Podcasts about Galatians

Our homes are shaped by what—and who—we draw near to most. Psalm 145:18 reminds us that the Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth, and when we intentionally seek His presence, it changes not only our hearts but the atmosphere of our homes. As we draw closer to Jesus individually and together as families, the fruit of the Spirit becomes more evident in our lives—bringing peace where there was tension, joy where there was weariness, and love where there was frustration. No matter our stage of life, prioritizing time with the Lord invites Him to transform our attitudes, relationships, and daily rhythms. Main Takeaways You’ll learn why drawing near to Jesus personally impacts the spiritual health of your home. Discover how time spent in God’s presence produces the fruit of the Spirit in everyday life. Understand why shared prayer and Scripture reading strengthen families spiritually. Reflect on practical ways to prioritize faith amid busy schedules. Be encouraged that seeking the Lord together brings lasting peace, joy, and renewed perspective. Bible Verse References Psalm 145:18 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/145-18.html Psalm 16:11 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/16-11.html Galatians 5:22 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/galatians/5-22.html 1 Corinthians 13 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-corinthians/13.html Jeremiah 29:13 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/jeremiah/29-13.html Your Daily Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise that when we seek You, we will find You. Help us draw near to You each day and reorient our lives so You remain at the center of our homes and hearts. Teach us to surrender control and trust You fully, allowing Your love, peace, and joy to shape our families. May our time with You never feel rushed or wasted, but treasured and life-giving. Help our love for You and for one another grow deeper as we walk closely with You.Amen. Want More? Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily Scripture-based encouragement. Leave a rating or review to help others discover the podcast. Visit LifeAudio.com for more Christian podcasts and devotionals. Read more family-focused faith articles at Crosswalk.com and Christianity.com. Relevant Links & Resources Family faith and spiritual growth articles:Crosswalk.com – https://www.crosswalk.comChristianity.com – https://www.christianity.com Scripture study and Bible reading tools:BibleStudyTools.com – https://www.biblestudytools.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hello Friends! I love to hear from you! Please send me a text message by clicking on this link! Blessings to You!In this episode, Dr. Jori discusses with her listeners Paul's discussion of how GOD appoints the members of our physical bodies and the members of the body of Christ just as HE desires, for HIS glory. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 12:18; 1 Corinthians 1:1-3; Romans 1:16-17; Acts 9,22,26; Acts 18; Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:1-25 Scripture translation used is the Legacy Standard Bible.  “Scripture quotations taken from the (LSB®) Legacy Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2021 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org and 316publishing.comFIND DR. JORI ON OTHER PLATFORMS https://linktr.ee/drjorishafferCHECK OUT THE DWELL AUDIO BIBLE APP:Click this link for my unique referral code.  I use this frequently. Such a wonderful audio bible app. https://dwellapp.io/aff?ref=jorishafferBIBLE STUDY TOOLS DR. JORI USES:Note: These contain  Amazon affiliate links, meaning I get a commission, at no extra cost to you,  if you decide to make a purchase through my links.Here is a link to some of my favorite bible study tools on Amazon:https://geni.us/cHtrfEMr. Pen Bible Journaling Kitshttps://lvnta.com/lv_PTrHSCogbRim4yhEDnhttps://lvnta.com/lv_mkaMOuGe6m4oHR88uqhttps://lvnta.com/lv_dgvsxOc99t663A628z  JOIN DR. JORI IN DEVOTIONAL JOURNALING IN 2025Check out this 9 min YouTube Video outlining her journaling strategy! Don't Forget to subscribe to the YouTube Channel! https://youtu.be/lqe9TO7RSz4 BOOKS OF BIBLE COLOR CHARTI made this chart as a helpful tool for grouping the collections of books or letters  in the Holy Bible.  The colors in the different sections are the ones that I use in my journals.  Books of Bible Chart (color) (4).pdf - Google Drive    LOOKING TO RETAIN MORE OF WHAT YOUR PASTOR IS TEACHING?              CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S SERMON REFLECTION JOURNALS! Sermon Notes, Reflections and Applications Journal/Notebooks by Dr. Jori. Click the links below to be directed to amazon.com for purchase. Or search “Dr. Jori Shaffer” on Amazon to bring these up.  https://amzn.to/418LfRshttps://amzn.to/41862EyHere is a brief YouTube video that tells about the Journal/Notebooks as well:https://youtu.be/aXpQNYUEzds   Email: awordforthisday@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://awordforthisday.buzzsprout.com  Support the show

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

What do you do when God's promise feels delayed? When the waiting stretches on so long that you start to wonder if He's forgotten? In this second message of "The Promise Kept" series, Bradley Medford tackles one of the hardest parts of faith: waiting. For 400 years between the Old and New Testaments, God's people heard nothing from heaven. No prophets, no signs—just silence. And yet, Galatians 4:4–5 reveals the truth: God was right on time. "At the right time, God sent His Son, born of a woman, to redeem us." The waiting wasn't wasted. God's timing was perfect, even when it felt painfully slow. If you're in an "in-between" season right now—waiting for answers, healing, breakthrough, or clarity—this message will encourage you to trust God's unseen work and keep your faith alive. The promise is still coming.

Jesus didn't just happen to be born at a convenient moment in history. When Paul writes that Christ came "in the fullness of time," he's revealing something profound: from the fall of Adam to the manger in Bethlehem, God was preparing the way. In this episode, Dr. John Neufeld walks through seven pivotal moments in redemptive history, showing how each was necessary for the Messiah's arrival. Christmas wasn't an accident. It was the culmination of God's perfectly timed plan.Christmas From Galatians: This Christmas, Dr. John takes an unprecedented approach to the season by exploring why Jesus' coming was absolutely necessary. Through the book of Galatians, this series traces God's plan from Abraham's promise through the giving of the Law to the arrival of Christ. Discover why the Law was never meant to save us but to diagnose our condition, how Jesus fulfilled what we could never accomplish, and how Christmas opened the door for all people to become sons and daughters of God.

“But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.” (Galatians 4:4–5 NLT) When we think of Christmas, we think of the arrival of Jesus: “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NLT). In reality, it was also a departure. For us, a Child was born. But for God the Father, a Son was given. Twice in Galatians 4:4–5, God talks about sending Jesus to us (NLT). In Heaven, the time had come for the departure of God’s Son. We even have a record in Hebrews 10 of Jesus’ farewell words to the Father. He said, “You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings. But you have given me a body to offer. You were not pleased with burnt offerings or other offerings for sin. Then I said, ‘Look, I have come to do your will, O God—as is written about me in the Scriptures’” (Hebrews 10:5–7 NLT). It’s impossible for us to comprehend the sacrifice, the break in intimacy, involved in God’s sending of His Son. We see that intimacy between Father and Son throughout Jesus’ public ministry. Luke 6:12 says, “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God” (NIV). Jesus prioritized His relationship with His Father above all else. We see that intimacy in Matthew 26:39. As the time of His sacrifice approached, Jesus prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will” (NIV). Jesus knew what was coming. And in Mark 15:34, we see the unimaginable agony of Jesus’ sacrifice as He cried out in a loud voice, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (NIV). God placed the sins of the world on His Son. And in that moment, Jesus was banished from His Father’s presence because sin cannot coexist with God. Jesus suffered the separation from God that we deserve. Jesus also made an unimaginable sacrifice at His birth. He went from the throne of Heaven to a feeding trough. He went from the presence of angels to a stable of animals. He who was larger than the universe became an embryo. The apostle Paul summed it up well: “You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9 NLT). No one who has ever lived has even remotely affected human history the way Jesus Christ has. He has been opposed, censored, banned, and criticized by every generation since His birth. Yet His influence continues unabated. There has never been anyone like Jesus because Jesus was not just a good man. He was the God-Man who came and walked this earth because of the sacrifice of His Father. And that’s what we celebrate at Christmas. Reflection question: Where do you see evidence of Jesus’ impact on our culture today? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy at Christmas can feel distant, but Luke 2:10 reminds us that God brings “good news of great joy for all people”—a promise still alive and powerful today. This devotional explores how joy is expressed, shared, lived, and cultivated so believers can reflect the hope and goodness of Jesus throughout the Christmas season. Whether joy comes naturally or feels a bit rusty, Scripture offers practical ways to embrace God’s presence and spread joy in everyday moments. Highlights Why joy is central to the Christmas message Four practical ways to express, share, live, and cultivate joy How joy becomes contagious through words, actions, and attitudes The connection between God’s presence and lasting joy Scriptures that anchor a joyful mindset (Luke 2:10, Psalm 21:6, Psalm 16:11, John 15:11–12, Galatians 5:22) Simple ways to nurture joy in others A reminder that joy is our inheritance in Christ Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Spreading Joy Throughout the Christmas Season By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” - Luke 2:10 Great joy for all the people! What truly remarkable, good news for all of us down through the ages: an announcement thousands of years ago, still relevant today. Yet, how many millions of people around the world are missing out on experiencing this great joy, not just at Christmas, but their entire lives? How do we, like the angels, proclaim and spread this great joy throughout the Christmas season and all year round? What can we do to express it, share it, live it, and cultivate it in others’ lives, too? Expressing, Sharing, Living, and Cultivating Joy Because God calls us to joy, the following are four ways we can spread it while experiencing it for ourselves. Express our joy. How do individuals express joy? Many smile, some laugh, others clap, and there are those who jump for joy. Sadly, some Christians hold their joy in, perhaps feeling it on the inside, but it doesn’t make its way outward, causing some of the Christian sayings and critiques, such as “the frozen chosen.” As a child, I loved singing the kids’ song, “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy,” over and over again. We would sing “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart!” Then we would follow it by shouting “where” and then respond by singing in reply “Down in my heart.” Just singing it brought joy to us and those listening. However we express joy, we want to make sure to let it out, so others might experience it too, and also to share the joyous message of Christmas that can be their own for a lifetime. Share our joy. Many of us don’t realize that joy is spreadable - it’s contagious and easily passed from one person to another. Just as we can sing songs that get stuck in others’ heads when they hear us singing, so too can joy be shared with one another. We can share joy simply by the way we look at the world, our situations, and those around us, letting the joy that comes from knowing God guide our words and actions. As Psalm 21:6 describes, “Surely you have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of Your presence.” Live our joy. We can wake up in the morning with joy, even before anything has happened in our day yet. Before we even lift our heads from the pillows each morning, we can experience joy daily in our lives because the source of it is not ourselves, but God. As Psalm 16:11 reminds us, “You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.” A way to live in God’s joy is described in John 15:11-12, “If you keep my commands, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” Cultivate joy in others. If we ask, God will lead us to cultivate joy in the lives of those around us. We may not know how to nurture it in others, but God can show us how, because He knows what it takes to help it grow in those around us. As Galatians 5:22 describes, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Just the way we speak and interact with others gives us opportunities to cultivate joy in their lives by expressing, sharing, and living it out in our own. Intersecting Faith & Life: Are you known for your joy? If not, take stock and ask God why not? See what’s holding you back from enjoying the great joy that is ours through Jesus Christ. Further Reading:Counting It All Joy Even Through the Hard Stuff Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Travel can be life-giving — and still throw your routine completely off.If you're a woman who struggles with self-doubt, overwhelm, or anxiety around “doing enough,” this episode is for you.In today's video, I am sharing how to stay in routine while traveling without guilt, pressure, or perfectionism. You'll learn how to approach consistency in a way that's faith-centered, flexible, and rooted in peace — not performance.This conversation is for faith-first women who want to:✨ Stay connected to God while traveling✨ Maintain routines without burnout✨ Release anxiety around “falling off track”✨ Experience consistency as joy, not obligationYou'll walk away encouraged that consistency is possible — and it doesn't have to be difficult.

What if the detours in your life weren't delays but divine direction? In this season finale episode of Let It B, I reflect on how Romans 8:28 has been the foundation and recurring theme of my life. What once felt like setbacks, interruptions, and unanswered prayers were actually the very things God was using to strengthen my faith, refine my character, and realign my trust in Him. In this vulnerable conversation, I open up about the many detours I've traveled, the moments where I almost didn't make it through the season, times I felt abandoned by people I thought would walk with me, and seasons where I came close to giving up altogether. I share how I had to move out of my own place, return to living with family, and wrestle with disappointment, uncertainty, and doubt. Yet through it all, God remained faithful.  This episode explores why God allows detours, the value of staying present in the season you're in, and how learning to appreciate where you are often unlocks what's next. Drawing from the story of Joseph, I reflect on how every detour prepared him for the promise and how God is often equipping us for something we cannot yet see. You'll be reminded that God cares more about the posture of your heart than what you produce, that His promises will always come to pass, and that whether we get to participate in them often depends on our obedience and willingness to trust Him. The narrow gate isn't easy but it leads to life. This reflective episode is for anyone who can't yet see how everything will work together for good. It's an invitation to look back, recognize where God has been, steward the season you're in well, and keep pursuing Him with faith. God is a way maker, a promise keeper, and proof that nothing absolutely nothing was wasted. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/A5mLQq0tlP4 ============================= Referenced Scriptures: Romans 8: 28 Colossians 3 : 23 Genesis 37 - 50 Galatians 6 : 9 Luke 1 : 37 Matthew 7 : 14

“But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.”Galatians 5:15 ESV

I. The Grace of God in Galatians:Galatians 1:3-10, 18-24Galatians 2:15-21Galatians 3:1-14Galatians 4:4-6Galatians 5:16-25Galatians 6:11-18

We like to think we're free—masters of our own fate, captains of our souls. But the truth is far different. Before Christ, we were all enslaved to what Paul calls "the elementary principles of the world"—cultural rules, religious regulations, and empty philosophies that promised freedom but delivered bondage. In this episode, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks how Christ's coming transferred us from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light.Christmas From Galatians: This Christmas, Dr. John takes an unprecedented approach to the season by exploring why Jesus' coming was absolutely necessary. Through the book of Galatians, this series traces God's plan from Abraham's promise through the giving of the Law to the arrival of Christ. Discover why the Law was never meant to save us but to diagnose our condition, how Jesus fulfilled what we could never accomplish, and how Christmas opened the door for all people to become sons and daughters of God.

In 1 John 5verses1-5 we are told the source of overcoming the world - by the faith of the son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. And by that faith I live. An early Christadelphian writer, John Thomas said, that this was by a faith, which works by love and purifiers the soul (life). John Thomas was alluding to the early verses of Galatians 5. The Apostle John tells us that such a belief is evidence of our divine begetting. And, for us, it is the assurance ("by this we know") that God is with us. We can be more than conquerors through Him who loves us (Romans 8). The work, spoken of in chapter 2, is not about our love, but we do love the Father with all of our heart. And this love of the Father which impels us was the motive force of the life of the Son of God. Read Romans 8verses31-39 slowly and pause and ponder. Verses 6-12 provide testimony concerning the Son of God. Our Lord Jesus who came by water and blood - the water in which he was immersed at his baptism and the water of the Word of God with which his mind was saturated; and the blood of his sacrificial offering of himself. This offering was sanctified by the Word of God and prayer and pleased his Father. John is alluding to his witnessing of the crucifixion (John 19verses34-37). Verse 7 from the ESV reads, and I quote in full, "For there are three that testifyverses". Most of the better translations recognise the insertion into the text of additional words which aren't found in most of the older manuscripts. The additional words used in the KJV (and some other versions are admitted by most modern translations to be spurious and added by a Jesuit monk, Immanuel Tapsensis). Verse 8 identifies the three witnesses to our Lord's divine Sonship as - the Spirit, the water and the blood. Under the law at least two corroborating witnesses were needed to determine truth. John affirms total agreement among these witnesses. Additionally, God bore testimony, Matthew 3verses15-17, to His Son. And only in His Son, and through His Son's work, we have life. From verses 13-21 the beloved disciple John has written these things for our assurance ("that we may know"). We have known and believed upon the name above every name (Philippians 2verses9-11), and the only name in which there is salvation (Acts 4verses12). And through continuance in this Name salvation is assured. John repeats that the Father's ear is ever open to His children's pleas. Verses 16-17 reiterates that when we love the brethren we will help them (as they will likewise help us) when we stumble (Galatians 6verses1-5). Such advice and correction will prevent rejection at the coming judgment of our Lord Jesus Christ. But, for the habitual and lawless sinner, who has abandoned any attempt to continue walking in the light there remains "no offering for sin" (Hebrews 10verses26-39). Being begotten by God, through His Word (1 Peter 1verses22-25), we overcome in faith and walk in the way of His commandments. The world and its ways allure, but cannot conquer us. Finally, says John, "Keep yourself from idols" - a specific allusion to the Ten Commandments (especially numbers 1 and 10 which bookend all the others). Keeping ourselves from idols is about the tendency within our human nature to always look after ourselves before applying ourselves to living according to the ways of our Almighty Father.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Listen in as Pastor Kirk Shelton shares an Advent message from Galatians 4:4-7 entitled "The Fullness of Time."   www.CalvaryFayetteville.com info@CalvaryFayetteville.com 479-442-4634

What are you planting this summer? In this episode of Live the Bible, we're looking at the principle that we reap what we sow. Nature proves this is true. Just ask any gardener! What you plant is what you get, every time. But what does this basic gardening principle have to do with connecting the Bible to your life?Galatians has the answer—and it's a good one! Listen now and let's get planting.Support the show

When Christmas feels heavy, grief and disappointment can make the season anything but merry—and that’s exactly where the hope of Galatians 4:4–5 speaks loudest. This passage reminds us that Jesus came at the perfect time to redeem us, comfort us, and hold us when the holidays hurt. If you’re walking through loss, financial strain, loneliness, or the ache of an empty seat at the table, this devotional offers space to breathe and brings your heart back to the truth that God meets you right where you are. Highlights Why a painful Christmas doesn’t mean you lack faith Galatians 4:4–5 as an anchor in seasons of grief Giving yourself permission to feel what’s honest How God makes room for sorrow, not just celebration Hope for those facing loss, divorce, financial strain, or uncertainty A reminder that Jesus stepped into a broken world—on purpose Looking toward the day when all things are made new Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: What to Do if Christmas Isn’t Merry and Bright By Vivian Bricker Bible Reading: “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship” (Galatians 4:4-5). Christmas can feel difficult for many reasons. Perhaps you’re unable to afford presents for your children. Or, you might be facing your first Christmas without a loved one. Regardless of what we are going through when Christmas approaches, we need to remember that God doesn't expect us to be merry and bright just because it is the norm. He wants us to be genuine in our emotions and not afraid to reach out to Him. I love Christmas because it’s the day we get to celebrate the Lord’s birth, yet I cannot run from the fact that I miss my mom terribly on this day. My mother also loved Christmas and always ensured it was a fun holiday celebration. Without her being here, it feels empty. These struggles can be really painful, especially around the holidays when we’re expected to be joyful. But it is better to address our feelings rather than to run from them. For far too long, I had the habit of running from my pain. Maybe this is what you are going through this Christmas as well. A loved one passed away, and you are feeling anything but merry and bright. Or maybe you and your spouse are going through a divorce, or a child is having a tough time at school, or you got laid off from your job rather than the Christmas bonus you were counting on. Regardless of what you are going through, know that God doesn't condemn you for struggling this Christmas. In fact, bring all of your troubles to Him and allow His grace to strengthen you. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Apostle Paul tells us, “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship” (Galatians 4:4-5). This is the message of Christmas. Jesus was sent into the world to redeem us and bring us into His family. Even though we are facing hardships this Christmas, we can still celebrate the Lord with our weary hearts. He will transform our weary hearts into hearts of steadfastness, strength, and hope. Reflect upon Galatians 4:4-5 and take notice of what it means to you this Christmas. Because of the Lord, everything will be made right one day. We won't have to deal with pain, agony, or hard times forever. The day is coming when all things will be made new. The death of loved ones, the ending of marriages, and the betrayal of friends will be things of the past. Look forward to this day, and it will engulf your heart with peace. Jesus was born into the world to save us and bring us to Him. With this truth in our hearts, we can truly shine bright for Jesus this Christmas. Is Christmas not feeling merry and bright this year? How can you bring these feelings to Jesus? Reflect upon Galatians 4:4-5 and how it applies to you this Christmas. What are your key takeaways? Further Reading: Psalm 145:8-13 Luke 2:11 1 Peter 5:7 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Giving generously is not just a financial giving. There are other ways you can give generously beyond finances. See how as Tom Pounder shares. 00:00 - Introduction01:40 - Galatians 603:24 - 1 Peter 405:13 - Proverbs 306:51 - 2 Corinthians 907:42 - Acts 2008:52 - ConclusionShare your stories, prayer requests, or your response to this devotional in the comments below.If you would like to know more about New Life, who we are, what we believe, or when we meet, visit http://newlife.church. Or you can fill out a digital connection card at http://newlife.church/connect - we would love to get to know you better!

Jesus Followers Will Be Tempted, but God “will not let you be tempted beyond your ability . . . to endure” MESSAGE SUMMARY: You will be tempted again and again, but the temptation itself is not the sin. The sin resides in your grabbing onto the temptation; dwelling on the temptation; and following through on the temptation. Jesus was tempted, and He always faced temptation by quoting scripture to the temptation source. As Jesus tells you about Temptation and sin in Matthew 18:7-8: “Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes! And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire.". Also, Paul, in 1 Corinthians 10:13, confirms that God will not permit us to be tempted in a manner that we will be unable to resist: “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.". You can follow Jesus' example by using scripture to deal with a temptation – there is scripture to deal with every temptation that you may face.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Most merciful God I confess that I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone. I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbors as myself. I am truly sorry and I humbly repent. For the sake of your son Jesus Christ, have mercy on me and forgive me; that I might delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of Your Name. Amen.  TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Anxiety. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Peace. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 4:1-11; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Hebrews 4:14-16; Psalms143:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Why We Do Christmas”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

This sermon explores the profound theological truths embedded in Galatians 4:4-5, examining why God sent His Son into the world. The message centers on the core statement that "God sent His Son to redeem those who were under the law," unpacking four essential reminders about Christ's coming. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus' birth was not accidental but perfectly timed in God's sovereign plan, that He came as truly human while remaining truly God, that He fulfilled the law through righteous obedience, and that through Him believers receive adoption as sons and daughters of God. Pastor Joe Fant challenges the congregation to understand that salvation is not merely about being declared righteous (justification) but also about being brought into God's family (adoption), giving believers a personal relationship with God as "Abba, Father." The message concludes by affirming that Christians possess an "alien righteousness"—the righteousness of Christ Himself—rather than any self-generated goodness. Key Points: Jesus came at the right moment—when the fullness of time had come, perfectly orchestrated politically (Roman peace and roads), theologically (all Old Testament prophecies and types complete), and historically (unified language and transportation systems) Jesus came in real humanity—truly born of a woman, experiencing complete human suffering, rejection, pain, and loss, yet without sin through the power of the Holy Spirit Jesus came in righteous obedience—born under the law to fulfill it perfectly, doing what no human could do, keeping every requirement of God's law Jesus offers received adoption—believers are adopted as sons (both men and women receive full inheritance), brought from the courtroom of justification to the living room of God's family The law was given to show humanity's inability to save themselves, pointing them to their need for Christ God's timing is always perfect—He is never early and never late in His providential plan Christians have a real man in heaven (Jesus) interceding for them who understands their human experience Believers possess the righteousness of Christ, not their own self-righteousness Scripture Reference: Galatians 3:23—4:7 (primary focus on Galatians 4:4-5) 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Psalm 51:5 Romans 3:10-12 Ecclesiastes 7:20 Luke 1:34-35 Galatians 3:21-22 Hebrews 2:11 Hebrews 4:15-16 Deuteronomy 21:23

Since the Tower of Babel, humanity has been divided by race, economics, and culture—but the coming of Christ changed everything. In this message from Galatians 3:28, Dr. John Neufeld explores how Jesus creates "one new humanity" by breaking down the walls of hostility between Jew and Greek, slave and free, male and female. Christ becomes bigger than our politics, culture, and divisions, uniting vastly different people as brothers and sisters in one family of faith.Christmas From Galatians: This Christmas, Dr. John takes an unprecedented approach to the season by exploring why Jesus' coming was absolutely necessary. Through the book of Galatians, this series traces God's plan from Abraham's promise through the giving of the Law to the arrival of Christ. Discover why the Law was never meant to save us but to diagnose our condition, how Jesus fulfilled what we could never accomplish, and how Christmas opened the door for all people to become sons and daughters of God.

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:16–17 NLT) When people give Christmas gifts to each other, they usually put a lot of thought into their selections before buying them. For better or worse, a gift tells us quite a bit about the giver. You can estimate, fairly accurately, what people think of you by the gifts they give you. On the other hand, we all can probably remember Christmases from childhood when we failed to fully appreciate what we had been given. It seems to me that presenting gifts to one another on Christmas is a very right and very good thing for us to do. I believe that in doing so, humanity is subconsciously helping to underscore the greatest and most important thing for us to realize about this day. At Christmas, we must never forget that God the Father is the Giver. Of course, it is natural and right that we should think about the child in Bethlehem, our blessed Lord, lying as a helpless baby in a manger. We should always be thankful for His sacrifice. But let’s never forget this: God is the Giver. It was the Father who sent His Son into the world. The Son accomplished the Father’s purpose. And we can get a pretty accurate sense of what God thinks of us based on the gift He gave. Jesus said, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him” (John 3:16–17 NLT). The apostle Paul wrote, “But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children” (Galatians 4:4–5 NLT). He also wrote, “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8 NLT). That brings up an essential point about God’s gift: We did nothing to deserve it. “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it” (Ephesians 2:8–9 NLT). In this season of giving, as we celebrate the greatest gift ever given, let’s not lose sight of the One whose generosity makes the celebration possible. Let’s bring praise and worship to the Father, the great and eternal Giver. Reflection question: What does God’s gift of His Son reveal about God the giver? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Monday, December 15th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus World's 5 Communist countries are cracking down on Christians Governments in the world's five remaining Communist countries are intensifying control over Christian churches, reports International Christian Concern. Churches are facing growing legal, financial and operational restrictions under regimes in China, Cuba, Laos, North Korea and Vietnam. Authorities in China require churches to register with the state and operate under a system called Sinicization, which mandates that sermons and practices incorporate Chinese cultural elements and Communist Party ideology, In Cuba, Christian groups are also legally required to register with the government, though new registrations are seldom granted. Individuals receiving foreign funding for church-related activities may be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison under Cuban law. Christian groups in Laos must also register with the government and seek prior approval for nearly all activities. A 2023 U.S. State Department report said churches must obtain permission for services, gatherings, travel of clergy, construction of worship spaces, and distribution of religious materials. In North Korea, churches are allowed only as tightly regulated institutions that serve the regime's image abroad. North Korean citizens are expected to report anyone found engaging in religious practices outside these state-run settings or in possession of Christian materials like Bibles. Unauthorized religious activity is met with harsh penalties, including imprisonment or forced labor. Vietnam also enforces mandatory registration for Christians and reserves the right to intervene in church finances and operations. A 2024 Vietnamese law, known as Decree 95, grants the government authority to demand financial records from churches and to suspend their activities without citing specific violations. Authorities in Vietnam have detained individuals and restricted congregations that fail to comply. Galatians 6:9 promises, “ Let us not grow weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we do not faint.” The $1 billion fraud of the Somalis in Minnesota Federal investigators have uncovered and charged dozens of people in Minnesota — most of Somali, African descent — in a series of major public-benefits fraud schemes which cost the American taxpayers $1 billion, reports Fox. These schemes include two primary issues.  First, a nonprofit named Feeding Our Future claimed federal reimbursements for feeding children during the pandemic but is accused of taking hundreds of millions in funds for few or no meals. And second, there was Medicaid fraud in autism care and housing support. Prosecutors say large and rapidly growing payments to providers for autism therapy and Housing Stabilization Services were fraudulent, with fake clients and claims submitted. Appearing on Fox News with Laura Ingraham, Stephen Miller, White House Deputy Chief of Staff for policy, said this. MILLER: “This could very well end up being the greatest financial fraud scandal in American history.” Republican Mike Lindell running for Minnesota Governor Speaking of Minnesota, where Democratic Governor Tim Walz, has embarrassed his state nationally as the brief-lived Vice Presidential pick of Kamala Harris, MyPillow founder and CEO Mike Lindell announced his candidacy for Minnesota's 2026 gubernatorial race last Thursday, reports The Christian Post. The 64-year-old Lindell posted on social media. "After prayerful consideration and hearing from so many of you across our great state, I've made the decision to enter the 2026 gubernatorial race.” LINDELL: “Together, we will restore respect for law and order. If you are here illegally, now's the time to leave, or you're going to be sent back where you came from.” Governor Walz is running for his third consecutive four-year term. 2 dead, 8 injured in shooting at Brown University On Saturday evening, an active shooter killed two people and seriously injured eight others at Brown University campus where a male, dressed in black, opened fire inside a building on campus, reports the Providence Journal.  The Ivy League college in Providence, Rhode Island was in lockdown as the suspected gunman remained at large following the shooting. Dick Van Dyke: “I have no idea” what happens when we die In an interview with ABC's Nightline with Dick Van Dyke, who just turned 100, Chris Connelly asked about loss and death. CONNELLY: “How have you dealt with loss in your life, when you lose somebody close to you? How have you rebounded from something like that?” VAN DYKE: “I don't know. You know, I lost my brother and my eldest daughter. Both committed suicide because of pain, and my reaction was anger, because I just think there were two deaths that didn't have to happen because they were, other than that, very healthy, except for pain.” CONNELLY:  “Have you ever thought about death?” VAN DYKE:  “I do now. I think most people don't, but when you get up around 100, it's a fact that you have to face. You know, it could happen any day.” CONNELLY: “What do you think happens when we die?” VAN DYKE:  “I have no idea. I think some people are afraid of death because they think you're aware of it. They can say, ‘Oh, darn, I'm dead.' But, you know, you're gone; you don't exist anymore. No, death doesn't really frighten me, although I like a lot more life.” Hebrews 9:27 says, “People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” Gift of tiny home reunites veteran with his 2-year-old daughter And finally, when his 2-year-old daughter Majesty fell into the foster care system, a U.S. Navy veteran faced a significant barrier in his fight to assert custody: He did not have a permanent address, reports Good News Network. At that point, Tim had gotten his life back on track after a struggle with substance use, but his group living arrangement in that program wasn't designed for children. He said, “I just remember thinking: ‘How can I rescue my daughter?'” Providentially, a tiny blue home became available at Veterans Community Project, a nonprofit village that help residents regain parental rights of their children. Soon after, he got full custody and moved to a family unit complete with a bunk bed fit for a toddler. The key moment in Tim's transformation was the rediscovery of his Christian faith and his willingness to admit he needed help. He said, “The opposite of addiction is connection—and that's what I found.” At the rehab center, he remembers feeling “like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol.” SCROOGE AFTER WAKING FROM DREAM ON CHRISTMAS DAY: “I must dress myself. So much to do.  I must not lose any time. I am as light as a feather. (laughs) I'm as happy as an angel. (laughs) I am as a merry as a schoolboy. (laughs) I'm as giddy as a drunken man. (laughs)  Merry Christmas to everyone and a happy new year!” Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, December 15th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

This week, Pastor Jesse speaks about what it looks like to walk by the Spirit.   Main Scripture & Points: Galatians 5:16-26 POINT: To walk by the Spirit means that I am actively choosing to submit my thoughts, reactions, and decisions to the leadership of the Holy Spirit POINT: NOT BY IMPULSE BUT BY THY SPIRIT James 1:19-20 POINT: NOT BY MY PAST BUT BY THY SPIRIT 2nd Corinthians 5:17-18 POINT: NOT BY EMOTION BUT BY THY SPIRIT POINT: Emotions are wonderful companions in life, but they are terrible leaders in life PRAYER: Heavenly Father, Help me be led by Your Spirit today. When my impulses want to react, help me to pause. When my past tries to speak, remind me who I am in Christ. When my emotions run high, lead me into wisdom and peace. Help me to live: Not by impulse, Not by my past, Not by emotion, But led by your Spirit. In Jesus' name, Amen. Galatians 5:19-21 POINT: πράσσω, Pron: Prasso, Meaning: To practice, To make a habit of, To keep doing as a way of life Romans 1:32 POINT: For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery    *This episode was recorded on 12/14/25

Stay the Course, Being Steady in the Lord in the Mist of a Volatile World • Sunday Service Website: www.PastorTodd.org To give: www.ToddCoconato.com/give We are living in a time when everything around us seems to be shaking. Nations are shaking, economies are shaking, families are under pressure, and even within the visible church there is instability and compromise. Headlines change by the hour, but the Word of God has not changed. The Lord is raising up a people who will not be driven by fear, trends, or the latest crisis, but who will stay the course and remain steady in Him even when the world is volatile. God is not surprised by this hour. He has already prepared a path for His people. He has given us His Spirit, His Word, and His promises so that we can stand firm, endure, and even flourish when others are losing hope. 1. Steadfast when everything is shaking First, God calls us to be steadfast and unmovable. He does not want a fearful, fragile church, but a steadfast people who know whom they have believed. 1 Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” 2. Running with patience, eyes on Jesus To stay the course in a volatile world, we must run the race God has set before us with patience and with a clear focus on Jesus Himself. Hebrews 12:1 2 “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, 3. Guarding your heart and mind with peace In a volatile world, anxiety comes knocking each day. But the Lord has given us a way to walk in supernatural peace in the middle of chaos. Philippians 4:6 7 “Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Isaiah 26:3 “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee because he trusteth in thee.” 4. God is our refuge when the earth trembles There are times when the shaking is not just emotional or personal, but global. Even then, God promises to be our refuge and strength. Psalm 46:1 3 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.” John 16:33 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation but be of good cheer I have overcome the world.” 5. Trials that refine instead of destroy Some of the volatility we face is not just out there in the world, it is in the form of personal trials. But in the kingdom, trials are not just random attacks. God uses them to refine, mature, and strengthen us. James 1:2 4 “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” Galatians 6:9 “And let us not be weary in well doing for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” 6. Not troubled by the signs of the times The Lord even spoke about the volatility of the last days. He told us about wars, rumors of wars, and shaking, yet He also told us how to posture our hearts. Matthew 24:6 “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars see that ye be not troubled for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” Matthew 24:13 “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” 7. Planted, not blown around In a volatile world, many people are tossed like leaves in the wind. But the righteous are called to be planted like trees by rivers of water. Psalm 1:1 3 “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season his leaf also shall not wither and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Colossians 1:23 “If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven whereof I Paul am made a minister.” We are living in a volatile world. There are shaking events, confusing voices, and real pressures on every side. Yet in this very hour, God is calling His people to stay the course. To be steadfast and unmovable. To keep our eyes on Jesus. To trade anxiety for prayer and thanksgiving. To let His peace guard our hearts and minds. To refuse to waste our trials and instead allow them to refine us. To endure to the end. To delight in His Word until we are like trees planted by rivers of living water. To stay steady in the Lord in this kind of world is not something we can do in our own strength. We need the Holy Spirit. We need the Word of God dwelling richly in us. We need fellowship with other believers who are also set on finishing well. So today, ask yourself, where have I been shaken. Where have I let fear, offense, or weariness push me off course. Where have I been listening more to the world than to the Word. Bring those areas back to the feet of Jesus. Surrender again. Say from your heart, “Lord, I choose to stay the course. Make me steadfast. Guard my mind with Your peace. Plant me deep in Your Word. Help me endure and finish my race well.” As you do, the same God who steadied Joseph in a foreign land, Daniel in a hostile empire, and the early church in a time of persecution will steady you in this generation. The world may be volatile, but your God is not. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and in Him you can stand firm until the very end.

When You Reach The End Of Your Road, Hold On, Breakthrough Is At Hand • Friday Service Website: www.PastorTodd.org To give: www.ToddCoconato.com/give 1. 2 Corinthians 4:8–9 (KJV) We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 2. Psalm 34:19 (KJV) Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. 3. Isaiah 43:2 (KJV) When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. 4. Exodus 14:13–14 (KJV) And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. 5. Micah 7:8 (KJV) Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me. 6. Galatians 6:9 (KJV) And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 7. Psalm 30:5 (KJV) For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. 8. Romans 8:28 (KJV) And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Send us a textThe noun “time” can be used to refer to “an opportune or suitable moment.”  That's the kind of reference the Scripture uses when it tells us that “when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, […] to buy freedom for us […] so that he could adopt us as his very own children” (Galatians 4:4-5 NLT). That's the concept we are exploring when in this message we answer the question, “What Time is Christmas?”Galatians 3:26-28; 4:4-7; Ecclesiates 3:1-11"Yet I still dare to Hope..." - Lamentations 3:21 PODCAST HOME: daretohopepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ EMAIL: hope@dare2hope.life FACEBOOK: Dare to Hope Ministries WEB: www.dare2hope.life

Monday, 15 December 2025   then he need not honor his father or mother.' Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. Matthew 15:6   “And no, not he should honor his father or his mother. And you invalidated God's commandment through your tradition” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began explaining the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees in regard to the issue of tending to one's parents as commanded by the law. He continues that, saying, “And no, not he should honor his father or his mother.”   By the leaders' granting the people to take their gifts and dedicate them in this fashion, a practice that was derived from tradition, they created a rift in people's proper adherence to God's prescription. That is stated by Jesus with the words, “And you invalidated God's commandment through your tradition.”   The word akuroó, to invalidate, is first seen here. It will be used in the comparable passage in Mark 7:13 and then only again in Galatians 3 concerning the surety of the covenant of promise given to Abraham that is not invalidated by the temporary Law of Moses –   “And this I say, that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul [akuroó] the covenant that was confirmed before by Godin Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect. 18 For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” Galatians 3:17, 18   These leaders were essentially saying, “Isn't it more important to give your gifts to God than to keep them around, taking up space, cluttering up your lives and your homes?” They knew full well that by convincing people they were doing a service to God that they would rush to give. Never mind that these leaders would be on the receiving end of such gifts in one way or another and that the parents would be left unattended to in their old age.   The perverse nature of the doctrine is laid bare by Jesus, shaming the people for their greed, dishonesty, and outright hypocrisy. God doesn't need their gifts. Rather, what He wants from His people is obedience to His prescriptions.   “Hear, O My people, and I will speak, O Israel, and I will testify against you; I am God, your God! 8 I will not rebuke you for your sacrifices Or your burnt offerings, Which are continually before Me. 9 I will not take a bull from your house, Nor goats out of your folds. 10 For every beast of the forest is Mine, And the cattle on a thousand hills. 11 I know all the birds of the mountains, And the wild beasts of the field are Mine. 12 If I were hungry, I would not tell you; For the world is Mine, and all its fullness. 13 Will I eat the flesh of bulls, Or drink the blood of goats? 14 Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High. 15 Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” Psalm 50:7-15   Life application: Do you ever hear preachers or teachers making an appeal for donations that includes catchphrases like seed offering, increase, multiply, tithe, tithing, tithes, pleasing to God, firstfruits, opening the storehouses of heaven, and so on?   If you hear these things, be sure not to give to such people. If you are giving to receive in return, you are giving for the wrong reason. If you are giving because someone told you that you are going to make God happy by giving them money, you are giving for the wrong reason.   God is happy with your faith, praise, and thanksgiving. He doesn't need your money, even if His people do. If His people do, and you are able to give, then do so without expecting anything in return. Be cheerful in your giving, or don't give. Giving grudgingly will not lead to future rewards.   Glorious Lord God, we come before You to praise You for who You are, to thank You for Your grace and tender mercies, and to glorify You for the salvation You have granted to us through simple belief in the full, final, finished, and forever work of Jesus Christ. We believe and we thank You. All praises to You, O God. Amen.

As we close out 2025, this special final episode of Elevate the Day is a moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the grace of God that has carried us through every season. • The journey of faith begins with a simple but powerful response: saying yes to God. When He calls us, He also equips us. Even when the path feels uncertain, taking steps in faith opens the door for God to work in ways we could never accomplish on our own.• God often brings people alongside us to encourage, strengthen, and support us along the way.• The fruit of your labor doesn't always appear immediately, but perseverance is key. God's plan for your life is good and staying faithful even when it's hard positions you to see His promises come to pass.As we wrap up the year, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our listeners, guests, and sponsors. Your support, prayers, and partnership made Elevate the Day possible in 2025. We are deeply grateful for each of you and look forward to all God has in store ahead.Stay faithful. Keep trusting. And never forget that God's grace is at work in your life…every day."And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." (Galatians 6:9 NKJV)

What does it mean to be "clothed with Christ"? In this message, Dr. John Neufeld explores how our spiritual nakedness—our sin and vulnerability—is covered by the righteousness of Jesus himself. Through baptism, believers publicly identify with Christ's death and resurrection, putting on His life as their own and becoming heirs of the promise God made to Abraham.Christmas From Galatians: This Christmas, Dr. John takes an unprecedented approach to the season by exploring why Jesus' coming was absolutely necessary. Through the book of Galatians, this series traces God's plan from Abraham's promise through the giving of the Law to the arrival of Christ. Discover why the Law was never meant to save us but to diagnose our condition, how Jesus fulfilled what we could never accomplish, and how Christmas opened the door for all people to become sons and daughters of God.

Today, we will read through the second half of Galatians 3 and watch Paul further develop his argument against the keeping of the law. "The law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith." Galatians 3:24

Luke 2:1-7 Habakkuk 2:3 – God appoints time Ecclesiastes 3:1 – There is a right time for everything Romans 5:6 – God's time is just right 1 Peter 5:6 – God's time is proper Galatians 4:4-5 – the fullness of time had come Galatians 6:9 – if we don't give up, we'll reap Our schedule steals Christmas by deceiving us into thinking everything is more important than the one thing we should be celebrating at Christmas. Judges 7:2 – God's How COVID has affected us The post The Schedule that Stole Christmas appeared first on Kalkaska Church of Christ.

Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller explore Galatians 4–6, unpacking Paul's contrast between the Covenant of Works, the Covenant of Grace, and the New Covenant, as well as the freedom of life in the Spirit, and the practical shape of Christian discipleship, where believers bear one another's burdens and keep in step with the Spirit. PARTNER WITH US - https://solamedia.org/partner/?sc=AS2502VWhen you become a partner today, you'll receive two remarkable books as our thanks: Rediscovering the Holy Spirit by Dr. Michael Horton and Praying with Jesus by Pastor Adriel Sanchez. We believe these books can guide you into a clearer understanding of the Spirit's work and a richer prayer life. FOLLOW US YouTube | Instagram | X/Twitter | Facebook | Newsletter WHO WE ARE Sola is home to White Horse Inn, Core Christianity, Modern Reformation, and Theo Global. Our mission is to serve today's global church by producing resources for reformation grounded in the historic Christian faith. Our vision is to see reformation in hearts, homes, and churches around the world. Learn more: https://solamedia.org/

“I am crucified with Christ.” — Galatians 2:20 The Lord Jesus Christ acted in what He did as a great public representative person, and His dying upon the cross was the virtual dying of all His people. Then all His saints rendered unto justice what was due, and made an expiation to divine vengeance for […]

Pastor Andy Cass 'Tis the season of noise—commercials, carols, wrapping paper, and endless hustle. But what if the greatest miracle of Christmas isn't found in the noise… but in the silence? In this Christmas message, Pastor Andy explores the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1, reminding us that sometimes God speaks loudest when we finally stop to listen. Big Idea: Silence is not the absence of sound. Silence is the space where God is invited to speak. TEXT: Luke 1:5–23, Galatians 6:9, Habakkuk 1:2, Mark 4:38–41, 1 Thessalonians 5:19–21, Luke 19:40 NOTES: The Problem: We are surrounded by noise—audible and internal—that muffles the most important voices in our lives. The Plan: Turn down the noise and create space to hear God. Practical Steps — How to Set Up Silence: Keep work at work. Shut off the screens. Try one weeknight with no TV or phone. No-phone zone. Leave your device overnight. Pause social media. Open your doors. Invite someone over—build connection. Make a memory. Do something simple and meaningful. Schedule silence. Set a time to be still and listen. Faith Formation Plan: Calm the Storm: Invite Jesus to quiet your chaos (Mark 4:38–41). Sit in Silence: Learn the art of listening—faith and doubt can both lean in. Raise Your Praise: If you stay silent, creation won't (Luke 19:40). Stay Connected: Give: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Online Service: Sundays 9 AM (YouTube & Facebook Live) Connect: https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Instagram: @wearetheechochurch #EchoChurch #ChristianSermon #FaithGrowth #BibleTeaching

Intervention: The Act of stepping into a situation to change its course, especially to prevent harm or improve an outcome.Galatians 4:4-7There are two important things when it comes to an intervention: Timing and PurposeGalatians 4:4-7 reminds us that's what Christmas is all about.1.    God Intervenes at the right time (v. 4) (Timing)“But when the set time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a women, born under the law”The phrase “set time” used here is the Greek word Pleroma.  There is only one other place in the New Testament that the word “Pleroma” is used. Ephesians 1:10. Ephesians is referring to the second coming.   John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”John 1:14 “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us…” 2.    God Intervenes to Set Us Free (v. 5-7) (Purpose)“To redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.  Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father'.  So, you are no longer a slave, but God's child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.”

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

Send us a textEverlasting Father Dr. Jessica Fernandez December 14, 2025For many, the word “father” brings up wounds of absence, pain, abandonment, or unmet expectations. But Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus our Everlasting Father, the Father-hearted Savior who came to heal every place where earthly fathers fell short. Join us as we discover how the child in the manger displays the heart of a Father who is constant, compassionate, and eternally present.DISSCUSION QUESTIONS 1. Take a moment to reflect on your own experience with the word father. How has your understanding — whether positive, painful, complicated, or absent — shaped the way you view God? In what ways has it helped you, and in what ways has it created barriers or misconceptions? Share how this message challenged, corrected, or deepened your perspective of God as your Everlasting Father.2. Out of all the ways Jesus revealed the Father's heart — His compassion, His mercy, His provision, His sacrifice, His desire to adopt you, or His protection — which one impacted you the most and why? Can you think of a time in your life when you personally experienced one of these aspects of God's heart? What did it teach you about who He truly is?3. In John 6, Jesus fed thousands with five loaves and two fish, showing that the Father provides abundantly and not sparingly. Where do you struggle to trust God's provision in your own life? What “small loaves and fish” — your time, resources, abilities, or obedience — are you holding onto tightly? What might it look like this week to place those things into His hands and trust Him to multiply them?4. The NICU illustration showed how fragility, instability, and weakness are met with a parent's steady presence. In your life right now, where do you feel most fragile, overwhelmed, or under pressure? What would it look like to stop “trying harder” and instead “draw near” to the Everlasting Father? Where do you sense God inviting you to rest, to breathe, and to let Him hold what you cannot regulate on your own?5. Scripture teaches that God didn't just forgive you — He adopted you (Galatians 4, Ephesians 1). What does it mean to you personally that the Everlasting Father claims you as His child with full belonging and full access? How does this identity shift the way you approach prayer, insecurity, or daily life? And what step can you take this week to grow in intimacy with your Father?

Galatians 6: 9

Send us a text Galatians - The Pure GospelGalatians 2:11-21Chris McKnight, Lead Pastor/ElderDecember 14, 2025Message 6 in the series on Galatians

At Christmas we celebrate the wondrous birth of Christ, but less noted is the divine timing of His arrival on Earth. Jesus was born at the perfect moment, fulfilling God's plan to adopt us into His family. In Galatians, the Apostle Paul encouraged his readers to cast off the law and live fully as God's heirs, reflecting the generous fruit of their freedom and inheritance. It's an apt reminder for us today, particularly at Christmas, to know that God has given us the gift of everlasting salvation through Christ. Join Horizon at the Equipping Services for CHRISTMAS HEIRS, a verse-by-verse study of Galatians.

Let's turn together in our Bibles to the book of Genesis, chapter 3, and focus our attention on verse 15. This is one of those pivotal verses in Scripture that has rightly been called the protoevangelium—the first announcement of the good news of salvation. In the King James Version, which we'll use throughout our study today, it reads: "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Imagine the scene in the Garden of Eden just moments after the fall. Adam and Eve have disobeyed God, eaten the forbidden fruit, and now they stand before Him in shame and fear. The harmony of creation is shattered. Sin has entered the world, bringing with it death, curse, and separation from God. It seems as though Satan, working through the serpent, has scored a complete victory. Yet right here, in the midst of pronouncing judgment, God speaks a word of incredible grace—a promise that shines like a beacon in the darkness. This verse is the seed from which the entire message of redemption grows. It's the foundation for everything that follows in the Bible, pointing us ultimately to the Lord Jesus Christ. Today, I want us to unpack this promise carefully, phrase by phrase, and trace how it unfolds through Scripture. We'll see God's sovereign grace at work, the conflict between the two seeds, the suffering and triumph of the Savior, and what it all means for us personally. My prayer is that as we study this together, we'll gain a deeper appreciation for the gospel and a stronger confidence in God's unbreakable plan. 1. The Divine Initiative: "And I Will Put Enmity" Notice first who takes the initiative here. God says, "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman." The "thee" refers to the serpent, and as Revelation 12:9 and 20:2 make clear, this is none other than Satan himself: "And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him." God doesn't command Adam or Eve to start fighting the devil. No, He declares sovereignly, "I will put enmity." This is pure grace from beginning to end. Fallen humanity, left to ourselves, has no natural hostility toward Satan. In fact, we're at peace with him and at enmity with God. As Ephesians 2:1-3 reminds us: "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others." And Colossians 1:21: "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled." By nature, we love the darkness and hate the light (John 3:19-20). But when God plants this enmity in a heart, everything changes. The one who once listened eagerly to the serpent's lies now becomes his enemy. This is the beginning of regenerating grace—the Holy Spirit turning a heart of stone into a heart of flesh. Think about it: Eve had just been deceived by the serpent, yet God promises to create hostility between them. From that moment, humanity is divided into two spiritual lines: those who remain friends with the serpent and those in whom God has worked to make them hate sin and love holiness. This isn't something we muster up on our own; it's God's doing. What encouragement this is! If you're a believer today, that enmity toward sin in your heart is evidence of God's grace at work in you from the very foundation of the gospel promise. 2. The Two Seeds: "Between Thy Seed and Her Seed" Next, God speaks of the ongoing conflict: "and between thy seed and her seed." Throughout Scripture, this theme of two seeds runs like a thread, dividing all humanity spiritually. The serpent's seed are those who belong to him by nature and choice. Jesus said it plainly in John 8:44: "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." We see this line early on with Cain, who murdered his brother Abel. It continues through history: Pharaoh oppressing Israel, Haman plotting against the Jews, Herod slaughtering the innocents, Judas betraying Christ, and every unregenerate person who opposes God and His people. But there's another seed—the seed of the woman. This is unusual language. Everywhere else in Genesis, offspring is described as the seed of the man: Abraham's seed, Isaac's seed, Jacob's seed, David's seed. Why here "her seed"? Because this points to the virgin birth. The promised Redeemer would have no human father. He would be conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of a woman alone. Paul understood this clearly in Galatians 4:4: "But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law." And Isaiah prophesied it in Isaiah 7:14: "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." This singular wording in Genesis 3:15 is God's early hint at the miraculous incarnation. The Champion who would defeat Satan would be fully human—born of a woman—yet fully God, without a sinful human father to pass on Adam's guilt. As we trace this promise, we see it narrowing. From the seed of the woman, to Seth's line, to Noah, to Shem, to Abraham (whose seed would bless all nations—Galatians 3:16 points this to Christ), to Judah (Genesis 49:10: "The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be"), to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16, the everlasting throne), to the virgin's Son in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2: "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting"). Every type and shadow in the Old Testament points forward to this Seed: Abel's acceptable lamb, the ark preserving Noah through judgment, the ram provided for Isaac, the Passover lamb, the bronze serpent lifted up (John 3:14), the scapegoat bearing away sins, the daily offerings—all crying out, "The Seed is coming!" 3. The Conflict and Victory: "It Shall Bruise Thy Head, and Thou Shalt Bruise His Heel" Now we come to the heart of the promise: "it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Note the pronouns carefully. In the Hebrew, it's singular and masculine: "He shall bruise thy head." This isn't a general conflict between groups; it's personal. One individual—the Seed of the woman—will deliver the decisive blow. The bruising of the heel speaks of real suffering. The serpent will strike, causing pain, humiliation, even apparent defeat. But a bruised heel is not fatal; it heals. A crushed head, however, is final—total destruction of the enemy's power. This is a preview of the cross and the resurrection. At Calvary, Satan bruised Christ's heel. From the manger onward, the enemy opposed Him: Herod's massacre, the temptations in the wilderness, the opposition of religious leaders, the demons' fury, and finally the horrors of Gethsemane and Golgotha. Philippians 2:6-8 describes the depth of this humiliation: "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." The eternal Son veiled His glory, entered a virgin's womb, lived as a servant, and died a criminal's death. On the cross, darkness covered the earth, and He cried, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46, quoting Psalm 22:1). Satan seemed triumphant—the Seed was dead and buried. But the promise was only a bruised heel, not a crushed head. On the third day, Christ rose victorious! As Psalm 16:10 prophesied: "For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption." Hebrews 2:14 declares the result: "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil." And Colossians 2:15: "And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it." At the cross, Jesus disarmed the demonic forces. Death's sting is gone for believers (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). Satan's head received a mortal wound, though he still thrashes about. The full crushing awaits Christ's return. Then, as Revelation 20:10 promises: "And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever." The King will return in glory (Revelation 19:11-16), and the ancient Eden promise will be completely fulfilled. 4. The Incarnation: God Manifest in the Flesh To accomplish this victory, the Seed had to become one of us. Galatians 4:4-5 again: "But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." 1 Timothy 3:16 captures the wonder: "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." The infinite God became finite, the eternal entered time, the Creator became a creature—yet without ceasing to be God. He who upheld the universe lay in a manger. This is the heart of the gospel: Immanuel, God with us. Personal Application: Living in the Victory What does all this mean for us today? Genesis 3:15 isn't just history; it's our story. By nature, we were all seed of the serpent—children of wrath. But if God has saved you, He has planted enmity in your heart toward sin and Satan. You've begun to hate what you once loved and love what you once hated. At the cross, Christ's heel was bruised for you, and Satan's head was crushed on your behalf. By faith in Him, you've passed from death to life, from darkness to light. Now we live out this victory daily. When you resist temptation, bear suffering for Christ, or share the gospel boldly, you're participating in the ongoing conflict—and the outcome is certain. Satan may bruise your heel through trials, slander, or temptation, but he cannot touch your Head, who sits at God's right hand (Psalm 110:1: "The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool"). So stand firm. The battle is the Lord's. The victory is already secured. And soon, the Seed of the woman will return to make all things new. May this first gospel promise encourage your heart today. The God who spoke grace in Eden is the same God who speaks it to us now through His Son. Trust Him. Walk with Him. Look for His coming.

What's so special about being born of a woman? Aren't we all? Yes, and that's Paul's point when he wrote in Galatians 4:4, "God sent forth his Son, born of woman." But what about Mary? Does this passage teach the virgin birth? And why does the incarnation of the eternal Son set Christianity apart from every other system of thought and religion?

This week, Pastor Alex dives deep into the profound theme of Jesus as our Great High Priest. We trace humanity's ancient problem—the universal separation caused by sin—and contrast it with the temporary covering offered by the Old Testament sacrificial system. Discover why Jesus's perfect and final sacrifice secured eternal redemption for all of us. This essential spiritual guidance explains the new covenant that cleanses our consciences, restores us to the presence of God, and shapes the way we approach life and faith. Learn how to stop settling for simply knowing of God and start being with Him.In this message, you will learn:- Understand Humanity's Deepest Need: Grasp why sin is a fundamental problem that separates us from God's presence, impacting every relationship in our lives.- Grasp the Perfection of Jesus's Sacrifice: Discover why the Old Testament system was a temporary stop-gap and how Jesus, as our Great High Priest, made the once-for-all sacrifice for eternal redemption.- Experience Cleansed Conscience: Move beyond a temporary "covering" of sin to the complete "cleansing" of your conscience, allowing you to approach God boldly and receive His mercy and grace.- Live in the New Covenant: Explore what it means to be united with Christ in His death and resurrection, resulting in a new life that is both started and sustained by the gospel.- Reclaim God's Presence: Find out how Jesus's life, death, and resurrection means you don't have to settle for just being around God, but can be with Him and know Him fully.Scripture References: Hebrews 1:1-3, Psalm 23:3-6, Romans 3, James 2:10, Hebrews 9, 1 Peter 3:18, Galatians 2:20, Romans 6, Hebrews 4:14-16, 1 Corinthians 11.

There is only one gospel: the message of God's free grace in Jesus Christ. All other "gospels" are distortions leading to hopelessness and condemnation. Today, Derek Thomas begins his study of the book of Galatians. Donate any amount to request R.C. Sproul's commentary on Galatians and Derek Thomas' video teaching series No Other Gospel on DVD. You'll also receive lifetime digital access to all 14 messages and the study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4510/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the Galatians commentary ebook, digital teaching series, and digital study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global    Meet Today's Teacher:   Derek Thomas is a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow and Chancellor's Professor of Systematic and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Fr. Mike reminds us of the context of Galatians and reiterates Paul's admonition not to revert to our previous ways of life now that we have been freed from the yoke of slavery. He also discusses the works of the flesh which separate us from Christ and the fruits of the spirit which result from a life lived in God, reminding us that we will reap what we sow in due season. Today's readings are Acts 25, Galatians 4-6, and Proverbs 29:15-17. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Ending Well: A Pruning Deep Dive  This is week six of the Ending Well series, and we're talking about something a lot of us are living through in real time: pruning—the cutting away, the stripping back, and the strange mercy of God doing holy surgery on our lives at the end of a hard year. "Every branch that does bear fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit." – John 15:2 ⏱ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Intro + Why open enrollment and health insurance feel like a bad rite of passage 03:00 – CrowdHealth: what it is, how it works, and why it's different from insurance 06:00 – Week six of Ending Well: why pruning is the theme of this year 09:30 – Defining "pruning," "fruit," "wilderness," and "discipline" (without the Christianese) 15:30 – John 15 and how Blake accidentally prayed for pruning this year 20:00 – Wilderness seasons: dry, slow, hidden growth, and deep dependence on God 25:30 – Seven "flavors" of pruning Blake walked through this year 30:00 – Loss and closed doors: when God rips things out of your hands 36:00 – Being forced to slow down or stop: "You can't heal on the battlefield that broke you" 41:00 – Loneliness, isolation, and when God clears the table so you can hear His voice 46:00 – Idols exposed: productivity, performance, and the golden statue God started tearing down 52:00 – When God prunes even good things (like the gym, routines, and rhythms you love) 57:00 – "Show me the purpose, Lord": praying for clarity in the middle of the mess 1:02:00 – How pruning makes you more like Jesus and prepares you for the "next level" 1:08:00 – Toy bins, clutter, and why fewer branches can mean more joy 1:12:00 – How to walk through pruning differently next time: slow down, surrender, obey faster 1:17:00 – Being honest with God instead of stuffing frustration and disappointment 1:21:00 – Why opening your Bible became survival, not a checkbox 1:25:00 – Friendship breakups as pruning: betrayal, loneliness, and healing with a limp 1:30:00 – Counting the fruit at the end of a brutal year What This Episode Is Really About In this deep dive, Blake unpacks pruning not as a punishment but as proof that God cares too much to leave you overgrown and exhausted. You'll hear about: How this year's pruning looked like: job pivots relational shifts homeschooling struggles closed doors and changed direction Why pruning is always connected to fruit, but not the kind the world celebrates Not achievement, numbers, or hustle But love, joy, peace, wisdom, humility (Galatians 5:22–23) The difference between: Punishment vs. discipline Chaos vs. God's clarifying love (Hebrews 12:6) Seven "flavors" of pruning Blake walked through: Loss of things she thought she needed Doors slamming shut at the last second Conviction and refinement in hidden places Being forced to slow down or stop entirely Loneliness and isolation when life got too loud Idols exposed—especially productivity and performance The trimming of even good things to make room for better Blake also shares how her prayer shifted from: "God, why are You doing this?" to "Show me the purpose, Lord." And how that shift opened the door to real trust, deeper Bible hunger, and new fruit she couldn't see while God was still hacking away at the branches. Sponsors & Special Offers CrowdHealth – Take Your Power Back This Open Enrollment Health insurance can feel like you're paying a ton and still not actually covered. CrowdHealth is an alternative to traditional insurance that's built on community and transparency. With CrowdHealth, you: Pay a monthly fee Get a team that negotiates your medical bills Access lower-cost prescriptions & lab tests Use a vetted doctor list When something big happens, you pay the first $500, and then the crowd steps in and covers the rest Listener Offer: Get started for $99 for your first three months using code SPEAKEASY. Go to joincrowdhealth.com/speakeasy to join. Note: CrowdHealth is not insurance, but it is a way to opt out of the old system and take your power back. 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In Acts 24, Fr. Mike notes how Felix remained unmoved by Paul's teaching despite being compelled by it initially, showing us that unless we act on what we believe, there is no change. As we begin reading St.Paul's letter to the Galatians today, Fr. Mike highlights Paul's explanation of the role of Jewish law in the Age of the Church, clarifying that through baptism, we are all one in Christ and heirs to the promises of the Father regardless of our backgrounds. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.