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Are you stuck in a cycle of working hard but feeling empty? Deidre Braley unpacks Haggai’s powerful message to the Israelites—and to us: when we neglect God’s presence, our efforts fall flat. This episode reveals why shifting your priorities to build the Lord’s house first can break cycles of frustration and lead to true fruitfulness. 3 Key Takeaways ✅ Misplaced priorities drain your life.Busyness without God leads to frustration and burnout. ✅ Making space for God invites His blessing.When we shift focus to God—through rest, prayer, and obedience—He promises to be with us. ✅ Fruitfulness flows from God, not just effort.Only God can make our work truly thrive and satisfy. Intersecting Faith & Life Are you busy building your own “house” while neglecting God’s? How can you intentionally make space for God this week—through rest, prayer, or obedience? What’s one step today to reorder your priorities toward Him? Further Reading John 15:1-8 Ecclesiastes 4:6 Isaiah 55
Following Easter, we dropped back into the final part of our I AM series, as Dave Dickinson unpacked Jesus' proclamation that He is the True Vine. This statement of Jesus is all about Abiding & Fruitfulness.John 15:1-11
This month of supernatural provision is a month of manna being rained down from heaven. God is multiplying everything. It is a month of fruitfulness. Remember Jesus is the firstfruit who resurrected on Nisan 17 and we are the sons and daughters that come from Him. We are His multiplication. He broke the power of sin , death , and grave to release us from lack and deliver us into wholeness, fruitfulness & multiplication.This month we see a shift as the curse was broken at Jesus death, burial and resurrection , we are now in a garden that is full and complete. A place where we shift our mindset off of gain but instead to receive.In Exodus 16 the Israelites had to receive just what God gave while they were in the wilderness and He gave manna which is the bread of life ! Manna means “What is it” and it was delivered from the realms of life, it was pure, holy, tasted sweet like honey crackers, it was undefiled, and it was the fullness of Jesus. If you can be trained by God this month to subdue your flesh as he asked them to do on Shabbat you will enter a place where He will be your all.Read Exodus 16:27 -30 In this place everything, becomes easy and no struggle to gain. You live in a realm of faith where you know it's coming ! All that you need in every situation will be there. This is the identity He is trying to establish with the Israelites in the wilderness.It's like He's saying “Chill out - I've got this - stop trying to control it or manipulate it. That doesn't work in my garden. ” In His garden or heavenly places we steward in faith, this is a place where we ultimately know He has control over what belongs to Him and we're just helping Him tend it or till it. We are not really stopping anything or starting anything - we're simply in agreement with Him! We're in agreement with what He says and we obey Him from this place !Remember from 1 Samuel 5:22, ““Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice,and to hearken than the fat of rams. “Read Deuteronomy 8 :3 Manna is the Word made manifest as Jesus was the Word made manifestWhen the Israelites ate manna they ate the Word. They partook of the completeness and wholeness of nothing missing or broken in Him!What is He saying to you this month ? Just do it ! I'll be there and I'll provide! Step out on faith !Read 1 Corinthians 15:20 We are the fruit of the first born Jesus and we are the evidence that His resurrection was complete!As we prepare for Feast of Shavuot or Pentecost , God is asking us to present ourselves as living sacrifices or fruit unto Him! He is multiplying and bringing order this month.Start the Month of Iyar with a copy of Dr Candice new book “365 Prophetic Revelations from Hebrew Calender”- go to www.Candice Smithyman.comhttps://amzn.to/4aQYoR0Classes START NEXT WEEK- Get signed up Now! - Join DREAM MENTORS and BECOME A CERTIFIED COACH!Do you want to be trained as good disciples or biblical life coach ? Do you need to experience transformation in your souls so you can be the best God is calling you to be. Go to www.dreammentors.orgFREE Zoom CALL with Dr Candice - It's time now to sign up for our next Ascension class and join Dr. Candice's Glory Road Community!Maximize Your Prophetic Potential monthly class is Wednesday April 30 at 10 am and 6 pm EST. Next one after that is Monday May 12 at 10 am and 6 pm EST. You can choose which one. Sign Up here —http://bit.ly/4gfRKXm
You Are Wired For Fruitfulness| FaithBoosters with Beatrice Byemanzi Bee3--Connect with Beatrice Byemanzi Bee3:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bee3ByemanziInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beatricebye...Twitter: https://twitter.com/Bee3ByemanziPodcast Apps:Podbean: https://bee3.podbean.com/Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...Anchor: https://anchor.fm/beatrice-bee3-byemanzi
John Ortberg invites us into a gentle, grounded reflection on Jesus' words from John 15:4–8 — “Abide in me.” It's not about trying harder or achieving more, but about learning to rest our minds and hearts in God's presence. John encourages us to let go of tension, notice where our thoughts dwell, and choose to place them in the love, peace, and life of Jesus. Fruitfulness, he says, begins on the inside — love, joy, peace, patience — and flows out from abiding, not from effort. With a quiet and humble image of the marsh hen building its nest on “the greatness of God,” John helps us see that we too can root ourselves in something steady and true, even in a messy or uncertain world. Today can be a quiet adventure in abiding.Join the conversation in our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.John's new book STEPS is out! Check it out here: https://becomenew.com/steps/Want to work the steps with a friend or small group? Visit: DoTheSteps.com
https://storage.googleapis.com/enduring-word-media/devotional/Devotional05052025.mp3 The post Forgetfulness and Fruitfulness – Genesis 41:51-52 – May 5, 2025 appeared first on Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/forgetfulness-and-fruitfulness-genesis-4151-52-may-5-2025/feed/ 0 https://storage.googleapis.com/enduring-word-
At Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Charleston, SC, our own Rev. Frank Cone preached from John 21.
Apostle Benjamin Ashong
On the night of the Last Supper with His disciples, Jesus' last message was a clarion call to discover what a life of abundant fruitfulness really consists of. But it wasn't the call the disciples were expecting. And it may not be the call you are expecting either. But Jesus' words were a final message to help the disciples of that time and this to live lives that matter, lives of abounding fruitfulness for God's Kingdom.
An episode from Bible Believers Baptist Church (BBBC), a conservative, independent body of King James Bible believers located in Corpus Christi, Texas. Bible Believers Baptist Church's statement of Faith:A Bible Baptist is one who believes in a supernatural Bible, which tells of a supernatural Christ, Who had a supernatural birth, Who spoke supernatural words, Who performed supernatural miracles, Who lived a supernatural life, Who died a supernatural death, Who rose in supernatural splendor, and Who will one day return in supernatural glory to establish a supernatural kingdom on earth. What BBBC believes about Creation: “We believe in the Genesis account of creation, and that it is to be accepted literally, and not allegorically or figuratively; that man was created directly in God's own image and after His own likeness; that man's creation was not a matter of evolution or evolutionary change of species or development through interminable periods of time from lower to higher forms; and that all animal and vegetable life was made directly and God's established law was that they should bring forth only “after their kind.”What BBBC believes about Salvation: “We believe in God's electing grace; that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial, penitent and an obedient faith; and nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth but his own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel; which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation. We believe in salvation by grace through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ on Calvary plus nothing. Therefore, we do not believe that works are necessary for salvation, although once a person is saved, he should be careful to maintain good works.”What BBBC believes about Repentance and Faith: “We believe that Repentance and Faith are solemn obligations, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the quickening Spirit of God, thereby; being deeply convicted of our guilt, danger, helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ and openly confessing Him as our only and all-sufficient Savior.” A message from BBBC to you: “If you are looking for a church in the Corpus Christi Texas area that preaches the Truth from God's Word, reach out to us at any time. We would love to hear from you at (361) 241-6100 or on our websitehttps://www.my3bc.com/ You may also write to us at:Bible Believers Baptist Church1701 Rand Morgan RdCorpus Christi, TX 78410 Our messages are also available on our website for you:https://www.my3bc.com/global-resources/preaching/ Have A Blessed Day, Bible Believers Baptist Church The KJV Bible Preaching Churches Podcast is directly supported by Doss Metrics LLC | Ministry Services based out of Cleveland Texas. If you have any questions regarding this podcast, or the churches hosted on the podcast, please reach out to us directly atdossmetrics@gmail.com or write to us at: Doss Metrics | KJV Bible Preaching Churches Podcast1451 McBride Rd.Cleveland, TX 77328 God Bless#BevansWelder #BibleBelieversBaptistChurch #KJVPreaching #BaptistPreaching #PastorWelder #CorpusChristiChurches
For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today's readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
In our busy lives, we often lose sight of what truly matters—bearing fruit for God rather than simply staying busy. John 14:21 teaches that love for God manifests in love for others. While we may engage in good activities, we must ensure they fulfill God's purpose. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss how easy it is to mistake productivity for fruitfulness, just as Martha was consumed with tasks while Mary chose to abide with Jesus. God is the vine, and we are the branches. True fruitfulness comes from abiding in Him, not just from doing His work. If our efforts lead to stress, pride, or anxiety, we are likely not growing spiritually. Many people are so caught up in ministry or service that they neglect their relationship with God. This is dangerous because it shifts our focus from Him to our own efforts.Busyness is often celebrated in today's culture, but scripture warns that it can be a distraction. Rest should not merely serve to improve our productivity; it should be a time to abide in God. We must ensure that our actions are motivated by love. Without love, our best efforts are meaningless. Love, at its core, is genuine care for God and others. True fruitfulness should be an effortless outcome of abiding in Christ. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we should be moved by the fruits of the Spirit to share the gospel. Our love for God deepens as we understand His love for us.God works so we can rest, and resting is an act of defiance against the false gods of busyness and self-reliance. Jesus left His throne to bring us into His kingdom, calling us to be faithful rather than to strive for immediate fruitfulness. God knows what we need and what is best for us. When raising children, we must ask whether we are teaching them to be busy or to be fruitful. Too often, we are simply in survival mode rather than guiding them to abide in Christ. Resting in the Lord allows us to slow down and reflect on His will. Service without seeking the Lord is harmful. Colossians 1:10 teaches that true fruitfulness comes from increasing in our knowledge of God. To walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, we must devote ourselves to knowing His heart.Abiding in Christ requires time. Like any relationship, our connection with God deepens when we invest in it. Never approach ministry or service without first communing with Jesus. Fruitfulness cannot exist apart from truth, and it cannot be separated from Christ. Ultimately, our goal is not to achieve visible results but to remain faithful, trusting that God will bring about the fruit in His perfect timing.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
Pastor Robyn speaks from John 15. She speaks on the interconnected nature of love and service; and the result which should be fruitfulness in the life of a believer through the divine and transforming power and love of God. At Bridge City Church we are here to lead people into a deeper relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and to grow the Church locally, nationally and internationally. www.bridgecitychurch.com.au Recorded on 21-Jan-2024
Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss how in our busy lives, it's easy to mistake productivity for true fruitfulness, but Scripture teaches that abiding in Christ is what truly matters. As John 14:21 reminds us, love for God is reflected in love for others, and our actions should be rooted in His purpose rather than mere busyness. Just as Martha was consumed with tasks while Mary chose to sit with Jesus, we must prioritize our relationship with God over constant activity. While today's culture celebrates busyness, Scripture warns that it can be a distraction, and true rest should be a time to abide in God, not just recharge for more work. Without love, our efforts are meaningless, and true fruitfulness should be the natural outcome of a deep relationship with Christ. God calls us to faithfulness rather than immediate results, and when we prioritize abiding in Him, He brings forth the fruit in His perfect timing. Resting in the Lord allows us to slow down, reflect on His will, and teach our children to seek fruitfulness rather than mere busyness. Abiding in Christ takes time, and just as in any relationship, we must invest in knowing God's heart to truly walk in a manner worthy of Him.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
Theme: Our Year of Resounding VictoriesJoshua 1:5, 1 Corinthians 15:57
a) Greeting and Thanksgiving (2 Thessalonians 1:1-4)b) God's Justice and Mercy (2 Thessalonians 1:5-7a)c) The Coming Judgment (2 Thessalonians 1:7b - 10)d) Prayer for Worthiness and Fruitfulness (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12)
On today's podcast, we are decreeing a prophetic release upon you for all the areas of your life that are fragmented and you have not been able to be fruitful in. The enemy has torn down many of the structures in our lives, and the Lord's grace is being released to bring fruitfulness back to us. https://christian-center-store.myshopify.com/search?type=product&q=oil
-Jesus' Resurrection is the First Fruits of New Creation-New Creation is Already & Not Yet-Jesus is the Cornerstone of New Creation-Picture of New Creation (Isaiah 65:17-25)1. Old gone for good [17]2. Whole lot of joy! [18-19]3. Fullness of life [20]4. Fruitfulness in life [21-23]5. Known by God [24]6. Absolute peace [25]
Welcome to the TFC Biblecast! Start your day off right and join us as we take the next 10 minutes to dive into God's word. If we can pray for you, email us at biblecast@tfc.org.
The Official Corporate Podcast of Antioch, The Apostolic Church
Jesus didn't curse the tree because it was out of season—He cursed it because it gave the appearance of fruitfulness with none of the substance. He wasn't being petty—He was being prophetic.He was saying:Don't just look alive. Be alive.Don't just talk the talk. Walk in truth.Don't be leafy with no fruit—because faith without fruit is just foliage."Be Fruitful". by VASHAWN MITCHELLwww.BibleDeliverance.org
Main point: Though His timing seems slow & purposes unclear, God is always doing what's best for His people.Outline: 1) Dreams & Interpretations (40:1–41:36)2) Faithfulness & Exaltation (41:37–45)3) Fruitfulness & Salvation (41:46–57)
In this episode, Coach Tom gives you practical tools to become more self-aware, freer on the inside, and more aligned with God.When you are feeling out of sorts:Pay attention to it … Sometimes the tell is how you are feeling … pay attention to your feelings/bodyClarify itRecognize its impact on your peace in Christ and experience of the Fruit of the SpiritSome of the symptoms might be: Overthinking Noise on the insideA Sense of Isolation & DisconnectRemember, if you are in Christ, Fruit of the Spirit … His Peace is already in you (Gal. 5:22; Col. 3:15)1. Ask yourself how your thoughts are impacting all the fruit of the Spirit in you2. Agree with God's perspective3. James 5:16 confess your sins … Hamartia … missing the mark, fault, failure, guilt4. Pray for each other that you may be healed__________________________You can connect with Coach Tom at:https://greaterformation.com/Email: Tom@GreaterFormation.com P.S. ... If you are stalled in life, or particularly if you are in transition, here are two ways I can help you Get Clear, Get Focused and Be Fruitful!1. Grab a Free Copy of my "4 Key Steps to Clarity and Fruitfulness" Document. It's a Blueprint to help you move ahead. Click Here2. Work with me:I can help you Clarify, Plan, and take Bold Steps into Your Future. Book a Free 30-Minute Clarity and Fruitfulness Session with me: Click Here
Series: N/AService: Radio Program / PodcastType: Radio Program / PodcastSpeaker: E.R. Hall, Jr.
Weekly sermons from City Lights Church based in Greeley Colorado. Featuring head Pastor Kurt Chamberlain and other guest speakers.
Series: N/AService: Sunday Morning WorshipType: SermonSpeaker: Mike Brenneman
Theme: Faithfulness in Kingdom Service Key Components of Faithfulness Scriptural References: Luke 19:11-27 Hebrews 10:23 Matthew 25:21 Proverbs 28:20 Psalm 101:6 Revelation 2:10 Genesis 39:2-4 Key Points Faithfulness is the greatest requirement for sustained Kingdom service. Unfaithfulness is the greatest danger to Kingdom work. It is not about how you start; it is how you finish that matters. Faithfulness is executing commands and assignments diligently and efficiently. Attributes of Faithfulness Devotion Steadfastness Trustworthiness Dependability Loyalty Consistency Constancy Benefits of Faithfulness Divine Promotion and Increase – Faithfulness in small things leads to greater responsibilities and blessings from God. (Matthew 25:21) Divine Favor and Blessings – Faithfulness brings divine favor and supernatural increase in life. (Proverbs 28:20) Access to God's Presence – God is drawn to the faithful and grants them access to His presence. (Psalm 101:6) Protection and Preservation – God protects and sustains those who are faithful to Him. (Psalm 31:23) Fruitfulness and Success – Faithfulness leads to divine success and prosperity, as seen in Joseph's life. (Genesis 39:2-4) Eternal Reward and Crown of Life – Faithfulness secures eternal rewards, including the crown of life. (Revelation 2:10) Inheritance of God's Promises – The faithful inherit God's promises because God Himself is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23) Faithfulness is Required in: Small Things – Example: David's faithfulness in small things led to his promotion as a giant slayer and keeper of Israel. (1 Samuel 17:14-28) Money – Faithfulness in finances ensures God's blessings. (Genesis 14:18-24, Malachi 3:8-10) Other People's Goods – If you are not faithful with what belongs to others, who will entrust you with your own? (Luke 16:10-12)
There's something striking about how Jesus moves through the gospels, especially in Mark 11 & 12. He doesn't flinch or get thrown off by manipulation—He's not playing their game. Every test from the religious leaders only exposes their hearts. In this episode, Whit and Casey talk about the fruit our lives produce, letting go of the performance, and returning again and again to the quiet voice that calls us to relationship over routine. Show Notes: Check out the message: Devotion, Religious Performance, & Fruitfulness in God - https://youtu.be/aCogSqwquYQ
Pastor Whit continues our teaching series, The Gospel of Mark.
OUR YEAR OF GREATER AND BETTER || THE MEGA CHURCH EXPERIENCE || MONTH OF MARCH! ||FRUITFULNESS || BISHOP EDDIE FABIN
For the Third Sunday of Lent, Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. reflects on persevering in our efforts to grow in fruitfulness for ourselves and others through the grace of Christ. Follow us:The Catholic Apostolate CenterThe Center's podcast websiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastsSpotify Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. also appears on the podcast, On Mission, which is produced by the Catholic Apostolate Center. Follow the Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube to remain up-to-date on the latest Center resources. Listen to Fr. Frank's more of weekly reflections and recent blogcasts.
For the Third Sunday of Lent, Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. reflects on persevering in our efforts to grow in fruitfulness for ourselves and others through the grace of Christ. Follow us:The Catholic Apostolate CenterThe Center's podcast websiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastsSpotify Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. also appears on the podcast, On Mission, which is produced by the Catholic Apostolate Center. Follow the Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube to remain up-to-date on the latest Center resources. Listen to Fr. Frank's more of weekly reflections and recent blogcasts.
Acts 18:1-28 - Speaker: Will Galkin - In Acts 18, we see that God is faithful, and the gospel is fruitful even amidst opposition. God sovereignly provides gospel partners like Aquila and Priscilla, turning negative circumstances, such as Emperor Claudius's expulsion of Jews from Rome, into opportunities for ministry expansion. Despite initial rejection by the Jews, Paul's ministry bears remarkable fruit, reaching unlikely converts like Crispus, the synagogue ruler. Furthermore, God protects Paul through the unlikely means of Roman governor Gallio's indifference, granting Paul freedom to preach without fear of persecution. Ultimately, Acts 18 emphasizes God's faithfulness in preparing new laborers, as evidenced by the rise of Apollos, who was discipled by Aquila and Priscilla and powerfully carried the gospel forward.
Preached by Dr. Steve Meyers on March 16, 2025 (Sunday Morning Service) Connect with Us → http://connect.pacificbaptist.com Support the Stream → http://simplegive.pacificbaptist.com Follow Us Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/visitpacificbaptist Twitter → https://www.twitter.com/pacific_baptist Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/pacificbaptist
In this sermon by Doug Pratt, the emphasis is on living a fruitful life, particularly as one grows older. Pratt addresses those already in their later years and those who hope to reach them one day. Drawing from Psalm 92, he challenges the cultural allure of remaining "forever young," as epitomized in Bob Dylan's song. Instead, Pratt proposes that being "forever fruitful" is the attainable and desirable goal. Using the metaphor of the date palm tree, which produces sweeter fruit as it ages, he suggests that life's best contributions may come later with experience. The sermon urges personal growth in faith and kindness and emphasizes making meaningful impacts on others. Pratt highlights seven aspects of a fruitful later life, including lifelong learning and deepening relationships, as integral to a full and balanced life beyond just wealth and health. The sermon concludes with a reimagined blessing, aiming for listeners to add life to their years. Pratt's prayer seeks God's guidance for leading a fruitful life reflecting divine intent.
A.W. Tozer once wrote in The Knowledge of the Holy, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” Our understanding of God influences everything—including how we handle what He has entrusted to us.In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus tells a story that reveals how our perception of God directly affects our stewardship. Three servants are given different amounts of money while their master is away. Two invest what they receive and are rewarded for their faithfulness. The third, however, buries his portion out of fear. His failure wasn't just financial—it was a failure of understanding his master's character.A Misunderstanding That Led to FearAt first glance, the punishment of the third servant might seem extreme. After all, he didn't lose the money—he simply didn't invest it. But Jesus' parable isn't just about financial stewardship; it's about how we see God.The third servant viewed his master as “a hard man” (Matthew 25:24), someone to be feared rather than trusted. His words reveal the issue of his heart:“Master, I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground.” - Matthew 25:24-25His fear of failure led him to inaction. Instead of seeing an opportunity, he saw a trap. Instead of seeing generosity, he saw harshness. And because of that, he did nothing.This is the danger of a wrong view of God. When we perceive Him as an unrelenting taskmaster, we shrink back—afraid to fail, hesitant to step out, reluctant to engage with what He has given us. We bury our talents—whether our time, resources, or gifts—assuming He is more interested in punishment than partnership. But Scripture reminds us:“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” - 1 John 4:18Faith and Trust Lead to FruitfulnessIn contrast, the first two servants acted in faith. They saw their master as someone worth serving, embracing their responsibility with joy. They took risks, multiplied what they had been given, and were met with their master's praise:“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!” - Matthew 25:21The master's reward wasn't just about productivity—it was an invitation into deeper joy. Their faithfulness wasn't about money; it was about trust. They trusted their master's goodness and acted boldly.Many struggle with obedience because they see it as a burden rather than an opportunity. But the faithful servants understood something key: what they had been given actually belonged to their master, and stewarding it well was a privilege.Jesus invites us to partner with Him in His work, not because He needs us, but because He delights in working through us. Paul describes this beautifully:“For we are co-workers in God's service; you are God's field, God's building.” - 1 Corinthians 3:9We are not slaves cowering under a harsh master—we are co-laborers in His kingdom. When we understand this, our perspective on obedience changes. Giving, serving, and using our gifts for His glory are no longer seen as obligations but as privileges.Living as Faithful StewardsThe real tragedy of the third servant is that he never truly knew his master. His false perception led to his inaction, and his master's response is sobering:“Throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” - Matthew 25:30This warning isn't just about stewardship—it's about our hearts. If we live in fear and refuse to trust God, we will miss out on the joy of His kingdom. In fact, I would venture to say that when some meet Jesus, they may not hear, “I never knew you,” but rather, “You never knew Me.”But if we truly know Him, we will step forward in faith, eager to invest our lives in His work.God invites us to see Him as He truly is—loving, generous, and trustworthy. When we do, we won't shrink back in fear—we will step forward in faith. Like the faithful servants in the parable, we will hear His words of joy:“Well done, good and faithful servant.”Let's live as stewards who know our Master—trusting in His goodness and investing in His kingdom with boldness and joy.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My daughter has $20,000 in credit card debt across five cards. With her husband incarcerated, she's struggling to make the $800 monthly minimum payments. I'm looking for a way to help her consolidate the debt and get a lower interest rate so she can start paying it down.We've been offered a good price to sell our 14-year-old business, but I'm concerned about the capital gains taxes we'll owe. Besides investing in our IRAs, are there any other strategies we can use to reduce the taxes we'll have to pay on the sale?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineThe Knowledge of the Holy: The Attributes of God: Their Meaning in the Christian Life by A.W. TozerCross InternationalChristian Credit CounselorsNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
Jürgen von Hagen joins Tim Bayly to discuss fruitfulness, natalism, and fertility demographics. From Malthus to Erlich to many contemporaries—for over two centuries—the prophets of doom have pleaded with mankind to abandon fruitfulness to survive. Modern man—and the Christian church—has only been too willing to obey those false prophets in direct contradiction to God's commands in the creation mandates. Jürgen and Tim discuss the conscious choice Christians should make to be counter-cultural or, in other words, obedient to God regarding fruitfulness. Are we willing to submit the fruitfulness of our marriage beds to God as an act of holiness?"God blessed them; and God said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth'" (Gen. 1:28).Some resources mentioned in the podcast:Malthus, An Essay on the Principle of PopulationErlich, The Population BombBricker & Ibbitson, Empty Planet: The Shock of Global Population DeclineIsmail, The Age of Decay: How Aging and Shrinking Populations Could Usher in the Decline of CivilizationMurray, Principles of ConductPakaluk, Hannah's Children: The Women Quietly Defying the Birth Dearth ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Numbers 34-36; March 11 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, where we continue our journey through the Bible on this 63rd day of the year. I'm Hunter, your Bible reading coach, here to guide you through scripture and into a deeper relationship with the one who is the living word of God. Today, our reading takes us through Numbers chapters 34 through 36 and Mark chapter 11. We'll explore God's instructions to the Israelites about dividing the land and cities of refuge, and listen as Jesus interacts with His disciples, performing miracles and teaching profound lessons in the Gospel of Mark. Later, we'll reflect on how we are called to participate in God's life, and engage in a time of prayer, seeking God's guidance and peace. Thank you for joining us today as we invest in the most valuable part of ourselves – our soul. Let's embark on this spiritual journey together, experience the encouragement of Scripture, and remember that you are always loved. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Jesus speaks to the tree, and Jesus speaks to his disciples. Strange thing to speak to a tree. If you caught me speaking to a tree, you might think that's strange, and you would be right. It is. And Mark tells us I love this part. The disciples heard him say it. So Mark circles back to this moment the next day, and what happened there was still lingering in the air, apparently. After seeing it, the tree withered there the next day. They have to bring it to Jesus' attention. They say, Rabbi, look, the tree, it's withered. And Mark tells us this in verse 22, then Jesus said to the disciples. So Jesus speaks to the tree, and now he speaks to the disciples. And I think there's a connection here in this story of the two things Jesus is saying to both. To the tree, well, he's not happy with the tree. He curses it, in fact. It seems unreasonable for him to be so displeased with the tree. I mean, it is just a tree. Mark tells us it was not the season for figs, but still the tree is being called out. Why? I don't know. It's a mystery. But maybe maybe it has something to do with the fact that it had no fruit. Right? I mean, Jesus says that because it had no fruit, or Mark tells us it had no fruit. It wasn't being what it was meant to be and do. The creator of that tree has come walking by, and he's looking for fruit. You would think that the creator of all the trees, of all things, would have the prerogative to have some fruit from the tree that he has made where and when he wanted it. But the tree is not cooperating with the creator when he comes. So it came to be what it was, cursed and withered, because it failed to respond and participate with the creator who made it and was asking for some fruit even out of season. The next day, Mark tells us that Jesus speaks to his disciples. No trees today. And to his disciples, he says this, have faith in God. The creator is walking with his disciples and he says, do and be who I created you to be. Participate. Cooperate with me. It's my prerogative. I made you. So be and do what I ask you to. Does it seem unreasonable or impossible for a tree to produce fruit out of season? Not if the creator asked you to do it. Does it seem impossible for you to tell this mountain to be thrown into the sea? Well, not if the creator asked you to do it. Does it seem impossible to forgive someone? Well, not if the creator has forgiven you and made you his own. Not if he's asked you to do it. The life of the disciple is a life of participation with God. Jesus isn't trying to teach us to have magic trick faith. Faith isn't about doing parlor tricks. Faith is a response to the creator who is asking us to participate in his life, to be and do what we were created to be and do. And then he says this, so when you pray, when you are participating in my life, forgive. This is what the creator has created you to do and to be, forgiving. You are forgiven, loved, a disciple of God. Now participate with the life of God and do what he says. And when we do that, life might become strange to onlookers, but it will become so much bigger, so much freer, so much more full of life. And that's the prayer that I have for my soul, that I will be and do what the creator has asked me to be and to do. That's a prayer that I have for my family, for my wife and my daughters and my son, and that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen. Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. And now Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. And where there is sadness, Joy. Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life. Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ. Amen. 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