart. By looking closely at the biblical definition of anxiety—which in the original Greek means to be "drawn away in another direction"—they explore how unchecked worry pulls our focus off God and causes literal depression. Learn how to transform prayer from a last resort into your first line of defense, cultivating a life of peace and deep trust in God's promises. Key Takeaways: The Root of Depression: A powerful look at how anxiety in the heart physically and spiritually weighs a person down, serving as a primary catalyst for situational depression. Prayer as an Offensive Weapon: Shifting our mindset so that prayer isn't just something we do "when all else fails," but rather our very first line of defense against panic and distress. What it Means to Cultivate: Understanding that just like growing a physical crop, we must actively cultivate our taste for the Word of God and practice turning our worries over to Him daily. The Power of Sincere Supplication: Breaking down the deep meaning of "earnest" prayer—realizing that God doesn't just hear our requests, but actively gives heed to our most sincere, heartfelt cries. The Lost Key Miracle: A lighthearted but profoundly practical testimony from Shelley's own life about losing a copper mailbox key in a bed of brown rocks, and how a quick, fervent prayer brought an immediate answer in under 30 seconds. Featured Bible Passages: Philippians 4:6 — "Be anxious for nothing..." Proverbs 12:25 — How anxiety weighs down the heart and causes depression. Psalm 37:1-3 — Fret not because of evildoers; trust in the Lord and cultivate faithfulness. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 — Pray without ceasing. 1 Peter 5:7 — Casting all your anxiety upon Him because He cares for you. James 5:13 — Is anyone among you afflicted? Let him pray. Psalm 119:170 — Let my supplication come before Thee. Philippians 4:19 — God supplying all your needs according to His riches. Hebrews 4:16 — Drawing near with confidence to the throne of grace. Psalm 28:2, 6 — Blessed be the Lord who hears the voice of our supplications. Psalm 86:6 — Giving ear and heed to the voice of prayer. Connect & Support: Get in Touch: Share your testimonies, submit prayer requests, or contact the ministry by writing to: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Online Resources: Learn more about Shelley and Juni's mission by visiting their official website at shellyandjunevolk.com. This broadcast is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Join us next time, and may the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace!Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description: The End of Anxiety — Cultivating True Faith in a Heavy World Welcome to For Zion's Sake, hosted by Sheldon N. Volk (Shelley) and June (Juni). As we kick off a new week of broadcasting, we turn our attention to a universal struggle that weighs heavily on the human heart in this day and age: Anxiety, Worry, and Sorrow. Anxiety is a default human reaction to difficult times, but scripturally, it means to be "drawn in different directions"—pulling us away from our true path. By breaking down the original biblical context and language, Shelley and Juni explore how unchecked worry stalls our spiritual fruitfulness, how anxiety serves as the root cause of deep depression, and why fully surrendering our lives into God's hands is the definitive antidote. Inside This Episode: Recognizing a "Bad Day": A humorous look at how we identify a rough start to the day—from stuck car horns on the freeway while following Hell's Angels, to turning our worries over to the One who stays up all night anyway. The Miracle of the Easter Bells: The powerful history of General Masséna's Napoleonic troops and an undefended Austrian town that chose to leave its battle in God's hands, showing that the things we fret over often never come to pass. The Blueprint of Surrender: Reflecting on the profound wisdom of legendary missionary Hudson Taylor regarding putting our plans, loved ones, and influence completely into God's care. Anxiety Defined: Examining the Greek concept of anxiety as being pulled in conflicting directions and looking at how the cares of the world systematically choke out the Word (Matthew 13:22). The Root of Depression: A sobering analysis of Proverbs 12:25, revealing how a heart weighted down by anxiety causes depression, and why the "Good Word" is the ultimate remedy. Dwelling and Cultivating: Finding absolute peace by refusing to fret over evildoers, choosing instead to rely on the faithfulness of the Lord (Psalm 37:1-3). Key Takeaway: "The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety... If you lived your namesake—Sheldon 'Nothing' Volk—you would truly learn to be anxious for nothing!" — June & Shelley Volk Connect & Support: Get in Touch: We would love to hear from you! If you want to share a testimony, request prayer, or learn more about the ministry, please write to us at: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Listen on Demand: Never miss an episode of our weekly broadcasts. You can replay this program and access our full archive anytime at Family Values Radio 1010 on the dedicated podcast page. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description Welcome back to For Zion’s Sake with your hosts, Shelley and June. In a world moving rapidly from one crisis to another, a casual relationship with God simply will not sustain us. Continuing their theme from yesterday, Shelley and June—both Jewish believers—dig into the profound difference between knowing God is with us and discovering what it means to be truly in Him. In this episode, explore how the resurrection of Yeshua (Jesus) completely flipped the script of human history. We look back at how the disciples were uniquely appointed to be with Him, how that presence visibly transformed ordinary men like Peter and John, and how the Holy Comforter empowers us to overcome today's darkest days. Finally, we look at the ultimate goal of biblical faith: total transformation. Learn how letting the Messiah live His life out through us changes us from people doing work for the Lord into vessels living completely in the Lord. Scripture Referenced in This Episode The Discomfort of Distance: Exodus 20:21 – Reflecting on how the people of Israel stood far off in fear while Moses drew near to the thick darkness where God was. The Prophetic Sign of Presence: Isaiah 7:14 – Recognizing the eternal significance of the virgin birth and the name Immanuel, meaning "God with us." Appointed for Companionship: Mark 3:14 – Looking at the intentionality behind Jesus choosing the twelve disciples to walk, labor, and be intimately with Him. The Mark of Having Been With Him: Acts 4:13 – Seeing how the religious elite recognized that the boldness of Peter and John came directly from their history with Jesus. A Brand New Creation: 2 Corinthians 5:17 – Standing on the reality that anyone who is truly in Christ is an entirely new creature, with the old life completely stripped away. No Longer Living for Self: 2 Corinthians 5:15 – Understanding the price of our redemption and the calling to live exclusively for the One who died and rose on our behalf. Our Core Foundation: Acts 17:28 – Previewing the ultimate truth that it is strictly in Him that we live, move, and have our very being. Connect and Support: If you would like to get in touch with the broadcast, share a testimony, or support the ministry, you can write directly to: Mailing Address: For Zion's Sake, P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description Welcome to this week's broadcast of For Zion’s Sake with your hosts, Shelley and June. Looking at a world facing one crisis after another, it becomes clearer every day that our true strength doesn't come from our own human abilities. Instead, it comes when we align ourselves intimately with the Holy One of Israel. In this episode, Shelley and June—both Jewish believers—explore a powerful theme throughout Scripture: the shift from being at a distance from God to being truly in Him. In the Old Covenant, most people stood trembling at a distance while only chosen prophets and leaders approached the heavy cloud of His presence. But everything changed with the resurrection of Yeshua (Jesus). Discover how the ultimate promise of Immanuel—God with us—is an invitation into deep, unshakeable intimacy that transforms our daily lives, shifts our countenances, and replaces fear with His perfect shalom. Scripture Referenced in This Episode The People Stand at a Distance: Exodus 20:18–21 – Seeing how the nation of Israel trembled at the thunder, lightning, and trumpet sound on Mount Sinai, choosing to stay far back while Moses approached the thick cloud. A Promise of Presence: Exodus 3:12 – God reassures Moses during his calling with the ultimate foundational promise: "Certainly I will be with you." Be Strong and Courageous: Joshua 1:9 – The charge to Joshua reminding him not to be afraid or dismayed, because the Lord is with him wherever he goes. The Prophecy of Immanuel: Isaiah 7:14 – The vital Messianic sign declaring that a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, calling His name Immanuel, which translates to "God with us." The Word Made Flesh: John 1:1 – Confirming the divine reality that in the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Appointed to Be With Him: Mark 3:14 – Looking at how Jesus specifically established the twelve disciples for one primary baseline purpose: simply to be with Him. Evident Habits of Grace: Acts 4:13 – How the Jewish rulers and scribes marveled at the boldness of Peter and John, recognizing that even though they were uneducated, ordinary men, they had clearly "been with Jesus." The Great Invitation: James 4:8 – Standing on the New Covenant guarantee that if we draw near to God, He will dynamically draw near to us. A Prayer from the Broadcast: Father, we pray for those who feel at a distance from You today. Draw them near. Let your presence be so real in the lives of believers that it reflects clearly in their very countenance. And for those who don't know You yet, reveal Yeshua as the Messiah, fill their souls with Your shalom, and answer their cry. In Jesus' holy name, Amen. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description: How do we move from knowing about God to actively experiencing Him on a daily basis? In this concluding episode of the week for For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk unpack the deep practical realities of Ephesians chapter 3. Reading from the Amplified version, June highlights how verse 19 is a direct beckoning for believers to step into a daily, tangible encounter with the love of the Messiah—an experience that ignites a spark, creates an unstoppable internal fire, and empowers us to love and forgive where humanly impossible. June shares a moving personal account of a Jewish cardiologist who noticed a striking, undeniable peace in the way believers face death—a powerful testament to the resurrected life of Jesus working inside His children. Shelly closes the week by constructing a massive scriptural bridge between the Old and New Covenants, proving that the foundation of our faith rests on a God who consistently operates "exceedingly and abundantly." The episode culminates in a beautiful moment of unity as the hosts recite the Shema to honor their Jewish kinsmen. Key Takeaways from This Episode: The Ignited Spark: June discusses how experiencing the love of Christ isn't an intellectual exercise; it practically alters your nature, allowing you to become a witness who loves and forgives in the hardest environments. Dying Differently: A profound anecdote from a cardiologist reveals that the inner presence of the Messiah leaves a visible, unmistakable imprint of peace on a person's life, noticed even by those who don't yet believe. The Scriptural Bridge: Shelly and June trace the language of abundance (hooper) all the way back to the Old Covenant—highlighting an abundant pardon in Isaiah, an abundance of peace in the Psalms, and an exceeding multiplication in Exodus. A Call to Unity: To mark the conclusion of the broadcast week on Friday, the Volks explicitly identify with their Jewish kinsmen by reciting the Shema, celebrating that the foundations of the New Covenant are deeply rooted in the Old Testament. Scripture References Mentioned in This Episode: The Weekly Anchor: Ephesians 3:14-21 The Abundant Pardon: Isaiah 55:7 Delighting in Peace: Psalm 37:11 Abundant in Mercy and Truth: Exodus 34:6 Exceedingly Abundant Grace: 1 Timothy 1:14 Begotten to a Living Hope: 1 Peter 1:3 The Covenant of Multiplication: Exodus 17:2 / Genesis 17:2 Exalted Exceedingly: 2 Chronicles 1:1 Rejoicing Exceedingly: Psalm 68:3 Loving the Testimonies: Psalm 119:167 Faith Growing Exceedingly: 2 Thessalonians 1:3 Life More Abundantly: John 10:10 All Sufficiency Clauses: 2 Corinthians 9:8 The Scriptural Creed: Deuteronomy 6:4 (The Shema) Support & Connect with For Zion's Sake: For Zion's Sake is a broadcast dedicated to strengthening believers in their faith and praying for Jewish kinsmen to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus as the Messiah. Visit Us Online: Find full archives, updates, and resources at shellyandjunevolk.com. Write to Us Directly: For Zion's Sake P.O. Box 244 Kannapolis, NC 28082 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description: What happens when human vocabulary completely runs out of ways to describe the majesty of God? In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk explore the radical, barrier-breaking language of Ephesians chapter 3. Shelly returns to the New King James Version to highlight how the Apostle Paul famously utilized the Greek prefix huper (hupa) to stretch the limits of language—proving that God doesn’t just answer prayers; He responds exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ever dare to ask or think. June shifts the perspective to eternal weight, reminding listeners that our hope stretches far past this temporary life into the reality of a resurrected, first-fruits existence. Together, they trace the theme of divine abundance across the landscape of Scripture—from the overflow of an "abundant pardon" in Isaiah to the "abundance of peace" promised in the Psalms. Tune in to learn why human capability fails, why the Holy Spirit is your only true engine for eternal significance, and how to step directly into a realm that operates far above natural understanding. Key Takeaways from This Episode: The Power of Huper: Shelly breaks down how standard Greek was insufficient for Paul’s epistles, requiring him to stack prefixes to emphasize that God’s grace, pardon, and operations are super-abundant. Eternal Significance Over Human Effort: Shelly highlights that while humans can keep busy doing many things, true spiritual power is reserved for actions that carry eternal weight—which is only possible through the active indwelling of the Holy Spirit. A Cross-Scriptural Pattern: Connecting Ephesians 3:20 to a larger biblical tapestry of abundance, including Isaiah’s promise of an abundant pardon and the Psalms' assurance of an abundance of peace. The Fullness of the Godhead: Exploring how God calls believers to inherit a total spiritual ecosystem—the fullness of Jesus (Ephesians 4), the fullness of the Spirit (Ephesians 5), and the total fullness of God. Scripture References Mentioned in This Episode: The Anchoring Prayer: Ephesians 3:14-21 The Supply Standard: Philippians 4:19 The Multiplied Riches: Ephesians 1:7, Ephesians 2:7, and 1 Timothy 1:14 The Prepared Domain: 1 Corinthians 2:9 / Isaiah 64:4 The Sufficiency Clause: 2 Corinthians 3:5 The Inner Mechanics: Philippians 2:13 The Mandate for Power: Acts 1:8, 1 John 4:13, John 14:26, and Acts 19:6 Spirit vs. Flesh: John 6:63 The Abundant Pardon: Isaiah 55:7 The Abundance of Peace: Psalm 37:11 An Abundant Entrance: 2 Peter 1:10-11 Support & Connect with For Zion's Sake: For Zion's Sake is a broadcast dedicated to strengthening believers in their faith and praying for Jewish kinsmen to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus as the Messiah. Visit Us Online: Find full archives, updates, and resources at shellyandjunevolk.com. Write to Us Directly: For Zion's Sake P.O. Box 244 Kannapolis, NC 28082 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description: What happens when human effort reaches its absolute limit? In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk continue their profound study of Ephesians chapter 3, focusing on the beautiful doxology of verses 20 and 21. Reflecting on the Apostle Paul's choice of language, Shelly unpacks how standard Greek wasn't enough to capture God's goodness—prompting Paul to use the prefix huper to describe a grace that is superabundant, super-exceeding, and entirely "beyond beyond." Together, the Volks explore what it means to operate under a sufficiency that comes only from God, diving into Philippians to remind listeners that it is God who works within us both to will and to do for His good pleasure. June breaks down the daily battle between human flesh and the Spirit, sharing how true spiritual victory requires yielding our own desires entirely. Turn your heart toward the ultimate source of this supernatural power—the Holy Spirit—and discover how a life completely surrendered can turn the world upside down. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Language Beyond Limits: Shelly highlights how the Apostle Paul amplified standard Greek terminology in Ephesians 3:20, adding prefixes to construct a picture of a God who works superabundantly above anything we could ever think or ask. The Humility of Grace: A cautionary reminder against spiritual pride; since it is God who works in us both to will and to act for His pleasure, believers have no room to become "puffed up" over their obedience. Flesh vs. Spirit: June discusses the constant internal friction where the human soul and fallen flesh oppose the Spirit, emphasizing that choosing forgiveness, love, or courage in danger is proof of a power that does not originate in ourselves. The Transforming Power: Identifying the Holy Spirit as the true source of the believer's inner power, drawing a line from the early apostles' weaknesses to the explosive, world-altering transformation that took place after Pentecost. Scripture References Mentioned in This Episode: The Core Text: Ephesians 3:14-21 The Source of Grace and Supply: Philippians 4:19, Ephesians 1:7, Ephesians 2:7, and 1 Timothy 1:14 Prepared Realities: 1 Corinthians 2:9 / Isaiah 64:4 Our Sufficiency: 2 Corinthians 3:5 The Fragrance Clause: 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 Working Out Salvation: Philippians 2:12-13 The Promise of Power: Acts 1:8 Support & Connect with For Zion's Sake: For Zion's Sake is a broadcast dedicated to strengthening believers in their faith and praying for Jewish kinsmen to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus as the Messiah. Visit Us Online: Find full archives, updates, and resources at shellyandjunevolk.com. Write to Us Directly: For Zion's Sake P.O. Box 244 Kannapolis, NC 28082 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description: What does it truly mean to move past intellectual theology and step into a lived, practical experience of God's presence? In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk continue their deep dive into the closing verses of Ephesians chapter 3. Writing from a Roman prison cell in 61 AD, the Apostle Paul paints a staggering picture of a God who is "beyond beyond"—offering unlimited riches of grace, glory, and power to the believer's inner man. June shares a profoundly raw personal testimony about a 30-year-old conflict, revealing how a striking word from the Lord completely exposed her selfishness and shifted her heart toward true, cross-like forgiveness. Together, they unpack how human effort will always fall short of the Christian calling, pointing listeners to 2 Corinthians to prove that our ultimate sufficiency comes only from above. Tune in to discover how you can become a sweet fragrance of Christ, rooted and grounded entirely in His love. Key Takeaways from This Episode: The Practical Shift: Reiterating the structure of Ephesians, where the first three chapters establish complex doctrine and theology, setting up the final three chapters for highly practical daily living. But June, I Care: June Volk opens up about a decades-long grievance and a conversation with a pastor that led to a direct, heart-stopping revelation from God about layover selfishness, bitterness, and the active choice to forgive. Sufficiency from Above: Exploring Paul’s perspective in 2 Corinthians that no one is naturally capable of living out the Christian life on their own strength—our true sufficiency must be inherited from God. A Fragrance of Life or Death: Analyzing the unique spiritual phenomenon where walking intimately in the love of Christ diffuses a distinct spiritual aroma—serving as a breath of life to those being saved, and a reminder of death to those who are perishing. Scripture References Mentioned in This Episode: The Scriptural Anchor: Ephesians 3:14-21 Unlimited Supply: Philippians 4:19 Riches of Grace: Ephesians 1:7 and Ephesians 2:7 Abundant Grace: 1 Timothy 1:14 Insurmountable Realities: 1 Corinthians 2:9 / Isaiah 64:4 The Sufficiency Clause: 2 Corinthians 3:5 The Fragrance of Knowledge: 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 Support & Connect with For Zion's Sake: For Zion's Sake is a broadcast dedicated to strengthening believers in their faith and praying for Jewish kinsmen to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus as the Messiah. Visit Us Online: Find full archives, updates, and resources at shellyandjunevolk.com. Write to Us Directly: For Zion's Sake P.O. Box 244 Kannapolis, NC 28082 This program is proudly made possible and sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Description: Are you living in the full measure of what God has provided, or are you settling for a life ruled by your own thoughts, doctrine, and emotions? In this episode of For Zion's Sake, Jewish believers and hosts Shelly and June Volk kick off a new week of broadcasting by diving into the rich, theological landscape of Ephesians chapter 3. Focusing heavily on Paul’s prayer from a Roman prison cell, Shelly and June unpack what it truly means to experience the love of Christ—a love that beautifully surpasses mere intellectual knowledge. From the "unfathomable riches of His grace" to the power that works mightily within the inner man, this message is a stirring reminder that if there is a lack in our spiritual walk, it isn't on God. Tune in to find the ultimate incentive to forgive, choose love, and step boldly into the "beyond beyond" fullness of God. Key Takeaways from This Episode: A Prison Cell Perspective: Reflecting on the fact that Paul wrote this letter of encouragement around 61 AD while a literal prisoner in Rome, yet focused entirely on the insurmountable riches of God’s glory. Experience vs. Mere Knowledge: Breaking down Ephesians 3:19 from the Amplified version to explore how we are called to practically and personally experience the divine presence rather than just reading about it. The Power Within Us: Analyzing five specific gifts God grants to every believer to prepare them for the glorious promise of verse 20: being strengthened by the Spirit, having Christ dwell in our hearts, being rooted in love, knowing His love, and being filled to His fullness. An Incentive to Choose God's Way: How resting in God's infinite grace and forgiveness grants us the structural strength to defeat the flesh, forgive others, and live a life that genuinely pleases Him. Scripture References Mentioned in This Episode: The Foundation of the Message: Ephesians 3:14-21 God's Provision Standard: Philippians 4:19 Redemption & Forgiveness: Ephesians 1:7 Surpassing Kindness: Ephesians 2:7 Abundant Grace: 1 Timothy 1:14 Beyond What Imaginations Can Conceive: 1 Corinthians 2:9 / Isaiah 64:4 Support & Connect with For Zion's Sake: We love connecting with our listeners! If you have a burden to see Jew and Gentile become one in the Messiah, reach out to us: Visit Us Online: Find additional resources and connect at shellyandjunevolk.com. Write to Us: For Zion's Sake P.O. Box 244 Kannapolis, NC 28082 Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biblical Success and Prosperity Program: For Zion's Sake Hosts: Shelly and June Volk Episode Description When you hear the words "success" or "prosperity," what is your very first thought? For most of us, our minds instantly drift to financial security, material possessions, prestigious career titles, and what the world calls "the good life." But as believers, we are called to look at things through a vastly different lens. In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk break down the stark contrast between secular achievement and true, biblical prosperity. Pulling from foundational scriptures in the Old and New Testaments, they remind us that God's definitions are uniquely His own. Discover how spiritual prosperity isn't about the size of your bank account, but about the posture of your heart—delighting in God's instruction, meditating on His Word day and night, and having the courage to step out in radical faith. Key Scripture & Verses Covered The Divine Lens: Isaiah 55:8–9 – Setting the stage with a vital reminder that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. The Planted Tree: Psalm 1:1–3 – Looking at the ultimate recipe for prosperity: refusing to walk in the counsel of the wicked, delighting purely in the law of the Lord, and becoming like a tree firmly planted by streams of water. David's Charge to Solomon: 1 Kings 2:3 – Reviewing King David's dying words to his son, instructing him to walk in God's ways and keep His statutes so that he may succeed wherever he turns. The Covenant of Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:9 – Moses' clear message to the people of Israel to keep and do the words of the covenant in order to prosper in all things. Joshua's Key to Success: Joshua 1:1–8 – Unpacking the only time the word "success" appears in the King James Version of the Bible. God commands Joshua to be strong and very courageous, promising that meditation and obedience to the Book of the Law are what make a person's way truly prosperous. Connect with For Zion's Sake Website: Visit shellyandjunevolk.com to find resources, listen to more broadcasts, and connect with the ministry. Mailing Address: If you would like to get in touch or support the program, write to P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biblical Success and Prosperity Program: For Zion's Sake Hosts: Shelly and June Volk Episode Description When you hear the words "success" or "prosperity," what is your very first thought? For most of us, our minds instantly drift to financial security, material possessions, prestigious career titles, and what the world calls "the good life." But as believers, we are called to look at things through a vastly different lens. In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk break down the stark contrast between secular achievement and true, biblical prosperity. Pulling from foundational scriptures in the Old and New Testaments, they remind us that God's definitions are uniquely His own. Discover how spiritual prosperity isn't about the size of your bank account, but about the posture of your heart—delighting in God's instruction, meditating on His Word day and night, and having the courage to step out in radical faith. Key Scripture & Verses Covered The Divine Lens: Isaiah 55:8–9 – Setting the stage with a vital reminder that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. The Planted Tree: Psalm 1:1–3 – Looking at the ultimate recipe for prosperity: refusing to walk in the counsel of the wicked, delighting purely in the law of the Lord, and becoming like a tree firmly planted by streams of water. David's Charge to Solomon: 1 Kings 2:3 – Reviewing King David's dying words to his son, instructing him to walk in God's ways and keep His statutes so that he may succeed wherever he turns. The Covenant of Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:9 – Moses' clear message to the people of Israel to keep and do the words of the covenant in order to prosper in all things. Joshua's Key to Success: Joshua 1:1–8 – Unpacking the only time the word "success" appears in the King James Version of the Bible. God commands Joshua to be strong and very courageous, promising that meditation and obedience to the Book of the Law are what make a person's way truly prosperous. Connect with For Zion's Sake Website: Visit shellyandjunevolk.com to find resources, listen to more broadcasts, and connect with the ministry. Mailing Address: If you would like to get in touch or support the program, write to P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biblical Success and Prosperity Program: For Zion's Sake Hosts: Shelly and June Volk Episode Description When you hear the words "success" or "prosperity," what is your very first thought? For most of us, our minds instantly drift to financial security, material possessions, prestigious career titles, and what the world calls "the good life." But as believers, we are called to look at things through a vastly different lens. In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk break down the stark contrast between secular achievement and true, biblical prosperity. Pulling from foundational scriptures in the Old and New Testaments, they remind us that God's definitions are uniquely His own. Discover how spiritual prosperity isn't about the size of your bank account, but about the posture of your heart—delighting in God's instruction, meditating on His Word day and night, and having the courage to step out in radical faith. Key Scripture & Verses Covered The Divine Lens: Isaiah 55:8–9 – Setting the stage with a vital reminder that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. The Planted Tree: Psalm 1:1–3 – Looking at the ultimate recipe for prosperity: refusing to walk in the counsel of the wicked, delighting purely in the law of the Lord, and becoming like a tree firmly planted by streams of water. David's Charge to Solomon: 1 Kings 2:3 – Reviewing King David's dying words to his son, instructing him to walk in God's ways and keep His statutes so that he may succeed wherever he turns. The Covenant of Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:9 – Moses' clear message to the people of Israel to keep and do the words of the covenant in order to prosper in all things. Joshua's Key to Success: Joshua 1:1–8 – Unpacking the only time the word "success" appears in the King James Version of the Bible. God commands Joshua to be strong and very courageous, promising that meditation and obedience to the Book of the Law are what make a person's way truly prosperous. Connect with For Zion's Sake Website: Visit shellyandjunevolk.com to find resources, listen to more broadcasts, and connect with the ministry. Mailing Address: If you would like to get in touch or support the program, write to P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biblical Success and Prosperity Program: For Zion's Sake Hosts: Shelly and June Volk Episode Description When you hear the words "success" or "prosperity," what is your very first thought? For most of us, our minds instantly drift to financial security, material possessions, prestigious career titles, and what the world calls "the good life." But as believers, we are called to look at things through a vastly different lens. In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk break down the stark contrast between secular achievement and true, biblical prosperity. Pulling from foundational scriptures in the Old and New Testaments, they remind us that God's definitions are uniquely His own. Discover how spiritual prosperity isn't about the size of your bank account, but about the posture of your heart—delighting in God's instruction, meditating on His Word day and night, and having the courage to step out in radical faith. Key Scripture & Verses Covered The Divine Lens: Isaiah 55:8–9 – Setting the stage with a vital reminder that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. The Planted Tree: Psalm 1:1–3 – Looking at the ultimate recipe for prosperity: refusing to walk in the counsel of the wicked, delighting purely in the law of the Lord, and becoming like a tree firmly planted by streams of water. David's Charge to Solomon: 1 Kings 2:3 – Reviewing King David's dying words to his son, instructing him to walk in God's ways and keep His statutes so that he may succeed wherever he turns. The Covenant of Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:9 – Moses' clear message to the people of Israel to keep and do the words of the covenant in order to prosper in all things. Joshua's Key to Success: Joshua 1:1–8 – Unpacking the only time the word "success" appears in the King James Version of the Bible. God commands Joshua to be strong and very courageous, promising that meditation and obedience to the Book of the Law are what make a person's way truly prosperous. Connect with For Zion's Sake Website: Visit shellyandjunevolk.com to find resources, listen to more broadcasts, and connect with the ministry. Mailing Address: If you would like to get in touch or support the program, write to P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biblical Success and Prosperity Program: For Zion's Sake Hosts: Shelly and June Volk Episode Description When you hear the words "success" or "prosperity," what is your very first thought? For most of us, our minds instantly drift to financial security, material possessions, prestigious career titles, and what the world calls "the good life." But as believers, we are called to look at things through a vastly different lens. In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk break down the stark contrast between secular achievement and true, biblical prosperity. Pulling from foundational scriptures in the Old and New Testaments, they remind us that God's definitions are uniquely His own. Discover how spiritual prosperity isn't about the size of your bank account, but about the posture of your heart—delighting in God's instruction, meditating on His Word day and night, and having the courage to step out in radical faith. Key Scripture & Verses Covered The Divine Lens: Isaiah 55:8–9 – Setting the stage with a vital reminder that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. The Planted Tree: Psalm 1:1–3 – Looking at the ultimate recipe for prosperity: refusing to walk in the counsel of the wicked, delighting purely in the law of the Lord, and becoming like a tree firmly planted by streams of water. David's Charge to Solomon: 1 Kings 2:3 – Reviewing King David's dying words to his son, instructing him to walk in God's ways and keep His statutes so that he may succeed wherever he turns. The Covenant of Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:9 – Moses' clear message to the people of Israel to keep and do the words of the covenant in order to prosper in all things. Joshua's Key to Success: Joshua 1:1–8 – Unpacking the only time the word "success" appears in the King James Version of the Bible. God commands Joshua to be strong and very courageous, promising that meditation and obedience to the Book of the Law are what make a person's way truly prosperous. Connect with For Zion's Sake Website: Visit shellyandjunevolk.com to find resources, listen to more broadcasts, and connect with the ministry. Mailing Address: If you would like to get in touch or support the program, write to P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Armed for Victory – The Sword of the Spirit In this concluding episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk wrap up their weekly theme on the link between the Spirit of God and the Word of God. Moving from foundational principles to practical spiritual warfare, they break down the famous "Armor of God" passage to show how believers can actively live out a victorious life. Key Takeaways The Ultimate Combination (Ephesians 6:17): The episode anchors itself on the final piece of spiritual armor: “the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Shelley notes that if any single scripture perfectly bridges the Holy Spirit with the written Word, it is this one. The Armor as a Way of Life: June reframes how we look at Ephesians 6. Rather than viewing the armor as a physical set of clothes you put on and take off each morning, she explains that it represents an internal, permanent lifestyle. The Helmet of Salvation protects our mindset and feelings. The Breastplate of Righteousness means living inside Christ's righteousness. The Shield of Faith isn't a physical block we hold up, but Christ Himself walking ahead of us to quench the enemy's attacks. God as the Rear Guard: June highlights a unique structural detail about the Armor of God: it offers absolutely no protection for a person's back. However, she reassures listeners that God explicitly promises in His Word to step in and be the believer's "rear guard" against ambush. A Living, Piercing Tool (Hebrews 4:12): The hosts connect the "sword of the Spirit" to Hebrews 4:12, emphasizing that the Word of God is living, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword. Shelley shares how this sword cuts out doubt, fear, and apprehensions to bring people to salvation, while continuing to divide soul and spirit for daily guidance. The Pattern of "It Is Written": To demonstrate the proper use of the Sword, Shelley points to Jesus being led into the wilderness to be tempted. Jesus defeated Satan not with human arguments, but by repeatedly declaring, "It is written." June adds that because the devil tries to twist scripture out of context, believers absolutely require the Holy Spirit's discernment to know exactly how and when to apply the Word. Ministry & Contact Information This program is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082 Official Website: shellyandjunevolk.com The Friday Fellowship (The Shema): As Jewish believers, Shelley and June conclude their Friday broadcast by uniting with their kinsmen to recite the Shema: “Shema Yisrael adonoi Eloheinu adonoi echad” (Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one). Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Living Connection Between Word and Spirit In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk—Jewish believers dedicated to seeing Jew and Gentile become one in faith—explore the deep, structural connection between the written Word of God and the active presence of the Holy Spirit. Key Takeaways The Anchor Verse (John 6:63): The episode centers on Jesus' declaration: "It is the Spirit who gives life... the words that I speak to you are spirit and they are life." The hosts emphasize that without the Holy Spirit, scripture remains a dead letter; with the Spirit, it becomes an active, life-giving force. The Spirit as God’s Heart-Revealer: Reading from 1 Corinthians 2, June points out that just as no one knows a person's inner motives except their own spirit, no one can truly know the thoughts and heart of God except the Spirit of God. She notes that born-again believers have this "Spirit of truth" living within them to guide daily life and bring personal transformation. Demonstration of Power (1 Corinthians 2:1–5): Shelley highlights the Apostle Paul’s approach to preaching, noting that Paul didn't rely on superior human intellect or persuasive words of wisdom. Instead, his message was a direct demonstration of the Spirit and power, ensuring that listeners' faith rested on God rather than human philosophy. A Multi-Generational Promise: Turning to the Old Testament covenant in Isaiah 59:21, the hosts discuss God's promise that His Spirit and Words will not depart from His people or their descendants. June shares a personal family testimony, tracing how this promise came alive in their own lives—from their radical conversion in 1976 to seeing their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren actively living out the faith. The Spirit Precedes the Word: Shelley looks back at Genesis 1 to show a divine pattern: the Spirit of God moved over the face of the waters before God spoke light into existence. He connects this to the New Testament (Acts 4 and Acts 13), where believers were first filled with the Holy Spirit before they could speak the Word of God with boldness. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"For Zion's Sake: A Catholic Appeal in Support of Israel" is a passionate declaration by faithful Catholics countering the rising anti-Israel sentiment within Catholic circles, especially since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. It rejects both political delegitimization of Israel (accusations of apartheid, colonialism, and genocide) and theological supersessionism that denies the Jewish people's ongoing covenant and connection to the Land. Drawing on Scripture, Nostra Aetate, and post-conciliar teaching, it affirms God's irrevocable promises to Israel, supports the legitimacy of the Jewish State, and calls Catholics to reject anti-Zionism as a form of antisemitism while upholding moral standards and concern for Palestinian suffering. It urges active solidarity with Israel as integral to authentic Catholic faith. Hear why this is important and indeed revolutionary.To read and sign the declaration, please use this link or contact us at inspirationfromzion@gmail.com to receive a PDF. https://www.catholicsforisrael.com/welcome/catholic-voices-for-israel/330-for-zions-sake-a-catholic-appeal-in-support-of-israel?fbclid=IwY2xjawSSDFhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeeoJmwWC_aDb6TECagFw2GA1P_aGMAW9f-tw3Xlf8omVZ1KEEDCr_FIAaA8U_aem_GErJAIBp-UoLDtq4gYQeZw PLEASE DONATE TO THE GENESIS 123 FOUNDATION AT WWW.GENESIS123.CO For information about and how to register for Root & Branch, please go to www.RootandBranchIsrael.comConnect with the Genesis 123 Foundation at www.Genesis123.co and learn how you can host Shabbat in your community.FB - www.facebook.com/Genesis123Foundation Twitter - @Genesis123FIG - Genesis_123_FoundationFind out how you can be part of Run for Zion and bless Israel with every step at www.RunforZion.com.

Podcast Episode Summary: The Inseparable Word and Spirit In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk—Jewish believers dedicated to seeing Jew and Gentile become one in faith—explore why the written Word of God requires the active presence of the Holy Spirit to truly transform human lives. Key Takeaways The Core Thesis (John 6:63): The episode anchors itself on the words of Jesus: "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you, they are spirit and they are life." The hosts emphasize that studying scripture through purely intellectual or human wisdom renders it a "dead work." Reading "Between the Lines": Referencing the late Christian minister Richard Wurmbrand, the hosts discuss how the richness of scripture is found by letting the Holy Spirit teach you, noting that "there's more written between the lines than in the lines themselves." The Blueprint of Psalm 119: The discussion highlights verses from Psalm 119 to demonstrate how scripture serves as a pure standard of living, a source of strength during grief, and a lamp to guide one's path. The Meaning of Inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16): Shelley breaks down the Greek root words for scriptural inspiration: Theo (God) and peneo (breathed). Because the scriptures are literally "God-breathed" by the Spirit, a person needs that same Holy Spirit breathing on them to truly comprehend the text. Old vs. New Covenant Access: The hosts contrast the Old Testament—where the Holy Spirit was historically given to specific individuals like King David or the prophet Daniel—with the New Covenant, where God pours out His Spirit upon all flesh, making divine enlightenment available to every believer. Ministry & Contact Information This episode of For Zion's Sake is sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082 Official Website: shellyandjunevolk.com Closing Blessing (The Aaronic Blessing): "The Lord bless thee and keep thee. The Lord make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee and give thee peace." Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

he Inseparable Word and Spirit In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk—Jewish believers dedicated to seeing Jew and Gentile become one in faith—dive into a deep discussion on why the written Word of God requires the active presence of the Holy Spirit to truly transform human lives. Key Takeaways The Core Thesis (John 6:63): The episode anchors itself on the words of Jesus: "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you, they are spirit and they are life." The hosts emphasize that analyzing scripture through purely intellectual or human wisdom renders it a "dead work." The Meaning of Inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16): Shelley breaks down the Greek root words for scriptural inspiration: Theo (God) and pneo (breathed). Because the scriptures are literally "God-breathed" by the Spirit, the hosts argue that a person needs that same Holy Spirit breathing on them to truly comprehend the text. Natural vs. Spiritual Discernment: Drawing from 1 Corinthians 2:10–14, the discussion highlights the divide between the "natural man" and the "spiritual man." The hosts explain that spiritual truths appear as absolute foolishness to human intellect alone because they must be spiritually appraised. The Transition from Zeal to Power: The hosts look back at Jesus' original disciples, noting that before Pentecost (Shavuot), their religious zeal was limited by their own human interpretations. It was only after they waited in the upper room and were baptized in fire and the Holy Spirit that they were equipped to turn the world upside down. A Call to Unity and Action: June emphasizes that while differing doctrines and denominations divide the modern body of Christ, a shared, Spirit-led understanding brings believers into true oneness. The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to ask the Messiah into their hearts, purchase a Bible, and begin a spiritual adventure. Ministry & Contact Information This episode of For Zion's Sake is sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082 Official Website: shellyandjunevolk.com Closing Blessing (The Aaronic Blessing): "The Lord bless thee and keep thee. The Lord make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee and give thee peace." Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Word and The Spirit In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelley and June Volk—Jewish believers dedicated to seeing Jew and Gentile become one in faith—dive into a deep discussion on the vital, inseparable connection between the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. Key Takeaways The Theme (John 6:63): The episode anchors itself on the words of Jesus: "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you, they are spirit and they are life." The hosts emphasize that while memorizing or analyzing scripture is important, the words cannot truly transform a life without the active operation of the Holy Spirit. The Blueprint of Psalm 119: Shelley highlights several verses from Psalm 119 (the longest chapter in the Bible) to demonstrate how scripture serves as a pure standard of living, a source of strength during grief, and a lamp to guide one's path. Daniel's Identifying Factor: Turning to the Old Testament, the hosts look at the story of Daniel and King Belshazzar in Daniel 5. They note that Daniel's defining characteristic—even recognized by a pagan court—was that the "Spirit of the Holy God" was in him, granting him divine insight that natural minds could not achieve. The Transition from Old to New Covenant: June discusses how the Holy Spirit was historically given to specific prophets or leaders in the Old Testament. However, following Jesus' sacrifice, the prophecy that God would "pour out His Spirit upon all flesh" has been fulfilled, making this divine enlightenment available to every believer who is born again. The True Meaning of Inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16): The hosts break down the Greek root words for scriptural inspiration: Theo (God) and peneo (breathed). They explain that because the Word is literally "God-breathed," it acts as a living seed in the human soul that requires a spiritual nature to germinate and grow. Ministry & Contact Information This episode of For Zion's Sake is sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082 Official Website: shellyandjunevolk.com Closing Blessing: The program concludes with the traditional Aaronic Blessing: "The Lord bless thee and keep thee. The Lord make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee and give thee peace." Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the fun was never actually in the drink? What is the best way to stop associating fun with alcohol? Zion called alcohol the "jewelry" of life, the thing that made every moment glitter, and spent years believing that celebrations, friendships, and good food just needed a cocktail to feel complete. Audra built her whole identity around being the bold one who drank scotch and bourbon and never said no to a good time. Now both are exploring living alcohol-free and finding the fun in that. Coaches Cole and Zoe are right there with them. Zion discusses: Why alcohol became the “jewelry” on dinners, concerts, holidays, & friendships The wake-up call of planning a great night & not remembering any of it How people-pleasing & fear of “rocking the boat” kept drinking tied to fun What trivia night & Thanksgiving taught him about being alcohol-free in real life Why awkward moments do not have to mean something is wrong What is the best way to stop associating fun with alcohol? For Zion, it starts with curiosity, patience, & new evidence And more topics... Audra discusses: How going out, pub culture, quiz nights, & routine made alcohol feel like part of the experience When drinking alone started to feel easier than connection The mental exhaustion of hiding, planning, & calculating every drink Why she was shocked to feel freer on her break than she expected Passing on favorite champagne, staying present, & waking up proud What is the best way to stop associating fun with alcohol? Audra explores that through curiosity, ACT work, & learning to feel instead of escape And more... Cole Harvey is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. For years, he felt lost and used alcohol as a way to cope, until he decided to go alcohol-free and focus on finding his purpose. Through curiosity, self-compassion, and adventure, he transformed his life. As a habit change and mindset coach, Cole helps young men understand themselves, build better habits, and find meaning. Learn more about Coach Cole: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/cole-harvey/ Zoe Ewart is a Certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who brings her experience and understanding to help with the tricky parts of life's big changes. Her coaching gives you an enjoyable, light-hearted, and safe environment to effortlessly take back control of alcohol so you can feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. She has four adult children and more animals than the Ark ever had. Learn more about Coach Zoe: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/zoe-ewart/ Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: Why do we desire alcohol for celebration? | Reader Question | EP 266 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-266-reader-question-why-do-we-desire-alcohol-for-celebration/  How To Have Fun Without Drinking | Reader Question | EP 362 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-362-reader-question-will-i-ever-have-fun-without-drinking-alcohol/ Why You Know Better But Still Drink | Alcohol Freedom Coaching | EP869 - https://thisnakedmind.com/tips-to-stop-using-alcohol-to-avoid-feelings-afc-e869/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

Reading IIsaiah 62:1-5 For Zion's sake I will not be silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not be quiet, until her vindication shines forth like the dawn and her victory like a burning torch. Nations shall behold your vindication, and all the kings your glory; you shall be called by a new name pronounced by the mouth of the LORD. You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem held by your God. No more shall people call you “Forsaken,” or your land “Desolate,” but you shall be called “My Delight,” and your land “Espoused.” For the LORD delights in you and makes your land his spouse. As a young man marries a virgin, your Builder shall marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you.Reading IIActs 13:16-17, 22-25When Paul reached Antioch in Pisidia and entered the synagogue,he stood up, motioned with his hand, and said, “Fellow Israelites and you others who are God-fearing, listen.The God of this people Israel chose our ancestors and exalted the people during their sojourn in theland of Egypt.With uplifted arm he led them out of it.Then he removed Saul and raised up David as king;of him he testified,‘I have found David, son of Jesse, a man after my own heart;he will carry out my every wish.'From this man's descendants God, according to his promise, has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus.John heralded his coming by proclaiming a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel; and as John was completing his course, he would say, ‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he.Behold, one is coming after me; I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.'”GospelMatthew 1:1-25The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.Abraham became the father of Isaac,Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah,whose mother was Tamar.Perez became the father of Hezron,Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab.Amminadab became the father of Nahshon,Nahshon the father of Salmon,Salmon the father of Boaz,whose mother was Rahab.Boaz became the father of Obed,whose mother was Ruth.Obed became the father of Jesse,Jesse the father of David the king.David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah.Solomon became the father of Rehoboam,Rehoboam the father of Abijah,Abijah the father of Asaph.Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat,Jehoshaphat the father of Joram,Joram the father of Uzziah.Uzziah became the father of Jotham,Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah.Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh,Manasseh the father of Amos,Amos the father of Josiah.Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothersat the time of the Babylonian exile.After the Babylonian exile,Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,Zerubbabel the father of Abiud.Abiud became the father of Eliakim,Eliakim the father of Azor,Azor the father of Zadok.Zadok became the father of Achim,Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar.Eleazar became the father of Matthan,Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary.Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.Thus the total number of generationsfrom Abraham to Davidis fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian exile,fourteen generations; from the Babylonian exile to the Christ,fourteen generations.Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.Such was his intention when, behold,the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”All this took place to fulfillwhat the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.”When Joseph awoke,he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.He had no relations with her until she bore a son, and he named him Jesus.

Joseph Bell was born Jewish and raised in Conservative Judaism in his hometown of Newton, Massachusetts (a suburb of Boston). At the age of 29, through a friend's loving encouragement, Joe finally relented to read the New Testament. He then recognized how very Jewish the New Testament is. Through a miraculous work of the Lord, Joe asked Yeshua to come into his life. Joe committed his life to Jesus and immediately dove into serving the Lord. Jews for Jesus invited him to study theology with Dr. Louis Goldberg and train as an evangelist; thus Joe began his formal ministry training in New York City — leading over 100 people to faith in Jesus that summer. In 2007 Joe received full ordination as a Jewish Rabbi by IAMCS[International Association of Messianic Congregations and Synagogues]. Joe currently serves as Executive Director of For Zion's Sake Ministries and as Rabbi of Ari Yehudah Messianic Congregation in the town of Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia.

God's Great Plan (1) (audio) David Eells 6/18/25 Many prophetic words are not understood in the day they are given. Just as the scriptures show, they come ahead so that warnings are taken and spiritual warfare done. Also, many more people can partake of them this way.   Now Is the Time of My Great Plan Glynda Lomax - 10/01/2012 Now is the time of My Great Plan for the people of the earth. For thousands of years, I have planned the victory of My people in great detail. Now it is time for My people to rise up and walk as I have called you to walk, talk as I have called you to talk, for I have much to accomplish through you, My people. Cast your burdens to Me and walk forth as I have called you to do. Those I have called to ministry will now be positioned to move forward as never before. A great and glorious destiny awaits you, My people, such as you cannot imagine. Great shall be the reward of all My people who serve Me in this time. Yes, there shall be many trials and much tribulation also, but My glory through My people will outshine the darkness in the final days. Look up, My people, your redemption draws near! Glynda gives these verses: Heb.12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 1Pe.5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1Pe.4:12-13 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. Rev.22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Deu.4:29-31 But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. 30 When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the Lord thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; 31 (For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them. Isa.60:1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. Luk.21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.   Strategic Couplings Glynda Lomax - 09/26/2012 My children, the heat is being turned up in your lives and in your world. I will soon begin to place My devoted ones into position for battle as I have called them to stand. Some of you I will place in pairs - strategic couplings for the battles ahead. I have chosen mates for you that complement your weaknesses. They will be your rear guards on the earth as you march forth into all I have called you to do. Many of you I will pair with unlikely counterparts, of which the world around you will not approve, nor understand. Those near you cannot always see My mighty hand in all I am doing in your lives. Be careful, My children, of judging with your eyes or your hearts - judge only by My Spirit, for you walk in danger of calling My plans evil when you do this, and I do not consider lightly those who call My good evil, just as those who call evil good. Refrain your lips from speaking evil and seek Me only. Judge not what does not concern your own lives, for you shall see much around you in these end times you will not understand. The times approaching are perilous indeed, and I have a plan for each of your lives. You will not always understand what I am doing or the many ways I shall bless you through it. Many plans of the Evil One are being hatched behind the scenes, the horrors of which many are unaware. My children who have been watching and praying for My Son's soon return shall not be caught unawares. Rest now while you can, My children, for a fierce battle looms on the horizon of your lives and will soon be at your doors. Glynda gives these verses: Isa.58:8-10 (NIV) 8 and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness[a] will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. 9 Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, 10 and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. Isa.55:9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isa.5:20-21 20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 21 Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! 2Ti.3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. Mat.7:1-5 1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Rom.14:12-13 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. 13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.   The Master's Plan Is Given G. W. - 11/21/2010 (David's notes in red) Part 1: I went to pray on Saturday night for full reconciliation for someone who was falling away. I could not pray. As I tried, my prayer returned to me. The word came to me, “I'm moving him out of the way to make room for another from the West”. Part 2: I had a dream Sunday night. It took place in the future. David had just received this email from me, which I wrote above as Part 1. David responded to the email by handing me a master plan. (Note: The email was sent to me on Monday, 11/22/10. I responded by sharing this interpretation of the parable of the master plan. This is the David's/Man-child's mission to receive and give revelation from the throne of God's plan on earth. Moses went up the mount to receive this and came down with his face glowing. Jesus also received this master plan and gave it to the disciples.) G. W. - I knew this master plan was the work that needed to be done by the people in the ministry. The master plan appeared to me in a hologram in the shape of a square. As I looked at the square before me, I knew it to be the uncomely parts of the body. (Note: There are many, many uncomely parts now but they will change through the Word from heaven. Remember this started with a falling away in Part 1 and now we see a raising up in Part 2. Luk.2:34 ... Behold, this [child] is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel; and for a sign which is spoken against... This is the master plan.) G. W.- The hologram began to change, like a slot machine changes its images as it goes around. Different numbers began flashing, and in my mind I knew them to be the different workings in the ministry. (Note: The falling of the old order and raising up of the new five-fold ministers, the deacons [ministries] and the gifts in the ministry.) G. W. - I also realized that the positions were growing into greater honor in the body and they started to become chess pieces. (Note: Those who are growing in the image of Christ.) G. W. - I was waiting for the hologram flashes to go up to the highest honors in God. But as I was watching it go up, it came to the Rook piece and I was taken out of the dream. That was the last thing I recall from this dream. (Note: The revelation didn't go up to the king, who is normally the highest honor, because in this dream, the King gives the highest honors to those “in God”, as the dream says. The game is centered around the King and He is never taken. The highest honor didn't go as high as the queen because the Man-child is the head of the Queen on earth, just as David was the head of Jerusalem, which is the Bride, according to Revelation 21:9,10. The Rook is the second most powerful piece on the chess board and has the highest honor, the revelation went to, and represents the Man-child. G. W. - Excerpt from Chess Rules for Movement of the Rook: The rook, shaped like a castle, is one of the more powerful pieces on the board. (Note: The rook is represented by the lookout portion of a castle. Where the “watchman” would stand and fight to protect the castle. A Man-child has power to defend the Castle of Zion.) G. W. - The rooks, grouped with the queen, are often thought of as the “major pieces”. (Note: A Man-child can be seen with the queen and has a major advantage against a foe.) G. W. - Rooks are worth a bishop or a knight plus two pawns. (Note: Man-childs are greater than bishops or overseers and knights or warriors.) G. W. - The rook can move any number of squares in a straight line along any column or row. (Note: Man-childs only move on a straight path that is not impeded.) G. W. - They CANNOT move diagonally. (Note: Never a crooked path.) G. W. - The rook can move or capture only on this straight line. (Note: One can only take leadership by walking on the straight path.) G. W. - The simplicity of the rook's movement is indeed what makes it powerful. (Note: Man-childs, like Jesus, have a simple life and walk with power.) G. W. - It can cover a significant area of the board, and there are no areas which an opponent's piece -- moving one square at a time -- can slip through. (Note: Man-childs can move supernaturally to far places. The enemy cannot deceive them or outmaneuver them.) G. W. - The rook may also make a move in conjunction with the king. (Note: Like Jesus said, “I do always those things I see of my Father”.)   Bride Prepares for Man-child Deborah Horton - 09/20/2010 (David's notes in red) As David has said, something wonderful is going to happen. :) (Looking forward to it.) In a dream, I was inside a large building, on the bottom floor, with people everywhere. They were all waiting for a Jewish man and while they were waiting, they were very busy all through the building. I have no idea what they were busy with -- can't remember. (The coming Jewish man is Jesus, Who will inhabit the Man-child as “Christ in you the hope of glory”. The building is the House of God, His people, which is being prepared for His coming habitation. I was just saying to several brethren that I hope we can prepare it ahead of time.) Then, as I looked around, I saw the Jewish man come in, along with a young woman/girl, who was his assistant somehow. I think she was setting up some audio equipment (speakers, etc.) (The Bride is making ready for the Man-child to reach many people.) Even though I saw him, no one else seemed able to do so. (He is coming in the heart of the true  House.) It wasn't that he was invisible; they could look at him and see him, but at the same time they didn't see him (this is hard to explain and doesn't make a whole lot of sense), and they kept on with whatever it was that they were doing. (We can see the body He will inhabit but many don't recognize Him to the extent He is in it now.) The next thing I can remember is that I walked over to him and he asked me to sing with him, but I told him that I couldn't because I didn't “know the language” or “speak Hebrew” (can't remember exactly how I worded it). (Singing with Him means to be in harmony with Him.) I think he was a little disappointed by that. (Reminds me of Miriam's song about Moses and the Israelites crossing the Red Sea into the wilderness tribulation and the destruction of the old man, or, as you say, the song only the 144,000 first-fruits could sing.) His assistant was still working on getting everything set up. As I looked at him, I absolutely had to give him a great big hug, which I did. I squeezed him like there was no tomorrow -- poor guy! And then I let go, although I didn't want to let go of him. He was completely ordinary-looking, about two inches taller than me, I think he was wearing a work shirt and jeans -- very informal. He was so ordinary that there was nothing you could say about him to describe him. (As Isaiah 53 says, the first individual body Jesus came in was unremarkable, so the corporate first-fruits body will be plain folks.) He had dark hair; I can't remember if he had a beard, but I don't think he did. He reminded me of a teddy bear and there was no way I could ever be afraid of him. He wasn't skinny or fat, just had a tiny bit of extra weight on his belly, so you could tell that he wasn't a very physical person. He radiated such confidence, such peace and such love! (The anointing of the latter rain is coming to manifest the attributes of Jesus in His first-fruits body, like Hosea 6:1-3 says.) The last scene I remember is that somehow pigeons were all around us and they kept landing on him. They didn't want to get off. He was petting them and let me pet them, too, and then he'd put them down where they would walk about and coo. There were three specific pigeons with beautiful markings, as gorgeous as any pigeon is ever going to get without being a specialty-breed show pigeon. He handed me one that had some dark black markings on its back and it felt like velour; it was so soft. (Maybe these are the overcomers, 30-, 60- and 100-fold. According to Romans 8, the whole creation is awaiting the manifestation of sonship or Christ in you because it too will be delivered.)   White Horse Prepared for Rider Linda L. Gray - 09/29/2016 (David's notes in red) I had this dream where I was inside my home when I noticed an unusual white cloud formation through one of my windows. To get a better look at the cloud formation, I went outside. It was a clear blue sky with no clouds elsewhere but this particular large formation in front of my house. (Nothing else will be more significant concerning changes in the world for God's people.) Within the formation of clouds, I saw a white horse. (The Bride who lives above this evil world in heavenly places by abiding IN Christ. Eph.2:4 but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved), 6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus: 7 that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. The Bride as a cloud will water the earth with the Word of God. The rest of the Church has not arrived at this place and not chosen to be in the Bride.) There was no rider on the horse that I could see as the clouds kept going around the horse, making it difficult to get a clearer view. Psa.48:2 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. (The white horse is the Bride or Zion, as John was told in Revelation. All of the horses in the seals of Revelation 6 are white (representing holiness conquering the Beast), red (war), black (famine and economic collapse) and pale (death and Hades). The hoses represent the flesh of men who serve the spirit and leadership that rides them and rules over them. All of these horses are people who bring these judgments to the world. When they are empowered, they will have riders upon them. The first rider is the Lord in His first-fruits Man-child body who will ride/rule the Bride white horse and through them the Church. At the time of this dream, this first rider is not anointed or set on the horse. When Jesus was anointed to lead the first of the disciples to recognize Him, John said, “He that hath the Bride is the Bridegroom”. But that rider is coming, according to this next verse Linda received.) Rev.1:7 Behold, he cometh with the clouds (notice, the white horse); and every eye shall see him, and they that pierced him; and all the tribes of the earth shall mourn over him. Even so, Amen. This verse has a more literal interpretation at the end of the tribulation, but it accurately describes in the spirit what will happen when the white horse rider, Jesus in the Man-child body, leads the other horse judgments in the earth, which is exactly what Moses the Man-child did. He brought the other judgments. “He cometh with clouds”. The Gematria for “clouds” here is 144 x 10. 144 is the number of the Man-child and 10 is the number of the Word or law he obeys and teaches. “Were purchased from among men to be first-fruits” is verse 14:4. Notice the verse number 144. Rev.14:1 And I saw, and behold, the Lamb standing on the mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty and four thousand, having his name, and the name of his Father, written on their foreheads. 4 These are they that were not defiled with women (sects or denominations); for they are virgins (not having received the seed or word of man). These are they that follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were purchased from among men, to be the firstfruits unto God and unto the Lamb. Both Jesus and Jesus in the Man-child as a repeat of history fit this. Psa.118:22 The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner. Circling the outer perimeter of the cloud formation was a large plane, which apparently had seen this formation (surveillance) and was trying to get a better view. (Haman attempted to bring down the Bride before Mordecai came to leadership; before the Man-child was anointed to rule in the Book of Esther. The white horse rider is typed by Mordecai, Moses, Joseph, David, Jesus and many more. This was a judgment on Egypt, as a type of the world. Each of these men and many like them led the Bride, and through them the Church, to freedom and power. Each of these also brought judgment on the Beast body, as a type of the world Beast body of seven heads and 10 horns.) I was very excited and wanted a photo of the beautiful white horse, so I went inside my house to retrieve my cell phone. When I came back outside, the airspace was filled with war planes covering the entire field of vision, flying in a grid formation heading from south to north. It looked like a tic-tac-toe-type grid with the planes in perfect formation. Rev.12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels going forth to war with the dragon; and the dragon warred and his angels; 8 And they prevailed not, neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him. 10 And I heard a great voice in heaven, saying, Now is come the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, who accuseth them before our God day and night. 11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death. And the Dragon or Satan was cast down to rule over his world body of seven heads and 10 horns, which is beaten by He who “came with the clouds”, the Man-child, and saints in whom the Lord lives. Jesus in the Man-child reformers will conquer the world beast. Dan.7:13 I saw in the night-visions, and, behold, there came with the clouds of heaven one like unto a son of man, and he came even to the ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all the peoples, nations, and languages should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. ... 22 until the ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High, and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. The dream then ended. (Whatever was in the clouds, the powers that be didn't like, and they were ready to wage war against it.) (Yes, the powers that be are the head of the Dragon body on earth. They are Satanists whom we are casting down.) This preparation for the Bride to receive her head fits well with this next dream of the Wedding Feast.   Wedding and Temple Cakes M.L.- 09/22/2016 (David's notes in red) I woke up from a dream, and was taken back by it, but in a good way. I was in a huge room with many very sturdy tables. They were all square with white tablecloths. Each table had an extremely large wedding cake on it. (Time for the Wedding Feast to begin, the tribulation seven days before the bride is escorted by the virgins to the Groom's home in Heaven.) These cakes seemed to be about four feet tall and many inches round, coming to about two inches to the edge of the table all the way around. They were multi-tiered and in various designs and were all decorated white-on-white. Nothing stood out that would distract the eyes from one cake to another. Flowers in white in all sizes, small pillars of white, miniature fountains, white ribbon, white doves. Looking at all this, it was magnificent, all made according to their Creator's desire. After taking all this in, I looked to the right and saw the most magnificent of all cakes: a replica of the Temple. (The temple of God's presence is in the Jerusalem Bride, who is born from above.) It resembled light gray marble stone and was very smooth without a flaw in the icing! It stood about five feet high (representing grace), with the outside perimeters a square. And it was all cake. It was displayed on a very sturdy table with a white tablecloth draped to the floor. It had ornate gold trim work on top of the roof line. It reminded me of the points on a “king's crown”. (The Bride is a crown in Isa.62:1 For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her righteousness go forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burneth. 2 And the nations shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory, and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of Jehovah shall name. 3 Thou shalt also be a crown of beauty in the hand of Jehovah, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God. At the base of these points was a wide piece that looked like “crown molding”, the color of the building itself. In the same width of the molding above was a decorative, gold ornate area going around the top. On the two front corners were pillars, and a pillar on each side of the door. On top of each pillar were gold embellishments. Then I woke up. The wedding cakes are made ready. (For the Marriage Feast.) I didn't see any tables that were “set”. (Yet). The Bride has made herself ready. She is in fine linen, pure and white. Eph.5:27 that he might present the church to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. These are the righteous acts of the saints. Obedience: Jas.1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deluding your own selves. 4:17 To him therefore that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. Faith: Heb.11:6 And without faith it is impossible to be well-pleasing unto him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that seek after him. Fruit: Mat.7:20 Therefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Love: 1Jn.4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is begotten of God, and knoweth God. The temple cake: The temple is where God dwells. We are also God's temple, for He dwells in us. 1Co.3:16 Know ye not that ye are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man destroyeth the temple of God, him shall God destroy; 17 ... for the temple of God is holy, and such are ye ... 19) For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He that taketh the wise in their craftiness...   It's Not What They Thought Sandy Shaw - 09/21/2016 (David's notes in red) In a dream, I landed on my feet in a big city (Babylon/US), for I was translated there. Immediately, I felt the earth quake and I could tell by the surroundings that there had been others. (The time is the great earthquakes just before the tribulation; some will help others through translation, as happened to me.) I can see a road buckled, and the top half of a skyscraper had fallen to the ground. People were running and screaming, and I saw two little girls to the right. The five-year-old (five is grace) had long blond curly hair (1 Corinthians 11: submission to the sun/Son) and deep dimples and wore a blue dress (dressed up with heavenly works). The other little girl was black (representing walking in darkness) and seven years old. She wore a red dress and had dark pigtails with red ribbons (the color of the red Dragon body). I walked to them and asked them where their fathers were. (Fathers represent heads of churches.) They didn't know. The black-haired girl said that they were there for Daily Vacation Bible School. I asked, “Where are your mothers?” The seven-year-old black girl said, “She died a few months ago”. (The apostate Church mother is dead.) And the five-year-old very excitedly said, “Oh, my mom has already been with Jesus”. (Her mother is the early Church because she abides in Christ. 1Jn.2:24 As for you, let that abide in you which ye heard from the beginning. If that which ye heard from the beginning abide in you, ye also shall abide in the Son, and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise which he promised us, even the life eternal.) The ground started to shake some more and I knew that they were not safe. (At the time of the great earthquakes many will be helped to escape by the righteous.) So I grabbed the two little girl's wrists and started to fly over the city. (Although I have only done this instantaneously, I believe translation can happen slowly like flying. It is in the Spirit, though, and unseen by the world. It is without wings or propulsion, so it is not literally flying. Flying also represents overcoming the world and its law of sin and death, represented by gravity, to ascend into heavenly places in Christ by abiding in Jesus Who is the Word. Eph.2:4 but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved), 6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus. The woman in the wilderness tribulation was given the overcoming wings of the eagle by the Man-child to escape the Dragon/serpent and his works. Rev.12:14 And there were given to the woman the two wings of the great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness unto her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time [by the Man-child body], from the face of the serpent.) The seven-year-old said, “I don't understand”. Then she asked, “What is this ...the tribulation?” We landed on a suspension bridge stretched out over the water. All of a sudden, the bridge became a slide (falling into the water) and before we got to the bottom, we started to fly again. (The way of escape is cut off as in Jer.25:35 And the shepherds shall have no way to flee, nor the principal of the flock to escape. But the righteous always have a way of escape, even if by flight. 1Co.10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it.) We flew over the city and into the country, where there was a huge red barn, and we landed. Cars were coming up on both sides of the barn. People were coming up to it because they knew it was a refuge and a safe place and all the people around were in a state of confusion. These people were Christians and yet confused. The seven-year-old said, “Hey, that looks like my church barn!” And she let go of my hand and started running. (Many of the Church are confused by their doctrines but if they have walked with the Lord in a righteous life, they will escape. Even those who are chosen to come to understanding and holiness later will escape like the seven-year-old who walks in darkness.) The blond girl said, “There's my daddy!” He was sitting down on a folding chair inside the barn, elbows on his knees and head in his hands, and he said, “I don't understand. I don't understand”. The five-year-old shook his arm and said, “Daddy! I'm here! I'm here!” He mumbled, “Yeah, yeah”. She said, “No, Daddy, she brought me here (pointing to me)! We flew! We were flying! And we were on a big slide (toward death)”. The dad reached out and touched my hand and said, “Thank you. Thank you for bringing her here”. Then he said, in a daze, “Lord, I thought my heart was right with You”. I said, “If you were waiting for the rapture, it's not going to happen now or in the way that you think”. (At the time of the great quakes, tsunamis, volcanic activity, economic collapse, chaos, many will see that they have not escaped tribulation and will repent of this deception.) I heard the seven-year-old say, “Daddy! Daddy!” And he hugged her. She asked, “This is tribulation?” She waited for him to respond and said, “Jesus didn't come yet”. He fell to his knees crying and asking the Lord, “I thought I was in right standing with You. I thought my heart was right with You. I have been preaching for 35 years”. I grabbed his hand and said, “This isn't the rapture you're waiting for. That's not happening”. I said, “You come with me”. And we walked over to the other preacher who was sitting down. (The great earthquakes are at the beginning of the tribulation, as in Rev.8:5 And the angel taketh the censer; and he filled it with the fire of the altar, and cast it upon the earth (meteors striking the earth): and there followed thunders, and voices, and lightnings, and an earthquake. Notice that this came just before the first trumpet of the tribulation. 6 And the seven angels that had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.) I told the two little girls to stay in the barn. Then I took them to the corner of the barn. I reached to the floor, pulled open the door to a root cellar, and grabbed two bottles of water. There was food there also. Then I took the preacher's hands and we went up and through the roof of the barn! (Meaning not physical flight.) And we flew to Tennessee. David and Michael were standing outside. They saw that we had landed. The preachers were confused about what had just happened. Then I said, “Now these two men can answer any questions you have about the rapture or anything else you think you're going through”. Michael asked, “Sandy, where have you been? Where were you?” I said, “I don't know. I was translated.” Michael said, “I should have known that.” Then I went back and got the girls and brought them to Tennessee. Then I woke up. By faith at random I received Isa.49:1 Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye peoples, from far: JEHOVAH hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name: 2 and he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me: and he hath made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he kept me close: 3 and he said unto me, Thou art my servant; Israel, in whom I will be glorified. 4 But I said, I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nought and vanity; yet surely the justice due to me is with JEHOVAH, and my recompense with my God. The rest of this chapter tells the magnificent story of His people being used to restore those of God's people who have been in captivity to the nations. 5 And now saith Jehovah that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, and that Israel be gathered unto him (for I am honorable in the eyes of Jehovah, and my God is become my strength); 6 yea, he saith, It is too light a thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth. 7 Thus saith Jehovah, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers: Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall worship; because of Jehovah that is faithful, even the Holy One of Israel, who hath chosen thee. 8 Thus saith Jehovah, In an acceptable time have I answered thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee; and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to raise up the land, to make them inherit the desolate heritages: 9 saying to them that are bound, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and on all bare heights shall be their pasture. 10 They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them will lead them, even by springs of water will he guide them. 11 And I will make all my mountains a way, and my highways shall be exalted. 12 Lo, these shall come from far; and, lo, these from the north and from the west; and these from the land of Sinim. 13 Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for Jehovah hath comforted his people, and will have compassion upon his afflicted. 14 But Zion said, Jehovah hath forsaken me, and the Lord hath forgotten me. 15 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, these may forget, yet will not I forget thee. 16 Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me. 17 Thy children make haste; thy destroyers and they that made thee waste shall go forth from thee. 18 Lift up thine eyes round about, and behold: all these gather themselves together, and come to thee. As I live, saith Jehovah, thou shalt surely clothe thee with them all as with an ornament, and gird thyself with them, like a bride. 19 For, as for thy waste and thy desolate places, and thy land that hath been destroyed, surely now shalt thou be too strait for the inhabitants, and they that swallowed thee up shall be far away. 20 The children of thy bereavement shall yet say in thine ears, The place is too strait for me; give place to me that I may dwell. 21 Then shalt thou say in thy heart, Who hath begotten me these, seeing I have been bereaved of my children, and am solitary, an exile, and wandering to and fro? and who hath brought up these? Behold, I was left alone; these, where were they? (Converts coming from all over the World!) 22 Thus saith the Lord Jehovah, Behold, I will lift up my hand to the nations, and set up my ensign to the peoples; and they shall bring thy sons in their bosom, and thy daughters shall be carried upon their shoulders. 23 And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with their faces to the earth, and lick the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I am Jehovah; and they that wait for me shall not be put to shame. 24 Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captives be delivered? 25 But thus saith Jehovah, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered; for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. 26 And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I, Jehovah, am thy Saviour, and thy Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

Dr. Tom Curran continues to discuss 18 scripture passages that will change your life. Tom shares insights on how to overcome comfortable dissipation through disruption, breakthrough and transformation.Tom's List of Life-Changing Scripture PassagesI was caught up in spirit on the Lord's day and heard behind me a voice as loud as a trumpet, which said, “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.”Then I turned to see whose voice it was that spoke to me, and when I turned, I saw seven gold lampstands and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, wearing an ankle-length robe, with a gold sash around his chest. The hair of his head was as white as white wool or as snow,* and his eyes were like a fiery flame. His feet were like polished brass refined in a furnace,* and his voice was like the sound of rushing water.In his right hand he held seven stars. A sharp two-edged sword came out of his mouth, and his face shone like the sun at its brightest.When I caught sight of him, I fell down at his feet as though dead.* He touched me with his right hand and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the first and the last, the one who lives. Once I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever. I hold the keys to death and the netherworld. (Rev 1: 10-18)For Zion's sake I will not be silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not keep still, Until her vindication shines forth like the dawn and her salvation like a burning torch. Nations shall behold your vindication, and all kings your glory; You shall be called by a new name bestowed by the mouth of the LORD. You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem in the hand of your God. No more shall you be called “Forsaken,” nor your land called “Desolate,” But you shall be called “My Delight is in her,” and your land “Espoused.” For the LORD delights in you, and your land shall be espoused. For as a young man marries a virgin, your Builder shall marry you; And as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you. (Isa 62: 1-5)Look! I am bringing the city recovery and healing; I will heal them and reveal to them an abundance of lasting peace. I will restore the fortunes of Judah and Israel, and rebuild them as they were in the beginning. I will purify them of all the guilt they incurred by sinning against me; I will forgive all their offenses by which they sinned and rebelled against me. Then this city shall become joy for me, a name of praise and pride, before all the nations of the earth, as they hear of all the good I am doing for them. They shall fear and tremble because of all the prosperity I give it. (Jer 33: 6-9)

Jesus Is The Way - Humility To Glory (2) (audio) David Eells – 3/9/25 Lets begin with a look at the Parable of the leaders choosing positions of honor and the guests at the marriage feast in (Luk.14:7) And he spake a parable unto those that were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief seats; saying unto them, (8) When thou art bidden of any man to a marriage feast, sit not down in the chief seat; lest haply a more honorable man than thou be bidden of him, (9) and he that bade thee and him shall come and say to thee, Give this man place; and then thou shalt begin with shame to take the lowest place. We know Jesus also spoke a parable about a king who made a marriage feast for his son, obviously pointing to the Father as the King and Himself being the Son (Matthew 22:1-14; Luke 14:15-24). And we know that the disciples were invited to the marriage feast in the early church, although many of the Jews refused, therefore God turned to the Gentiles and invited them (Matthew 22:3-6,9-10). Are we still invited today? Of course. We're invited to partake of the “bread and the wine,” representing the Body and Blood of Christ, which is the Nature and the Life of Jesus Christ. Paul said, (1Co.11:23) For I received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus in the night in which he was betrayed took bread; (24) and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, This is my body, which is for you: this do in remembrance of me. (25) In like manner also the cup, after supper, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood: this do, as often as ye drink [it], in remembrance of me. (26) For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink the cup, ye proclaim the Lord's death till he come. (27) Wherefore whosoever shall eat the bread or drink the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. (28) But let a man prove himself, and so let him eat of the bread, and drink of the cup. (29) For he that eateth and drinketh, eateth and drinketh judgment unto himself, if he discern not the body. (30) For this cause many among you are weak and sickly, and not a few sleep. (31) But if we discerned ourselves, we should not be judged. (32) But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. So who is it that could desire the most honorable seats in this marriage feast, as we feast and partake of Jesus Christ? Well, it could be somebody who craves a position or a title that they have not earned, or who desires to partake of an ordination that has not necessarily been given them by God. The Lord is saying through this parable that you should take the more humble place and let God make a way for you. Growing up in God is to let Him “open the doors” to make a way for us. Many people love to partake of titles and position and places of authority, and far too many have been ordained of men and not of God. They've taken a position that hasn't been given them by the King of the marriage feast, and one day they may be told, “Step down; this is not your place. This is given to someone else more worthy.” (Luk.14:10) But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest place; that when he that hath bidden thee cometh, he may say to thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have glory in the presence of all that sit at meat with thee. (11) For everyone that exalteth himself shall be humbled; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. We really need to remember that for our own good. God will bring down anybody who is proud or arrogant, or who takes a position that's not theirs because it's been given to them by man instead of God. “For everyone that exalteth himself shall be humbled; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” While we are here, we have the opportunity to humble ourselves in order to be exalted of the Lord, and this is the way of prosperity and blessing in the Kingdom. We have every reason to be humble because we really can do nothing without Him. Of our own ability, we haven't much hope. We read in the previous study, (Joh.5:19) Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father doing… Did you know that in this text Jesus was speaking of the relationship between not only Himself and His Father, but of Himself as our Father? Isaiah calls Jesus “Everlasting Father,” howbeit the Hebrew actually says “Father of Eternity.” (Isa.9:6) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. He is the Prince of Peace, the Father of Eternity, the One that is placed over the government of everything by God. Jesus is the last Adam and our spiritual Father, as we can see also in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3-9,18-23; Mark 14:13-20; Luke 8:4- 5). (Mat.13:18) Hear then ye the parable of the sower. (19) When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the evil [one], and snatcheth away that which hath been sown in his heart. This is he that was sown by the way side. (20) And he that was sown upon the rocky places, this is he that heareth the word, and straightway with joy receiveth it; (21) yet hath he not root in himself, but endureth for a while; and when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway he stumbleth. (22) And he that was sown among the thorns, this is he that heareth the word; and the care of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. (23) And he that was sown upon the good ground, this is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; who verily beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Jesus sowed the Seed in our heart that brings forth His fruit in us. He is our spiritual Adam, the Father of the born-again creation, of the born-again man, just as Adam was the Father of the natural creation. Now, since “The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father doing,” that means anything we do that's contrary to what we see our spiritual Father Jesus doing, is coming from ourselves. And since the apostles are our spiritual forefathers in the faith, anything we do that's contrary to what we see them doing is coming from ourselves, too (Romans 4:11-12; Hebrews 12:9). As Paul said, (1Co.4:15) For though ye have ten thousand tutors in Christ, yet [have ye] not many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I begat you through the gospel. So notice it says, “what he seeth the Father doing.” Jesus obviously was in the Throne Room as well as on the earth. He saw the Father's Presence, and we know that's going to be true of the Man-child in our day. That's why we study the Scriptures to see what it is to be a Christian disciple, what it is to walk in the Steps of Jesus and be blessed. Jesus said, (Joh.5:30) I can of myself do nothing… And certainly if Jesus can of Himself do nothing, if He needed the Power of the Father to do what He did, then we also can of ourselves do nothing. We, too, need the Power of God, and that lets us know that when something is done for His glory, when something is accomplished for His Kingdom, we can take no credit for it, just as Jesus here was taking no credit. (Joh.5:30) I can of myself do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is righteous; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. Only if we, too, desire God's Will in what we're doing, only if we are not driven by our own lusts or ambitions, only then can we be trusted to work for God because we will not take any credit for it. (Joh.5:31) If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true. Another part of humility is that we're not to bear witness of ourselves. Who are we? Who do we have to prove ourselves to? When those apostate Pharisees came to Jesus, they wanted Him to give them a sign that He was Who He said He was, but they had no eyes to see nor ears to hear, because He had been doing those wondrous works as signs all along. Well, Jesus answered them, (Mat.16:4) An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign… He wasn't saying signs are wrong; He was saying that they were an evil and adulterous generation for wanting a sign that He was Who He said He was, when they should have very easily judged by His works. In other words, “I'm not going to give it to you.” He wasn't interested in proving Himself to such people. (Joh.5:32) It is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true. (Notice that if you don't bear witness of yourself, someone else will bear witness of you.) (Joh.30:36) But the witness which I have is greater than [that of] John; for the works which the Father hath given me to accomplish (And remember, He said that He couldn't do the works of Himself.), the very works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me. (37) And the Father that sent me, he hath borne witness of me… Jesus didn't bear witness of Himself so the Father bore witness of Him. And how did the Father bear witness of Him? It was through the works that Jesus did. We find this very important principle all through the New Testament. If we want God to bear witness through us in His signs, His wonders, His works, then we can't bear witness of ourselves. (Joh.30:41) I receive not glory from men. (42) But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in yourselves. Was He meaning that the people who received glory from men, didn't receive glory from God because their witness was of men and not of God? That's exactly what He's saying. They were interested in pleasing men, not God. They were interested in enjoying the esteem of men, not God. And there are many who receive glory in this life but will receive none in the next life (Matthew 6:1-6,16-21). (Joh.30:41) I receive not glory from men. (42) But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in yourselves. (43) I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. Jesus wasn't interested in pleasing men. He saw always before His face the Father. He was here to please the Father and we also have to desire in our heart to be pleasing only unto Him, and to give glory only unto Him, so that God Himself will be a Witness of us. (Joh.30:44) How can ye believe, who receive glory one of another, and the glory that [cometh] from the only God ye seek not? People love to be seen of men as being prosperous, wise, and even gifted. These are manpleasers, so it's important to them to be seen of men in this way. Instead, if we love God, we will humble ourselves. We know Him and we will practice His Presence because we're interested in pleasing Him. The people that Jesus was running into here couldn't believe because their desire to receive glory from man was not permitting it. (Joh.12:42) Nevertheless even of the rulers many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess it, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: (43) for they loved the glory [that is] of men more than the glory that is of God. They believed, but they were afraid to act on it and it's the same today. When you give a witness that may be contrary to the traditions of men, manpleasers are afraid to listen, they're afraid to follow, because they're not interested in pleasing God. They're afraid of acting on that truth because they would be rejected by men. They would be looked down upon by their peers, and it's more important to them to please their peers, their religion and their pastor, than it is for them to accept Truth. You know, God makes an offer to you to accept Truth, and if you reject it, if you cast it down, He takes it back and you may not get that offer again. Many of these people did not receive that offer again. Truth was offered to them and if it wasn't important to be pleasing unto God, if it was more important to them to have the glory of man, well, then that's all they got. Jesus glorified not Himself even when a great multitude came to Him. (Joh.6:1) After these things Jesus went away to the other side of the sea of Galilee, which is [the sea] of Tiberias. (2) And a great multitude followed him, because they beheld the signs which he did on them that were sick. (3) And Jesus went up into the mountain, and there he sat with his disciples. (4) Now the passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. (5) Jesus therefore lifting up his eyes, and seeing that a great multitude cometh unto him, saith unto Philip, Whence are we to buy bread, that these may eat? So He went from them and up into the mountain, but after a while, it appears that they came up there, too. Not many people can turn aside from the admiration or praise, or even curiosity, of the multitude. Following God is not more important to them than pleasing a multitude, but Jesus could do that and throughout His ministry, we see that He did do that. He wasn't seeking the glory of man and therefore, God glorified Him. Now let's read on because when Jesus didn't seek the glory of man, immediately afterward He fed the five thousand in one of the greatest miracles of His ministry. (Joh.6:5) Jesus therefore lifting up his eyes, and seeing that a great multitude cometh unto him, saith unto Philip, Whence are we to buy bread, that these may eat? (6) And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do. (7) Philip answered him, Two hundred shillings worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one may take a little. (8) One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, saith unto him, (9) There is a lad here, who hath five barley loaves, and two fishes: but what are these among so many? (10) Jesus said, Make the people sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. (11) Jesus therefore took the loaves; and having given thanks, he distributed to them that were set down; likewise also of the fishes as much as they would. (12) And when they were filled, he saith unto his disciples, Gather up the broken pieces which remain over, that nothing be lost. (13) So they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with broken pieces from the five barley loaves, which remained over unto them that had eaten. (14) When therefore the people saw the sign which he did, they said, This is of a truth the prophet that cometh into the world. God was putting that in their heart because Jesus had rejected a desire to be a man pleaser, and in the very next verse, He rejected that again. (Joh.5:15) Jesus therefore perceiving that they were about to come and take him by force, to make him king, withdrew again into the mountain himself alone. So He left the multitudes again, not seeking to be a manpleaser, not wanting to be glorified of man, not wanting to take a position that God did not want Him to take, that is, as a worldly ruler with physical authority. He wanted the spiritual Kingdom that the Father offered unto Him. The devil had offered Him the authority over the physical kingdoms of the world (Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13) and now the people wanted to come and make Jesus King, but He desired nothing of that. Unfortunately, I guarantee you there are many people today who would love that, not realizing that they would do it to their own destruction because, if you receive the glory of man, you don't receive the glory of God. Since Jesus turned down the glory of man here, He glorified not Himself, notice that once again He did one of the greatest miracles of His ministry. (Joh.6:16) And when evening came, his disciples went down unto the sea; (17) and they entered into a boat, and were going over the sea unto Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. (18) And the sea was rising by reason of a great wind that blew. (19) When therefore they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they behold Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the boat: and they were afraid. (20) But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid. (21) They were willing therefore to receive him into the boat: and straightway the boat was at the land whither they were going. Every time Jesus turned down the glory of man, the Father glorified Him by the works that He did. Many of God's people want to have power with God; they want to meet the needs of the brethren around them; they want to heal the sick; they want to cast out devils. They want to do the works of Jesus, and rightly so, but we're seeing here that the works of Jesus don't come through just faith, but also through humility. God sought to glorify Jesus because Jesus didn't seek to glorify Himself. He was not interested in being a manpleaser, as He said, (Joh.5:41) I receive not glory from men. And after Jesus healed the lame man at the pool of Bethesda, the Jews asked him, (Joh.5:12) … Who is the man that said unto thee, Take up [thy bed,] and walk? (13) But he that was healed knew not who it was; for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in the place. Jesus didn't seek exposure to the crowd. He didn't seek to be known even to this man whom He had healed. Jesus was seeking to glorify the Father and not Himself, just as every minister of God, even those that are sent by God, which are the minority, will be tried in this manner to see if they will accept for themselves the glory that should go to God. If they will rob the glory of God by taking credit for what God is doing, well, then God will not glorify them. Jesus conveyed Himself away because He didn't seek the credit for what God did. He didn't seek the glory for what God did even though God did this miracle through Him. (Luk.5:12) And it came to pass, while he was in one of the cities, behold, a man full of leprosy: and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. (13) And he stretched forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou made clean. And straightway the leprosy departed from him. (14) And he charged him to tell no man: but go thy way, and show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. (And since He did not seek to be known for this work that God did, what happened?) (15) But so much the more went abroad the report concerning him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed of their infirmities. (16) But he withdrew himself in the deserts, and prayed. Jesus didn't seek the multitudes; they sought Him. And because He didn't seek to be known of them nor to gain credit of them nor to take a position over them, we see once again, God glorified Him. God moved in the heart of the people and they sought Him. This is an important point for us to understand. The Lord is our Example and we are His disciples, His “learners and followers.” It's important for us to know what it is to walk pleasing unto the Father because we need the power of the Father, His grace, His mercy. Humility brings the glory of the Father. Let's look at another example in (Mar.1:23) And straightway there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, (24) saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus thou Nazarene? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God. (25) And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, (Here He is being glorified even of the demons and He wouldn't permit it. They were speaking out and glorifying Him, saying Who He was, yet He wouldn't permit it.) and come out of him.  (26) And the unclean spirit, tearing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. (27) And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What is this? a new teaching! with authority he commandeth even the unclean spirits, and they obey him. (28) And the report of him went out straightway everywhere into all the region of Galilee round about. Jesus sought not to glorify Himself. He sought not to take full advantage of the situation, and because He didn't, just the opposite happened. Because He was found trustworthy that He would not rob the glory of God, God turned it around and glorified Him. Also in the same book, we read, (Mar.5:18) And as he (This is Jesus.) was entering into the boat, he that had been possessed with demons besought him that he might be with him. (19) And he suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go to thy house unto thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and [how] he had mercy on thee. (Some people think that Jesus is talking about Himself, but He was talking about the Father.) (20) And he went his way, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men marvelled. Jesus didn't seek His Own glory. Jesus sought earnestly to give all the glory to God, and because He did that, God gave it to Jesus instead. As disciples of Jesus, we have the same opportunity to always give God the glory. We don't want to rob God, even in things that we might consider to be insignificant. Jesus said to the Jews, (Joh.8:50) But I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth. He was humble, therefore the Father sought to glorify Him and as we saw, one way the Father did that was through the works that Jesus did. Many are seeking to do the works of Jesus because they see the need around them, and if they are walking in humility, then God gives them grace to have faith, because these people are the ones that God can trust with power and authority. They will not steal and rob the glory of God; they will not puff themselves up until they stumble and fall. (Joh.54) Jesus answered, If I glorify myself, my glory is nothing (Now, you can glorify yourself and, in the earth, your glory wouldn't be nothing, but Jesus is saying that if He glorified Himself, His glory in the Kingdom would be nothing.): it is my Father that glorifieth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God. Once again, we see that we have to be very, very careful not to take credit for something that we're not capable of doing. Of ourselves, we can do nothing. Instead, we give all the glory to God and seek to avoid the limelight, not taking a position that we shouldn't take. (2Co.10:17) But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. Always! Paul also tells us, (2Co.12:9) And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for [my] power is made perfect in weakness. (Therefore, we have nothing to glory about because we are weak and He is strong.) Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Notice that the power of Christ will rest upon the person who glories in their weaknesses, their inability, their lack of power. God will glorify those persons who will claim no credit, who will not glorify themselves, who will not lift themselves up to take a position that's not theirs. These are the people that God will glorify with “the power of Christ.” (2Co.10:18) For not he that commendeth himself is approved (Approved of Whom? Approved of God.), but whom the Lord commendeth. Those who commend themselves obviously don't receive the glory or the commendation of God. Instead, they get only the commendation and glory of men, and if we receive it here on this earth, that's all the reward we're going to get. (Pro.27:1) Boast not thyself of tomorrow; For thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. We think that we have control over tomorrow. We often say, “we'll do this,” or, “we'll do that; “we'll go here,” or, “we'll go there,” but God said all of our plans are evil. (Jas.4:13) Come now, ye that say, To-day or to-morrow we will go into this city, and spend a year there, and trade, and get gain: (14) whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. What is your life? For ye are a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. (15) For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall both live, and do this or that. (16) But now ye glory in your vauntings: all such glorying is evil. We have no authority to make plans for our future. We need to say, “If the Lord wills.” We need to give glory to God because (Act.17:28) … in him we live, and move, and have our being… Our very breath comes from Him and if He doesn't give it to us tomorrow, we won't be here tomorrow (Job 12:10,33:4; Daniel 5:23). He is the One Who makes it possible for us to do anything. We can do nothing without Him, as Jesus said in (Jas.4:17) To him therefore that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. It is sin to brag about what we're going to do with this life. It doesn't belong to us; it's been bought with the Blood of the Lamb. (Pro.27:2) Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth… We don't have any room for bragging. We glory in our weaknesses so that the power of Christ may rest upon us. We glory in our inability. We glory in those situations where we can't save ourselves and only God can do it. If you want God to save you, then glory in your weakness so that the power of Christ may rest upon you. If you want God to save you, if you want His power, then brag about your inability and His power because, if anyone glories, “let him glory in the Lord.” (Pro.27:2) Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; A stranger, and not thine own lips. That's good advice since, once again, you're being humble before the Lord and you're not accepting any glory, so the Father Himself is the One that will glorify you. (Pro.25:27) It is not good to eat much honey: So for men to search out their own glory is grievous. A similar verse says, (Pro.25:16) Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, Lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it. These are talking about something that's sweet to the flesh, and something that's sweet to the flesh is receiving glory, but to search out your own glory is bitter because in the end, it leads only to suffering and sorrow. (Pro.30:32) If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, Or if thou hast thought evil, Lay thy hand upon thy mouth. If we want the Lord's grace, if we want His faith, if we want His power, if we want Him to manifest His works through us, we need to be careful what we say before Him. (Mar.10:35) And there come near unto him James and John, the sons of Zebedee, saying unto him, Teacher, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall ask of thee. (36) And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you? (37) And they said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and one on thy left hand, in thy glory. (38) But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink the cup that I drink? (I would say that is the cup of suffering.) or to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? Baptism is for death, so in other words, “Are you able to go to death?” And what is “death”? Is it not to deny self, take up your cross, and follow Jesus? Is it not to deny self the ability to glory or take any credit for what God does? (Mar.10:39) And they said unto him, We are able. They were very self-confident, weren't they? Remember that Peter was the same way. He told Jesus, (Mat.26:35) … Even if I must die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. However, Peter really didn't know what was in him, did he? And James and John didn't know what was in them, either. “We are able.” Now we know God did make them able because they did go to their cross, but they were young and impetuous here and didn't understand exactly what all this entailed. (Mar.10:39) And they said unto him, We are able. And Jesus said unto them, The cup that I drink ye shall drink; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized: (40) but to sit on my right hand or on [my] left hand is not mine to give; but [it is for them] for whom it hath been prepared. (41) And when the ten heard it, they began to be moved with indignation concerning James and John. James and John were trying to get ahead of the flock, trying to get some special attention, a special privilege from Jesus here that they hadn't yet earned. Now it's obvious that there are some people who will sit on the Lord's left and right, and it is given to them of the Father because they have borne their baptism, they have borne their cross, they have drunk the cup that Jesus drank. (Mar.10:42) And Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they who are accounted to rule over the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great ones exercise authority over them. (43) But it is not so among you: but whosoever would become great among you, shall be your minister (The word there is diákonos, and it just means “servant.”); (44) and whosoever would be first among you, shall be servant of all. (So the more people you serve, the better.) (45) For the Son of man also came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. A “ransom” is a price that's paid to set somebody free from bondage. Does this mean that the Lord expects us to give up our life in order to be used of Him to set many free from bondage? Yes. Just as Jesus came to be a Ransom for many, each of us, also, if we give up our life, is able to be used of Him to bring many out of bondage and into the Kingdom of God. The Bible tells us to (Php.2:5) Have this mind in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: (6) who, existing in the form of God, counted not the being on an equality with God a thing to be grasped, (7) but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men; (8) and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient [even] unto death, yea, the death of the cross. He came, He laid aside all of His omnipotence and made Himself poor, that we through His poverty might become rich in the ways of the Kingdom (2 Corinthians 8:9), and He expects us to walk in His Steps. Let's look at one example that particularly points out the humility of Jesus and how He commanded His disciples to walk in that humility. (Joh.13:1) Now before the feast of the passover, Jesus knowing that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto his Father, having loved his own that were in the world, he loved them unto the end. (2) And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's [son,] to betray him, (3) [Jesus,] knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he came forth from God, and goeth unto God, (4) riseth from supper, and layeth aside his garments; and he took a towel, and girded himself. (5) Then he poureth water into the basin, and began to wash the disciple's feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. What do you think this foot washing represents? There's nothing wrong with a physical foot washing. It's a humble thing to do, and especially so in Biblical times because the way they traveled meant their feet got very dirty. Well, there's a spiritual type and shadow there, because as we “walk” in this world, it's very likely that our “feet” get dirty with this world. “Sanctification” is “the process of being separated from the world,” and we want to be a part of that separating process for all of our brethren, for everybody that comes in contact with us. That's what Jesus was pointing out here. Again, I'm not denying the physical ceremony of the foot washing, which is good, but we need to understand the spiritual type and shadow here. The Lord put off His clothes and He girded Himself with a towel. We all are putting off our “clothing”; we're putting off the old man and the old life, and we're putting on the Lord Jesus Christ, representing His righteousness and His righteous works (Romans 13:14). (Joh.13:6) So he cometh to Simon Peter. He saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? (7) Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt understand hereafter. (8) Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Now that's not just a physical foot washing here. This is something spiritual and much more important. If the Lord doesn't wash us, of course we have nothing to do with Him and He has nothing to do with us. We have to be washed by the water of the Word, as Paul called it (Ephesians 5:26-27). And we especially need the dirt washed off our feet because our walk with God has to be a clean walk. We need to be separated from the world, and we also have a part in helping our brethren to walk in this way. (Joh.13:9) Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. (10) Jesus saith to him, He that is bathed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. In other words, if you wash your feet, you're clean all over. If you have a clean walk with the Lord, the reason for that is that your heart is right before Him so you're clean everywhere else, too. (11) For he knew him that should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. Evil people can't walk a clean walk before the Lord. Righteous people can walk a clean walk because of what's inside them. (Joh.13:12) So when he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, and sat down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? (13) Ye call me, Teacher, and, Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. (14) If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet. (As the Lord, Who is the mighty King Who has come down out of heaven and has stooped to be our Servant, we also need to be servants to each other.) (15) For I have given you an example, that ye also should do as I have done to you. We have to humble ourselves. If the Lord of glory humbled Himself, and He gave us an example, then we have to humble ourselves. We have to be useful in the sanctification of our brothers and sisters, but we're only able to be used of the Lord as we become righteous. That towel represented His righteousness; He dried their feet with His Own righteousness and we're able to be used of the Lord the same way. (Joh.13:16) Verily, verily, I say unto you, a servant is not greater than his lord; neither one that is sent greater than he that sent him. (17) If ye know these things, blessed are ye if ye do them. (18) I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled: He that eateth my bread lifted up his heel against me. (19) From henceforth I tell you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am [he]. The greatest is the servant of all, but all will not become servants of the brethren because they serve themselves. They seek their own glory, therefore God can't seek to glorify them. A person who seeks their own glory cannot be trusted with God's glory. They cannot be trusted. They would squander it on the world, on self, and glorify self. It would be very destructive to them for God to do this. Now, does God do this with some people? Yes, however, they won't ultimately have a position with God in the Kingdom. There are people who have received gifts of God, but then they continue to seek their own glory. Does God take the gift back? No, He doesn't necessarily even take the gift back. He uses them. For example, they may be used in healing but they themselves may never see the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus warned us, (Mat.7:22) Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works? (23) And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. God can use us down here as a vessel, yet it won't be for our good; it will be for the good of others around us. If we lift ourselves up, we won't be in God's Kingdom. We won't be acceptable unto Him. And so we see here that Jesus humbled Himself in order to wash the disciples' feet. Our Lord wants us to walk in His Steps. He is our Example, therefore we also need to be very humble servants of God for the health and sake of the brethren. We've learned too much from Babylonish Christianity that we need to be washed of, and we see far too many examples of men who have lifted themselves up. They've made themselves a kingdom here and live in very high circumstances, with luxurious homes and grossly overpaid positions. They have chosen to be kings over their Lord's heritage, and at the end, they're not going to have anything. God knows His servants. (1Sam.16:7) But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have rejected him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. God doesn't see as man sees. He knows who are humble towards Him. He knows who are sacrificing themselves. He knows who are trying to avoid taking any glory from Him. He knows them and He will glorify them. He will not only glorify them in this life, He will glorify them in the next life. Some of the most famous Christians down here will not be famous in the Kingdom of Heaven because they have stolen, robbed, the glory of God, and God cannot permit that. Some of the people who have never been known down here, are never known because they don't seek to be known. Some of these people are going to be greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. (Isa.55:8) For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. Some of the most humble people here, “humble” meaning not interested in glorifying themselves, not interested in lifting themselves up, are going to be great in the Kingdom of Heaven, and they are great in the Kingdom of Heaven, as far as God is concerned. Jesus sought a simple life. He sought not to have and do the things that men thought were great. He didn't mind speaking Truth, even if it offended the high and the mighty. He didn't mind leaving the multitudes behind in order to go seek fellowship with the Father (Matthew 14:13; Luke 4:42; Mark 1:35; etc.) We need to emulate Him. Jesus had such a desire to meet the needs of the people, that in some cases, He was working night and day (Matthew 8:24- 25,13:2; Mark 3:9; etc.) Jesus said, (Mat.8:20) … The foxes have holes, and the birds of the heaven have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. He didn't have any time for Himself and I believe that God has some servants down here who are doing the same thing. They see the need, they're moved with compassion, and they go to meet the need, but not for the glory of man. Jesus wasn't doing it for the glory of man because He didn't mind leaving the multitudes and going up into the mountains to pray. He's our Example, and as the Bible tells us, (1Jn.2:5) But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily hath the love of God been perfected. Hereby we know that we are in him: (6) he that saith he abideth in him ought himself also to walk even as he walked. Now I have a couple of revelations to share with you.     The Glorious Bride's Fruit B.A.- 01/30/2014 Notes: [David | Deb] The second dream (below) occurred the night after this one; they show the glorious Bride and God's work to raise the Church. I had a neat dream last night. I dreamed that I was translated into UBM's Friday night Bible study. (After the Bride is manifested, she will be seen in many places where the unleavened Word is shared among the disciples of the David Man-child reformers, just as John the Baptist saw the Bride among the disciples of Jesus, the Son of David.) (2Ti.2:15 Give diligence (“study”) to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth.) I dreamed that as I was translated into the back of the assembly, I walked up and sat down in the row directly behind everyone. (The last shall be first.) (The Bride who puts themselves last and others first will be first. The Bride who puts themselves last and the Lord and His Word first will be first.) Brother David was in front of the assembly (in a blue polo-like shirt with stripes and blue jeans). (The stripes represent that the Man-child/Davids will have taken the persecution [for the body's sake]. Blue represents walking in grace or heavenly places.) He saw me come in and take my seat. He looked at me with great interest, but he never stopped talking. People began to turn around and look at me, one at a time. They didn't stare at me; they just looked and turned back around. (Son.6:10 Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, Fair as the moon, Clear as the sun, Terrible as an army with banners? This is the Bride. 13 Return, return, O Shulammite; Return, return, that we may look upon thee. Why will ye look upon the Shulammite, As upon the dance of Mahanaim?) (You will notice that the Bride is not any local assembly but wherever the Davids are teaching, they will be among the disciples, as it was with Jesus, according to John, who said, “He that hath the Bride is the Bridegroom”. This shows us that the Bride will know the voice of the groom in the Man-child/Davids. There are local bodies that the Lord is choosing to purge of unfruitful people as a good foundation for more saints to come.) When the service was over, I stood up and instantly I was gone. (The Bride will take the Davids' teachings throughout the earth; much translation will happen among them.) In the dream, after I was gone, I heard Brother David say to the assembly, “Did you all see that woman who came in and sat in the back? Did you notice that she was surrounded in light?” Some people spoke up and said, “Yes, we did”. (The glorious Bride will be an example to those who come after her, having departed from transgression by the Lord's redemption. Isa.59:20 And a Redeemer will come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith Jehovah. 21 And as for me, this is my covenant with them, saith Jehovah: my Spirit that is upon thee (the Bride), and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth (the Bride will speak and obey the Word), nor out of the mouth of thy seed (the Bride's spiritual children), nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed (and their children), saith Jehovah, from henceforth and for ever. Isaiah had much to prophesy concerning Zion, the Bride, and the effect of the glorious light of God's Word manifested in her by the Spirit of God, bringing great revival. Isa.60:1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of Jehovah is risen upon thee. 2 For, behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the peoples; but Jehovah will arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. 3 And nations shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. 4 Lift up thine eyes round about, and see: they all gather themselves together, they come to thee; thy sons shall come from far, and thy daughters shall be carried in the arms. The children of the Bride will come to the light in the Bride from all over the world.) 14 And the sons of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet (The apostates will be humbled under the Davids and the Bride); and they shall call thee The city of Jehovah, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel. 15 Whereas thou hast been forsaken and hated, so that no man passed through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations... 18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, desolation nor destruction within thy borders (the Beast persecutors among God's people will have no authority there); but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation (to enter the Bride, Jerusalem, will be to manifest the salvation that many only have by faith), and thy gates Praise. 19 The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but Jehovah will be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. 20 Thy sun shall no more go down, neither shall thy moon withdraw itself; for Jehovah will be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. 21 Thy people also shall be all righteous; they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified. 22 The little one shall become a thousand, and the small one a strong nation; I, Jehovah, will hasten it in its time. (Great fruit will come from the glorious Bride.) The Man-child's ministry to the Bride and Church is in the next chapter. Isa.61:1 The Spirit of the Lord Jehovah is upon me; because Jehovah hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening [of the prison] to them that are bound; 2 to proclaim the year of Jehovah's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; 3 to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them a garland for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of Jehovah, that he may be glorified. 4 And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations. Isa.62:1 For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her righteousness go forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burneth. 2 And the nations shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory, and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of Jehovah shall name. 3 Thou shalt also be a crown of beauty in the hand of Jehovah, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God. 4 Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzi-bah (meaning “my delight is in her”), and thy land Beulah (meaning “married”); for Jehovah delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married.     Bride Saves the Apostate Church from Enemies B.A.- 01/31/2014 Notes: [David | Deb] I dreamed that I was in Tennessee for a visit. I was hungry, so I stopped at a fast-food restaurant to get something to eat. (It's “fast food” because time is running out. The Israelites were told to eat their Passover quickly before leaving Egypt. Exo.12:11 And thus shall ye eat it: with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the Lord's passover.) As I was getting out of the car, I noticed an elderly woman walking slowly with a cane. (This is the old order, mother Church. They have been with the Lord for many years but too crippled by false teachings to walk in the Spirit.) (The Lord promises them restoration: Zec.8:4 Thus saith the Lord of hosts: There shall yet old men and old women dwell in the streets of Jerusalem, every man with his staff in his hand for very age.) I happened to look up ahead toward the door and I noticed that there was about a four- or five-inch curb. (Four is the Word and it brings tribulation to the carnal man, but five is grace given to us that brings us through the tribulation of our life.) The curb was in front of the door. (Joh.10:9 I am the door; by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and go out, and shall find pasture. “Pasture” is food.) I knew that this elderly woman might have some difficulty trying to step up from the curb of the parking lot and onto the sidewalk by the door. (6:54 He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood hath eternal life: and I will raise him up at the last day. It's a “sidewalk” because it's beside the shepherds' tents. Sol.1:8 If thou know not, O thou fairest among women, Go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, And feed thy kids beside the shepherds tents.) I walked up to her and asked her if I could help her and she was happy for my offer of help. (Much trouble is coming to the old order because they have not yet understood that the promises of God are there to deliver them.) She had noticed the tall curb as well and was wondering if she would be able to make that step up from the curb. (They don't have the real Gospel which empowers them to manifest salvation in all things. Rom.1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth... The Bride will be there to help them with understanding and the Word will be confirmed with signs and wonders following.) So I helped her inside the restaurant and to a table.  (Eze.34:14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and on the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed on the mountains of Israel.) She introduced herself to me and told me her name was Mabel (Her name is of uncertain derivation, but from the Spanish or Italian, it means both “beautiful” and “soft, tender”, some say loving, lovable”.) and I told her my name. (Many in the old order Church are innocent and the true Gospel will bring life in them. They are walking in the light that they have, like God says in Rom.14:4 He shall be made to stand for the Lord hath power to make him stand.) (Humility and innocence are valuable to the Lord. 1Pe.3:4 but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in the incorruptible apparel of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.) I took her order and went up to the counter and got our food and brought it back to the table. She offered me $10 to pay for her food. (Ten is the number of the law and the old order is used to paying for everything and not receiving freely by grace.) I told her it was a blessing for me to bless her. (Jesus said, “Freely you have received, freely give”.) I told her it would be a pleasure for me to sit and have my meal with her. She was so happy to have my company. She told me she was waiting for her daughter, Jean, who was always very late. (In the natural, we are told to “let your yes be yes and your no be no”, and this is true for those who are truthful but not for liars. As far as the spiritual gifts of God, they will also be late for what the Lord has for them.) (Rom.13:11 And this, knowing the season, that already it is time for you to awake out of sleep: for now is salvation nearer to us than when we first believed. ... Mat.25:10 And while they went away to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast: and the door was shut. 11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. 13 Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour. Rev.3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold refined by fire, that thou mayest become rich; and white garments, that thou mayest clothe thyself, and that the shame of thy nakedness be not made manifest; and eye salve to anoint thine eyes, that thou mayest see.) We had such a wonderful time. Mabel told me that she was a widow. (Our first husband is Satan, for we are submitted to him and we have ears for him. When he is dead to us, we are ready for the Lord.) She was meeting her daughter at the restaurant to discuss the possibility of her going into an assisted living home, as she was getting too old to live by herself. (Instead of being a minister of God's grace, the children turn to the ways of the world and rarely repay the kindness owed to their mentors.) I saw Mabel look toward the door, so I turned around and I saw a woman who appeared to be in her mid-60s (Mid-60s means lukewarm, midway between 60, the Gematria for “world”, and 70 identifies the number of disciples that were sent by Jesus and Moses.) She came through the door and walked toward us. She looked at me with disapproval on her face, then over to her mother. I stood up and introduced myself to her, but she wasn't very receptive to me. Just then, Mabel spoke up and told her daughter, Jean, how I had helped her. Jean then looked back at me and said, “I'm here now, so you can leave”. (The factious have always hated the Bride and consider themselves superior to them. They have lusted for a position over the church but don't have the fruit or gift from God to take care of her.) I reached down and picked up my purse and said goodbye to Mabel and left the restaurant. As I walked across the parking lot to my car, I prayed in the spirit for Mabel and her daughter, Jean. (The Bride is gracious and prays for the old order Christians and the factious.) As I got into my car, I had an open vision. I could see Mabel and Jean inside the restaurant. I saw Jean sit down where I had been sitting across from Mabel (seeking to usurp the position of the Bride). I watched as Jean began to scold her mother for “taking up” with strangers (in Proverbs, the stranger is the Harlot), and she began saying very unkind things about me. Jean said to her mother, “Can't you tell by the way people are dressed, Mother, that you should not associate with them?” (Slanderers of the Bride are now making themselves known to the Church.) Then it was Mabel's turn to speak. She said, “First of all, that kind woman helped me into the restaurant (helped her to find spiritual food). I'm sure she had other things to do, like you do, but she took the time to help me. Then, she went the extra mile”. (The Bride sacrifices for the Church. The factious sacrifice the Church to their own ego.) She asked me what I would like to eat and she went and got it and brought it back to me. (Job.23:12 I have not gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured up the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. Joh.6:56 He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood abideth in me, and I in him.) She would not accept any money from me, unlike what you do. (They make merchandise of the people and do nothing freely.) (Act.8:20 But Peter said unto him, Thy silver perish with thee, because thou hast thought to obtain the gift of God with money.) And as for the way she was dressed, her clothing was of much more value than yours. (Rom.13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts [thereof]. Rev.19:8 And it was given unto her that she should array herself in fine linen, bright and pure: for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.) Just then, Jean spoke up and said, “Oh, I really don't think so, Mother”, in a very prideful tone of voice. (Pro.16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.) Mabel said, “Oh, yes, she is wearing 'clothes of righteousness' and you are wearing clothes of wickedness!” (Isa.59:5 They hatch adders eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth; and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper. 6 Their webs shall not become garments, neither shall they cover themselves with their works: their works are works of iniquity, and the act of violence is in their hands. 7 Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; desolation and destruction are in their paths. 8 The way of peace they know not; and there is no justice in their goings: they have made them crooked paths; whosoever goeth therein doth not know peace.) “She was nothing but kind to me and she treated me as if I were her own mother. I don't understand how you can judge her like that before you know any of the facts!” (They distort and lie about every fact.) Just then, Mabel got up from the table and started heading toward the door. (1Co.5:11 But as it is, I wrote unto you not to keep company, if any man that is named a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such a one no, not to eat.) (Tit.3:10 A factious man after a first and second admonition refuse; 11 knowing that such a one is perverted, and sinneth, being self-condemned.) Her daughter said, “Mother, just where do you think you are going?” Mabel replied, “I'm going home and you can't stop me”. Her daughter said, “But we haven't had our discussion yet about your 'assisted' living arrangement”. Mabel replied, “I've decided that I no longer need any assistance”. (Association with the Bride will bring the old order church out from under the curse that faction and unforgiveness have put on them. Nursing homes are full of them.) As Mabel got to the door, her daughter called out, “Well, Mother, at least come back and get your cane”. Mabel turned around and looked at her daughter and said, “Nope. It appears, Jean, that I don't seem to need it anymore. (Out from under the crutches of religion and free to walk in the Spirit above the curse.) Why don't you just keep it?” (This is exactly the curse on the factious.) And Mabel got into her car and drove off. (Isa.10:20 And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and they that are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again lean upon him that smote them, but shall lean upon the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, in truth.) Then I saw Brother David and a few others sitting in a booth several feet away and they had witnessed the entire thing. (Mat.18:16 But if he hear thee not, take with thee one or two more, that at the mouth of two witnesses or three every word may be established. 2Co.13:1 This is the third time I am coming to you. At the mouth of two witnesses or three shall every word established.) (We are witnesses of this atrocity against the Bride and Church. God Himself, by these dreams, is witnessing against these atrocities against His people.)

Entrance Hymn #7 Christ, Whose Glory Fills the SkiesSequence Hymn #228 Holy Spirit, Font of LightOffertory Anthem O Lord, My God, You Are My Refuge (Bach, arr. Hopson)Communion Anthem Creator of the Stars of NightPost-Communion Hymn #371 Thou, Whose Almighty WordTHE COLLECT OF THE DAYAlmighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen.FIRST READING Isaiah 62:1-5Reader: A reading from the Prophet Isaiah.For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch. The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give.You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You shall no more be termed Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her, and your land Married; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married.For as a young man marries a young woman, so shall your builder marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you.ReaderThe Word of the Lord.PeopleThanks be to God.PSALM Psalm 36:5-10 Dixit injustus5 Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, *and your faithfulness to the clouds.6 Your righteousness is like the strong mountains,your justice like the great deep; *you save both man and beast, O Lord.7 How priceless is your love, O God! *your people take refuge under the shadow of your wings.8 They feast upon the abundance of your house; *you give them drink from the river of your delights.9 For with you is the well of life, *and in your light we see light.10 Continue your...

Second Sunday after the Epiphany Old Testament Isaiah 62:1-5 For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch. The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give. You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You shall no more be termed Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her, and your land Married; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a young woman, so shall your builder marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you. The Psalm Psalm 36:5-10 Dixit injustus 5 Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, * and your faithfulness to the clouds. 6 Your righteousness is like the strong mountains, your justice like the great deep; * you save both man and beast, O Lord. 7 How priceless is your love, O God! * your people take refuge under the shadow of your wings. 8 They feast upon the abundance of your house; * you give them drink from the river of your delights. 9 For with you is the well of life, * and in your light we see light. 10 Continue your loving-kindness to those who know you, * and your favor to those who are true of heart. The New Testament 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray to idols that could not speak. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says "Let Jesus be cursed!" and no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses. The Gospel John 2:1-11 On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine." And Jesus said to her, "Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come." His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to them, "Fill the jars with water." And they filled them up to the brim. He said to them, "Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward." So they took it. When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom and said to him, "Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now." Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.    

The Baptism of our Lord The Collect Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ's glory, that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Old Testament Isaiah 62:1-5 For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch. The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give. You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You shall no more be termed Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her, and your land Married; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a young woman, so shall your builder marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you. The Psalm Psalm 36:5-10 Dixit injustus 5 Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, * and your faithfulness to the clouds. 6 Your righteousness is like the strong mountains, your justice like the great deep; * you save both man and beast, O Lord. 7 How priceless is your love, O God! * your people take refuge under the shadow of your wings. 8 They feast upon the abundance of your house; * you give them drink from the river of your delights. 9 For with you is the well of life, * and in your light we see light. 10 Continue your loving-kindness to those who know you, * and your favor to those who are true of heart. The New Testament 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray to idols that could not speak. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says "Let Jesus be cursed!" and no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses. The Gospel Luke 24:13-35 Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! 2Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread. Artwork: Vulnerability by Lorraine Almeida (used with permission).

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS The Collect Almighty God, you have poured upon us the new light of your incarnate Word: Grant that this light, enkindled in our hearts, may shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Old Testament Isaiah 61:10-62:3 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my whole being shall exult in my God; for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the earth brings forth its shoots, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all the nations. For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch. The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give. You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. The Psalm Psalm 147 or 147:13-21 Laudate Dominum [1 Hallelujah! How good it is to sing praises to our God! * how pleasant it is to honor him with praise! 2 The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem; * he gathers the exiles of Israel. 3 He heals the brokenhearted * and binds up their wounds. 4 He counts the number of the stars * and calls them all by their names. 5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power; * there is no limit to his wisdom. 6 The Lord lifts up the lowly, * but casts the wicked to the ground. 7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; * make music to our God upon the harp. 8 He covers the heavens with clouds * and prepares rain for the earth; 9 He makes grass to grow upon the mountains * and green plants to serve mankind. 10 He provides food for flocks and herds * and for the young ravens when they cry. 11 He is not impressed by the might of a horse; * he has no pleasure in the strength of a man; 12 But the Lord has pleasure in those who fear him, * in those who await his gracious favor.] 13 Worship the Lord, O Jerusalem; * praise your God, O Zion; 14 For he has strengthened the bars of your gates; * he has blessed your children within you. 15 He has established peace on your borders; * he satisfies you with the finest wheat. 16 He sends out his command to the earth, * and his word runs very swiftly. 17 He gives snow like wool; * he scatters hoarfrost like ashes. 18 He scatters his hail like bread crumbs; * who can stand against his cold? 19 He sends forth his word and melts them; * he blows with his wind, and the waters flow. 20 He declares his word to Jacob, * his statutes and his judgments to Israel. 21 He has not done so to any other nation; * to them he has not revealed his judgments. Hallelujah! The New Testament Galatians 3:23-25; 4:4-7 Now before faith came, we were imprisoned and guarded under the law until faith would be revealed. Therefore the law was our disciplinarian until Christ came, so that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer subject to a disciplinarian. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children. And because you are children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God. The Gospel John 1:1-18 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.'") From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father's heart, who has made him known.

Isaiah 61:10-62:3Galatians 3:23-25; 4:4-7John 1:1-18Psalm 147 or 147:13-21This Sunday takes precedence over the three Holy Days which follow Christmas Day. As necessary, the observance of one, two, or all three of them, is postponed one day.The CollectAlmighty God, you have poured upon us the new light of your incarnate Word: Grant that this light, enkindled in our hearts, may shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.Old TestamentIsaiah 61:10-62:3I will greatly rejoice in the Lord,my whole being shall exult in my God;for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation,he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland,and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.For as the earth brings forth its shoots,and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up,so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praiseto spring up before all the nations.For Zion's sake I will not keep silent,and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest,until her vindication shines out like the dawn,and her salvation like a burning torch.The nations shall see your vindication,and all the kings your glory;and you shall be called by a new namethat the mouth of the Lord will give.You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord,and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.The PsalmPsalm 147 or 147:13-21Laudate Dominum[1 Hallelujah!How good it is to sing praises to our God! *how pleasant it is to honor him with praise!2 The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem; *he gathers the exiles of Israel.3 He heals the brokenhearted *and binds up their wounds.4 He counts the number of the stars *and calls them all by their names.5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power; *there is no limit to his wisdom.6 The Lord lifts up the lowly, *but casts the wicked to the ground.7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; *make music to our God upon the harp.8 He covers the heavens with clouds *and prepares rain for the earth;9 He makes grass to grow upon the mountains *and green plants to serve mankind.10 He provides food for flocks and herds *and for the young ravens when they cry.11 He is not impressed by the might of a horse; *he has no pleasure in the strength of a man;12 But the Lord has pleasure in those who fear him, *in those who await his gracious favor.]13 Worship the Lord, O Jerusalem; *praise your God, O Zion;14 For he has strengthened the bars of your gates; *he has blessed your children within you.15 He has established peace on your borders; *he satisfies you with the finest wheat.16 He sends out his command to the earth, *and his word runs very swiftly.17 He gives snow like wool; *he scatters hoarfrost like ashes.18 He scatters his hail like bread crumbs; *who can stand against his cold?19 He sends forth his word and melts them; *he blows with his wind, and the waters flow.20 He declares his word to Jacob, *his statutes and his judgments to Israel.21 He has not done so to any other nation; *to them he has not revealed his judgments.Hallelujah!The New TestamentGalatians 3:23-25; 4:4-7Now before faith came, we were imprisoned and guarded under the...

Reading IIs 62:1-5    For Zion's sake I will not be silent,        for Jerusalem's sake I will not be quiet,    until her vindication shines forth like the dawn        and her victory like a burning torch.    Nations shall behold your vindication,        and all the kings your glory;    you shall be called by a new name        pronounced by the mouth of the LORD.    You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the LORD,        a royal diadem held by your God.    No more shall people call you “Forsaken,”        or your land “Desolate,”    but you shall be called “My Delight,”        and your land “Espoused.”    For the LORD delights in you        and makes your land his spouse.    As a young man marries a virgin,        your Builder shall marry you;    and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride        so shall your God rejoice in you.Reading IIActs 13:16-17, 22-25When Paul reached Antioch in Pisidia and entered the synagogue,he stood up, motioned with his hand, and said, “Fellow Israelites and you others who are God-fearing, listen.The God of this people Israel chose our ancestors and exalted the people during their sojourn in theland of Egypt.With uplifted arm he led them out of it.Then he removed Saul and raised up David as king;of him he testified,‘I have found David, son of Jesse, a man after my own heart;he will carry out my every wish.'From this man's descendants God, according to his promise, has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus.John heralded his coming by proclaiming a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel; and as John was completing his course, he would say, ‘What do you suppose that I am?  I am not he.Behold, one is coming after me; I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.'”GospelMt 1:1-25The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.Abraham became the father of Isaac,Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah,whose mother was Tamar.Perez became the father of Hezron,Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab.Amminadab became the father of Nahshon,Nahshon the father of Salmon,Salmon the father of Boaz,whose mother was Rahab.Boaz became the father of Obed,whose mother was Ruth.Obed became the father of Jesse,Jesse the father of David the king.David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah.Solomon became the father of Rehoboam,Rehoboam the father of Abijah,Abijah the father of Asaph.Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat,Jehoshaphat the father of Joram,Joram the father of Uzziah.Uzziah became the father of Jotham,Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah.Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh,Manasseh the father of Amos,Amos the father of Josiah.Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothersat the time of the Babylonian exile.After the Babylonian exile,Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,Zerubbabel the father of Abiud.Abiud became the father of Eliakim,Eliakim the father of Azor,Azor the father of Zadok.Zadok became the father of Achim,Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar.Eleazar became the father of Matthan,Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary.Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.Thus the total number of generationsfrom Abraham to Davidis fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian exile,fourteen generations; from the Babylonian exile to the Christ,fourteen generations. Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.Such was his intention when, behold,the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”All this took place to fulfillwhat the Lord had said through the prophet:    Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,        and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.”When Joseph awoke,he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.He had no relations with her until she bore a son, and he named him Jesus.

Reading IIs 62:1-5    For Zion's sake I will not be silent,        for Jerusalem's sake I will not be quiet,    until her vindication shines forth like the dawn        and her victory like a burning torch.    Nations shall behold your vindication,        and all the kings your glory;    you shall be called by a new name        pronounced by the mouth of the LORD.    You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the LORD,        a royal diadem held by your God.    No more shall people call you “Forsaken,”        or your land “Desolate,”    but you shall be called “My Delight,”        and your land “Espoused.”    For the LORD delights in you        and makes your land his spouse.    As a young man marries a virgin,        your Builder shall marry you;    and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride        so shall your God rejoice in you.Reading IIActs 13:16-17, 22-25When Paul reached Antioch in Pisidia and entered the synagogue,he stood up, motioned with his hand, and said, “Fellow Israelites and you others who are God-fearing, listen.The God of this people Israel chose our ancestors and exalted the people during their sojourn in theland of Egypt.With uplifted arm he led them out of it.Then he removed Saul and raised up David as king;of him he testified,‘I have found David, son of Jesse, a man after my own heart;he will carry out my every wish.'From this man's descendants God, according to his promise, has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus.John heralded his coming by proclaiming a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel; and as John was completing his course, he would say, ‘What do you suppose that I am?  I am not he.Behold, one is coming after me; I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.'”GospelMt 1:18-25This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.Such was his intention when, behold,the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”All this took place to fulfillwhat the Lord had said through the prophet:    Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,        and they shall name him Emmanuel,which means “God is with us.”When Joseph awoke,he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.He had no relations with her until she bore a son, and he named him Jesus.

Vincent Goodwill and Isis "Ice" Young discuss the turmoil surrounding Joel Embiid and the 76ers, the Celtics beating the Cavaliers and the biggest disappointments (so far) of the NBA season. (02:05) - Turmoil with Joel Embiid & the 76ers(18:50) - Revisiting the Haliburton/Sabonis trade(24:00) - Biggest disappointments: Zion Williamson(31:00) - Biggest disappointments: Luka Doncic(36:10) - Celtics end Cavaliers' winning streak On this episode of the Good Word with Goodwill podcast, Yahoo Sports senior NBA reporter Vincent Goodwill is joined by Isis "Ice" Young to talk about some of the biggest disappointments in the league so far this season.They start in Philadelphia, where the 76ers blew a huge lead to the Heat before having a team meeting where Tyrese Maxey called out Joel Embiid for a lack of professionalism. Is Embiid upset about something else? Why didn't Nick Nurse or Daryl Morey get involved?Speaking of disappointments, Tyrese Haliburton has been struggling with the Indiana Pacers this year. Vinnie talks about an injury Haliburton picked up when playing for Team USA in the Olympics before revisiting the trade that sent Haliburton to Indiana in exchange for Domantas Sabonis. Are we sure the Pacers won that trade?Zion Williamson and Luka Doncic are two players that faced big expectations this season and, so far, neither one is living up to the hype. For Zion, the issue is staying healthy and staying in shape. For Luka, the issue has been a lack of effort and focus during games.Finally, Vinnie recaps the Celtics' thrilling 120-117 win over the previously undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers and explains why the Cavs should still be excited about how they're playing. Also, maybe we should be making plans to be back in Boston for the Finals this year. Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts

Questions still surround Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans after their blowout loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the In-Season Tournament. Jake Madison explains why the Pels and Zion are at a crossroads and need to decide who and what they want to be. For Zion it's time to decide how he wants to define his career. Or else it's time for the Pelicans to clean house and trade Zion Williamson. Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

Questions still surround Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans after their blowout loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the In-Season Tournament. Jake Madison explains why the Pels and Zion are at a crossroads and need to decide who and what they want to be. For Zion it's time to decide how he wants to define his career. Or else it's time for the Pelicans to clean house and trade Zion Williamson.Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicansFollow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

Old Testament: Isaiah 59–62 Isaiah 59–62 (Listen) Evil and Oppression 59   Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save,    or his ear dull, that it cannot hear;2   but your iniquities have made a separation    between you and your God,  and your sins have hidden his face from you    so that he does not hear.3   For your hands are defiled with blood    and your fingers with iniquity;  your lips have spoken lies;    your tongue mutters wickedness.4   No one enters suit justly;    no one goes to law honestly;  they rely on empty pleas, they speak lies,    they conceive mischief and give birth to iniquity.5   They hatch adders' eggs;    they weave the spider's web;  he who eats their eggs dies,    and from one that is crushed a viper is hatched.6   Their webs will not serve as clothing;    men will not cover themselves with what they make.  Their works are works of iniquity,    and deeds of violence are in their hands.7   Their feet run to evil,    and they are swift to shed innocent blood;  their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity;    desolation and destruction are in their highways.8   The way of peace they do not know,    and there is no justice in their paths;  they have made their roads crooked;    no one who treads on them knows peace. 9   Therefore justice is far from us,    and righteousness does not overtake us;  we hope for light, and behold, darkness,    and for brightness, but we walk in gloom.10   We grope for the wall like the blind;    we grope like those who have no eyes;  we stumble at noon as in the twilight,    among those in full vigor we are like dead men.11   We all growl like bears;    we moan and moan like doves;  we hope for justice, but there is none;    for salvation, but it is far from us.12   For our transgressions are multiplied before you,    and our sins testify against us;  for our transgressions are with us,    and we know our iniquities:13   transgressing, and denying the LORD,    and turning back from following our God,  speaking oppression and revolt,    conceiving and uttering from the heart lying words. Judgment and Redemption 14   Justice is turned back,    and righteousness stands far away;  for truth has stumbled in the public squares,    and uprightness cannot enter.15   Truth is lacking,    and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.   The LORD saw it, and it displeased him1    that there was no justice.16   He saw that there was no man,    and wondered that there was no one to intercede;  then his own arm brought him salvation,    and his righteousness upheld him.17   He put on righteousness as a breastplate,    and a helmet of salvation on his head;  he put on garments of vengeance for clothing,    and wrapped himself in zeal as a cloak.18   According to their deeds, so will he repay,    wrath to his adversaries, repayment to his enemies;    to the coastlands he will render repayment.19   So they shall fear the name of the LORD from the west,    and his glory from the rising of the sun;  for he will come like a rushing stream,2    which the wind of the LORD drives. 20   “And a Redeemer will come to Zion,    to those in Jacob who turn from transgression,” declares the LORD. 21 “And as for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the LORD: “My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,” says the LORD, “from this time forth and forevermore.” The Future Glory of Israel 60   Arise, shine, for your light has come,    and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you.2   For behold, darkness shall cover the earth,    and thick darkness the peoples;  but the LORD will arise upon you,    and his glory will be seen upon you.3   And nations shall come to your light,    and kings to the brightness of your rising. 4   Lift up your eyes all around, and see;    they all gather together, they come to you;  your sons shall come from afar,    and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.5   Then you shall see and be radiant;    your heart shall thrill and exult,3  because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you,    the wealth of the nations shall come to you.6   A multitude of camels shall cover you,    the young camels of Midian and Ephah;    all those from Sheba shall come.  They shall bring gold and frankincense,    and shall bring good news, the praises of the LORD.7   All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered to you;    the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you;  they shall come up with acceptance on my altar,    and I will beautify my beautiful house. 8   Who are these that fly like a cloud,    and like doves to their windows?9   For the coastlands shall hope for me,    the ships of Tarshish first,  to bring your children from afar,    their silver and gold with them,  for the name of the LORD your God,    and for the Holy One of Israel,    because he has made you beautiful. 10   Foreigners shall build up your walls,    and their kings shall minister to you;  for in my wrath I struck you,    but in my favor I have had mercy on you.11   Your gates shall be open continually;    day and night they shall not be shut,  that people may bring to you the wealth of the nations,    with their kings led in procession.12   For the nation and kingdom    that will not serve you shall perish;    those nations shall be utterly laid waste.13   The glory of Lebanon shall come to you,    the cypress, the plane, and the pine,  to beautify the place of my sanctuary,    and I will make the place of my feet glorious.14   The sons of those who afflicted you    shall come bending low to you,  and all who despised you    shall bow down at your feet;  they shall call you the City of the LORD,    the Zion of the Holy One of Israel. 15   Whereas you have been forsaken and hated,    with no one passing through,  I will make you majestic forever,    a joy from age to age.16   You shall suck the milk of nations;    you shall nurse at the breast of kings;  and you shall know that I, the LORD, am your Savior    and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. 17   Instead of bronze I will bring gold,    and instead of iron I will bring silver;  instead of wood, bronze,    instead of stones, iron.  I will make your overseers peace    and your taskmasters righteousness.18   Violence shall no more be heard in your land,    devastation or destruction within your borders;  you shall call your walls Salvation,    and your gates Praise. 19   The sun shall be no more    your light by day,  nor for brightness shall the moon    give you light;4  but the LORD will be your everlasting light,    and your God will be your glory.520   Your sun shall no more go down,    nor your moon withdraw itself;  for the LORD will be your everlasting light,    and your days of mourning shall be ended.21   Your people shall all be righteous;    they shall possess the land forever,  the branch of my planting, the work of my hands,    that I might be glorified.622   The least one shall become a clan,    and the smallest one a mighty nation;  I am the LORD;    in its time I will hasten it. The Year of the Lord's Favor 61   The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,    because the LORD has anointed me  to bring good news to the poor;7    he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,  to proclaim liberty to the captives,    and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;82   to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor,    and the day of vengeance of our God;    to comfort all who mourn;3   to grant to those who mourn in Zion—    to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,  the oil of gladness instead of mourning,    the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;  that they may be called oaks of righteousness,    the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.94   They shall build up the ancient ruins;    they shall raise up the former devastations;  they shall repair the ruined cities,    the devastations of many generations. 5   Strangers shall stand and tend your flocks;    foreigners shall be your plowmen and vinedressers;6   but you shall be called the priests of the LORD;    they shall speak of you as the ministers of our God;  you shall eat the wealth of the nations,    and in their glory you shall boast.7   Instead of your shame there shall be a double portion;    instead of dishonor they shall rejoice in their lot;  therefore in their land they shall possess a double portion;    they shall have everlasting joy. 8   For I the LORD love justice;    I hate robbery and wrong;10  I will faithfully give them their recompense,    and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.9   Their offspring shall be known among the nations,    and their descendants in the midst of the peoples;  all who see them shall acknowledge them,    that they are an offspring the LORD has blessed. 10   I will greatly rejoice in the LORD;    my soul shall exult in my God,  for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;    he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,  as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress,    and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.11   For as the earth brings forth its sprouts,    and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up,  so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise    to sprout up before all the nations. Zion's Coming Salvation 62   For Zion's sake I will not keep silent,    and for Jerusalem's sake I will not be quiet,  until her righteousness goes forth as brightness,    and her salvation as a burning torch.2   The nations shall see your righteousness,    and all the kings your glory,  and you shall be called by a new name    that the mouth of the LORD will give.3   You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD,    and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.4   You shall no more be termed Forsaken,11    and your land shall no more be termed Desolate,12  but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her,13    and your land Married;14  for the LORD delights in you,    and your land shall be married.5   For as a young man marries a young woman,    so shall your sons marry you,  and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride,    so shall your God rejoice over you. 6   On your walls, O Jerusalem,    I have set watchmen;  all the day and all the night    they shall never be silent.  You who put the LORD in remembrance,    take no rest,7   and give him no rest    until he establishes Jerusalem    and makes it a praise in the earth.8   The LORD has sworn by his right hand    and by his mighty arm:  “I will not again give your grain    to be food for your enemies,  and foreigners shall not drink your wine    for which you have labored;9   but those who garner it shall eat it    and praise the LORD,  and those who gather it shall drink it    in the courts of my sanctuary.”15 10   Go through, go through the gates;    prepare the way for the people;  build up, build up the highway;    clear it of stones;    lift up a signal over the peoples.11   Behold, the LORD has proclaimed    to the end of the earth:  Say to the daughter of Zion,    “Behold, your salvation comes;